Department for Education

National lockdown now in force

During the period of national lockdown, schools, alternative provision, special schools, and colleges will remain open to vulnerable children and young people and the children of critical workers only. All other children and students will learn remotely until February half term. Schools and colleges have already implemented extensive protective measures to make them as safe as possible.

In these circumstances, we do not think it is possible or fair for all exams this summer to go ahead as planned. The Secretary of State for Education will therefore work with Ofqual to put in place alternative arrangements after consultation with the sector.

Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove has said that teacher-led assessments will be used to award grades for this year's GCSE and A-Level exams in England.

We will continue to work with Ofqual, awarding organisations and other stakeholders to discuss the next steps and provide more detail on the way forward, including ensuring students have a way to progress with as little disruption as possible.