Petition · past parliament
Reconsider the 2017 changes to the structure of the GCSE examinations.
Closed
36 signatures
What the petition asks
I am campaigning to reverse the 2017 changes to the GCSE examinations. I am petitioning for these changes, such as the 9-1 numbering system and removal of coursework, to be reversed because they actively disadvantage pupils with SEND or who are FSM-eligible.
According to DfE statistics published in 2017, only 39% of pupils eligible for FSM gained pass grades in GCSE compared to 67% who were not eligible. The changes will widen that gap even further as FSM eligible pupils will not have access to the resources and support they need to succeed.
Headteachers and Teachers Union were united in their opposition to the changes. Pupils should not be judged on their performance in a few hours after two years of study.
'1/3 of employers felt a change to the grading system would add more confusion/complexity.' (HoC BRIEFING PAPER, Number 06962, 31 March 2017)
Only 20% of people who get a grade 7 or above will get a grade 9.
Headteachers and Teachers Union were united in their opposition to the changes. Pupils should not be judged on their performance in a few hours after two years of study.
'1/3 of employers felt a change to the grading system would add more confusion/complexity.' (HoC BRIEFING PAPER, Number 06962, 31 March 2017)
Only 20% of people who get a grade 7 or above will get a grade 9.
Timeline
| 14 Feb 2019 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 14 Aug 2019 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
36
Status
Closed
Opened
14 Feb 2019
Closed
14 Aug 2019
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.