Boys’ underperformance in GCSEs ‘a major issue’

THE “chronic” under-performance of boys at GCSE should be treated as a “major issue’ it has been suggested.

- ELEANOR BUSBY

Professor Alan Smithers, director of the Centre for Education and Employment Research (CEER) at the University of Buckingham, said the talents of boys are not being developed as “fully” as they could be, which could lead to a “decline in the nation’s economic competitiveness”.

The education expert has predicted that “girls will continue to be ahead” of boys at GCSE level. His comments come before pupils in England, Wales and Northern Ireland receive their GCSE results on Thursday.

Prof Smithers said: “The apparent under-performance of boys at this stage of education should be a matter of national concern.

“But because boys are habitually seen as privileged, it does not receive the attention it deserves”

Last year, more than a fifth (21.8%) of UK GCSE entries were awarded the top grades - at least a 7 or an A grade, down from 22.0% in 2023.