Emergency measures on the cards as exams face Covid disruption
Scotland’s exams diet for this year is likely to move into emergency measures within the next few weeks due to ongoing disruption, which will see pupils given extra support during exams.
In a letter sent out to schools, colleges and training providers yesterday, the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) said, if significant levels of disruption continue, Scotland would move to “scenario two” of three measures laid out in August. The decision comes amid worries over the impact that Covid could have on assessment in schools for a third year.
Under the second scenario, pupils will be told which topics are likely to appear on the exam paper and may be able to take “additional support measures” such as formula sheets into exams. However, class teachers will not yet be given details of exactly how the measures will work, amid fears that doing so could encourage teachers to narrow the curriculum by teaching only the smaller number of topics which will appear on exams.
A final decision as to whether to invoke scenario two will be made in the coming weeks, although it is believed it will be adopted.
EIS general secretary Larry Flanagan said: ““Councils and agencies such as Education Scotland need to address the ongoing disruption being experienced by students now. Come April, there will need to be measures and resources in place to ensure all students have equitable access to revision support and not only those whose parents can afford additional tuition.”
The SQA reiterated exams would not be cancelled unless public health restrictions mean that physical gatherings are not permitted at the time of exams.
Staff will be given support materials to assist students in March to aid their revision ahead of the Easter holidays.
Scottish Labour education spokesman Michael Marra said: “This is a clear departure in Government policy and it demands urgent answers in terms of the different levels of disruption across the country.”
Scottish Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Education, Oliver Mundell, said: “At this stage in the year a ‘third time lucky’ approach doesn’t cut it. By failing to confirm their plans for school assessments this year, they are leaving parents, pupils and teachers in the dark”