So, who will now be held responsible for potential challenges arising from predicted grade system?

AUGUST is always an immensely stressful time for school pupils, as examination results, which may determine their progression on to further or higher education, are released.

This year will forever reign notorious for the unprecedented fiasco which has engulfed the examination system in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.

CCEA’S algorithmic undoubtedly formulated flawed results, which were not tailored to an individual student’s ability.

As the UK’S devolved administrations perform a U-turn from the publication of A-level results last week and instructs examination boards to revert to the system, whereby teachers’ predicted grades are used going forward, concerns arise relating to the fairness and transparency of this system.

Education Minister Peter Weir’s hand was forced by the rotations introduced by other UK regions. However, he does deserve a mark for his acknowledgement of the fairness of teachers’ grade predictions, in the absence of standardisation, for A, AS and GCSE levels.

The point appears to have been lost on commentators that teachers themselves often have their class “favourites”, to whom they may give preferential treatment. Where, in this method of grade allocation, are the criteria determining oversight and potential challenge? Will it be the responsibility of CCEA, the department or the school?

Despite facing unremitting criticism, the minister’s earlier concerns are worthy of credit. As the Assembly convenes following the summer recess for a special sitting, perhaps someone could raise these points before any further condemnation is levelled at Peter Weir.

PETER DONNELLY Student Editor, The Gown Queen’s University, Belfast