Rhondda Cynon Taf learners have received their AS, A level, Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate and level 3 vocational qualification results today. It is important to congratulate each and every one of our learners today on their academic efforts and achievements, and for the resilience they have shown throughout the pandemic. Our schools should also feel immensely proud of their learners’ achievements.
This year’s cohort of learners have faced unprecedented challenges due to the pandemic, and continued disruption to teaching and learning prompted significant changes in the regulations for approved GCSE, AS and A levels for 2021.
Learners have been awarded centre determined grades by schools this year and this has relied on the professional judgement and diligence of our teachers.
Our school leaders and staff have worked tirelessly to ensure that learners have been awarded grades that reflect their abilities, and which will enable them to pursue their planned progression routes into further education, employment, apprenticeships and training.
Performance data is not reported this academic year due to Welsh Government’s suspension of key stage 4 and legacy sixth form performance measures.
The Education Minister announced in June 2021 that ‘Qualification awards data will not be used to report on attainment outcomes at a school, local authority or regional consortium’. Schools and the local authority will however continue to make effective use of data to support effective and continued school improvement across the County Borough.
Councillor Joy Rosser, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Education and Inclusion Services, said: “It has been another very difficult year for all of our learners across the County Borough, and I would like to pay tribute to both the learners and teaching staff for their hard work and resilience.
“Today is a day to celebrate all of that hard work, dedication and commitment and I would like to congratulate all of our learners who have received their AS, A-Level and vocational qualifications today.
“The teacher assessed grades awarded today were calculated using a range of assessment evidence and relied on the sound judgement of our teaching profession who have been outstanding throughout the pandemic.
“Obtaining these results today is a time to celebrate and reflect on the past 12-15 months. It is also a time to look ahead to the future with great pride as these learners continue on their chosen paths in life.
“I would also like to pay tribute to all of the wonderful teaching staff, governing bodies, support staff, parents and carers, who have supported our learners every step of the way – this is a day for you all to celebrate their success.
“I remain proud of the role our schools have played in their respective communities throughout this pandemic, from not only providing continuity in learning, care and support to those who needed it, but for also being an integral part of community life.”
Results have been shared electronically and in person today, and support is available for learners who require further advice and guidance.
Despite the many disruptions faced this academic year, this is an important day for our year 13 learners, as it marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their lives.
The Council rightly recognises all the positive achievements of Rhondda Cynon Taf’s schools and learners, with many securing university admissions, further education places, apprenticeships and employment opportunities.
Posted on 10/08/2021