Whilst there is confidence in GCSEs and A Levels, there are concerns around marking, enquiries about results and the amount of reform in the system.

These are some of the findings from Ofqual’s annual survey of the qualifications system in England.  The research looks in to the perceptions of A Levels, GCSE and other academic and vocational qualifications by head teachers, teachers, the general public, parents, students, employers and higher education.  

The survey showed that GCSEs and A Levels are seen as trusted qualifications providing good indications of a candidate’s suitability for employment or further study.  Other findings include:

• Stakeholder views on the accuracy of marking of GCSEs remain mixed with confidence in the maintenance of standards varying by stakeholder group
• Headteachers believe that the enquiries about results system, currently undergoing change, is not fair and more awareness of the reviews and appeals system is needed amongst parents and students 
  
• Headteachers and teachers continue to agree that there is too much change in GCSE and A Level systems, although parents, employers and HE thought that reform was needed.  The survey revealed that more needs to be done to raise understanding of the new GCSE grading system including what constitutes a ‘good pass’, particularly amongst employers.