Following discussions today between the Schools Minister, Ofqual and education unions, Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT, said: “Despite widespread speculation that the government were about to announce a delay to 2021 examinations, it instead appears that we are still some way off an announcement on arrangements for next years’ GCSEs, AS and A-levels. It is positive that the government have chosen to engage with us, and on proposals submitted by the school unions, before determining the best approach to awarding grades in 2021.

“Clearly, time is of the essence – students and schools alike are desperate for certainty on the shape of examinations and the process for awarding grades next year. But it is also critically important that decisions taken now do not serve to further disadvantage certain groups further down the line. NAHT are keen to make sure we don’t just focus on the system, but on the experience of students, to ensure that those sitting exams next year can have confidence in the grades awarded and believe them to be a fair reflection of their ability.”

Press and Media contacts:

Steven George
NAHT Head of Press and Media
01444 472886
07970 907730

Rose Tremlett 
Senior Press Officer 
07545 354363

Email : press.office@naht.org.uk