GCSEs get New 9-1 Grading System: What You Need to Know

The GCSEs (General Certificate of Secondary Education) have undergone a major change in their grading system in England. The old grading system of A* to G has been replaced by a new 9-1 grading system. This new system has been introduced in England to offer a more accurate and clear measurement of student achievement. The new system has been effective since 2017. Here’s what you need to know about it:

What is the new grading system?

The new grading system ranges from 9 to 1, with 9 being the highest and 1 being the lowest. The new system has fewer grades than the old one, making it easier to differentiate between students of different abilities. The old A* – G grades map across to grades 9 – 1 as follows:

• Grades A*, A, and B correspond to grades 9, 8, and 7 respectively
• Grades C and D correspond to grade 6
• Grades E, F, and G correspond to grades 5, 4, and 3 respectively

Why change to the new system?

The main aim of the new grading system is to offer a clearer distinction between students of different abilities. The new system has fewer grades, making it easier for employers and universities to differentiate between students with different abilities. The new system also puts more emphasis on the top grades, with the introduction of the top grade 9. The new grading system also makes it easier to compare the English system with systems used in other countries.

How will the new system affect students?

The new system might take some time to get used to. However, it’s important to note that the content and difficulty of the exams remain the same. Students who have studied hard and performed well in their exams should not be discouraged by the new grading system. Employers and universities have been informed of the change in the grading system and will take it into account when looking at GCSE results.

What do teachers think of the new grading system?

Opinions among teachers in England are divided. Some teachers are happy with the change, saying that it puts more emphasis on the top grades and offers clearer differentiation between students. Other teachers have expressed concern that the new grading system could lead to students feeling discouraged if they don’t achieve the top grades.

What do employers and universities think of the new grading system?

Employers and universities have been informed about the change in the grading system and will take it into account when looking at GCSE results. Employers and universities are looking for students who have performed well in their GCSEs, no matter what the grade system is. However, some employers and universities have expressed concern that the new grading system could lead to confusion, as students and parents may not understand how the grades correspond to the old system.

The new 9-1 grading system has been introduced in England to offer a clearer and more accurate measurement of student achievement. While it may take some time for students and teachers to get used to it, the content and difficulty of the exams remain the same, and employers and universities will take the change into account when considering GCSE results.