GovWire

Ofqual has decided to implement all of the proposals set out in its consultation document, with one minor change to the wording of an assessment objective to improve clarity.

In summary, Ofqual has decided that GCSEs in BSL will:

• have one set of assessments for all levels of attainment (assessments that are not tiered)
• include assessments by examination to assess students receptive language skills and their knowledge and understanding of the history of BSL, worth 40% of the total qualification marks
• include non-exam assessment (NEA) to assess students productive and interactive language skills (including technical accuracy), worth 60% of the total qualification marks
• have assessment objectives that address receptive, productive and interactive language skills, technical accuracy, and knowledge and understanding of the history of BSL

Ofquals consultation also provided information about further considerations for the assessments: the language of the assessment and some specific assessment considerations. Ofqual invited views from interested parties to help inform its thinking in these areas. The feedback received from respondents is being considered as Ofqual undertakes the next stage of work to draft proposals for its consultation on the detailed rules and assessment requirements for exam boards offering this qualification. The detailed rules and assessment requirements would be set out in new Subject Level Conditions, Requirements and Guidance.