A HEADTEACHER has called for people to stop criticising grades as pupils up and down the country get their GCSE results.

Speaking as Year 11s across Brighton and Hove received their marks, Brighton Girls headmistress Rosie McColl paid tribute to a generation that has face huge disruption due to Covid.

Ms McColl called on commentators and the media to stop and think about the adversity the youngsters had faced in trying to achieve their GCSEs before criticising the way in which they are awarded.

She said: "As a year group, not only have they achieved a stellar set of results, despite the challenges and uncertainties they have faced along the way in a system they had no say in, but they have made so many positive contributions to the wider life of the school, a testament to their character and their determination.

"They have had to show patience, grit, self-belief and trust that their efforts would be rewarded. Throughout it all, they have kept their spirits up and shown great support for each other and for the school community.

"I would like politicians, the media and commentators to remember that before they pour scorn on hard-earned grades and the achievements of 16 year olds who have shown incredible determination throughout one of the most tumultuous times in modern history."

Twenty six per cent of the school’s grades were a 9, the top mark. More than half, 52 per cent, were grade 8 or 9.

Some pupils achieved a clean sweep of all 9s or 8s and 9s.

Ms McColl said: "While studying hard for their exams, pupils delivered science lessons to Year 6 students during lockdown, took part in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme, achieving their bronze awards and worked as charity representatives to help with food donations to the City Mission food bank during the pandemic.

"These young people should be praised and congratulated, not have their grades used for political point-scoring.

"Congratulations to Year 11 pupils everywhere for staying the course and giving it your all, despite everything."

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