[I]t is important to understand that this year’s GCSE examinations in English and Mathematics have been designed to assess a more demanding curriculum.
Therefore, the introduction of more challenging qualifications with a new GCSE scale makes comparisons with previous years more difficult and some caution is required. Overall results are currently provisional and are therefore subject to change.
However, it is really pleasing to confirm that the provisional GCSE results for Cumbria indicate that against a backdrop of change and added challenge, Cumbria has improved outcomes this year. The proportion of students achieving passes in both English and Maths (Grade 4+ under the 2017 system and Grade C+ under last year’s system) has increased.
Initial results also indicate that the proportion of pupils in Cumbria achieving higher grades (A*- A under last year’s definition and Grade 7+ under this year’s system) has been maintained in Mathematics and has increased for English.
Particularly pleasing is a significant improvement in the attainment of disadvantaged pupils in our County.
John Macilwraith, Cumbria County Council’s Corporate Director for Children’s Services said: “My congratulations go to all students on their achievements and my thanks go to their teachers, parents and carers.”
Councillor Sue Sanderson, Cumbria County Council’s Cabinet Member for Schools and Learning, said: “It is important to recognise the significant changes made to curriculum and assessment arrangements this year and therefore the hard work of students, their teachers and our school leaders to ensure that they have been able to meet these challenges. Whilst it is too early to provide detailed figures, I am delighted that Cumbria’s provisional results are positive and will ensure that so many of our young people will be able to use these results as strong currency as they progress to further study and employment. My congratulations to them all, and my thanks to parents and their families for their support and encouragement.”
