Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT, said: “This has been a summer of uncertainty for secondary students and they deserve our congratulations for the results that they are receiving today.

“Students should have faith in these results, as should the nation as a whole because they have been compiled with integrity and professionalism by their schools and colleges.

“The thousands of school leaders and teachers who have worked hard to make sure that their students each have a set of grades that reflect their hard work and that will allow them to move onto the next stage of their education or training deserve the support and thanks of the government.

“It is essential that there is proper planning for 2021 now in case the unthinkable happens and we are in a similar situation. It is not defeatist to plan for the worst whilst hoping for the best - it is common sense against a backdrop of such chaos and hurt. If this year’s disruption proves anything, it is that the government must not take anything for granted and must have reliable contingency plans in place.

“They must exercise speed because in a matter of days schools and colleges will be returning for the Autumn term, in what is sure to be another very challenging and potentially disrupted academic year.”

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