Testing time for exams system

THE INTRODUCTION of Scotland’s new exams system has not gone at all smoothly.

Brought in to replace Standard Grades as part of the new Curriculum for Excellence, the first pupils to take the new tests will do so this spring.

Teaching unions have already complained about a lack of materials and support and a cumbersome assessment process.

Now The Courier has discovered local authorities could face a bill for thousands of pounds each year when pupils appeal their results.

If the appeal process determines the pupil under-performed in the exam and raises the grade, there will be no charge. But an unsuccessful appeal will incur charges of up to £39.75 and pupils could even be marked down into the bargain.

There were more than 20,000 unsuccessful appeals in Scotland last year so the total cost could be huge. Councils say they will meet the cost but will naturally be wary of funding a free-for-all. There is no better deterrent than a hefty charge.

With councils being forced to find huge savings each year, will there be pressure placed on teachers to discourage pupils from appealing their grades?

If they do that then parents may even be asked to bear the financial burden themselves.

Given that pupils’ attainment levels are worse in poorer areas than more affluent ones, the consequence could be a system where the schools whose pupils need the most help to raise their grades will be those least likely to afford another stab at success in the wake of a disappointing result.

Marking exam papers takes time and is an expensive process. But it is part of the education system — something that should be considered a right for all, not just those who can afford it.