FDQ Centres - 2021 Assessment for vocational learners and apprentices
The latest lockdown restrictions, now in place across England, Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland have presented increased challenges to training and education. It is clear from the respective government announcements and subsequent communications from the qualification regulators that general (year 10 & 12) exams have been cancelled for 2021.
However, there is a real desire for vocational learners and apprentices (including those taking End -point Assessments) to be supported towards completion where it is deemed safe, feasible and fair to do so.
Ofqual has today (7th January) issued a communication to Awarding Organisations that states:
“We (Ofqual) think it is crucial that arrangements help Learners continue to engage with education and learning. You should contact your Centres to make it clear that assessments remain available to take during January; (where relevant) that Learners may be able to take assessments at a later date, and in the event that is not possible, arrangements will be put in place to ensure those Learners are not disadvantaged.”
FDQ know that you our centres are currently working through plans for the coming weeks and months ahead. Please do contact us at fdq@fdq.org.uk or call if you would like to discuss these plans. We will be in contact over the coming weeks via our website and e-shot, to collate information and see where we can help further.
Meanwhile, the Extended Extraordinary Regulatory Framework remains in place. As further direction is issued by our regulators we will review and update our FDQ guidance accordingly. We are also currently preparing an Extended ERF FAQs; this will be sent to main centre contacts in the near future.
We know how committed our FDQ centres are to providing excellent training and education to learners. We recognise the challenges you have overcome in the last year, supporting learners, embracing new technologies and keeping staff safe.
Thank you for your hard work and dedication.
Terry Fennell
FDQ Chief Executive