Commenting as the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) today release new guidance on exams for 2021, Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT, said:

“We welcome the publication of this range of guidance and support materials, and are pleased to see that they do have the clear expectations, requirements and processes to support consistency and fairness in the system. Schools now have what they need to embark on the process of awarding grades this year.

“However, we remain disappointed that schools have had to wait three months for the details of these plans. It would have been far better for the government to discuss and consult on a “plan B” much earlier to avoid unnecessary confusion and worry for students.

“Exams have been cancelled and grades will be awarded this year using evidence in the form of a range of student work. It is not helpful to make direct comparisons to results in years when exams have taken place. Everyone working with young people should be wary of devaluing their efforts and achievements.”

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