Significant changes to new GSCEs likely after burnout concerns

Significant changes to new GCSEs likely after burnout concerns

Exam board responds to workload challenges

Significant changes to new GSCEs likely - The Welsh Joint Education Committee (WJEC) has announced plans to revise its new English Language and Literature GCSE following reports of staff and student exhaustion caused by the increased volume of assessments. The updated qualifications, set to launch in September 2025, are part of a broader curriculum overhaul. In response to feedback from educators and school leaders, the WJEC stated it has "carefully considered concerns about the workload" and aims to make adjustments to the course structure.

Reducing non-exam assessments

Some of the new GCSE courses place a heavier focus on non-examination assessments (NEA), which include oral evaluations, fieldwork, portfolios, and practical tasks. These activities, often managed by teachers, have raised concerns about the strain on both staff and students. The WJEC has concluded that "significant adjustments are needed" to address these pressures, with potential changes targeting the reduction of oracy assessments and the removal of mandatory planning and research requirements for supervised tasks.

"We are relieved that WJEC are looking to make adjustments to some of these qualifications in consultation with the profession," said Claire Armitstead, director of the Association of School and College Leaders Cymru.

Phased implementation of reforms

Major revisions are expected to take effect for Year 10 students starting in September 2026, while those already in the first year of the course will remain unaffected. Additionally, the WJEC is exploring "several potential changes" for the Welsh language and literature qualification, though these will be introduced later, from September 2027. The exam board emphasized its commitment to balancing educational standards with practicality, ensuring the reforms "support both teachers and learners."

Stakeholder reactions to the overhaul

Headteachers in Cardiff highlighted the "extreme pressure" the reforms have placed on schools, urging "urgent action" to safeguard staff wellbeing and student progress. The UCAC union echoed this sentiment, expressing satisfaction that the WJEC has acknowledged teacher and pupil concerns. Qualifications Wales, the regulatory body, confirmed its backing for the WJEC’s efforts to "address concerns raised by teachers" related to NEA in a "small number of subjects." However, it noted that any changes must first be approved before implementation.

The consultation period for the WJEC’s proposals will close in mid-June, after which the board will evaluate responses and finalize adjustments by the end of the summer term. "We remain committed to working collaboratively with the education community," a spokesperson added, "to ensure these qualifications can be delivered effectively and with confidence."