GCSE students celebrate success

More Jersey pupils than ever before have achieved at both the 4-9 (C and above) grades and at 7-9 (A/A*) in their GCSEs. Whilst the unusual circumstances this year make comparisons with previous years challenging, Jersey students have achieved significantly higher than their UK counterparts.

This is the fourth year that pupils’ results have combined the reformed GCSE qualifications, which are graded 9 to 1, with some remaining legacy A* to G GCSE qualifications and a range of International GCSE qualifications (iGCSEs).

This year 974 Year 11 pupils sat a total of 7,008 GCSE or iGCSE examinations.

Percentage of results by grade for Year 11 pupils (new 9 to 1 grades)

Percentage of results by grade for Year 11 pupils (legacy A* to G grades)

Due to the closure of schools and the cancellation of examinations following the outbreak of COVID-19, new arrangements have been put in place for determining this year’s results.　

Following a recent change in approach by the UK’s Department for Education and its regulator, Ofqual, GCSE students have received grades today based on their Centre Assessment Grades. These are compiled by their schools from teachers’ assessments. Students also receive grades calculated by the standardised process developed by Ofqual, the UK’s qualifications regulator. Where the two grades differ, the higher award will become the student’s final mark. Last week’s A-level results are being reissued on exactly these same lines.

Students may choose to undertake an autumn examination to seek to improve their grade (in effect, a ‘re-sit’).

The exam board Pearson, which oversees BTEC qualifications, last night announced that there will be a delay in BTEC students receiving their grades. Students received their predicted grades today and their official grades – which should be in line with the predicted grades - will be given when available.

Highlands already has the grades from partner schools so there will be no delay in being able to offer places to students. Students are encouraged to go to Hautlieu and Highlands as planned, with their results as admissions teams and senior staff will be in attendance for advice and pastoral support.

The Education Minister, Senator Tracey Vallois, said: "There has been much controversy surrounding the UK Government’s handling of this year’s GCSE and A-level grades, which has come on top of the stresses and strains that students have faced due to the Covid-19 pandemic. I’m delighted with Jersey’s wonderful results during these unprecedented times and wish students the best with their future."

Assistant Minister for Education, Deputy Jeremy Maçon, said: "Jersey’s GCSE students and teachers should be incredibly proud of today’s results, especially given how challenging this academic year has been, and the uncertainty of the last week or so.

"I wish all our students the best of luck in their next step, whether that’s remaining in education, moving into training, or moving into the workforce. For those who are still unsure of what do next, please do remember that Skills Jersey, your teachers and your parents are here to support you."

The Skills Jersey Careers Advice and Guidance Team are available to offer support and advice, Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 5.00pm on 01534 449440.