Teacher Talk: 'It's not rocket science to ensure papers are proofread'

Graham Smith, headteacher at Tunbridge Wells High School in Kent

How well do you think the exam boards performing?

I respect exam boards because I used to work for a couple, and a great deal of very good work is done. But systems must be in place to make sure problems are avoided, and it's not rocket science to ensure papers are proofread. Exams are stressful enough without having to worry about whether there are nine or 11 questions on a paper. I do remember a time when the shortcomings we are seeing too often were very rare indeed.

Do you welcome the new AS-level exams?

It's a useful stage on the way to A-levels, and allows for the possibility of broadening the sixth-form curriculum to become similar to European models, in which more subjects are taken. If there are subjects that are essential up to the age of 16, why do they suddenly stop being essential after 16? Another important point is that vocational courses must not be seen as second-rate, rather as just as rigorous but with a different emphasis.

Are you anticipating World Cup-related truancy?

No, partly because we're very tough about attendance. Truants get a same-day telephone call, and we work very closely with the education social work service. We plan to show the first England match in school time on a screen in the gym. We did this last time which was four years ago and it was a great success – of course lessons take place for the rest of the day.

Professor Janette Elwood of Queen's University, Belfast found that teachers' stereotyping of girls as nervous students prevents some of the brightest pupils achieving top GCSE grades. What's your view?

Plainly I'd look at the research with respect, but I don't believe teachers are failing pupils because of their gender. The reasons for underperformance are complicated, and may be beyond the control of the teacher. A nervous student might lower his or her own expectations because of a lack of confidence about exam performance. Teachers work hard to improve the confidence of such students, who are quite easy to spot. So I'd be inclined to question the conclusion of this research.

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