I am starting this petition to raise concerns about the decision by the Welsh Government to not provide 'fair grades' to Year 10 or Year 12 students during this year's exam season despite the unprecedented levels of disruption to school schedules because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Students in colleges and schools up and down the country, even prior to today’s announcement, have already missed out on a significant amount of vital educational time. The strain on school staffing has been evident this week. Countless lessons have been cancelled as educators, acting on Government advice, have been unable to teach as they are following self-isolation guidelines or because they are considered to be members of high-risk groups. Where lessons have been taking place, many students have also been unable to attend for the same reasons.

With schools now set to close indefinitely, there can only be - despite the preparations of teaching staff - a greater detrimental impact on students’ performance which seems likely to continue for the duration of this academic year. Some schools and colleges have made provision for remote online tutoring during these times, however families and students who financially struggle to make ends meet will have an unfair disadvantage when they unfortunately do not have access to the internet, or specific applications that online learning would take place on.

There is very little that is 'fair' about putting students through qualifications during the current international crisis. Year 10 and AS qualifications play an important role as foundations for the next year's studies. In particular, AS results will impact A-Level qualification by around 40% in most cases. This will have lasting effects on student's records.

From a health standpoint, the decision to allow Year 10 and Year 12 results from this academic year to count towards final qualifications is an unfair and unnecessary burden to place on young people at this juncture. Anxiety about the pandemic itself, lack of face to face teaching and the absence of support from academic staff, alongside exam pressure for what will potentially be an extended period over the summer, will have a severe negative effect on students’ mental health, and I am fearful of the consequences for myself and my peers.

It is my opinion that Welsh Government has shown a lack of concern, empathy, and foresight when it comes to Year 10 and Year 12 students. I ask that they reconsider their decision and instead award all GCSE and A level students, including those in Years 10 and Year 12, a fair grade to recognize their work during this hugely disrupted academic year.

I look forward to your quick response