Cameras capture Ashton school's preparations for return to classroom

Great Academy Ashton has featured in a special educational local and national broadcast for the BBC as students and staff prepare to go back to school from Monday.

BBC Education editor Branwen Jeffreys was at the campus last Thursday to record a national news and radio piece following Education Secretary Gavin Williamson’s announcement that students will receive exam grades awarded and determined by teachers, with pupils only assessed on what they have been taught.

The BBC team took a tour of the school and talked to a range of students, including Year 8 and Year 10s to gain an insight into what it’s been like studying at home. 

Branwen then sat down with current Year 11 student Elisabeth Salumu, Eliot Warburton and principal David Waugh to record their instant reactions on the government’s statement.

David said: “It’s brilliant news that we are now in a position to welcome back face-to-face teaching for our 1,275 young people.

“The last 12 months have been a challenge for everyone and our students have continued to engage fully remotely. Over the next two weeks we will be welcoming back all students, supporting the delivery of more than 4,500 lateral flow tests and the delivery of our ambitious GAA Engage Curriculum. 

“As principal of Great Academy Ashton, I am genuinely blessed to have a highly dedicated, skilled and professional staff team. The challenge set down by government to re-open fully is readily accepted and we look forward to re-engage all students in face-to-face learning. After chatting with the team, the BBC team was massively impressed with the students and preparation for ensuring they and the staff have a safe return.”

Teachers will submit grades to exam boards by June 18, allowing as much teaching time as possible before teachers make their assessments.

Results days for GCSE, A Level and some vocational qualifications will be in the week of August 9, moved forward from the week of August 23. These earlier dates provide additional time for appeals to be completed, so students reliant on outcomes to achieve their university offer have the best chance of accessing a place.

Year 11 student Elizabeth Salumu said: “Teacher assessed grades are a lot better for me because I tend to feel the pressure with exams, so whilst I’m comfortable in my lessons, this is a lot better for me.”

Eliott Warburton also supported the announcement, saying: “I’m perfectly fine with it because I’m comfortable with my teachers, I know them well, and I know that the work I have done in my lessons should get me a good grade.”

Images by Nigel Wood

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