GCSE CHANGES
testing in a number of subjects, including
citizenship, economics, engineering,
GCSE reform timeline
geography, Latin, PE and law, although in all
cases except law there will be paper-based
• September 2008: QCA-approved materials start to become available
alternatives. specifications published. Sample from publishers and OCR.
“Young people are often more comfortable
assessment materials and schemes • June to August 2009: Draft
using screens and computers than sitting
of work available to schools. specifications for English, ICT and
down and writing on pieces of paper,” Ms
Coldicott added.
Publishers begin to release taster maths are published by OCR.
“One of the exciting innovations is the
materials. • September 2009: First teaching of
online repository, which is a secure area • September 2008 to August 2010: new GCSEs.
where work can be loaded ready for
Pilots of functional skills continue to • September to December 2009:
moderation. This doesn’t have to be a word-
be carried out in schools in England. English, ICT and maths specifications
based document, but can be a video or
another medium.”
• January to April 2009: OCR “Get accredited by the QCA.
In the run-up to full implementation of the
Started” INSET events begin, • January 2010: First assessment of
new GCSEs, teachers will have access to free
preparing teachers for delivery of the some GCSE units.
lesson plans from OCR and guidance about new specifications. • September 2010: First teaching of
the new specifications, and to additional
• January to May 2009: Support English, ICT and maths.
support for the changes.
SecEd
Delivering innovation
7
in qualifications
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