The Government announced the change yesterday (Monday) after it was revealed that nearly 40% of marks were downgraded using the algorithm to calculate A-level results because examinations had to be cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Councillor Dr Mike Hardacre, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: "I was deeply concerned about the situation regarding the A-level grading, which looked as though it was going to be replicated with GCSEs this week.
"I am pleased that the Government has seen the common sense solution which has been called for all along, and for showing the trust in teachers' judgements of the capabilities of their own students – after all, they know them best.
"Clearly, we are living through unprecedented times and it has simply not been possible for young people to sit their end of year exams and other assessments as would normally be the case. Nevertheless, the situation which was developing was threatening to have a material impact on them at a crucial time in their lives.
"Yesterday's announcement will come as a relief to our hard working A-level students who will receive revised results based on tutors' assessments, and to GCSE pupils who will receive outcomes which are also based on the judgement of their teachers later this week.
"The council is ready to assist as best we can in the circumstances, so if your results are better or not quite as good as you had hoped, or you don't know what to do next, please be assured there's plenty of help and advice available to you to make the right choice."
A number of organisations will be providing help and advice to students, including schools, colleges and training providers, and there are lots of options available for young people – such as staying in education, entering the world of work or becoming an apprentice.
Connexions is providing help and support for people who have received their A-level or GCSE results and are unsure what to do next - please call 01902 554499, email connexions@wolverhampton.gov.uk or search for Connexions Wolverhampton on Facebook.
Apprenticeships are real opportunities for people of all ages who are motivated to work, enthusiastic to learn, and want to earn a competitive salary while gaining a nationally recognised qualification. Leading industries and businesses are looking for the next set of dynamic apprentices to shape the future of organisations in Wolverhampton. More information about apprenticeships is available from Wolves Workbox or the national apprenticeships website.
Black Country Impact provides 1 to 1 customised support and training for young people in Wolverhampton who are aged 16-plus and not in employment, education or training. It helps them overcome the barriers that may be stopping them from finding and securing training, education or a job. For more details, please visit Wolves Workbox.
Councillor Hardacre added: "This year has been a year like no other, and our children and young people have had to deal with interruptions to their learning as well as the stresses and strains of living through a global pandemic. I would like to thank them, and their teachers and families, for their continuing hard work and dedication."
