GCSE results to be released digitally in government-backed pilot

A government-backed trial will take exam results digital, but some say this could "take away a rite of passage".

The Education Record app will replace paper GCSE files to provide students with digital exam records they can use to apply for college, apprenticeships, or jobs. Around 95,000 Year 11 pupils will be the first to trial the scheme, across Greater Manchester and the West Midlands.

Combined, around 850,000 to 930,000 students sit GCSE and A-level exams each summer in England. And between them they will undertake 6.5 to 7.5 million exams.

Usually, the results of these exams are sent to schools, and students are asked to collect them. In special circumstances, students can already request results to be collected by a named parent or carer.

Results can also be emailed on request and would be posted home if not collected in person. In a move to take the process into the 21st century, the results app launch comes as the government ramps up reforms across post-16 education.

Mark Giles, principal at the Hathershaw College school, said: "We believe this will reduce administrative burdens on schools. "In the future could also be utilised by parents of younger children to support transition from primary to secondary school." But Jack Cronin, head of physics in a secondary school in the South East, told Sky News: "For ease of access, it makes sense, but it takes away a rite of passage.

"Collecting results in school is a big marker in your life. I know the news isn't always good, but it gives them a chance to see their friends and talk it over." Read more from Sky News:Sharp rise in school suspensions and exclusionOfsted facing legal action over plans to change inspections Schools often will provide support and guidance for those students who may have missed their university offers or not achieved their predicted grades.

Mr Cronin said: "Young people need to talk in real life to people. Having them on an app just brings more of their lives online also." Stephen Morgan, education minister, said: "It is high time exam records were brought into the 21st century, and this pilot will allow schools and colleges to focus on what they do best: teaching the next generation rather than being bogged down in bureaucracy." The government estimates the £30m annual saving could be reinvested to fund over 600 new teachers in further education..