Skip navigation

Improving the quality of GCSE assessment

Last updated on: 08/04/2008

In June 2006 QCA recommended to ministers that work should be done to improve current written GCSE examinations. That recommendation was accepted and QCA commissioned research to explore how this might be done.

QCA appointed two contractors to conduct studies independently of each other. The contractors were the Centre for Developing and Evaluating Lifelong Learning at the University of Nottingham (CDELL), and Cambridge Exam Research.

Both studies evaluated the validity, reliability and effectiveness of current papers across a range of subjects with a view to identifying features that enhance both assessment and its impact on teaching and learning.

Where improvements to current papers can be made, the regulators will ensure that they are reflected in the GCSE examinations for the new specifications to be taught from September 2008.

The regulatory function of QCA is now the responsibility of the Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulator (Ofqual). Ofqual regulates qualifications and monitors national curriculum assessments in England.