GCSES ARE TO STAY FOR NOW, SCHOOLS TOLD

GCSEs will stay but are likely to change under curriculum reforms in Wales, the independent regulator of non-degree qualifications in Wales believes.

“Reform of the school curriculum in Wales will lead to changes to qualifications – but it’s too early yet to say exactly how much they will need to change,” Qualifications Wales said.

“Current thinking is that the GCSE brand will continue, but that individual qualifications may need to change to reflect the demands of the new curriculum.”

The independent regulator also told representatives of the Pioneer School network meeting in Llandudno that it wants to make changes gradually and to avoid too many changes at once.

“We are conscious that the education system in Wales has gone through a prolonged period of reform in the last few years,” said associate director Emyr George. “That’s why, when we bring in future changes, we will consult on the details and plan plenty of lead-in time for both teachers and learners to get ready”.

Mr George said that because curriculum reform is currently at an early stage of development, it’s not yet possible to see what the precise implications will be for individual qualifications.

“The impact will differ by subject. We expect that some may change very little, while others may require changes to their content or structure.

“And for some areas of learning and experience we may see a need for new qualifications.”

Qualifications Wales said that at this stage it does not believe the GCSE brand will need to be replaced because “it has a strong image, is trusted and is understood by employers and the wider general public across the UK”.

“Simultaneous reform of the curriculum and qualifications is always going to be challenging, but with planning and through regular dialogue with schools and colleges, we’re confident we can make the transition as smooth as possible,” said Mr George.