Significant changes to new GSCEs in Wales likely after burnout concerns
Summary
Wales introduced new English and Welsh language GCSE courses in September 2025, which include more ongoing assessments instead of just final exams. Due to concerns about heavy workloads causing stress for teachers and students, the exam board WJEC is considering significant changes to reduce this pressure.Key Facts
- New GCSE courses started in Wales in September 2025 as part of a curriculum overhaul.
- These courses include more non-examination assessments (NEA), such as oral tests and practical tasks, set and marked by teachers.
- Schools and teachers reported burnout and an unmanageable workload due to these new requirements.
- The WJEC exam board opened a consultation to reduce the number or level of oracy (speaking) assessments and ease teacher supervision demands.
- Any major changes would affect new Year 10 students starting in September 2026; current students would not be affected.
- Smaller changes are also considered for Welsh language and literature GCSEs, set to start in September 2027.
- Headteachers and teacher unions have expressed relief that adjustments are being considered to reduce stress on staff and pupils.
- The consultation remains open until mid-June, with results to be announced before the summer term ends.
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