Research launched to evaluate the new National Qualifications

Qualifications Wales has commissioned Alma Economics to carry out evaluation research into the new National 14-16 Qualifications which have started to be taught in schools across Wales since September.

Alma Economics is a research consultancy specialising in education, social policy, and complex evaluations.

The five-year project will evaluate the new National Qualifications, which include GCSEs, VCSEs, Foundation qualifications, and the Skills Suite. This comprehensive, relevant and equitable set of qualifications has been specifically designed to support the aims and purposes of the Curriculum for Wales.

Over the coming months, centres, learners and parents will be invited to take part in the research activities Alma Economics is conducting on our behalf.

The evaluation will use mixed methods and widespread engagement to explore how the qualifications are being rolled out across different centres, and what early impacts they are having on learners, teachers, school leaders, and the wider system. The evaluation will also review the extent to which the reforms are achieving their intended benefits.

Qualifications Wales’ Chief Executive, Philip Blaker, said: “Your input into this research will be essential in helping us understand changes in learners taking qualifications and the impacts of the reforms. We’ll be sharing more information on the research and how you can take part soon.”