Ofsted Annual Report 2017/2018

In this year’s Annual Report, Chief Inspector Amanda Spielman highlights concerns around the effectiveness of the government’s policy to require learners who have not achieved a grade 4 in English and/or mathematics to continue studying for a qualification in these subjects.

The report commentary (page 10) states:

“Resit pass rates are low, at 24% for English and 19% for mathematics, and the impact of repeated ‘failure’ on students should not be underestimated. Rather than creating the perception that English and mathematics study in FE is a punishment for not getting a grade 4 at an earlier stage of education, it should instead be pitched as a core part of vocational training. Learners should be able to appreciate that improving their literacy and numeracy is about genuinely improving their knowledge and their prospects for further training and employability, rather than simply something to cram for in a test.

Further thought also needs to be given as to whether colleges, as currently resourced, are able to give this area the investment it needs and deserves.”

Read the report in full