Congratulations and questions on summer results

BMet is today celebrating exam success with students but has strong reservations on how A level grades were awarded.

A level students at BMet’s Sutton Coldfield College achieved a 99% pass rate and 55% of students guaranteed their place at university on the spot.

The vocational pass rate for Level 3 BMet students was 100%.   Vocational courses are offered at the trio of colleges that make up BMet – James Watt College, Matthew Boulton College and Sutton Coldfield College.

However, the college is calling the results today a travesty for those A level students that did not get the higher grades they deserved and will join the Association of Colleges in asking for a review.

Cliff Hall, BMet Principal, said: “While we are of course delighted that our A level and Vocational students are able to progress to the next destination, we do question the grades awarded for some of our A level students today.

“This year has been particularly challenging for students and while we celebrate with many today, we are sorely disappointed with what can only be described as a flawed marking model.

“We expected some downgrading but not on this level.  We have an excellent A level team at Sutton Coldfield College and they are very rigorous in their approach. They are now working on supporting students to secure their places.

“We will be appealing on behalf of a number of students, even where they are secure in their university offer because we know they merit a better grade.

“Behind every set of exam results is a young person striving to do their best and it is only right they get a true and fair grade.”

This year students have been emailed results but some took time out to share their results and to outline their future plans.

Chloe was thrilled with her A Level results  – she achieved a B in History, a B in Psychology and an A in Sociology.  Chloe said: “I am thrilled with my results, which will get me into my university of choice – the University of Birmingham.”

Ana was ecstatic with her Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design at Sutton Coldfield College.  She said: “I am really happy today, as I got a distinction which is a top level grade! My next step is to go to Plymouth University and to later gain a rewarding career in architecture.”

Jemima was over the moon with her BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science.  She said: “I got a D*  D*  and a Distinction. I am over the moon with my results, as I can now go to the University of Warwick to study Biomedical Sciences.”

Ajwannie is looking forward to the future and pleased with his Level 3 Extended Diploma in Computer Science and IT.  He said: “I got a triple distinction and I am extremely happy! In the future, I want to do an apprenticeship in IT and Business, which will further enhance my skills and abilities.”

To find out more about the post 16 choices offered by BMet click here.

Watch this space for students’ reaction – exclusive student comments, videos and reactions to the 2020 exam results coming soon.