New qualifications launched in a historic term for Welsh learners

This term signifies an exciting dawn for schools across Wales when pupils start studying brand new made-in-Wales qualifications.

The introduction of the new qualifications is the latest in a series of important reforms to the education system in Wales, aimed at raising standards by placing a sharper focus on literacy and numeracy, with rigour at its core.

In a historic term, first teaching will begin for:

• new GCSEs in Mathematics and Mathematics – Numeracy,
• new GCSEs in English Language and Welsh Language,
• revised English and Welsh Literature GCSEs,
• a revised Welsh Baccalaureate, graded at all levels and with a renewed focus on skills development,
• revised A levels and AS qualifications.

One of the most significant changes is the introduction of two new Mathematics qualifications: Mathematics – Numeracy and Mathematics.

Education Minister, Huw Lewis will be at Radyr Comprehensive today where he will join year 10 pupils (aged 14-15) during their first lesson of the new maths numeracy GCSE which has been developed with the specific intention of raising numeracy levels, a key Welsh Government priority for education.

In addition to the new GCSEs a revised Welsh Baccalaureate also launches today which has been designed to make it even more rigorous, to include grading and to ensure that 14 to 19 year olds develop exactly the right skills they need for college, university, employment and everyday life.

AS and A levels have also been revised. Importantly, the AS qualification has been retained as a contributory part of full A levels in Wales as it is recognised by many universities as an excellent predictor of later attainment.

All of the new qualifications are designed to be inclusive and aim to provide learners with the skills they need to succeed in a smaller, interconnected 21st century world.

The Minister said:

“This is an exciting time for education in Wales. It is vital that our schools, teaching and exams keep pace with the modern world, and the changes we are introducing this term will give Welsh pupils numerous advantages, in terms of skills and being work-ready.

“I am very much looking forward to meeting pupils in Radyr Comprehensive today and am sure they will be inspired by the new qualifications which will benefit them in the years to come when they are ready to enter the world of work.

“Today is also a good day for employers across Wales. We worked closely with them when developing the new qualifications, we listened to what they said they will need from a future workforce and we have delivered qualifications that meet those needs.

“Our new qualifications have been well received by the worlds of business and academia. They have been endorsed by the likes of Admiral, Principality and Brains in addition to some of the world’s most respected academic institutions like Cambridge and Oxford Universities.

“I’m sure that by focusing on the specific needs of Welsh learners and the Welsh economy we are creating the right conditions that will result in a stronger, more prosperous Wales.