Public exam results? Not for Cambridge snowflakes

CAMBRIDGE students are to be given the chance to opt out of appearing on public notices displaying their grades after campaigners claimed it could affect their mental health.

The tradition of ‘class lists’, as they are known, spans 300 years and sees exam results posted on boards outside the university’s Senate House every year.

The practice was seen the most efficient way of letting students know their results, and in recent years has been regarded as a way of celebrating their achievements. But campaigners have said the lists are ‘damaging’ to welfare, trigger depression and ‘promote a culture of shaming’.

The issue has divided opinion among students, with many saying they would be sad if the tradition was swept away. The move comes amid a mounting drive towards protecting students’ mental health while at university. Critics have said that while those with genuine mental health issues must receive support, going too far risks creating a ‘snowflake generation’ incapable of handling adulthood.

Currently, applications from students wanting to have their names removed are only considered in ‘exceptional circumstances’. Under the proposed system, every student would be able to simply tick a box which states they wish to opt out.

The decision was made earlier this week by the University Council and looks set to be in place by the end of the academic year. Martha Krish, students’ union education officer, said the lists had caused ‘distress and harm to countless students and said the was ‘a massive improvement’.

Last year student Nicholas Taylor, of the campaign Save the Class List, said: ‘I think it is a fantastic tradition ... If you are part of a bigger institution at an ancient university which goes back 800 years, then your results should be public.’