PaJeS praises government’s ‘positive’ A-Level and GCSE triple lock system

The umbrella group for Jewish schools in the UK has praised the Government’s last ditch decision to allow GCSE and A-Level students in England to use their mock grades.

Pupils in England will be able to accept their calculated grade, appeal to use a mock grade validated by regulator Ofqual or sit exams in the Autumn.

The 11th hour “triple lock” system was announced by education secretary Gavin Williamson on Tuesday evening, just as students await the release of their calculated A-Level results, due on Thursday.

PaJeS executive director Rabbi David Meyer praised the move as “a positive step”.

“However, it does highlight an over reliance on the outcomes of examinations and perhaps it is time to reassess our educational priorities and look for additional methods for assessing and recognising students’ achievements,” he added.

He also suggested school children “are among the most severely impacted by this devastating pandemic.”

The Government’s changes drew criticism from some who warned it will result in grading “inconsistency”, with Labour leader Keir Starmer urging “the Prime Minister to change course, or he risks robbing a generation of their future.”

But Williamson said: “No one wanted to cancel exams – they are the best form of assessment, but the disruption caused by Covid-19 meant they were not possible.

“This triple lock system will help provide reassurance to students and ensure they are able to progress with the next stage of their lives.”