Record number of GCSE and A-level exams sent to be regraded

Ofqual figures reveal 506,750 challenges about GCSE and A-level results this summer, up 22 per cent on last year

Latest figures have revealed there were 506,750 challenges about GCSE and A-level results this summer, up 22 per cent on last year (Corbis)

A record 90,000 A-level and GCSE grades were changed this year after a huge increase in the number of papers sent back by schools to be remarked.

The latest figures from exams regulator Ofqual revealed there were 506,750 challenges about GCSE and A-level results this summer, up 22 per cent on last year.

In total, 90,650 grades were changed – the highest number recorded and more than double the number altered five years ago. More than two thirds (62,150) were GCSE grades and 28,500 were A-levels. Almost all (99 per cent) of those changed were awarded a higher grade as a result of the challenge.

Brian Lightman, of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: “We are very concerned about the rising number of exams having to be regraded. These results are of critical importance to young people and are a key measure on which schools are judged. The marking system is under huge pressure and we fear it is creaking under the strain.”

The statistics, for England, Wales and Northern Ireland, were released as Ofqual launched a consultation on how to improve marking reviews and appeals.