Subject panels

Our subject and sector panels are designed to:

• provide strategic advice on the content (knowledge and skills), progression pathways and assessment standards of Pearson qualifications at subject or sector level
• review and challenge the work of Pearson’s internal development teams
• advise on the content of specifications (and sample assessments) during development, in the relevant subject/sector as appropriate for the level and purpose
• provide external validation that Pearson specifications (and assessments) are right for the level and purpose
• provide evidence, that we can present to regulators, of engagement between our qualification development teams and a balance of stakeholders for the subject/sector
• provide external subject-specific expertise in the assessment standards of Pearson qualifications where relevant to the subject or sector.

Each panel has a balance of expertise across the subject or sector in content, assessment and in delivery. All panels include teachers of the qualification, to make sure that the panel’s proposals are deliverable, as well as representatives of the key stakeholder interests.

• AS/A level panels are mainly academics from higher education with some representation from subject associations.
• BTEC and Apprenticeship panels are a combination of academics from higher education, employers and representatives from professional bodies. 
• GCSE panels include teachers of level 3 qualifications in the same subject (AS/A level and/or BTEC Nationals), and representatives from subject associations and higher education.
  

While we’re developing a specification, we normally ask our panels to get involved a few times:

1. In a meeting at the start of the development phase, to give strategic advice on the content needed to support progression to higher education or employment in the subject or sector 
2. By email or teleconference halfway through the process, to review plans and check that the specification development is in line with criteria requirements and subject panel advice
3. To review final drafts of the specification and sample assessment materials, and attend a meeting to confirm they are consistent with the panel’s advice and meet external criteria.

Their summary reports are then reviewed by our World Class Qualifications expert panel to help them make their decision to give final sign-off.

The feedback from our subject and sector panel members has been positive. Members welcome the opportunity to engage with their subjects or sectors at curriculum level. HE representatives say that the meetings are a valuable chance to discuss their subject in curriculum terms, and employers appreciate the opportunity to consider sector-wide developments.

But don’t just take our word for it. In this short video, some of our panel members talk about working with us to develop the new BTEC Nationals.