GCSE results 2020 - AoC responds

Responding to today's GCSE results Chief Executive, David Hughes said: “It has been wonderful to see hundreds of thousands of young people receiving their GCSE grades today after months of uncertainty. Most students will now be able to look forward to moving onto their next steps after days of worry, but we know there are still too many students without that certainty. We continue to work with awarding organisations and the government to ensure they get their BTEC results as soon as possible so that they too can move on. No other year has been as turbulent as this one, and its thanks to the excellent teachers and staff in colleges and schools that students have succeeded and will able to take their next steps, whatever they choose to do. Results this year look different and so course choices for many may be different too. With an increase in top grades and passes, it is likely that more students than ever will progress to Level 3 vocational courses or A Levels. At the same time there may be fewer apprenticeship opportunities for school leavers because of the pressures in the labour market. Colleges are ready to meet the needs and can provide advice and support for students to make their choices. After so many months out of education some young people will be anxious about their next steps, particularly Year 11s who might not have had the same opportunities to attend physical open days. There is no need to panic for anyone unsure what to do, or for those awaiting grades. Colleges will be able to meet their needs and there will be space for everyone. Colleges may indeed see an increase in the number of students applying, but we are certain there is capacity in the system to get students onto the right course for them. What is needed now is concerted support from the government to ensure colleges have the confidence that they will be funded to meet the demand so that they can teach and deliver the high quality education and training for young people and adults we want to see across the country.”