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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
National

State school pupils at a disadvantage from tougher exams

IGCSE Michael Gove
Collaborate schoolsFile photo dated 02/03/12 of an exam in progress, as independent and state education sectors in the UK must collaborate better to prepare the younger generation for
‘In 2015, Michael Gove forced state schools to adopt the reformed, more rigorous GCSEs, and unwittingly created a two-tier education system.’ Photograph: David Davies/PA

As a teacher with more than 15 years’ experience in the state sector, I read Zoe Williams’s article with interest (Exam season makes everyone unhappy. Why do we put up with it?, 5 June).

No one seems to be aware that not all exam seasons are equal. As I watch our year 11s tumble out from the exam hall each day, giddy with relief that another gruelling, 100% exam GCSE is done and dusted, I wonder if they know that their wealthier, private school peers are sitting “international” GCSEs where, in subjects such as English and history, up to 50% of the mark can come from coursework.

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