In recent years we could agree that all students have had to deal with some extreme circumstances and pressures in regards to both their learning and exams.
With the closures of schools, colleges and Universities during lockdowns forcing home-schooling and distance learning many exam results may not have reflected the true capabilities and knowledge of the individual. With this in mind and now the advantage of hindsight our education system has needed to update its structure when it comes to GCSE, AS, A level, Project and AEA qualifications.
Ofqual and DfE have decided that it is necessary to introduce schools and colleges with guidance of how they can gather information in regards individual students’ performances to determine grades in the event that exams cannot be taken. This seems to be a fair assessment strategy that assures true potential and grades are recognised.
In 2023 Ofqual understand that as we move back into “normal times” students have the opportunity to prove what they can actually achieve through performance and with the knowledge they have in each subject. With the correct guidance and support these results can be achieved without the need of over testing it has been decided.
There have also been some changes made to specific subjects in particular GCSE Maths, Physics, Combined science and Modern foreign languages. Assessment requirements have been amended as a result of consultations held by Ofqual and DfE. When published more than 90% of respondents who included teachers and students agreed with the need for the exam board to still provide formulae and revised equation sheets for maths, physics and combined science exams.
When it comes to GCSE modern foreign languages 95% of respondents agreed with proposals to remove unfamiliar vocabulary not on the vocabulary list from the exams. This will take effect in 2023.
So, it does seem that our education system is leading by example and learning from past events to make the changes necessary to provide the correct guidance and protection for our students.
