SQA Exam 2020 Update Summarised For You!

SQA Exam Update: Made Clear!

On Wednesday, 3rd June 2020, the Scottish Qualifications Authority published its latest update for Schools, Colleges, Candidates and Parents to outline the finalised plans for the 2020 National Awards (National Qualifications 2020 Awarding - an update for schools and colleges, 2020). Since that date, there has been much speculation and concern, mixed with a substantial dose of frustration between educationalists, pupils and parents alike. I have decided to summarise the published article for all concerned, in order to allay some of the fears.

The SQA has set out the information by way of a staged plan (National Qualifications 2020 Awarding - an update for schools and colleges, 2020) which I’ve outlined below:

1. Estimates

Schools and Colleges have now submitted estimates (evidence-based predictions) for all candidates sitting National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher Courses. In order for teachers/lecturers to provide these predications, the SQA created further subdivisions for the grades A – No Award, resulting in 19 bands, ranging in size from 2% to 8% (except Band 19 which was 0-29%). In addition, every candidate was ranked relative to other candidates from the same school/college, for each course (Information for Centres Producing Estimates Session 2019–20, 2020). The SQA advised that there should be minimal numbers of candidates tying in the same band.

2. Awarding

The SQA has reported that the estimate guidance should allow for fair and reliable awards (results) to be given to each candidate. The results are the grades that will appear on each candidate’s certificate and will be A-D or No Award. The SQA has stated that they may ‘moderate’ (alter) the estimates submitted once there has been investigation involving historical performance of schools, colleges and candidates, where available.

3. Results and Certification

The SQA has stated that candidates will receive their result certificates on 4th August 2020 by post or directly as previously stated, and candidates are encouraged to sign up to MySQA, the SQA online and text service.

4. Appeals

It has been well publicised that this year, there will be a free appeals process open to candidates, however the specific details were only released on 3rd June. There are some important points to note, as follows:

a) If a candidate is disappointed with the grade they have received for a subject, they must contact their school/college.

b) Only if their result differs (i.e. is lower) from the estimated grade, will an appeal be possible.

c) The school/college will make the appeal on the candidate’s behalf, including essential, required evidence.

d) The SQA will prioritise those who need the requested grade for a college or university place, but all will be reviewed by the SQA’s senior subject examiners.

e) If a request is accepted, the candidate will be upgraded, and will receive an updated certificate.

f) If a request is rejected, the SQA will confirm the original result, or an alternative lower grade (expected to be very unlikely).

I hope this summary provides clarification as to the reported information from the SQA so far. Please continue to check-in for future updates during the coming weeks. Any questions; please comment below.

References

2020. Information for Centres Producing Estimates Session 2019–20. [online] Glasgow: the Scottish Qualifications Authority, pp.2-8. Available at: <https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/files_ccc/SQA-Information-on-Producing-Estimates-20-April-2020.pdf> [Accessed 8 June 2020].

2020. National Qualifications 2020 Awarding - An Update for Schools And Colleges. SQA - Coronavirus Update. [online] Glasgow: the Scottish Qualifications Authority. Available at: <https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/94362.html> [Accessed 8 June 2020].