Advice to Government: Consultation on The Future of CCEA Qualifications

It is evident from the consultation that NICCY undertook with the Youth Panel that there are a variety of views on the proposals outlined and we have sought to reflect this within this response. We note that there was no support for changing the grading systems currently in place in NI from letters to numbers, but clear division relating to the proposed linear/modular shift. There is great concern about the potential impact on children and young people with regard to the ability or opportunity to ‘resit’ as the one examination option prove problematic for them.  We consider that the consultation should demonstrate clearly how children and young people’s rights have been considered in the context, including the impact on their mental health and wellbeing of current and proposed new systems, alongside their rights to have their voices heard and their views, opinion and experience taken seriously. Alongside all of this, necessary supports and flexibilities must be afforded to students who require them.

NICCY appreciates the opportunity to respond to the Department’s consultation and would be happy to meet to discuss any aspects of the response including the positions of the Youth Panel members who inputted.

The full response can be downloaded at the right-hand side of this page.