Learners in Wales studying for Qualifications Wales approved
GCSE, AS and A levels this year will receive grades determined
by their school or college, based on work they have completed
over their course.
This policy decision was confirmed by Education Minister
today (Wednesday, January 20) following further
disruption to face-to-face learning caused by the coronavirus
pandemic.
The announcement followed recommendations from the design and
delivery advisory Group that is made up of head teachers and
college leaders.
The group was established in December
by the Minister to ‘support wellbeing, fairness and
progression’ for learners taking exams this year.
Speaking in a video released on her Twitter channel,
the Minister said: “The worsening situation with the pandemic
has meant we have no choice but to revisit our approach to
ensure wellbeing and public confidence in our qualifications
system.
“The proposals we are announcing today puts trust in
teachers’ and lecturers’ knowledge of their learners’ work,
as well as their commitment to prioritise teaching and
learning in the time available to support learners’
progression.
“Teaching the core content and aspects of each course remains
my absolute priority for learners in exam years, so they are
supported to progress with certainty into their next steps,
with confidence in their grades.
“We are working with higher education institutions to look at
how we can support learners through this transition, and can
provide a bridge into university courses.
“I would like to thank each and every learner and education
professional for their ongoing flexibility and adaptability
in responding to this incredibly difficult situation. Their
continuing commitment in the face of adversity is admirable,
as is their individual and collective contribution to the
national effort against Covid-19.”
