A student at a school that is scrapping GCSEs has described the relief of finishing her final exam and argued that other schools should follow suit. Tarka Burrell, a work experience student, wrote about her experience as one of the last cohorts to sit the traditional exams before her school adopts a new system from 2027.
School leads the way in ditching GCSEs
The school will replace GCSEs with a bespoke curriculum that includes traditional academic subjects as well as modern areas such as artificial intelligence. Assessment will be more dynamic, and students will be offered bridging courses to ease the transition to A-levels. Burrell said she found the jump to GCSEs very challenging and welcomed the smoother transition for younger students.
Criticism of the current system
Lord Kenneth Baker, who introduced GCSEs, has called them 'Edwardian' and said they have 'run their course'. The system has remained broadly unchanged for 40 years, despite the internet not existing when they were introduced. Burrell argued that change is needed to keep up with the modern world.
Mental health impact of exam stress
A study from University College London found that exam stress at age 15 can increase the risk of depression and self-harm in early adulthood. Burrell recalled feeling sick with nerves before her first exam and described revision as 'boring and pointless'. She said: 'A test cannot be truly indicative of two years of work.'
Support from teachers and students
Most of Burrell's classmates were glad that younger learners would have a different experience, despite being slightly miffed they had to take the exams themselves. Teachers have shown more enthusiasm for their subjects since the change was announced, as they no longer have to teach with just one exam in mind.
Parental concerns and future prospects
Some parents have expressed concern about their children's future opportunities without GCSE qualifications. However, Burrell noted that universities and employers do not weigh GCSEs as heavily as the effort they demand. She said she does not regret sitting them, as they taught her discipline and stress management, but she is glad that future students will be free from the stress and boredom of exams.
