Curriculum for Wales places learner progression at its core, emphasising personalised learning experiences and continuous assessment. In this blog, we’ll explore the key changes, principles, and practical steps for designing an effective assessment and progression strategy. 

1. Understanding the Shift 

Curriculum for Wales redefines the purpose of assessment. Rather than focusing solely on outcomes, it aims to: 
Support individual learners on an ongoing basis. 
Capture and reflect on individual learner progress over time. 
Understand group progress to inform teaching practices. 

2. Key Changes in Assessment 

Phases and key stages are replaced with a single continuum of learning. This shift allows educators to view learning as a seamless journey rather than discrete stages. Gone are the days of assigning levels or outcomes based on a single assessment point. Instead, assessment is embedded within teaching and learning, focusing on ongoing progress. Learners are assessed upon entry to a school or setting at any point along the continuum. This personalised approach ensures tailored support and challenge. The new strategy separates teacher assessment from accountability measures. This encourages educators to prioritise formative assessment that informs teaching and learning. 

Implementing the assessment and progression strategy in Wales can comes with challenges. Let’s explore these hurdles: 

Mindset Shift- educators, parents, and learners need to embrace a new mindset, moving away from traditional assessment practices and understanding the value of ongoing, personalised assessment. Teachers require professional development to effectively implement the strategy. They need training on formative assessment techniques, data interpretation, and adapting to the continuum of learning. 

Assessment literacy: Designing custom assessment arrangements demands time, effort, and resources. Schools and settings must allocate resources for planning, implementation, and continuous improvement. Building assessment literacy among educators is essential. They need to understand the purpose, methods, and impact of assessment beyond traditional judgements of outcomes and levels. Striking the right balance between formative (ongoing) and summative (end-of-term) assessments can be tricky since both are necessary for a holistic view of learner progress. Continuous assessment can lead to assessment fatigue for both learners and educators. Managing workload and stress is crucial. 

Communication: Transparent communication with parents and carers is crucial. Explaining the shift in assessment practices and addressing concerns can be complex, particularly when ensuring that assessment practices are inclusive and equitable for all learners, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities. 

Changing Accountability Measures: Separating assessment from accountability measures requires policy changes and alignment across educational bodies. 

 

3. Practical Steps for Schools and Settings 

Each school or setting should create assessment arrangements aligned with its unique curriculum. Flexibility is key. 
Transparent communication about assessment practices ensures that parents and carers understand their child’s progress. 
Professional dialogue and collaboration with colleagues is essential to build a common understanding of progression.  

4. Resources and Further Reading 

Detailed guidance for schools and settings
Curriculum for Wales Assessment Poster Pack: Useful visual aids for planning assessment

By designing thoughtful assessment practices, we contribute to a more inclusive and progressive education system in Wales. Remember, assessment isn’t just about measuring; it’s about empowering learners to thrive! 🌟 

Agenda