Work-based Learning
Response to joint DfE and Ofqual consultation outcome
Last updated 25 February 2021
Now that the DfE and Ofqual have announced the arrangements for issuing results this year for Ofqual-regulated Vocational and Technical Qualifications, we are confirming with you, our valued teaching colleagues, how Pearson’s qualifications will be assessed and graded this year, in this message.
With COVID-19 still impacting you and your learners, we're updating our guides to offer you guidance on how you might adapt delivery of Pearson vocational qualifications from September 2020.
General guidance
For BTECs that form part of the Work-based Learning suite, centres may find the following Distance Learning and Blended Learning guide useful. Please note that for SVQ/NVQs and competency-based qualifications, there will be some scenarios that will not be possible or appropriate for distance assessment.
Visit the Q-TAG for B2 Qualifications - Guidance and Instructions page
For category B2 qualifications (those not similar to GCSEs or A levels) you can now report permitted reductions in assessment by using the ‘Z flag’ as in the example below. As indicated in our B2 qualification guidance, you will also provide a unit grade alongside this ‘Z flag’. Read our B2 qualification guidance.
For further support on providing grade judgements please read our BTEC guide to awarding results 2021 (PDF, 1.5 MB) and relevant qualification level sector performance indicators. As these are permitted reductions to formal assessment and Standards Verification continues, we will not require you to formally submit evidence to support your grade(s), but decisions may be reviewed as part of our normal standards verification process.
Important: For B2 qualifications, you must only report permitted reduced assessment in line with the guidance previously issued on our Teaching and Learning page, under ‘Assessment Guidance’.
> Visit our Teaching and learning page
Example Edexcel Online grade and flag reporting for B2 qualifications:
Sector-specific guidance
In line with the updated guidance from the DfE, we have updated our sector guides to support you for the 2021-2022 academic period. Please note some guides are in development and will be available soon. You may contact our assessment team if you have questions in the meantime.