Plymouth GCSE Results 2017
As this year’s GCSE results are released, early indications show that Plymouth schools are getting the basics right and are in-line with National figures.
As the government rolls out a new way of measuring school performance, changes to GCSE performance measures are beginning to appear. These changes to GCSE grading are being brought in to ensure students can compete for jobs across an international platform.
This is the first year that some subjects including, English language, English literature and maths move to a numerical scoring system, whist other subjects remain on the old A*to G system.
By 2019 all subjects will be on the 1 to 9 scoring system with an emphasis on a strong pass in subjects. The strong pass is a Level 5 in the grading structure, also regarded as the equivalent of gaining a grade B. A Level 4 standard pass will be regarded as the equivalent of gaining a grade C.
Councillor Terri Beer, Cabinet Member for Children and Young people said: “Students from schools, academies and further education providers are today celebrating some excellent GCSE results. This will represent a significant recognition and reward for their efforts and hard work over the last two years. Some schools have yet to inform us of their results but most are pleased with the results their students have achieved. Across the city, some of our young people have achieved outstanding individual results for which they should be extremely proud. I’d like to personally congratulate all the students on their achievements and hard work and I wish them every success for the future as they move into the next phase of their education and training.”
David Maddison, Chief Executive Officer of Plymouth Learning Partnership said, “We must remember that it is pointless making comparisons this year as these are new qualifications, with more demanding content, and a different system of assessment. Our young people and teachers have been working as hard as they always have and will continue to strive towards reaching full potential. Our schools are so much more than a collection of exam results. They are rich and diverse communities of learners with a huge range of needs and interests. These broader aspects of school life often aren’t reflected in league tables but are nevertheless valued by students, families and communities.”
Dan Roberts, Chair of the secondary school association and head teacher at Devonport High School for Boys said, “We would like to congratulate young people across Plymouth on these results. Their hard work together with support from their families and schools, have enabled them to do their very best. Raw results do not take account of a school’s context and each school sets a curriculum to meet the needs of their own cohort of children. We are working with colleagues across the region to ensure we are able to take a coordinated approach to changes in the curriculum and examinations system and as a city we will be identifying strengths and weaknesses and building upon work already underway to address increasing demands.”
Students will now move into the next stage of their education and training with options including A Levels, Technical courses and apprenticeships. As the young people move into these routes students will be supported to develop the knowledge and skills need to succeed in the jobs and careers needed within Plymouth’s key economic sectors; including construction, marine and advanced engineering, digital and health. Participation in Post-16 education and training is traditionally strong with over 96 per cent of our 16 and 17 year olds receiving an offer of a place in 2016.
Judith Harwood, Assistant Director for Education, Participation and Skills said: “Plymouth has some great young people and many fantastic opportunities to continue learning after GCSEs are done and dusted. Schools can offer impartial advice on what to do next if you don’t know yet but there are also other places to find a broad range of advice. If you don’t know what to do next, make sure you have a look at the Council’s “Reach for your Future” web page which offers a guide on the different types of schools, colleges and training providers in the Plymouth area. www.plymouth.gov.uk/reachforyourfuture.”
For any students who have not received their expected grades, or those re-considering their plans, support and guidance on alternative options can be provided by staff in their schools and colleges.
Independent advice and guidance is provided by Careers South West (CSW) by calling 0800 97 55 111 or 01752 207700; on-line support is also available via their web-site at www.cswgroup.co.uk/about-csw-group/young-people/
