Despite the fact that Ofqual has recently consulted on this proposal, the realistic expectation is that this will take effect with effect from the summer examination series in 2014. The Association's response covered the merits of retaining a modular option and also questioned the wisdom of introducing this change (and also the 'SPAG' proposal) when significant revision of specifications is anticipated in the wake of the National Curriculum Review and the scheduled review of specifications in 2014. A recent website item drew attention to the impact that ending modular examinations will have on current Year 9 learners who have already embarked on GCSE study.
Queries have also been raised about the position relating to WJEC (previously the Welsh Joint Education Committee) syllabuses. The proposed linearisation will only apply in England and hence WJEC will continue to offer modular specifications. However, this will not be available for English schools as Ofqual regulates WJEC's operations east of Offa's Dyke.
Page Published: 21/11/2011
