Education Minister, Kirsty Williams confirms approach for Summer 2021 assessments

Today, Kirsty Williams MS for Education in Wales has confirmed how grades will be awarded in summer 2021 for learners studying Qualifications Wales approved GCSE, AS and A levels.

In her statement, the Minister has confirmed the following:

• Learners undertaking GCSE, AS and A levels approved by Qualifications Wales will have their qualifications awarded through a Centre-Determined Grade model.
• Deadlines and controls for Non-exam assessment (NEA) are being removed, however centres are encouraged to undertake some NEA to build learners’ learning and skills.
• WJEC will support centres to develop and deliver internal quality assurance processes.

The full statement is available here.

Ian Morgan, Chief Executive for WJEC said:

‘This has been an exceptional year, and we recognise the need for a different approach to assessment in 2021.'

‘We are committed to working alongside Welsh Government, Qualifications Wales and the Design and Delivery Advisory Group to develop an assessment framework to support schools and colleges with the delivery of this year’s approach.'

‘It’s important to ensure that Wales’ learners are given every opportunity to show what they know, understand, and can do, and as experts in all kinds of assessment, our teams will provide the highest levels of professional guidance and support to teachers as they develop their plans and processes during this exceptional year.'

‘Our teams will work at pace to develop a package of guidance for our teachers, including adapted past papers, mark schemes, and a range of support materials. We will also work with the Design and Delivery Advisory Group to develop a quality assurance process to support schools and colleges.'

‘We will provide further updates and information on our website and social media as soon as possible.’