30th July 2017 1:00
By Blue Tutors
Ahead of the first round of GCSE results using the 1-9 scoring system in a month’s time, Ofqual, the exam watchdog, is leading a campaign to alleviate confusion over the exam reforms. The campaign has already spent £380,000 on “promoting understanding” of the qualification, clarifying the equivalence of the new grades and changes to the curriculum. The change has caused confusion over what constitutes a pass (4 being a “standard” pass and 5 a “good pass”) and the equivalence with G-A* grades.
The new numerical marks are being used to highlight the broader changes in the qualification, including a shift from modular coursework based evaluation to final examinations. The letter grades have been in place since the 1980s, and the change will only affect students in England. Equally, this year, only the marks in English and maths will be in the new system. Other subjects will change over to the numerical system in the coming years but with English and maths being taken by 600,000 students and being critical subjects for employers and universities, clarification is needed so as not to disadvantage this year’s cohort and reassure students, teachers and employers alike.
The campaign’s spending came to light in prime minister’s questions, brought up by Labour's former shadow education secretary, Lucy Powell. Many have criticized this large expense of public money, however Ofqual have defended the move saying that explaining the new system to the public, particularly to employers, is “essential”, particularly as the letter grades will remain in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Oxford Professor of education, Jo-Anne Baird, rightfully pointed out that the information campaign is a “drop in the ocean” compared to the cost of the reforms overall.