Assessment reform is a topic close to our hearts. Here at Edge, we have been working closely with a wide range of colleagues to press for reform of our assessment system in England via our open letters to the Secretary of State, as a founding member of the Rethinking Assessment movement, through our in-person conferences, and our support for the NEU’s newly formed All Party Parliamentary Group for assessment reform.
So, we are pleased to see the Scottish Government showing strong leadership by commissioning this independent review of qualifications and assessment. In her foreword, Professor Hayward highlights the importance of societies adapting their education system to meet new global challenges. She insists that “Scotland cannot be left behind”.
The report takes a refreshingly creative approach to improving Scotland’s qualification and assessment system and we are particularly pleased to see recommendations calling for:
- A significant reduction in external assessment
- Better integration of academic and vocational qualifications
- Recognition of a broader range of competencies and skills
- A greater focus on digital assessments
- The introduction of a Senior Phase Leaving Certificate
