'GCSE celebration is testament to school staff and students' hard work', says Malvern councillor - The Malvern Observer

'GCSE celebration is testament to school staff and students' hard work', says Malvern councillor

Malvern Editorial 21st Aug, 2020 Updated: 21st Aug, 2020   0

A MALVERN District Councillor whose daughter has been through the stress of this year’s GCSEs has praised the staff and students for their endeavours and results.

Coun Samantha Charles spoke out as Laura, who is in year 11 at The Chase School, collected her results.

She said: “This cohort of students have missed out on all those important rights of passage, like GCSE exams, the leavers’ prom, the last day of school including shirt signing and meeting up with their friends over a relaxed summer to celebrate this important stage in their lives.”

She believes young people have had a tough year.




“The Government has shortchanged our young people by their failings in the handling of the Covid pandemic crisis, frequently changing schools guidance and the disastrous algorithm for exam grading.

“The last minute U-turn on teacher assessed grades was welcomed but caused untold stress and anxiety for students and teachers alike.”


She added we must make sure this never happens again.

“It is only thanks to the teachers, teaching unions and our students that the results today are in general a cause for celebration.

“My heart goes out to those A-level students still in limbo regarding their results and university places.”

Worcestershire County Council has also vowed to help students with their next steps in the coming weeks, whether it is in a new phase of education or training.

Careers Worcs is running a webinar following exam results day for students who have not received the grades they were expecting, or for those who are still unsure of the pathway they would like to take in September.

The webinar will inform students of all their options with all the information needed to decide on their next steps.

It takes place from 11am to midday on Monday, August 24.

Click here to book onto the webinar.

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