THERE were smiles on many faces as Evesham and Pershore pupils collected their GCSE results.

But one headteacher has spoken out on how the government handled results this year, with the uncertainty being “unfair on students”.

Ahead of the results being announced the government U turn meant pupils knew they would be given grades estimated by their teachers, rather than based on the algorithm that caused A Level controversy last week.

Chris Allen, headteacher at Bowbrook House School, said: “I think the government should be embarrassed over the whole situation.

“Ultimately students have now got the grades they deserve. But the algothrym we have now been allowed to see, it was unfit for purpose.

"It was always going to be difficult to predict how 16-year-olds would do in the exam situation, so why not trust the people who know them best.

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“It has been added stress and anxiety (for them).”

Bowbrook, which is based in Peopleton near Pershore, saw a 92.4 per cent overall pass rate, with top grades at 25.7 per cent, and the pass rate at five good grades or above at 90.6 per cent.

Mr Allen added: “The results are pretty much on a par with last year’s results.

"I think they (the students) have all got what they needed to get to move onto their sixth form or college of choice, so that is the main thing.”

Meanwhile at Prince Henry’s School in Evesham a spokesman said Year 11 students were celebrating after achieving “excellent results”.

Headteacher Dr Evans said: “Congratulations to all the students.

"Whilst the students were unable to sit examinations due to the extraordinary circumstances of 2020, my staff and I are delighted with the outcomes that we have seen.

"These reflect the hard work of the students, their parents and the teachers here at Prince Henry’s who have supported them in this most unusual and difficult of years.

“We wish all our year 11 students every success with their future studies or careers, and are looking forward to welcoming many of them back to our sixth form in September.”

And Bredon School, in Evesham, tweeted: "Congratulations to all of our pupils who have received their results.

"You have worked incredibly hard through unprecedented and difficult circumstances, and you should be very proud of what you have achieved."