GCSE and A-Level exams will be scrapped in Wales in 2021 amid the ongoing fallout of coronavirus.

Welsh education minister Kirsty Williams said end of year exams would be replaced by coursework and other assessments next year.

The coronavirus pandemic has made it “impossible to guarantee a level playing field for exams to take place”, she said, and argued that the decision “removes pressures from learners”.

Ms Williams said: “The well-being of learners and ensuring fairness across the system is central in our decision-making process.

“In line with the recommendations of both Qualifications Wales and the Independent Review, there will be no exams for GCSE or AS level learners next year. A-level students will also not be required to sit exams.

“We remain optimistic that the public heath situation will improve, but the primary reason for my decision is down to fairness; the time learners will spend in schools and colleges will vary hugely and, in this situation, it is impossible to guarantee a level playing field for exams to take place.”