Forty-three per cent of students’ grades at The Charter School North Dulwich have been downgraded.
The school says that although the ‘majority’ of students have secured their preferred places at university or in further education it will be supporting those left disappointed – and awaiting further news on the appeals process.
Today students received their official results awarded by exam boards but not the result of national examinations or externally verified coursework, changes brought about by the pandemic and schools closures.
In a statement sent to the News, the school explained: “On results day we would normally be celebrating Year Thirteen’s success, both overall and individually, and recognition must be given to the majority of our students whose hard work at school before lockdown has resulted in them securing their preferred university course, apprenticeship or job.
“Their commitment means that they can look forward with confidence to the next stage in their education and careers.
“However, amongst the celebrations, there are students who will be disappointed with their awarded grades and we will be working with them in order to assess their best way forward.
“Due to the continuing uncertainty surrounding the methodology and fairness in calculating this year’s grades the school has also released today the centre assessed grades, which were submitted to the exam boards.”
Forty-three per cent of the grades submitted by the school have been downgraded. Further guidance on the appeals process is expected to be issued next week.
Headteacher, Christian Hicks commented: “This year’s Year Thirteen have faced a set of circumstances unseen in a generation and they have reacted with dignity and good grace.
“I am very proud of the many success stories, which are a direct result of students’ hard work during the eighteen months before lockdown changed everything.
“However, we realise that some will be disappointed, and we are committed to supporting them as they decide what steps they want to take next.
“It has been a difficult time for Year Thirteen, and we wish them all the very best as they move on to the next stage of their careers, be that higher education, an apprenticeship or the world of work.
“They all have bright futures ahead of them despite the immediate obstacles thrown up by COVID-19, and we will support them in every way we can as they pursue their dreams.”