Highlights of the week ending 12 May
Ofqual’s annual qualifications perceptions survey was out this week, showing consistent support across all groups surveyed for GCSEs, and in the main for A levels – though there was a drop in those believing they are a good preparation for work. For Applied General qualifications there was no change year on year. This survey provides interest evidence against the backdrop of various reports and research into whether education is preparing students well for future. One such group doing just that are peers on the Education for 11-16 Year Olds Committee who continued their investigation this week, with a focus on creative subjects and vocational education.
We also saw research from EPI showing the long shadow of the pandemic, especially in relation to maths attainment and a report from Education Support into the expanding role of teachers.
In Parliament, the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Bill completed its passage through Parliament and received Royal Assent. And the Industry and Regulators Committee met this week for an evidence session on the work of the Office for Students (OfS). Peers questioned OfS Chief Executive Susan Lapworth, and Chair, Lord Wharton, on the role of OfS and its responsibilities towards students and the sector in general, as well as on its relationship with the Government. We also had two debates in Westminster Hall, one covering funding in the Midlands, and the other on reasonable adjustments for exams in cases of severe illness.