Supporting the FE sector during Coronavirus (COVID-19)

You can use Ofqual’s ‘Summer 2020 Qualification Explainer Tool’ on their statistics web page to search for a specific vocational, technical or other general qualification to find out how results will be generated for most learners (i.e. whether it follows a calculated/adapted/delayed assessment approach).

As the proposals in Ofqual’s consultation are now approved, this means we can finalise our proposed approaches to awarding results this summer. You can access the following here:

• BTEC Centre Assessment Grades guide, timeline and guide on ranking, covering the BTEC Level 3 Nationals, BTEC Firsts and Tech Awards, BTEC Level 2 Technicals and Foundation Learning
• Guidance on the calculated results approach for Functional Skills
• Guidance on centre assessment grades and remote sampling for BTEC Higher Nationals
• Guidance on the adapted assessment approach for competency-based/apprenticeship related qualifications and the BTEC Level 3/4 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (FAD).

 

Equalities responsibilities

In its published outcomes, Ofqual has recognised the importance of ensuring non-bias in Centre Assessment Grades during this time and has provided additional guidance to Awarding Organisations and Heads of Centres to support this. Where relevant we have also made references in our guidance in recognition of this. If you need support or guidance please do contact our sector specialists, whose details are here.

Appeals for vocational and technical qualifications

Ofqual has issued further guidance to highlight issues to consider when handling appeals this summer, and has stated it expects the approach to align to that for GCSE/AS and A Level.

We will be reviewing what the consultation outcomes mean for our current appeals process for vocational and technical qualifications and we will be issuing you with further guidance as soon as we can.

Autumn assessment opportunity for vocational and technical qualifications

Ofqual has stated that where Awarding Organisations normally have an autumn assessment opportunity, they should continue to do so. They have also stated that there should be an autumn assessment opportunity where there is sufficient demand, or where it would be unfair not to.

Most of our externally assessed units are available either on-demand, or in the January and May/June series, therefore we do not anticipate making additional opportunities available. We will revisit this based on Ofqual’s guidance, and whether there is sufficient demand. We will keep you updated.

What this means for you and learners studying GCSEs, AS, A Levels and the Extended Project Qualification

As well as publishing the exceptional arrangements for awarding calculated grades in GCSEs, AS and A levels this summer Ofqual has also announced a consultation today into the proposals for an autumn exam series, which will provide an opportunity for students unable to receive a calculated grade, and others who would like the opportunity to improve their GCSE/AS/A Level grade, to take an exam. This is an opportunity for your college to input into this important consultation and express your views on the proposal, the deadline to respond is 8 June 2020. 

For more information on some of the key decisions from the general qualifications consultation please visit our website.

As ever, I’ll continue to keep you updated on the latest updates as they become available. Please continue to visit our dedicated support pages to keep up to date on the latest news and support available to you.

Thank you once again for your patience and collaboration during this unprecedented time.