June 4th - the Functional Skills
newsletter
This week we have news of research into
Functional Skills Initial Assessment based on independent research of the
results of more than 700 learners by a large FE College. The paper covers
the research itself, the analysis and data, the implications and how the
research has influenced how initial assessment has been developments.
We also have a news report about how
Ofsted is looking to extend the focus on progression that we're already seen
coming through in post 16 education into performance league tables.
And with less than two weeks to the
"All Things Functional" conference and exhibition in Birmingham,
we're got updated news on speakers and highlights of the show including the
first public view of the brand new Exam Practice routines on Guroo's stand.
Plus we have updated news of events and
links to all the webinar recordings - now the most popular method of viewing
our webinars.
As always, your comments and thoughts
are appreciated - let us know what you'd like us to cover in the newsletter by
emailing the editor - jwells@guroo.co.uk
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Initial Assessment white paper by
Jonathan Wells
Our first piece about initial
assessment also links very well to the second piece about Ofsted, reflecting
the very distinct move towards progression as a key measure.
And crucially, being able to measure progression
accurately means getting the initial start point correct. Further, an
initial assessment that is "too easy" or "not functional"
could mean that learners are placed on a course that is simply too high level
as Ofsted expect learners to be stretched and challenged so a learner with a
bare or marginal pass at E3 will be expected to take a level 1 course, often
resulting in early failure or the learner leaving the course.
The white paper has sections
on the research itself, the analysis and data, the implications of getting
an accurate initial assessment and how the research has influenced initial
assessment system developments.
If you'd like a copy of the white
paper, simply email info@guroo.co.uk and
we'll send you a copy by the end of the week.
Ofqual wants focus on progression in new league tables
Although this article is essentially a
schools based article, it is interesting to see how Ofsted are moving much more
towards using the quality of teaching and learning as the key factor in judging
institutions. Part of the consultation paper states:
"The progress measure will be calculated using a
value-added method, using end of key stage 2 results in English and maths as a
baseline. The average of all pupils’ scores in these eight qualifications will
be published in the tables.
Alongside this, the tables will feature a threshold measure
showing the percentage of pupils achieving A* to C in English and maths."
The consultation over the proposals
closed on May 1, and the DfE has said that while the changes are intended to be
implemented in 2015 or 2016 alongside GCSE reform, “many proposals could be put
in place earlier”.
All Things Functional
and Apprentices 4 England events
A reminder that Guroo, along with other
leading suppliers, will be attending the "All Things Functional"
event in Birmingham on June 14th organised again by EMSKills. The last
one was great, the workshops for this one look great too.
Speakers include David Hughes of NIACE,
Chris Starling from Virgin, David Sangster from SFA, Karen Ticehurst from
LearnDirect/JHP and Liz Waters from LSIS. We understand Jayne Holt
(Assistant Principal at Walsall College) will also be speaking about Ofsted
inspection and how to get an "Outstanding Grade".
Apprenticeships 4 England have
organised a funding conference to be held on 5th June in Coventry. More information here.
Guroo will be in attendance at both events. Visitors at the All
Things Functional event will also get a sneak preview of Guroo brand new Exam
Practice.
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Wednesday Webinar at 4.00pm
"ICT Functional Skills" - more and more, we find ICT is an important element in Functional
Skills. Guroo have recently upgraded the ICT IA, produced paper based
Level Checker/Screeners for ICT and under development, we have ICT Exam
Practice and tutorial videos. Cathy Vaissieres will be this weeks webinar
presenter.
"ICT Functional Skills" is aimed at both customers and those thinking of
becoming customers. As always we find that many more people enjoy coming back
for the recording afterwards, but if you'd like to be live, just drop an email
to info@guroo.co.uk
Join us on Wednesday at 4pm.
All previous webinars are recorded and
available anytime for playback - login as a guest and the password is password.
Simply click on the links below and don’t forget, if you’d like to have your
own 1:1 webinar looking at how Guroo can help you support Functional Skills,
just call us on 0191 305 5045 or email info@guroo.co.uk and we’ll take it from there.
Guroo group and user admin
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