Awarding qualifications in summer 2021: Urgent action required

This viewpoint on Ofqual’s proposals regarding summer examinations in 2021 is written by Dr Mick Walker, Former Teacher, Researcher, Fellow of the Chartered College, and an expert in educational assessment. The views presented here do not necessarily represent those of the Chartered College. Views on the best way forward are very varied across the sector. For a different viewpoint, read Shirley Clarke’s thoughts and Michael Chiles’ views, and for a wider perspective on some of the challenges and our members’ views, have a look at Cat Scutt’s summary of members’ concerns for the Chartered College. On the 15th January, the DfE and Ofqual launched two consultations on how qualification grades would be awarded in summer 2021. One deals with GCSE, AS and A-levels, the other vocational qualifications. With a closing date of Friday 29th January, time to consider and reflect is short. Clearly, it would have been ‘wiser’ to have considered and modelled contingencies should