Ofqual statement on January exams
Friday, 06 January 2012 13:36
Ofqual can today confirm that no further exam papers scheduled for January are to be withdrawn as a result of investigations into teacher seminars run by exam boards.
Ofqual have already instructed WJEC to withdraw its ICT GCSE paper scheduled for this month after evidence was found that information had been shared inappropriately.
Ofqual has completed its review of material provided by the Daily Telegraph relevant to this month’s exams. Ofqual also instructed exam boards to review all of their seminar and support material.
Glenys Stacey, Chief Executive of Ofqual, said: “As no further evidence of January papers being compromised has come to light, all exams will take place as scheduled.
“This does not mean, however, that our investigations on these issues are complete. The allegations have raised serious questions about these seminar events and how they are run, and have damaged public confidence in the system.
“We will review the role that these seminars play in the system and will make changes where necessary to protect the security and integrity of exams.”
On Monday, Ofqual will launch a public consultation on how it intends to use its strengthened enforcement powers, including the power to fine.
The consultation follows the passing of the Education Act 2011, which makes three changes to Ofqual’s powers. As well as the power to fine exam boards, it removes limitations on the powers to direct exam boards and to withdraw recognition. It also gives a new power to recover the costs of enforcement action.
Download Glenys Stacey's letter to the Secretary of State regarding the January exams series
Notes to editors
- The consultation on changes to Ofqual’s enforcement powers will be available on the www.ofqual.gov.uk website on Monday, January 9.
- Following the allegations in the Daily Telegraph about information being shared at teacher seminars run by exam boards, Ofqual has: reviewed transcripts of more than 52 hours of audio recordings; called senior executives from the exam boards in to respond to the allegations; and instructed exam boards to review all of their seminar and support materials.
- Prior to the allegations, Ofqual had announced a programme of work to look at the commercial activities of exam boards such as text books and seminars. The on-going work resulting from the Daily Telegraph allegations will form part of this wider programme.
