When the dust settles
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When the dust settles
https://www.tes.com/magazine/archive/when-dust-settles
There are two clear views. One is narrow, the other more expansive and damaging. First, there is HM Inspectors’ view, partly shared by Ron Tuck, the departed SQA chief executive. Higher Still was a tough call but achievable and largely delivered. Unfortunately, an administrative botch-up no one foresaw - not least Mr Tuck - dashed any hopes of an easier exit for the first year of the troubled post-16 examinations. Yetthe bulk of the system worked for a substantial majority, much as it has for decades previously. Higher Still courses and assessment worked. Fine-tuning and changes to the SQA’s management will hopefully sort the remaining difficulties.
The second view is equally clear. As the Scottish Parent Teacher Council put it, Higher Still was a train rushing out of control, doomed to hit the buffers. It was remarkable so many students were not affected. The inherent complexities were repeatedly ignored because of the political imperative to push ahead. Problems were apparent throughout the year, starting with candidates’ entries to the SQA last autumn, leaving the train behind from then on.
Moderation failed, recruitment of markers was delayed, marking was delayed, quality assurance rushed and eventually the system crashed at its weakest point, resulting in over 16,000 casualties. Mr Verity’s task is to prepare the ground for the fall guys.
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