What's happened
Ofqual proposes moving some GCSE and A-level exams online by 2030, focusing on smaller-entry subjects and excluding core subjects like maths. The plan aims to modernise assessments but raises concerns over fairness, device access, and exam integrity, with a consultation open until March 2026.
What's behind the headline?
The push for digital exams in the UK reflects a strategic effort to modernise assessment methods, potentially increasing efficiency and accessibility. However, the proposals reveal significant challenges: ensuring equitable device access, managing cybersecurity risks, and maintaining exam integrity across modes. The exclusion of high-volume subjects like maths indicates a cautious approach, prioritising stability over rapid change. This initiative will likely reshape the assessment landscape, but success hinges on addressing digital inequalities and technical reliability. The phased implementation aims to build confidence, yet the risk of disadvantaging less-resourced schools remains a concern. Overall, this move signals a future where digital assessments could become standard, but only if technological and infrastructural issues are comprehensively managed.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that Ofqual's proposals could see some GCSEs and A-levels, especially in smaller-entry subjects, move onto screens by 2030, with a focus on controlled, secure implementation. The regulator emphasizes that traditional pen-and-paper exams will continue in most subjects, citing the importance of fairness and reliability. The Mirror highlights that exam boards will not be able to propose on-screen assessments for subjects with over 100,000 entries, including core subjects like maths, to prevent widespread disruption. Both sources agree that devices would need to be provided by schools, not students, to avoid inequalities. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson supports the move, framing it as part of a broader effort to modernise education, but stresses phased, fair implementation. The consultation runs until March 2026, with a goal of introducing digital assessments gradually, ensuring standards are maintained and public confidence preserved. Critics from school leaders warn that digital inequalities could widen if infrastructure and staff expertise are not addressed, while proponents see potential benefits in efficiency and inclusivity for students with SEND.
How we got here
Recent proposals from Ofqual aim to incorporate digital assessments into the UK exam system, reflecting broader trends towards digitalisation in education. The move follows ongoing research and pilot projects in digital exam delivery, with the goal of aligning assessments with technological advancements while maintaining standards. The consultation process involves multiple exam boards and stakeholders, emphasizing a cautious, phased approach to ensure fairness and security.
Go deeper
More on these topics
-
The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation is a non-ministerial government department that regulates qualifications, exams and tests in England and, until May 2016, vocational qualifications in Northern Ireland.
-
Bridget Maeve Phillipson is a British Labour Party politician who was elected at the 2010 general election as the Member of Parliament for Houghton and Sunderland South.