AS and A level changes: a summary
A summary of changes to AS and A levels from 2015.
Applies to England
Documents
Details
The attached document shows the main features of reformed AS and A levels to be taught from 2015 onward. It details whether:
- has non-exam assessment
- there are any significant changes from the previous version of this subject
as well as:
- a link to the latest consultation on the subject
- links to conditions, guidance and subject specifications where available
General decisions for all reformed AS and A levels
We consulted on our general approach in June 2012, and published decisions in October 2013.
Key changes that will apply to all subjects are:
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all subjects will have revised subject content which will be used for all AS and A level qualifications in that subject - n most instances this will be produced by DfE. Some subjects benefited from the advice of the A Level Content Advisory Board (ALCAB). These subjects were:
- modern foreign languages
- ancient languages
- mathematics
- geography
- AS level will now be a standalone qualification which cannot contribute towards an A level
- linear assessment - all exams at the end of the course (1 year for AS level, 2 years for A level)
- non-exam assessment will only be used where knowledge, skills and understanding cannot be tested validly in an exam - this means the proportion of non-exam assessment has been reduced in a number of subjects
- all exams will take place in the summer
Last updated 5 June 2018 + show all updates
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Pearson added as exam board for A level and AS Statistics.
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Added subjects being reformed for first teaching from September 2018, specifications accredited for first teaching from September 2017
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Added first accredited specifications for subjects taught from 2017
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Updated 2017 subjects information.
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First published.