Session 03

Update 2: QCA

Peter Slade

Programme Adviser, Curriculum Division

Thought Sec: Why now a prescriptive accountability of Science GCSEs - "straight jacket"? Where has the personalisation agenda gone? Still exam driven.

Intended Action

Need fresh APP materials developed for KS2. Keep QCA's website up to date. Making KS3 curriculum more interesting for pupils and teachers.

Thought Need for assessment system for KS3 that recognises pupils below Level 4

Thought Serious need to enhance the place of science in primary schools as a core subject.Needs national lead.

Thought Remove all KS2 tests

Thought Need to emphasise skills so that it is taught from a process perspective

Thought QCA - starting at level 4 - will cause difficulties with tracking/progression.

Intended Action

Get a clearer understanding of intentions behind KS3 review.

Thought Up to 20% lessons not in labs. Common feature. Choice of new specs basically the safest choice. Will this improve in time?

Thought B. Workplace science - easily said C. analyse T&L on achievement

Intended Action

B. massive CPD opportunities needed for teachers - SLC could really help here. C. Plan CPD to match analysis

Thought L1-3 descriptors are needed to promote progression at KS2

Intended Action

QCA please share work already done

Thought Secondary recruitment of staff; schools have stuck with traditional syllabus and ways of working - they're concerned about the lack of science and don't understand the different ways of working!!

Thought Level descriptions (4-EP) and 4 ATs at KS3 unhelpful. QCA and KS3 Steering group made contrary recommendations.

Intended Action

Recommend DfES keep level descriptions as DRAFT. Then change! DfES needs to take notice of "expert groups"/consultation responses

• Has progression in scientific enquiry been mapped out, published and made available to primary teachers? If so, from where is the document available?

• Changing statutory requirements without funding to support it

• Can we have more than 6 months for preparation of 2 new POS?

• What is the rationale behind KS3 and KS5 being introduced in the same year?

• Will primary schools be using the new level descriptors? If so how will this be sold to them?

• What about Y7 pupils in Sept 2008 doing the condensed, two year KS3 if there is no assessments until 2011?