Tim Oates presented on reexamining standards for GCSEs and A levels. He argued that the exam system has grown too large and assessments have become overstretched. There is evidence that subtle grade drift may be occurring over time between exam boards and subjects. To address this, qualifications need clear standards of demand, content, attainment and consistency over time and between boards/subjects. Oates also said it is important to understand the impact of efforts to improve attainment and reduce frequent changes to qualifications.

1. A new look at standards: What should we want from GCSEs and A levels? Presentation by Tim Oates Group Director Assessment Research and Development (ARD) 13 October 2011

15. A/AS level examinations Bassett, D. 2011. Inside Government Forum. Reform of National Exams: Impact on schools and students . 7 July. One Great George Street, Westminster. Briefing notes, BN43 (2009), IFS Candidates Entries Papers Cost (includes correction for inflation) Expenditure on education in England 1970 103,000 (£89.32) 441,898 (£20.82) 643,750 (£14.29) £9.2m £28bn 1990 185,000 (£102.16) 615,725 (£30.70) 1,388,250 (£13.61) £18.9m £45bn 2000 231,351 (£131.83) 672,518 (£45.35) 2,168,916 (£14.06) £30.5m £52bn 2008 256,622 (£275.50) 741,356 (£95.37) 5,455,655 (£12.96) £70.7m £80bn

17. A new look at standards: What should we want from GCSEs and A levels? Presentation by Tim Oates Group Director Assessment Research and Development (ARD) 13 October 2011