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Exams regulator Ofqual announced the change this afternoon after a growing number of Conservative MPs broke ranks to criticise the system which saw 40 per cent of students receive downgraded results due to an algorithm implemented in lieu of exams.

Ofqual chairman Roger Taylor said in a statement: “We want to now take steps to remove as much stress and uncertainty for young people as possible – and to free up heads and teachers to work towards the important task of getting all schools open in two weeks.

“After reflection, we have decided that the best way to do this is to award grades on the basis of what teachers submitted. The switch to centre assessment grades will apply to both AS and A-levels and to the GCSE results which students will receive later this week.”

A sign left outside the Department for Education building in London, as a protest over the continuing issues of last week's A level results which saw some candidates receive lower-than-expected grades after their exams were cancelled as a result of coronavirus. Photo: PA

Mr Taylor said there was “no easy solution to the problem of awarding exam results when no exams have taken place”.

But he said the system had “caused real anguish and damaged public confidence”.

He said: “Expecting schools to submit appeals where grades were incorrect placed a burden on teachers when they need to be preparing for the new term and has created uncertainty and anxiety for students. For all of that, we are extremely sorry.”

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson also apologised to students and parents affected by “significant inconsistencies” with the grading process.

Mr Williamson said in a statement: “This has been an extraordinarily difficult year for young people who were unable to take their exams.

“We worked with Ofqual to construct the fairest possible model, but it is clear that the process of allocating grades has resulted in more significant inconsistencies than can be resolved through an appeals process.”

He added: “We now believe it is better to offer young people and parents certainty by moving to teacher assessed grades for both A and AS level and GCSE results.

“I am sorry for the distress this has caused young people and their parents but hope this announcement will now provide the certainty and reassurance they deserve.”

Mr Williamson had said last week there would not be a U-turn on the issue.

The change comes after students took to the streets over the weekend in protest against the saga.

Students who were awarded a higher grade by the moderation process will be allowed to keep it, but for many pupils, their teachers’ predictions could see their grades increased.

A-Level and GCSE results to now be awarded based on teachers' predictions as Government forced into U-turn