Latest DfE guidance for GCSE grades determination 20 March 2020 GCSE grades determination – the latest information from the Department for Education 20 March 2020 Dear Parent/Carer, The Department for Education (DfE) have now released some further guidance as to how GCSE grades will be determined. The grade a student will achieve, in each subject area, will be based on a range of data known about their attainment; School Projected Grade – As Penrice does not use teacher predictions this will be a grade calculated by the school, based on a range of PPE data and other information we have collected about academic performance through class work and coursework. Ofqual will be releasing guidance to schools to ensure this process is consistent across the country. Prior Attainment Data – Performance from Primary school SATS tests will be used to see how students from previous years, of similar ability, performed historically. This will then be used to benchmark outcomes, so they are comparable to previous year groups. This will ensure that students are not at a disadvantaged compared to previous year groups. Controlled Assessment – Controlled assessment and units of work already completed will be incorporated, as this assessment has already taken place, or is underway. We feel that the process being proposed by the DfE is robust and fair, so that students achieve a grade reflective of their efforts and performance. The aim from the DfE is that these grades are issued before the end of July. Further guidance from the DfE and Ofqual will be issued in the coming weeks and we will update you as this is received. If you have any questions, please let me know. Kind Regards, Doug O’Brien Assistant Principal