MCG/SHA Monday 3rd November 2014 Dear Parent / Carer, GCSE English Language Qualification I am writing to inform you of our decision to change the English Language qualification your son/ daughter will study for in Year 11 from the current GCSE to Cambridge IGCSE and to explain the reasons for this decision. For a number of years we have offered the AQA English Language GCSE. In both of the past two years we have been very unhappy with the quality of marking of the papers and in both of these years we have needed to pursue this as far as a full centre re-mark. Whilst this has resulted in a vindication of our view and in improved grades for students this has taken until November to achieve. In some cases this has meant that students who were not initially awarded the correct grade did not receive this until well into their programmes of study for Year 12. In the case of those moved from a D to a C this may have prevented them from following their intended package of Advanced Level courses. We regard this as unacceptable. In seeking an alternative qualification, we needed to ensure that transition was as smooth as possible and the work the students have undertaken so far is not wasted. By undertaking the Cambridge International GCSE (IGCSE) we will be able to use their work as one of the coursework assignments. The IGCSE is completely equivalent to GCSE and is recognised as such by Sixth Form Colleges, Universities and the DFE. It is run by Cambridge University and taken by more than 10,000 schools in over 160 countries, including many independent and state schools in the UK. The IGCSE course consists of 3 components:
A 2 hour Reading Paper Examination counting for 40% of the qualification. 3 coursework assignments each of 500-800 words which count for 40% A Speaking and Listening test which counts for 20% undertaken in March & April.
Our English department is confident that by switching to this qualification now and focusing all teaching, coursework and mock exams on it, our students will be given every opportunity to show what they can achieve and to gain the grades they deserve. If you have any questions regarding this change please contact Mrs Ayres or myself. Yours sincerely
A.McGlown Headteacher