Morning, Wednesday, 2nd April 2025
Online
This conference will discuss the future for qualifications and assessment in Scotland.
Stakeholders and policymakers will assess priorities for reform moving forward as the Education (Scotland) Bill makes its passage through the Scottish Parliament.
The agenda will bring out latest thinking on progress in implementing recommendations outlined in It’s Our Future: Report of the Independent Review of Qualifications and Assessment, including a hybrid approach to assessment utilising both continuous assessment and traditional examination, and the abolishment of SQA and establishment of Qualifications Scotland, looking at the role, powers, governance and structure of this new body.
We expect sessions to bring out ways forward for reforming Scotland’s assessment system, including the proposal of a new Scottish Diploma of Achievement, as well as approaches to utilisation of technology in assessment, such as digital solutions and the challenges posed by AI, including best practice for preventing malpractice.
Further discussion will assess priorities for the teaching workforce, including upskilling in digital competencies, understanding new curriculums and assessment methods, and ensuring teacher and learner perspectives are considered in any new reform.
Overall, areas for discussion include:
- reviewing the findings from the Independent Review of Qualifications and Assessment - progress made on the implementation of recommendations
- assessing priorities for the implementation of new assessment methods, continuous assessment and maintenance of traditional examination:
- ensuring equitable routes for students - the potential impact of a reformed qualification system - implementation of effective teacher assessment
- building an effective qualifications system for the future - considering academic and technical routes - pathways to further education and employment - the role of employers and engagement
- options for system delivery and design - priorities for accountability and oversight - forging a cohesive system
- developing effective progression pathways - establishing clear routes through both vocational and academic pathways - ensuring these qualifications are recognised by FE and HE institutions
- priorities for the teaching workforce - ensuring access to digital upskilling - ways forward for dealing with the challenges posed by AI in educational settings
