A-level results day for Dorset teenagers
A rise in top grades are expected
Last updated 10th Aug 2021
The anticipation is nearly over for A-level students in Dorset.
Just as last year wasn't a normal results day, this year won't be either, although the government has ditched the algorithm used to calculate grades last year.
Weymouth College is reporting it's pupils have achieved a 100% pass rate for A Levels this year.
39% of pupils there received an A-B grade in any of the 14 subjects taught. 79% acheived an A-C grade in Sociology, Physics, Geography, Art and Design.
That's despite an unusual year of teaching , which saw staff and pupils adapt to often changing restrictions. Most exams couldn't go ahead this year so grades have been determined by teachers based on evidence of students' work.
Students have the chance to appeal anything they don't agree with.
Ofqual says most teachers and headteachers are confident with results integrity.
Our reporter George Sharpe will be at Weymouth College this morning talking to students to find out if they agree.
James Foster is the head of Academic Studies at Weymouth College. He told Greatest Hits Radio:
"I'm absolutely confident in this process this year. Our teachers have worked really hard to get the students to where they need to be. Those grades were also checked by the heads of school, internally verified and also externally verified.
"So in terms of the process, I think this year is more robust."
James added:
“We are really proud of our sixth form (A Level, AS level and BTEC Science) students – and our staff – who have all coped remarkably well over the last year under extremely challenging circumstances. Their ‘can do’ attitude, hard work and diligence has really paid off!
“Our students have shown great resilience and grasped every opportunity to secure their learning and achieve the grades they need for their next step - be that an apprenticeship, employment or university”