What a result

Ever since I can remember, results day has almost always created a furore. My brother was the first cohort to take the new GCSE in 1988 which was also the earliest, main driver of modern interest in exam coverage. From the 'dumbing-down' of creative subjects and record results to grade inflation and 'factory-farmed' kids with the narrowing of the curriculum. But 2021 results day follows a year like no other. We're all acutely aware of the challenges the pandemic posed for our young people, their parents, carers, families, teachers and schools. From the digital divide as lessons transitioned online, self-isolation issues that impacted lessons delivered and their equitability (resulting in at least a third of the academic year being lost), compounded mental health issues and the devastating reality that many students and their teachers lost loved ones. Many have compared our young generation to the 'lost generation' in early adulthood during World War 1. I agree that this is useful to a point in that it will hopefully mean funding bodies will prioritise research into the impact of the pandemic and what can be done to mitigate its effects. Including funding to support an increase in mental health services and access to education on a equitable basis. But today and on Thursday, I hope the narrative is kind and positive and we can allow our young people to reflect and congratulate themselves on what they have gained and not 'lost.' Not just in terms of their formal qualifications but the all important life skills that are becoming increasingly important in the job market; digital skills, independent learning, kindness and empathy, creativity, environmental awareness and living in the moment.
It's been a hell of a journey - good luck to all the GCSE and A-level students waking up to results this week and thank you to all the teachers that supported them along the way.
#education #mentalhealth #digital #empathy #learning #resultsday2021