Case Study: GCSE Mathematics at Cambridge Regional College

GCSE Mathematics resits have been incredibly difficult for the Further Education (FE) sector for a few years. 2023/24 was the second year in a row that we saw a huge hike in the grade boundaries from some of the larger exam boards, worsening the situation.  

Post-results day last year, we started to discuss alternative exam boards with peers from across the sector. Our discussions led us to discover Eduqas. Their specification was an excellent fit for us, with a one-year scheme of work tailored for resit candidates, clear and accessible questions, and a two-paper format.  

Within the FE sector, typically class presence is lower than their school counterparts, one day less of exams will most certainly translate into increased attendance for exams and better results.

Logistically, it also poses a great appeal as it means fewer challenges. We have thousands of learners sitting GCSE Mathematics and it is an extremely difficult task to coordinate exam access arrangements, rooming and even finding enough invigilators. Additionally, learners have an extra day to focus on those all-important end-of-the year assignments for their main courses.  

The decision paid off and we have had our highest GCSE Mathematics exam attendance this summer, despite having almost 1200 learners sitting the exam!  

Eduqas’ specification mirrors all the content of other exam boards, which is a crucial aspect.  

While there are some slight differences in certain sub-topics, such as questionnaires and ratios split 3 ways, these variations prove highly beneficial for our learners who are enthusiastic about acquiring knowledge that has tangible uses beyond college.  

These practical scenarios also feature in numerous questions in the exam papers, allowing our learners to witness their real-life applications.

Tailored Support

The Blended Learning resources, Question Bank, Knowledge Organisers, and Exam Walk-Throughs have proven invaluable for our learners’ revision. They appreciate the free access to these, and as a college, we have even integrated them into our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) for the upcoming academic year.  

Switching to Eduqas was incredibly straightforward. We were supported throughout the entire process with step-by-step guidance and online training sessions to help our team familiarise with the bespoke resources and additional key materials available on the Eduqas website.  

Shortly after our switch, we were assigned a dedicated Regional Support Representative, Rhys Lloyd, who closely assisted us. In no time, he arranged a visit to our institution, conducting highly valuable Professional Learning sessions.  

His visit offered an exceptional chance to explore the extensive resources available to us and engaged in key discussions about the nuanced distinctions between Eduqas and other exam boards, as well as the intricacies of GCSE Mathematics exam marking.  

We welcomed the session that highlighted the key topics from past papers, as it helped our teachers to highlight the vital areas of revision to their learners.  

Additionally, we were pleased to find out that Eduqas offers opportunities for teachers to participate as examiners and contribute to the marking of actual papers during the summer.  

This hands-on experience not only enhances skills in marking and moderation, but also provides excellent specialised training from the Eduqas Subject Officers.  

Both our learners and staff have benefitted from switching to Eduqas. Our learners have approached their exams with increased optimism, while our staff members are happy and engaged with the qualification.  

With such remarkable impact, it only makes sense for more FE colleges and schools and colleges to embrace Eduqas and enjoy the incredible advantages it offers. What do you have to lose? Take the leap and discover a new level of success with Eduqas!