ISC wishes pupils and teachers well on GCSE results day

The ISC chairman said: “Congratulations to pupils for all they have achieved throughout what has been another unusual year, overcoming the many challenges brought about by the COVID pandemic. Pupils should be proud of all their hard work, and we hope their results enable them to pursue their goals with confidence.

“This year marked the return of exams, which provide the best way for students to demonstrate what they know and can do. All students undertook the same assessments, which were set, independently marked and graded by the exam boards. As such, students can be confident that they have been graded in the same way as everyone else.

“We thank teachers, school leaders and support staff for working tirelessly to support the learning and wellbeing of children, and we credit Ofqual, the exam boards and exam officers for ensuring the smooth-running of this year’s exam series.

“As with the Year 13 results published last week, trying to make comparisons with last year’s results is not advised given the unique nature of the assessment system used in 2021.

“Let us instead focus on celebrating the achievements of these young people, and ensuring they have the support they need as they embark on the next stage of their education.”