MS says results u-turn was the right thing to do

Many A-Level and GCSE students in Newtown and throughout north Powys are breathing a sigh of relief following a decision by the Welsh Government to revert to teacher predictions in exam results.

It comes amid concern from teachers, students and parents about the impact of grading based on an algorithm which in some cases reduced grades.

Montgomeryshire's Member of the Welsh Parliament, Russell George, welcomed the news.

Mr George has said that since A-level results day last week, students, parents and teachers from across Montgomeryshire have been deeply frustrated with the Welsh Government's refusal to apply teacher-predicted grades.

"In spite of the assurances from Qualifications Wales the WJEC and the Welsh Government it was clear that the system used to award grades this year had delivered many thousands of grossly unfair results which had a huge impact on the future of young people, and an adverse impact on their mental health and wellbeing.

"I welcome the announcement that all students are now to be awarded their centre assessed grades for their A level, AS, GCSE, Skills Challenge Certificate and Welsh Baccalaureate. Given the extraordinary circumstances this year, it was the only fair thing to do."

"This has been an exceptional time, and this news will come as a very welcome relief for the thousands of A Level students who last week were looking at grades lower than they were predicted to receive.

"It will also be a relief to pupils expecting results this week as well as an acknowledgement of quite how much effort teachers put into this."