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Underwhelming GCSEs

32 replies

26374hsg · 08/09/2024 10:09

So, I thought GCSE results day was supposed to be a happy affair, lacking the drama of A levels as most get what they need and move on. However this year I have been really surprised by the results. I had brought into the narrative that a bright kid could coast, apply themselves somewhat towards the end and come out with 7-9s. But instead bright kids from primary are more at the 4-6 end and the ones that do well appear to have worked really hard for it. Have we got used to higher grades through Covid or underestimated the amount of work involved?

Appreciate that this is a highly unscientific observation from a middle class town where the vast majority are state educated in excellent comprehensives. Would be interested to know other experiences, especially as gap between private and state has widened again this year.

OP posts:
TeenToTwenties · 08/09/2024 10:32

Clearinguptheclutter · 08/09/2024 10:32

@TeenToTwenties

Boundaries are set so about 1/3 don't get 4+ for maths, and same for English

so the system is set up to fail the weakest third however well they do? Blimey

More or less, yes.

Clearinguptheclutter · 08/09/2024 10:32

@TeenToTwenties

Boundaries are set so about 1/3 don't get 4+ for maths, and same for English

so the system is set up to fail the weakest third however well they do? Blimey

tennissquare · 08/09/2024 10:32

The teachers at the schools have to know the exam board mark scheme and then teach it. High grades in English come from "applying" the mark scheme in the exam.

TeenToTwenties · 08/09/2024 10:29

Clearinguptheclutter · 08/09/2024 10:21

Following with interest
we live in a pretty MC area and the kids go to a the local state secondary school with an excellent reputation
50% apparently got a 5+ in maths and English. Which means 50% did not!

That doesn't seem at all surprising to me. Boundaries are set so about 1/3 don't get 4+ for maths, and same for English.

So your 50% 5+ maths and english excludes anyone who passed either with 'just' a 4, and there will always be students who work exceptionally hard and still miss that magic grade.

Airbrush24 · 08/09/2024 10:26

98888766665

I think you have to put the work in these days.

Clearinguptheclutter · 08/09/2024 10:21

Following with interest
we live in a pretty MC area and the kids go to a the local state secondary school with an excellent reputation
50% apparently got a 5+ in maths and English. Which means 50% did not!

Spirallingdownwards · 08/09/2024 10:16

No its the same as it ever was.

My bright kid who did sod all got 2 Bs and 7 Cs. My bright kid who worked got 9 A* and 2 As (or equivalents).

There will be some that say they didn't do much and got all A* but in reality they can't coast like in the days of O levels

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