A head teacher has apologised after a year’s worth of work was uploaded late by staff, resulting in sixth-formers being severely downgraded.

Year 13 pupils at The Cranbrook School were left with disappointing grades for their Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) which was uploaded late by teachers.

According to the school’s website the EPQ is a qualification prospective universities hold in high regard.

It is also described as “an individual research-based project” which “requires a lot of self-motivation and a good work ethic”.

Due to the mistake, a sample of work had to be submitted and students were handed grades that did not reflect their work over the year.

In a letter to parents, head teacher Dr John Weeds said: “This is very disappointing news and we maintain that students have not been rewarded for the quality of their submissions, some of which were very good indeed.

"I am therefore writing to all students affected and their parents to outline the best way forward.

“For students in Year 13 last year, we are very sorry that the quality of your work has not been recognised.”

Following the error, the school applied for re-moderation but was told by the exam board the grades would not be changed.

The school explained the error to the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) so students would not be penalised when applying for places.

Mr Weeds’ letter stated: “The school takes responsibility for this but maintains the grade awarded in no way reflects the ability or diligence of the student or indeed the academic quality of the essay itself.

"We would therefore ask the admissions tutor to look past this grade when considering this application.

“The downgrade was due to admin errors for which the school has apologised" - a school spokesman

“I am sorry for what has happened with this qualification and to have to share this news with you.

“I would like to reassure you about the steps we have taken to ensure a much more satisfactory outcome next year.

“We have a member of staff dedicated to the management of the EPQ process. We have a bigger team of staff involved in monitoring and assessing work produced.

“We will only enter Year 13 students for this qualification in future. Thank you for your continued support and understanding.”

A school spokesman said: “Cranbrook School students experienced lower than expected results in the EPQ last summer.

“Previously, the results have been excellent, adding to the sense of disappointment.

“The downgrade was due to admin errors for which the school has apologised.

“The head and staff are confident that this summer’s results will be better.”