NI pupils will have broader remit to appeal GCSE / A-level results this year

As exams were cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, calculated grades will be used to give pupils their A-level and GCSE results.

Challenges will be free this year in light of the exceptional circumstances.

Northern Ireland’s A-level and AS level results will be published on Thursday.

GCSEs will be out on August 20.

Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) chief executive Justin Edwards said: “This year, due to the alternative arrangements it is not possible to ask for examination papers to be reviewed as would be normal.

“We recognise that there is robust evidence available on student prior performance and that this could be considered within the appeals process.

“The opportunity for schools and colleges to submit mock examination information and completed GCSE units provides a broader scope of evidence for appeal.”

“Schools and colleges may hold strong evidence of students’ prior performance from mock examinations and, for GCSE examinations, some completed units,” CCEA said.

“As part of the appeals process this year, CCEA will consider such evidence.”

Education Minister Peter Weir welcomed the move.

The minister said: “This has been an incredibly difficult year for all of our pupils, and in particular for those taking GCSEs, AS and A levels.

“I have made it clear that I do not want to see any pupil disadvantaged as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. At the same time, it is important that qualification standards are maintained.

“This year, the appeals process for pupils is free. As part of the appeals process, CCEA will now consider mock examinations and GCSE units already completed.

“I hope that these steps will provide reassurance to those students who are awaiting their examination results and I want to thank CCEA for all their work on this issue.”