NAHT comment on results day for A-levels

Today, students across the UK have received their results for AS and A-levels, new T-levels, and a range of level 3 vocational and technical qualifications (VTQs).

This is the first time in two years students have taken exams because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT, said: “Congratulations to all students receiving results today. 

“They have experienced large amounts of disruption due to Covid throughout their courses and have worked hard with their schools’ support to achieve today’s results. 

“We know from our members just how resilient and tenacious pupils have been in meeting the challenges facing them.”

The NAHT represents more than 34,500 school leaders in early years, primary, secondary and special schools. It is the largest association for school leaders in the UK.

Mr Whiteman added: “It is important for everyone to remember that some students and some schools will have experienced more disruption due to the pandemic than others, so results should be seen within a personalised context.

“That said, students should be able to feel confident this year that where those results rely on performance in exams, they have been marked and graded consistently across all centres and all students.”

Mr Whiteman also said that it should be remembered that the 2022 results are not comparable with previous years, as this year is a ‘transition period’ following two years of significant disruption and no exams.

He declared that flexibility and understanding must be shown.

He said: “Universities and all onward routes for training, employment and further education should take into account the realities of students’ experiences and work with them to get them on the right courses and paths for their futures. 

“Regardless of national grade patterns, what is important is that today’s results act as a passport for students to the next stage of their education, training or employment.”