Reform resulting from the Hayward review of assessment and qualifications is set to commence by the conclusion of 2024, as announced by education secretary Jenny Gilruth. She emphasized the need for “significant progress” to be achieved within the remaining two years of this parliamentary term.
Despite the pending formal response from the Scottish government to the recommendations outlined in Professor Louise Hayward’s June 2023 report, Gilruth’s statement today aimed to address the impending changes. She stressed the importance of advancing the reform of qualifications and assessments during this parliamentary session, with initial implementation slated for 2024.
Gilruth also recognized the essential role of educators in Scotland, highlighting the necessity of providing them with adequate support to facilitate the adoption of any proposed new assessment methods.
In her address to the Scottish Parliament, Gilruth mentioned the imminent publication of the government’s official response to the Hayward report, with plans to establish a new qualifications agency through legislation in the near future. She emphasized the urgency of updating course content, streamlining the array of available courses, and evaluating the necessity of exams for certain subjects, advocating for a shift away from traditional exam-based assessments.
While there are differing opinions on the reduction of exams in the senior phase, recent analysis indicates that securing sufficient funding, clarifying the practical aspects of reform, and ensuring equal recognition for academic and vocational qualifications are key priorities for successful educational transformation.
Scottish Conservative education spokesperson Liam Kerr warned that without prompt action to navigate the complexities of the education system and address the challenges outlined, essential reforms could face delays.
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