As you are aware, the modular GCSE results were distributed yesterday. The results for pupils who sat the WJEC English Unit One examination were extremely disappointing with grades, in many cases, being well below those predicted. This is a situation which is replicated across Wales and not just Bishop Gore. It is recognised that this is a deeply upsetting situation for our pupils and their families to be in.
On receiving the results, we have taken the following action:
The English department have undertaken an in-depth analysis of grades and question-by-question marks, comparing this to predicted grades.
A formal complaint has been sent to the WJEC on behalf of the pupils, parents, staff and governors of Bishop Gore.
A formal complaint has been sent to the WJEC from The Head of English (Ms E Hewitt).
Mr Arwyn Thomas (Swansea LEA Chief Education Officer) has asked for a report from all schools. We have provided him with this.
Liaised with other Swansea schools to formulate a co-ordinated response to the WJEC/Welsh Government.
Our opinion is that there has been a serious error in the way in which these grades were arrived at. This error should be corrected by the WJEC and our approaches all request this. Our prime concern is to ensure our pupils receive the grades which they deserve and we will do everything in our power to ensure that this is done. In the future, there must be a discussion about the validity and quality of the process that is overseen by the WJEC.
We saw today how upsetting such negative news was for our pupils and really do empathise with them. It is not a situation we expect them to be placed in after they have all worked so hard. We will continue to contact all those who have a role in the process and contact you again to give you updates. Whilst we all believe that these results should be changed, this is unlikely to happen in the next few days. We know how deeply frustrating this is and will ensure that you have any new information as soon as it is available.
The most important thing for our pupils to do now is to focus on their GCSEs/BTECs and allow us to challenge the grades on their behalf. They are fantastic pupils who are being taught by dedicated and talented teachers - they do not deserve to be treated in such an unfair manner but they must not allow anything to get in the way of what they are truly capable of.
Please do not hesitate to contact me should you wish to discuss the above.
Thank you for your support.
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