An experienced head teacher argues that the government’s decision to cancel exams this summer will have disastrous consequences for children, and further discredit school qualifications, undermine teaching standards and damage the credibility of the education system

After what has been the most demanding and stressful year in education for decades, I feel ­completely let down by our ­educational leaders. I am fearful, not only for the pupils I am directly accountable for, but also for a whole generation of children ­currently floundering in a sea of mismanagement and confusion.  

I have spent my entire career in inner-city state schools. The schools in south London I am responsible for are outstanding examples of what our once fine education system can produce – averaging above 1 on Progress 8, and full of brilliant students and fantastic teachers. Despite being in so-called “disadvantaged” areas, both schools have a “no excuses” policy that does not patronise, expects high standards and focuses on ­working closely with the home and local community to produce not only great academic results, but also well-balanced, confident pupils ready to take on the world. The UK’s education system, at its best, can be a true vehicle for social mobility. I arrived in the UK aged four, an illiterate boy from a poor background in Tunisia. Good teachers and good schools showed me the way to success in a new land.  

I often say to my teachers: you make a real difference and change lives. In the midst of the pandemic, however, I increasingly find myself feeling let down by our leaders. Of course, the problems we are all facing are complex. But from hapless politicians to underperforming Ofsted officials, from ­rudderless union leaders to money-grabbing exam boards, does no one understand not only the immediate damage their decisions are causing but the catastrophe that now lies ahead for our children?