Ofqual
Ofqual has today (26 April) published its report to Parliament for the period 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2015.
Our work during 2015 was directed by the goals and objectives set out in our Corporate Plan 2015-18. We achieved many of our aims and made much progress on others.
A great deal of our focus has been on reforming GCSEs, AS and A levels. The first new qualifications began to be taught in English schools in September 2015, and the subjects to be introduced in 2017 have been agreed. At the time of writing, at least one new qualification had been accredited in all GCSE and A level subjects for first teaching in September 2016.
Reform has also been a feature of our wider work. A key change in 2015 was the removal of the Qualifications and Credit Framework rules, which were not providing enough flexibility for awarding organisations to meet the needs of students and employers. We have also begun work with others to reform functional skills qualifications and advised the Government on
One of our statutory responsibilities is the maintenance of standards in GCSEs, AS and A levels in England. There were relatively few changes to these qualifications in summer 2015 and the results were stable.
Key to all these achievements was Dame Glenys Stacey, our former Chief Regulator, who provided wise direction and strong leadership during her five-year tenure. And the future is bright following the appointment of our new Chief Regulator, Sally Collier.
Amanda Spielman, Chair