Exams, of all shapes and sizes, have dominated the week, and once again we’ve witnesses unprecedented actions. First there was the decision by John Swinney, the Scottish Education Secretary, to withdraw all downgraded awards. This was followed by Gavin Williamson’s “triple lock” for A level students, introducing mock results into the appeals equation. In England A level grades remained stable, but as in Scotland the week before, the focus has been on the impact on disadvantaged pupils. Further details on appeals are due next week from Ofqual and so expect continued coverage. Outside of exams, respondents to Pearson’s Global Learner Survey feel COVID-19 will fundamentally change education and that technology will play an continuingly increasing role. Although no one knows that the “new normal” will be post-pandemic, perhaps this week will go some way in shaping it, especially when it comes to exams.

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