By Katie-Ann Gupwell
Exam periods invariably bring stress for pupils and, despite students’ best efforts throughout their education , assessments can generate significant pressure – sometimes resulting in disappointing marks regardless of dedication to achieving their targets. A mother recently left fellow parents astounded after sharing photographs on X, previously Twitter , showcasing her daughter’s artwork – leaving viewers absolutely flummoxed. People simply cannot fathom the mark she received for her efforts, and are devastated that she may now abandon the subject entirely due to this setback. Recounting the situation, Nicola Garrard posted: “My daughter is giving up A-level art because she feels she is failing. Her Year 12 portfolio was given a D-. “The second painting is a self-portrait. I’m biased but I think they’re brilliant. Who here thinks she could make a living as an artist/illustrator? I’ll pass on comments!” The artworks display vibrant colours, imagination and lifelike quality, which explains why numerous people were shocked by the revelation. Social media users expressed bewilderment, given the work appears exceptionally well-crafted and meticulously executed. One respondent commented: “Definitely not a D grade – is the teacher off their head? Is the grade based on ticking boxes (certain amount of observational work, secondary material, research, etc. needs to be done?), therefore she needs to fulfil certain requirements and it’s not based on quality, but quantity?” Another person chimed in with a tale of personal triumph, adding: “Well, tell her I got an E in both art and music at A-level, and I’ve made a successful career out of both. “Designed TV and West End shows, animation films, art/directed loads of hit albums, directed top videos – had lots of music hits. I couldn’t even get into Winchester Art.” A third individual shared their own experience of perseverance: “Tell her never to give up on her dream. That is one person’s opinion. When I was in undergraduate school I had a professor tell me chances were slim I could get a PhD in Clinical Psychology. “That was my dream. I ignored his opinion and kept forging ahead. Today I hold a double PhD in Clinical Psychology and Industrial Organisational Psychology.” Meanwhile, another commenter offered support and advice: “My mum is a retired high school teacher and is an artist (and vice president of our local artists’ society). She cannot understand how this got a D- and strongly urges you to demand a remark by a different teacher. “The mark does not reflect your daughter’s work. Please, please demand a remark even if your daughter does end up dropping art. Mum thinks it’s criminal what has happened to her. It’s just awful. Her work is incredible.” In the discussion, Nicola also mentioned that her daughter was marked down for “missing some preliminary sketches and research”, which affected her grade. She clarified that she doesn’t hold the teacher responsible, but simply wanted to highlight her daughter’s artistic ability. In a subsequent post, she clarified her stance: “The teachers are NOT at fault here! It’s how we formally assess art and creativity in the UK – standards set by Ofqual/QCDAgency. I’m an English teacher and writer, and I often have to grade great creative writing ‘down’ because of assessment criteria/SPAG. It’s putting kids off! “Thank you so much for all your praise, advice and encouragement! I didn’t expect this to blow up! I can’t keep up with thanking and answering questions, sorry! THANK YOU!”