In the chief inspector’s annual report, the analysis of standards of achievement in secondary schools is based on the average points score per pupil in GCSE examinations (1 for G, 2 for F, up to 8 for A*).
The Department for Education and Employment consultation document on national targets puts forward the option of a target for 16-year-olds based on raising the average points score per pupil.
Let us hope that this marks the beginning of the end of the use of five GCSE passes at grade C or above as the basis for judging the performance of secondary schools.
It was a great disappointment when Estelle Morris, the education minister, announced last year that the Government will continue to use the five A* to C statistics.
The average points score is used at A-level. It should also be used at GCSE. Then we shall know that the Government wants to raise the attainment of all young people.
J E DUNFORD
Head, Durham Johnston School Crossgate Moor, Durham
