We were commissioned by Ofqual to consider the likely impact on different types of schools of different approaches to the award of grade 9 in new GCSEs.

Three approaches to the award of grade 9 were modelled:

  1. 20% approach: the grade 9 boundary in each subject is set so that the top 20% of students awarded at least a grade 7 is awarded a grade 9.
  2. Tailored approach: the grade 9 boundary is set so that over all subjects, 20% of students awarded at least a grade 7 are awarded a grade 9 but the exact percentage varies by subject. It is higher in those subjects with a higher proportion of students awarded at least a grade 7 and lower in those subjects with a lower proportion of students awarded at least a grade 7.
  3. 50% approach: the grade 9 boundary in each subject is set so that the top 50% of students currently awarded a grade A* is awarded a grade 9.

The analysis was based on a dataset comprising the exam results for students aged 15 to 16 years in summer 2014 in state-funded and independent schools.

You can contribute to the consultation here.

Grade 9 boundary