Results day brought students to schools, colleges and other educational institutions across Cannock Chase to collect their exam results. As we approach the start of a new academic year, it’s important to take stock of two years of hard work amid lockdowns, teacher strikes, home learning and other issues along the way.
I know how hard GCSE and A-level students have worked and I would like to congratulate everyone across Cannock Chase on their results, whatever their achievements. We are all proud of their results and the bright futures that lie ahead.
The last few years have been particularly challenging for students wrestling with the aftermath of the pandemic and adjustments to the marking scheme.
GCSE and A-level results day 2023 is the first year to return to pre-pandemic grading and the second year of externally marked exams since these were cancelled during the pandemic and replaced with teacher-assessed grades.
While national figures have shown that the proportion of GCSE entries awarded top grades has fallen from last year, results are still higher than before the Covid-19 pandemic. This is the same for A-level grades too.
Some schools have recorded dramatic improvements from their GCSE results in 2019. Cannock Chase High School has seen an increase in all headline measures in comparison to 2019 and the Hart School, Rugeley, has recorded its best ever set of results in one of its core subjects, and a significant rise in pupils gaining the highest grades in others.
Results day was a big day for students and there are a variety of options available, pathways open to students and plenty of help and support available. I would encourage students to contact their school, college or UCAS if they need advice.
Students who are unhappy about their grades should speak to their school who will be able to offer you advice, guidance, and support with appeals.
No matter what happens next, I hope that this the first step to a successful career for students.
As schools return this week, I understand that parents will be concerned about the news last week about Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC). I am not aware of any confirmed cases of RAAC in schools in Cannock Chase but will work with any schools that have concerns about the possible presence of RAAC. I know the Department of Education are working closely with schools to address this issue and I will, of course, monitor the situation closely and help schools if needed.
As always, if you require my help with anything at all, please do not hesitate to contact me via e-mail at [email protected] or by telephone on 01543 877142.
