Boris Johnson has openly acknowledged that the grading system implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic significantly failed many students. The former Prime Minister expressed regret about a system that provided predicted grades instead of traditional exam results for pupils whose education was disrupted.
Boris Johnson on Student Exam Results During COVID-19
During his testimony at the Covid-19 inquiry, Johnson addressed the widely criticized grading process, stating it “plainly let down a lot of kids.” The evaluations did not accurately reflect many students’ true abilities and achievements.
Criticism of the Grading System
The grading system faced backlash for several reasons:
- Private schools reportedly awarded more lenient grades compared to state schools.
- Some students experienced discrimination in their predicted grades.
Johnson admitted to having a “homicidal mood” regarding the situation, referencing a message he sent to his former chief adviser, Dominic Cummings. He reflected on the urgent need for reforms in the Department of Education, expressing frustration over the handling of the situation.
Challenges of School Closures
When questioned about the implementation of the grading system, Johnson emphasized the complexities involved in creating a fair assessment process without actual exams. He noted that closing schools was a “nightmare idea” he wished to avoid, concerned about the impact on disadvantaged students.
A document from March 2020 raised alarms about the effects of school closures, predicting that nearly 9 million pupils could be denied an education. It highlighted that 1.3 million of the most impoverished children would miss out on free school meals and warned of increased risks of domestic violence and youth crime for vulnerable children not in school.
Government Preparedness and Discussions
Johnson refuted claims that the government had no plans for school closures, citing ongoing discussions since the onset of the pandemic. He recalled that conversations surrounding the need for potential closures emerged as early as March.
Former Education Secretary Sir Gavin Williamson previously testified that critical assessments on school closures were not requested, as officials initially did not recommend them. He described a rapid shift in direction that led to the sudden announcement of closures.
Johnson supported Williamson’s efforts, crediting the Department for Education for managing challenges despite the turbulent circumstances. He acknowledged that critical planning began as early as March 15, with discussions on safeguarding and exam protocols. Johnson stated that he believed there had already been significant consideration of school closures before the official decision was made.
Reflections on the Pandemic
While Johnson accepted some responsibility, he also noted that the government was initially unclear about the virus’s effects on children and its transmissibility. He emphasized that many uncertainties complicated the planning process during the early stages of the pandemic.
