HC Deb 27 October 1994 vol 248 cc788-9W
Mr. Clappison

To ask the Secretary of State for Education if she has received Sir Ron Dearing's report on his investigation into awarding procedures in this year's mathematics and science GCSEs; and if she will make a statement.

Mrs. Gillian Shephard

The investigation by the School Curriculum and Assessment Authority is continuing. I have, however, today welcomed interim proposals from Sir Ron Dearing to strengthen and clarify existing arrangements underpinning consistency of grading across GCSE examining groups. These measures includeEnsuring that the rules for determining grades are clear, consistent and robust. Improving communications between examining groups. Producing national sets of candidates' work to help define grade standards in key subjects. Introducing piloting of any major changes to awarding schemes.

These will start to come into effect for the winter 1994 GCSE examinations and will all be in place for examinations from summer 1995 onwards.

I have also agreed that the School Curriculum and Assessment Authority should review with the examining groups the scope for a more co-ordinated approach to syllabuses, examinations and awarding in the core subjects from 1998 in the interests of securing consistency of grading.

I am placing in the Library of the House my exchange of correspondence with Sir Ron Dearing.