This summer's examinations results are like no other. Many of our students have done very well, securing high grades, resulting in new opportunities in the world of work or at university. The staff are delighted for them and wish them all the very best. However, we also share the confusion, shock and distress that many more of our students are experiencing at this time.
It is important to celebrate the achievements of our students, but it is also very clear that the Ofqual moderation of the Centre assessed grades has been flawed. The staff at St Dominic’s worked very hard during lockdown to calculate the CAGs, using a variety of evidence and data. However, it would appear that the statistical methodology applied at a national level by Ofqual has let some of our students down.
I and my team are now working incredibly hard to support these students to navigate this difficult situation and I wanted to reassure you that we are also raising our concerns at the highest level. I have spoken with our Harrow MPs, Gareth Thomas and Bob Blackman, both of whom are supportive of the College and are able to communicate with Michelle Donelan, Minister of State for Universities and Further Education, the depth of our concerns about the process and the students that it has disadvantaged. We are working with national organisations and associations such as the SFCA and ASCL to seek a timely resolution.
National examination results are always a time of heightened stress and anxiety and I would like to congratulate all our students who have worked hard and completed challenging courses in these unprecedented circumstances – to complete two years of study at this level is a great achievement, particularly with the added challenges of the last few months. You have much to be proud of.
As soon as we receive appeals guidance from Ofqual we will contact you again.
Andrew Parkin - Principal
