Statement from Mr Crane:
‘Parents and students may have been following the significant press coverage over the last few days regarding the marking of GCSE English examinations this summer.
Following detailed analysis of the Ryedale School English results it has become clear that students may indeed have been disadvantaged by the AQA examining board’s decision to change grade boundaries between the January and June examination sessions. This, I believe, has resulted in a large number of students receiving D grades rather than the C grades which were expected. There may also be an impact on other grades awarded.
My view is that this situation is wrong, unjustified and unfair to our students. It also challenges the credibility of our examination system – there has to be the same grade boundaries for all students within a cohort, irrespective of whether they take the examination in January or June. It will have significant implications in terms of places in further education and possible career pathways.
As a consequence I have made a formal complaint, as a matter of urgency, to the chief executive of the examination board AQA. My understanding is that Ofqual are conducting a review of the changing of grade boundaries between the January and June examinations and will be presenting their findings as quickly as possible.
I will shortly contact parents of those students we believe are most affected with further details and will update you of developments when I have them.
In the meantime please do not hesitate to contact me at [email protected] if you have any questions, queries or require advice.’
Richard Crane
Headteacher
Ryedale School
