So what happens now for children taking A-levels and GCSEs: Boris Johnson promises pupils will get their qualifications – but how?
- Schools in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Island will all shut on Friday
- A-Level and GCSE examinations planned for May and June have been cancelled
- It is thought grades will be based on previous academic record and predictions
- Coronavirus symptoms: what are they and should you see a doctor?
Boris Johnson has promised that pupils will get their qualifications despite schools in England closing at the end of the week amid the continued coronavirus pandemic.
The Prime Minister announced the bombshell move earlier today and stated that the school gates would should on Friday and would not reopen for the foreseeable future.
The closure means that A-Level and GCSE examinations planned for May and June have been cancelled but Mr Johnson insists that qualifications will still be ‘administered’ fairly.
Boris Johnson has promised that pupils will get their qualifications despite schools in England closing at the end of the week amid the continued coronavirus pandemic (stock image)
Mr Johnson’s announcement – confirmed by Education Secretary Gavin Williamson in a statement to the House of Commons at the same time as the PM’s daily coronavirus press conference – came after the other three Home Nations had already committed to closures.
Announcing the closures of schools and nurseries, the Prime Minister said: ‘Of course this does mean that exams will not take place as planned in May and June.
‘Though we will make sure that pupils get the qualifications they need and deserve for their academic career.’
The Prime Minister said that the qualifications would be ‘administered’ fairly and in order to protect pupils’ interests but has not yet detailed how and when this would happen
He added that the qualifications would be ‘administered’ fairly and in order to protect pupils’ interests but has not yet detailed how and when this would happen.
It is now thought that the most likely solution will be to base qualifications on pupils’ previous academic achievements and predicted grades.
Echoing the Prime Minister’s sentiment, Mr Williamson said: ‘We recognise that there are no easy choices but we have agreed that the best way forward is not to proceed with summer exam series.
‘Learners due to sit their GCSEs and A levels this summer will be awarded a fair grade to recognise their work, drawing on the range of information that is available.
Echoing the Prime Minister’s sentiment, Education Secretary Gavin Williamson (pictured) said grades would be awarded by ‘drawing on the range of information that is available’
‘We will be working with the sector to announce further details shortly but wanted to give this early certainty.’
Mr Williamson went on to say said a ‘means of redress’ will be put in place for GCSE and A-Level students to query their grades.
The official measures that the Government intend to put place are expected to be announced over the coming days.