AQW 11055/17-22

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 26/11/2020
Answered On Date: 03/12/2020
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Education, given that many students have had to self-isolate for 14 days or more and thereby missing valuable teaching time, (i) for his assessment of the fairness of this school year’s assessment procedures; and (ii) whether he is considering alternative grading processes, potentially similar to the last school year.

Answer:

My priority is that exams should proceed as planned in 2021 as they remain the fairest method of assessing and awarding qualifications. However I recognise the need to take account of the ongoing disruption to face to face teaching experienced by many learners.

My officials have been working closely with CCEA to develop a range of options for contingencies to respond to the fluid public health situation. In considering these options I want to ensure that NI students are not disadvantaged in comparison to their peers in other jurisdictions.

I hope to be in a position to make an announcement very soon.