Education Secretary Gavin Williamson MP statement on A-levels

Gavin Williamson, Secretary of State for Education, addresses the issues with the grading system that caused stress among students. He apologizes and explains the initial support for the system, which aimed to be fair. However, over the weekend, it became clear that many students received incorrect grades. After consulting with Ofqual and other bodies, it was decided to move to center assessed grades to ensure fairness. The process involved extensive consultation and aimed to protect disadvantaged and minority students from unfair downgrades.

What was Gavin Williamson's role during the grading system controversy?

• Secretary of State for Health

• Chancellor of the Exchequer

• Secretary of State for Education

• Prime Minister

When did Gavin Williamson realize the grading discrepancies?

• After the appeals process

• Over the weekend

• During the exam series

• At the start of the academic year

What was the initial step taken to address the grading issues?

• Ensuring a robust appeals process

• Implementing a new grading system

• Canceling all exams

• Issuing public apologies

What was a key concern during the consultation process with Ofqual?

• Increasing the difficulty of exams

• Reducing the number of exams

• Ensuring high grades for all students

• Fairness for disadvantaged and minority students

What decision was made to rectify the grading situation?

• Reverting to teacher-assessed grades

• Eliminating grades altogether

• Introducing a new exam format

• Moving to center-assessed grades