Cambridge Assessment News

Launch of our new BETA site

Thu, 23 May 2013 12:10:00 GMT

Very soon we will be launching our new look website – come and have a look at our BETA site and let us know what you think.

Scrap GCSE grades and use scores, says Cambridge

Thu, 09 May 2013 07:56:00 GMT

Two research reports adding to the debate over GCSE exam structure have been published by Cambridge Assessment today.

New Chief Executive for Cambridge International Examinations visits Malaysia, which sees record growth in Cambridge qualifications

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 10:37:00 GMT

The number of students taking Cambridge qualifications in Malaysia has risen significantly this year. New figures from Cambridge International Examinations reveal that schools in Malaysia made over 70,000 entries for Cambridge qualifications, seeing a rise of 30% since 2012. There are now over 110 Cambridge schools in Malaysia. More than 2,600 schools in over 20 countries make up the Cambridge learning community in Asia Pacific.

What makes a good textbook?

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 14:13:00 GMT

Tim Oates, Group Director Assessment Research & Development, recently addressed a wide range of international educational publishers at a landmark conference at the international London Book Fair. The second of two International Publishers’ Association conferences on textbook quality, the event further consolidated a new drive towards industry-based, international-derived quality standards.

New Chief Executive for Cambridge International Examinations

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 10:43:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment has appointed Michael O’Sullivan as the new Chief Executive of its international awarding body Cambridge International Examinations.

21st century skills – a 21st century problem?

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 11:05:00 GMT

21st century skills are not unique to this century, top education experts agree.

National and international education in South-East Asia: are they in conflict?

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 14:39:00 GMT

On Wednesday 27 February 2013 Cambridge held a seminar in Jakarta for Cambridge schools, to discuss national and international education in the context of our experience in Indonesia.

Cambridge Assessment’s response to Education Secretary Michael Gove’s statement on curriculum and exam reform

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 13:53:00 GMT

The British Secretary of State for Education today made a statement in the House of Commons outlining proposed reforms to GCSEs in which he acknowledged that his original proposal for a single exam board for each subject (the EBC) was a “bridge too far” and “one reform too many”.

What is learning for?

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 13:58:00 GMT

Group Chief Executive Simon Lebus will be one of a panel of 15 thought leaders from education, business and the not-for profit sector to convene in Cambridge on 27 February 2013 to debate pressing education issues and the role of learning for the future.

100 years of Cambridge English exams celebrated at Cambridge Guildhall

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 14:02:00 GMT

The Mayor of Cambridge and Julian Huppert MP were among the guests at a celebration to mark 100 years of Cambridge English exams at the Guildhall in Cambridge on 29 January 2013.

Notes from Asia Pacific

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 13:42:00 GMT

Our latest series of ‘Notes from Asia Pacific’ takes a look at Singapore’s exams results season.

Spotlight on education in America

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 16:07:00 GMT

Continuing her look at education systems across the world, Ann Puntis, Chief Executive of our exam board Cambridge International Examinations, reports on the introduction of common core education standards across America – a radical and challenging reform.

OCR and The Open University carve out new career path for vocational learners

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 10:17:00 GMT

Our UK exam board OCR has partnered with The Open University to open up a new route into university for vocational learners in England, offering flexibility in today’s challenging economic climate. The new route into higher education was unveiled at the Association of Colleges Annual Conference, Wednesday 21 November 2012.

Cambridge Assessment sets up Asia Pacific office to strengthen ties with education community

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 10:32:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment has been a trusted education partner in Asia Pacific for over 130 years. It works with over 2,000 schools in the region who offer Cambridge international qualifications and in partnership with governments, carrying out leading edge and operational research on assessment in education. Today it officially announced the opening of its new Asia Pacific office in Singapore.

Risk in the exam system

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 16:47:00 GMT

More than 120 experts from within the education and assessment community, as well as speakers from beyond these fields, gathered at Cambridge Assessment’s 6th biennial conference in Cambridge on 10 October 2012 to consider the principles of risk and how they might apply in assessment and qualification systems.

Spotlight on education in Malaysia

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 11:31:00 GMT

With UK ministers often looking abroad for inspiration, Ann Puntis Chief Executive of our exam board Cambridge International Examinations continues her look at international education systems.

Cambridge Assessment responds to DfE's Key Stage 4 Qualifications Reform

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 12:38:00 GMT

Simon Lebus, Group Chief Executive, said: “We welcome efforts at serious reform of the education system. What Michael Gove is suggesting is radical and we believe that our experience of developing and delivering educational assessment both in the UK and 160 countries worldwide can help to deliver these reforms.”

GCSE reform – so many options but which one is right?

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 09:53:00 GMT

Today (11 September) sees the first of a series of roundtables we've organised on the various proposals for GCSE reform. In light of the recent GCSE furore these, now timely, events will provide a real opportunity to discuss and put forward teachers’, businesses’, students’ and parents’ views on the future of the GCSE.

What's right for a good education?

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 02:56:00 GMT

We'll be partnering the Association of School and College Leaders and the think tank Reform during the autumn political party conference season to consider some of the key issues at the very heart of education policy.

Teachers like internal assessment but Controlled Assessment is flawed

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 08:05:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment has today [12 July 2012] submitted an executive summary of its ‘Controlled Assessment in GCSE: effects of implementation in six specifications’ report to Ofqual for its review of Controlled Assessment.

Spotlight on education in Singapore

Thu, 05 Jul 2012 11:20:00 GMT

Singapore is often quoted by the education secretary as a system to which the UK must aspire. Ann Puntis Chief Executive of our exam board Cambridge International Examinations takes a look.

Our response to the Education Select Committee report on examinations

Tue, 03 Jul 2012 09:58:00 GMT

"We welcome the Select Committee’s effort to create a competitive environment in which education comes first. In particular we are supportive of its strictures on the negative impact of the use of exams for accountability. We also believe that the idea of national syllabuses has merit. In order to deliver these a wide range of stakeholder input will be required, and it can be difficult to orchestrate this, as was demonstrated with the Diplomas, where getting agreement from the Diploma Development Partnerships on what should be included proved time-consuming and sometimes contentious. To avoid these pitfalls therefore we need to ensure that any reform is properly resourced, properly managed and has clear objectives.

New statistician joins Cambridge Assessment

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 14:31:00 GMT

We've recently welcomed Tom Benton to our Research Division. An expert in the field of statistical analysis, Dr Benton joined us from the National Foundation for Education Research (NFER) where he worked for more than 10 years.

Our response to proposals to replace GCSEs with O Levels

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 13:48:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment spokesperson said: “As the organisation that created IGCSEs, Cambridge Pre-U and Cambridge Technicals, Cambridge Assessment delivers evidence-based and research-led qualifications to meet the needs of all types of students.

New websites coming soon

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 11:33:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment and our three exam boards are launching new websites this year, with the first roll out due in the autumn.

Spotlight on education in Hong Kong

Thu, 24 May 2012 11:14:00 GMT

Hong Kong’s exam system used to mirror that of the UK until a recent move to raise the participation age and test later. Ann Puntis Chief Executive of our exam board Cambridge International Examinations takes a look.

We know what HE wants from A Levels: full reports now available

Tue, 01 May 2012 17:22:00 GMT

The full reports on our research into A Levels and greater Higher Education (HE) involvement feature:

Exams should have closer ties to textbooks

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 14:16:00 GMT

International evidence proves high quality textbooks can improve the performance of an education system but only if the right relationship between textbooks and learning can be secured, says education expert Tim Oates at a Cambridge Assessment seminar today [18 April 2012]. Replying, teachers' union leader Mary Bousted fundamentally disagreed.

Cambridge fears proposed new UCAS tariff will not work

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 04:34:00 GMT

UCAS is using the “wrong tool for the job” in reforming its Tariff system, claims Cambridge Assessment today, possibly damaging the chances of students going to the right university.

We welcome the Government's announcement on A Level reform

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 09:39:00 GMT

Today we welcomed the Government’s announcement on A Level reform. We praised the Secretary of State Michael Gove for his radical approach and pledged to ensure our UK arm, OCR, delivered the new style A Levels to the highest quality.

We know what HE wants from A Levels

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 09:19:00 GMT

University academics want A Levels to: include more advanced content for more able students; cover core subject areas in greater depth; and encourage critical thinking, independent study, experimentation, exploration and more extensive reading. These are the initial findings from a Cambridge Assessment study being presented at UCAS’ Admissions Conference on 3 April in Birmingham.

University admissions overhaul - PQA is not the answer

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 11:08:00 GMT

We are pleased that UCAS took into account our concerns regarding a move to a post-results system (or PQA, as it is widely known) and has decided against its implementation, as reported in UCAS' Admissions Process Review Findings and Recommendations report published today.

Spotlight on education in New Zealand

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 10:58:00 GMT

Some years ago, a fierce debate raged in New Zealand which pitched international examinations against its own national curriculum. Ann Puntis Chief Executive of our exam board Cambridge International Examinations explains more.

Polish Educational Research Institute talks ‘qualifications frameworks’ with OCR Cymru

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 10:26:00 GMT

A delegation of seven education experts from Poland visited the Welsh office of our UK exam board OCR in March to learn about the development and implementation of Wales’ national qualifications framework.

A brand new option in vocational learning

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 10:25:00 GMT

A new range of vocational qualifications designed for students aged 16+ has been launched today by our UK exam board, OCR.

House of Commons Education Committee hears from the heads of the main three UK exam boards

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 10:22:00 GMT

On 21 February, the Committee interviewed representatives from publishers Nelson Thornes, Pearson UK, Oxford University Press and the Society of Authors, together with the heads of the three main UK exam boards - OCR, AQA and Pearson UK (Edexcel's owner).

Exams should not define the curriculum

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:57:00 GMT

“An excessive focus on exams and examining has been at the expense of coherence and curriculum,” says head of international exams group.

Education experts give evidence to the House of Commons Education Committee

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 09:39:00 GMT

Tim Oates, Group Director of Assessment Research and Development at Cambridge Assessment, will today (18 January) give oral evidence to the Education Committee session as part of its inquiry into the administration of examinations for 15–19 year olds in England.

OCR's "pioneering work" - Gove announces changes to ICT curriculum

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 10:11:00 GMT

Education Secretary Michael Gove praised our UK exam board OCR's "pioneering" work in the field of computer science qualifications, at a major educational technology event in London this week. OCR is currently the only awarding body to offer a computing GCSE.

Education Select Committee Inquiry: How should examinations for 15-19 year olds in England be run?

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 09:45:00 GMT

We have given evidence to the Education Select Committee on the arguments in favour of and against having a range of awarding bodies for academic and applied qualifications, and the merits of alternative arrangements such as having one national body or examination boards franchised to offer qualifications in particular subjects or fields.

Post-Qualification Admissions (PQA): do the benefits really outweigh the risks?

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 09:39:00 GMT

Speaking at the Westminster Education Forum event 'University access and admissions - the next steps' in London today (22 November 2011), our Group Chief Executive Simon Lebus will discuss the implications of Post-Qualification Admissions (PQA).

Maths is flawed

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 03:20:00 GMT

“Maths education will always be flawed until schools, universities and employers agree on what maths skills they really want from young people”, says head of UK exam board.

Learning, Teaching and the Brain

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 14:05:00 GMT

At a conference hosted by University of Cambridge International Examinations, Dr Paul Howard Jones from Bristol University explained how teachers can use insights from neuroscience to provide more effective teaching and learning.

Education not technology must dominate online exams

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 09:40:00 GMT

Speaking at the Westminster Education Forum event in London today (13 September 2011), Cambridge Assessment's Group Chief Executive Simon Lebus will explain that many schools simply do not yet have enough machines to allow high numbers of students to take exams at the same time. Tests must be taken at the same time to ensure fairness.

A better approach to Higher Education/exam board interaction for post-16 qualifications

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 12:05:00 GMT

Proposals from Cambridge Assessment to restore the link between universities and A levels have been welcomed by the Universities Minister, David Willetts.

Exam cheats beware

Fri, 27 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

This summer a new weapon against those who attempt to get away with cheating in examinations will be deployed.

Response to Ofqual announcement of Standards Review

Fri, 13 May 2011 10:21:00 GMT

We are delighted that the regulator, Ofqual, is building on our 'Exam standards: the big debate', the findings of which were sent to the Government in September of last year.

OCR welcomes Government's backing of Wolf Report

Fri, 13 May 2011 09:48:00 GMT

Our UK exam board, OCR, is delighted with the Government's response to the Wolf Report which confirms that "vocational education is immensely valuable".

Students mind the gap

Wed, 11 May 2011 10:37:00 GMT

Nearly all (94 per cent) current first year students feel their secondary education could have prepared them better for the academic rigour of university, according to our international exam board.

Educating an interconnected world

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 13:33:00 GMT

“Education for an interconnected world is not just for the mobile elite”, said the head of Cambridge Assessment at an international conference.

Class of '41: Inspiring Polish servicemen and women commended by Cambridge

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 10:53:00 GMT

Language testing experts from Cambridge University paid homage to the thousands of Polish servicemen and women who took English language examinations during the 1940s at a ceremony in London earlier this month.

Cambridge Assessment expert on panel to review the curriculum

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 13:33:00 GMT

In response to Tim Oates' appointment to lead an Expert Panel to review the National Curriculum Simon Lebus, Group Chief Executive of Cambridge Assessment, said:

Special consideration doesn’t skew exam grades

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 09:30:00 GMT

Despite the increase in special consideration applications the percentage of students who improve their overall grade as a result is less than one per cent in any given subject, says new research from international exams group Cambridge Assessment.

Cambridge Assessment publish international curriculum analysis

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 08:04:00 GMT

Recent reviews of the National Curriculum have failed to harness the insights emerging from high quality transnational comparisons, according to a top academic.

Conservative Fringe - What do You Think Makes a Good Education?

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 11:24:00 GMT

The Government will be making an announcement tomorrow on improving how functional skills are taught in schools to better provide business with employees with good office skills, Education Secretary Michael Gove confirmed today.

Cambridge Assessment's take on what makes a good education

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 14:22:00 GMT

Simon Lebus, Group Chief Executive of Cambridge Assessment, explains what makes a good education at joint Cambridge Assessment, ASCL and AoC fringe event at the Conservative Party Conference.

How old are GCSE candidates?

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 11:31:00 GMT

As featured in The Sunday Times (3 October 2010 'Pupils pushed into taking GCSEs early') Cambridge Assessment has published an analysis of the age of candidates taking GCSEs (including very young and adult entries) from 3 different years (2000, 2004, 2009).

New Syndicate Chairman

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 13:55:00 GMT

Sir Christopher Hum, Master of Gonville and Caius College, is the new Syndicate Chairman of Cambridge Assessment. He takes over from Professor Tony Badger, Master of Clare College, Cambridge.

Exploring non-standard English amongst teenagers

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 10:46:00 GMT

Can GCSE students tell the difference between standard English grammar and colloquial language?

Liberal Democrat Fringe - What do you think makes a good education?

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 10:25:00 GMT

Summary of the joint Cambridge Assessment, ASCL and AoC fringe event at the Liberal Democrat conference which asked panellists to discuss what defines a good education as part of a wider discussion on education and education reform.

Cambridge Assessment responds to Mick Waters

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 12:16:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment responds to former QCA director Mick Waters' comments that the exams system is "diseased", "almost corrupt" and allows "insider dealing" from chief examiners, in the book - Reinventing Schools, Reforming Teaching - by John Bangs, John Macbeath and Maurice Galton.

New Chief Executive for OCR

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 15:42:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment has appointed Mark Dawe as the new Chief Executive of its UK awarding body Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations (OCR).

Module muddles

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 10:26:00 GMT

As featured in today's [6 August 2010] TES, Simon Lebus explains that different students require different courses and different ways of being examined...

GCSE modularisation – one size does not fit all

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 09:30:00 GMT

The state-directed “one size fits all” approach to the modularisation of GCSEs was wrong, according to new research which reveals that some subjects are better suited to this form of assessment than others and that it affects boys and girls differently.

What do you think makes a good education?

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 11:56:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment, the Association of Colleges and the Association of School and College Leaders will once again be collaborating during the autumn Party Political conference season

Cambridge supports call for rethink on student migration controls

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 15:26:00 GMT

The UK's largest provider of English language qualifications has welcomed an Early Day Motion put forward by MPs calling for changes to the criteria for international student visas.

Top technology leader at Cambridge Assessment

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 16:45:00 GMT

Bruno Laquet, the new chief information officer (CIO) of Cambridge Assessment, has been voted one of the top 50 most influential technology leaders in the UK.

UK “could learn a lot” from bilingual schooling around the world, says Cambridge

Tue, 25 May 2010 09:48:00 GMT

Education policy-makers in Britain could learn a lot from “inspirational” bi-lingual schooling developed by Education Ministries around the world, says a department of Cambridge University.

How should primary pupils be tested?

Wed, 19 May 2010 15:30:00 GMT

Tim Oates, Group Director of Assessment Research and Development at Cambridge Assessment, contributed to a panel debate - alongside school staff, parents and academics - to try to come to some conclusions about how primary pupils should be tested.

England’s National Curriculum misses the point

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 14:22:00 GMT

Today’s National Curriculum is just an attempt to keep competing lobby groups happy and has lost its educational integrity, according to a top academic.

Mastering assessment

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 16:04:00 GMT

A new MEd course aimed at those with an interest in developing their understanding and expertise in assessment in education is being introduced in October 2010.

Cambridge Assessment leads party conference collaboration

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 15:30:00 GMT

To raise the profile of the education community at the political party conferences this year, Cambridge Assessment has been working with a number of organisations in the education and skills sectors.

Sykes Report response from Cambridge Assessment

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 15:58:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment, the University’s international exams group, supports most of the Sykes Report recommendations on the role of Higher Education, on the role that regulators should play and the National Curriculum. It has serious reservations regarding the recommendations relating to assessment at age 16.

E-assessment depends on trust, says leading educationalist

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 09:37:00 GMT

“Public trust, not technology, is the barrier that is stopping exams being taken online”, according to Simon Lebus, Group Chief Executive of Cambridge Assessment, the University’s international exams group.

New statistics reports: numbers of 'A' grades at A level and provision of GCSE science in schools by school type

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:01:00 GMT

As part of Cambridge Assessment's commitment to transparency and access to examinations data, we have today uploaded two new statistics reports. Our statistical series provides information about the examination system that can be used by all.

Cambridge Assessment's response to Michael Gove's comments on ending political control of A levels

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:10:00 GMT

UK’s education system needs to catch up to meet the needs of business

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 12:47:00 GMT

Students who have a deficit of ‘thinking skills’ are not only lacking sufficient grounding to embark upon undergraduate study, but also missing a vital skill essential for the 21st -century workforce.

Cambridge scholarships open path to bright future

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 09:45:00 GMT

Five outstanding students in India and Pakistan are destined to receive scholarships to the University of Cambridge created with funding from Cambridge Assessment.

Cambridge leads Westminster discussion on student immigration

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 11:27:00 GMT

In the run up to the Government’s much anticipated review of student immigration to the UK, University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations - which is part of the Cambridge Assessment Group - brought together key experts from the education industry and the UK Border Agency to discuss the issues around assessing the English language levels of students coming to study in the UK.

Cambridge Assessment's evidence in Select Committee report on school accountability

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 09:07:00 GMT

Today, the Children, Schools and Families Select Committee has published its first report on School Accountability which includes our concerns.

10,000 organisations accept Cambridge English qualifications

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 13:14:00 GMT

Around 10,000 organisations now accept Cambridge ESOL language qualifications as proof of English for immigration, entrance to higher education and enhanced career prospects. Recognising organisations include the UK Border Agency, the Greek Civil Service and leading Higher Education Establishments around the world – including the top Ivy League Institutions and the Russell Group.

Confidence in Standards – now possible

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:51:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment is proud to have helped Members of Parliament in both Lords and Commons to improve the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Bill such that the new regulator, Ofqual, is enabled to act as a genuinely independent standards-orientated regulator.

Effective e-assessment: Making IT happen

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:59:00 GMT

Despite continuous improvements to technology applications the mainstream education industry has remained largely immune to its use within high stakes national assessment systems.

GCSE uptake and results 2002-2007

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:28:00 GMT

New statistics report

Local children enjoy singing workshop in celebration of Clare

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 16:10:00 GMT

Children from the John Clare and Peakirk-cum-Glinton Church of England Primary Schools took part in a singing workshop on Sunday (18 October) as part of a weekend of celebratory events dedicated to the work of poet John Clare, hosted by the UK arm of Cambridge Assessment, exam board OCR in support of the John Clare Trust and Clare Cottage. Suzi Whiting, Deputy Head of Peakirk-cum-Glinton School, commented: "This was a great chance for the children to sing with adults."

Cambridge Assessment comments on the Policy Exchange Report Science Fiction? Uncovering the real level of science skills at school and university

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The Cambridge Assessment Research Division has produced a commentary, Science: A valid overview of entries in schools and colleges, on the Policy Exchange Report Science Fiction? Uncovering the real level of science skills at school and university

Education for economic recovery

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:16:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment draws MPs into a debate about education for economic recovery.

New stats report on A level uptake and results 2002-2007

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 09:40:00 GMT

New stats report on A level uptake and results 2002-2007

Bringing history to life

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 09:25:00 GMT

Key moments in history have been brought to life through dramatic performances and captured for use in the classroom.

IGCSE funding in state schools

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 15:56:00 GMT

State schools are in line to receive a decision on funding for Cambridge IGCSE as they return from the holiday.

We know why students choose the A levels they do

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 10:54:00 GMT

More University of Oxford Applicants to Take the Thinking Skills Assessment

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:31:00 GMT

Following a successful trial last year, the University of Oxford has announced that applicants to their undergraduate courses in Experimental Psychology (EP) and Psychology, Philosophy and Physiology (PPP) will be required to take the Thinking Skills Assessment admissions test this November. The Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA) is developed and delivered by Cambridge Assessment’s New Developments Division.

4th Cambridge Assessment Conference – registration now open

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 11:56:00 GMT

The 4th Cambridge Assessment Conference will take place on 19th October 2009 at Robinson College, Cambridge. The theme of the conference is ‘Issues of control and innovation: the role of the state in assessment systems’

Integrating English into primary education world wide

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 09:25:00 GMT

Learning and assessment in primary schools was top of the agenda at a recent conference in Cambridge.

Cambridge Assessment strengthens partnership with ministries in Malaysia

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 06:57:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment exhibited at the 17th Conference of Commonwealth Education Ministers (17CCEM), in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in June. The Cambridge Assessment conference stand promoted one of its exam board's excellent work with ministries worldwide as well as its portfolio of international qualifications.

What's happening in languages...

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 09:49:00 GMT

Uptake of GCSE modern foreign languages among high attaining pupils* in the UK has fallen below the levels of uptake prior to the introduction of the National Curriculum, a new report out today indicates.

Rehabilitating prisoners

Thu, 28 May 2009 15:10:00 GMT

New contracts for prison education are now being negotiated with private and public business organisations to provide learning and skills for offenders in prisons and on community sentences from August 2009.

Kids do better in exams if in touch with their emotions

Fri, 15 May 2009 11:28:00 GMT

- Top academic convinced by Cambridge Assessment’s research that Emotional Intelligence does affect educational attainment.

Enabling access to a Cambridge education

Thu, 14 May 2009 11:35:00 GMT

A new scheme of scholarships to the University of Cambridge has been launched exclusively for undergraduate students from Pakistan.

No surprise: Boys like numbers and girls prefer words

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 14:56:00 GMT

When it comes to choosing which subjects to study at AS level, there are a few subjects in particular – Physics, Maths, English Lit and Psychology – that highlight significant gender preferences.

Poverty is the main barrier to A level achievement

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 13:14:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment researchers investigated the number of students who achieved 3 grade As at A Level on behalf of the University's Outreach Steering Group. They found that, contrary to some media suggestions, only a very small proportion of students who got these grades had taken less traditional subjects. They also found that the rates of achievement mirrored the socio-economic background of the local authority and that differences in outcomes between them could be stark

It's all about 'e'

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 15:43:00 GMT

E-learning, e-assessment and e-administration were on top of the agenda at the 4th Cambridge International Advisory Seminar – hosted by University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) in February.

Happy Birthday to you – but not if you’re born in summer

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 10:32:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment today submitted evidence to Sir Jim Rose for his consideration following the publication of his interim report on the Primary Curriculum Review which reveals a new take on birthdate research.

Delivering confidence in standards - Cambridge Assessment's First Reading brief

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 09:43:00 GMT

With educationalists expecting the new Education and Skills Bill to appear any day now, Cambridge Assessment is working to use its expertise to ensure that Government proposals for the introduction of a new standards regulator achieve the goal of improved education for all. However, we believe that vital questions must still be asked...

Research Matters

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 15:34:00 GMT

Research Matters issue 7 is now available - the biannual publication which allows Cambridge Assessment to share assessment research in a range of fields with the wider assessment community.

Vice-Chancellor visits India with Cambridge Assessment

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 14:37:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment - a department of the University of Cambridge - was delighted to help the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cambridge visit an outstanding education establishment in India.

Cambridge Assessment adds to debate on KS3

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 11:53:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment’s advice on and knowledge about national assessment arrangements for Key Stage 3 will be heard at a forthcoming joint policy and research seminar to be held at the Nuffield Foundation, Friday 9 January 2009.

UCAS tariff confirmed for Cambridge Pre-U

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 09:13:00 GMT

Cambridge Pre-U, an alternative to A Level being offered by schools in both the maintained and independent sectors, has now been awarded UCAS points.

Exams join the real world

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 08:37:00 GMT

Exams for 16 year olds have seen many changes with questions now relating much more to real world contexts. That’s the finding of research looking at papers in seven subject areas from 1867 to 2007 by Cambridge Assessment , which is this year celebrating its 150th anniversary.

Successful thinking for all

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 14:57:00 GMT

Latest research by Cambridge Assessment in collaboration with OCR - one of three exam boards that make up the Cambridge Assessment Group - has found a dramatic one-grade improvement in achievement at A level for those students taking Critical Thinking at AS Level.

Skills on top of the agenda

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 14:41:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment is partnering with the influential think tank the Fabian Society on its Skills Forum, a programme of events looking at the skills agenda – the Government’s response to concerns about the UK workforces’ lack of skills, and lack of investment by UK employers in developing and implementing training for employees.

Cambridge leads thinking on student-centred education in India

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 11:23:00 GMT

The University of Cambridge International Examinations - one of the three exam boards that make up the Cambridge Assessment Group - initiated a major conference in India to discuss the benefits of the student-centred approach with educators across the sub-continent. Putting the learner at the heart of the learning process is central to the Cambridge philosophy.

Record numbers take Cambridge Assessment admissions tests

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 11:28:00 GMT

This November over 11,000 candidates worldwide – a record number – have taken one of the university admissions tests developed and administered by Cambridge Assessment.

Achieve magazine, autumn 2008

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 14:53:00 GMT

Latest issue now available

Reflections on the Recent Revolution at Key Stage 3

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 15:56:00 GMT

Sylvia Green, Director of Research at Cambridge Assessment reflects on the recent changes at Key Stage 3.

Why Government education initiatives work – or don’t

Fri, 04 Jul 2008 15:17:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment’s fourth Parliamentary research seminar at the House of Commons – which was on the topic of what makes Government education initiatives succeed or fail – was attended by 60 key senior education professionals and MPs, generating a lively debate.

Cambridge Assessment's view on academic Diplomas

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 16:20:00 GMT

View from Cambridge Assessment's Group Chief Executive, Simon Lebus, on academic Diplomas.

“Confidence in Standards” - Cambridge Assessment's response to the Government's white paper

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 16:02:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment has responded to the government's consultation “Confidence in Standards” which seeks to create an independent regulator separated out from both the Department of Children, Families and Schools and the current regulator, the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA).

Examinations in England after 1945: History repeats itself

Wed, 21 May 2008 15:49:00 GMT

Taken from the second in a series of seminars which looks at the different stages in Cambridge Assessment's history, Helen Patrick, former research group manager at UCLES and now an independent consultant, focuses on developments following 1945, using the Cambridge Syndicate's experience to illustrate recurring themes in the history of assessment in England.

What will today’s young people be able to offer tomorrow?

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 13:36:00 GMT

“Education policy around the world: Innovations in 14-19 Reform”

Vice-Chancellor joins in 150th anniversary celebrations

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 15:14:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment was honoured by a visit from Cambridge University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alison Richard, as part of its 150th anniversary celebrations.

Research into Dyslexic students and examination questions yields ‘unexpected findings’

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 15:52:00 GMT

A study carried out by Cambridge Assessment has revealed some surprising results relating to the common perception that dyslexic students are disadvantaged by certain features of conventional exam papers, such as font use and text spacing.

FBI visits Cambridge University to discuss beating language exam cheats

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 15:49:00 GMT

An FBI specialist is to address European language experts on new forensic technology for detecting cheating in language exams.

Does Ireland have the answer for integration?

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:47:00 GMT

Ireland’s fast-track scheme to help immigrants with refugee status into their host communities uses a mixture of intense language classes, practical skills and learning about the systems and culture of Ireland. Could England’s plans to foster citizenship in the immigrant community benefit from this approach?

House of Commons Select Committee for Children, Schools and Families Inquiry into Testing and Assessment

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 15:46:00 GMT

From December through to February the House of Commons Select Committee on Children, Schools and Families has been holding an Inquiry into testing and assessment. MPs have questioned a range of witnesses and received a plethora of written evidence to try to find out exactly what problems might be being experienced in schools, colleges and workplaces and to try and identify some potential solutions.

Seminar looks at Cambridge's role in introduction of school exams

Thu, 06 Mar 2008 13:07:00 GMT

A seminar looking at the role Cambridge has played in the introduction of school exams will take place on Thursday 13 March as part of the 150th anniversary celebrations of Cambridge Assessment, the UK’s oldest surviving exam board.

How have school exams changed over the past 150 years?

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:29:00 GMT

We take a look at the development of examinations from the early days to their present form.

“Most candidates had little scruple about writing down sheer nonsense”

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 08:32:00 GMT

Bribery letters, 150-year-old examiner reports, eye-witness accounts of hardship during the First and Second World Wars and past exam questions feature in an online exhibition – from the archive of Cambridge Assessment.

What makes a good teacher? An overview of teaching effectiveness research

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:40:00 GMT

The Third Cambridge Assessment Research Seminar was hosted and chaired by Barry Sheerman MP, Chair of the House of Commons’ Children, Schools and Families Select Committee. The session was entitled: “What makes a good teacher? An overview of teaching effectiveness research.” Attendees were addressed by three keynote speakers; Professor Patricia Broadfoot, Professor Mary James and Professor Deborah Myhill. After the presentations there was a sustained debate to which all were able to contribute.

Scientists sought to help shape future of awarding

Tue, 29 Jan 2008 15:39:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment and OCR are recruiting professional biologists and sociologists to help them shape the future of grading examinations.

‘Turn over your exam papers now’ - 1858 style

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 16:49:00 GMT

Pupils at Bristol Grammar School experienced exams 1858 style on Tuesday 15 January. They took part in a special lesson to celebrate the anniversary of being one of the first schools in the country to sit exams from the 150-year-old University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate, known as UCLES.

No surprise: Students do what they like!

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 09:43:00 GMT

New research published today by Europe’s largest assessment agency shows that students choose A level subjects they think will be enjoyable and interesting, without much input from the so called “experts”.

Gujarat gaining the business edge through English provision

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 10:59:00 GMT

Cambridge ESOL has developed a new test called the Gujarat English Language Test, to assess ability related to the lower range of levels set out in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Is the American Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) the right generic test for HE admissions in England?

Thu, 04 Oct 2007 15:43:00 GMT

Given that there is currently a large Government-funded trial in place, it may seem premature to even ask this question. The five-year, £1.6million trial – was given backing by the Department for Education and Skills (DfES), the Sutton Trust and the College Board which owns the SAT - is currently in its second year. This article suggests that serious questions should be asked now rather than wait for the end of the trial.

What is the real impact of e-assessment on education?

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 10:10:00 GMT

The question “Is there more to e-assessment than new technologies?” is top of the agenda at the forthcoming Cambridge Assessment Network Conference, on 15 October at Robinson College Cambridge.

STEP across

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 15:17:00 GMT

With immediate effect the administration of STEP will be managed by the specialist Admissions Test Team based within OCR’s parent body, Cambridge Assessment.

Cambridge Assessment shares expertise at IAEA

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 15:53:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment recently took part in the 33rd annual conference of the International Association for Educational Assessment (IAEA) in Baku, Azerbaijan.

UK to host debate by global education experts

Thu, 20 Sep 2007 14:01:00 GMT

Leading education experts and exam providers from across the world will exchange the latest research, ideas and experiences of different countries’ education systems at a major conference in Cambridge.

'Underachieving boys' and 'overachieving girls' Revisited

Wed, 01 Aug 2007 15:32:00 GMT

'Underachieving boys' and 'overachieving girls' Revisited - Rhetoric and Reality is the title of the chapter written by Tim Oates that opens the recently published book Genderwatch.

Diploma news from OCR

Tue, 31 Jul 2007 14:14:00 GMT

UK exam board OCR – part of the Cambridge Assessment Group – has announced that it is launching the Principal Learning components for three of the initial five Diploma lines of learning.

Hurdles or Help? The changing face of admissions tests in Higher Education

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 15:35:00 GMT

Admissions Tests in Higher Education

Vive la difference!

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 15:34:00 GMT

Tougher laws on religious belief, gender and sexual preference have prompted a big growth in diversity training according to The Psychometrics Centre at Cambridge Assessment.

International debate

Wed, 30 May 2007 15:36:00 GMT

International delegates had the chance to debate the role and responsibilities of public examinations providers in today’s society, at a tailored study programme in May.

Czech it out!

Thu, 24 May 2007 16:26:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment’s Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA) – a non subject-specific aptitude test, normally associated with Cambridge University admissions – will be taken by Czech students, in Czech, this summer.

Oxford seeks best of best

Thu, 17 May 2007 15:08:00 GMT

Help is on the way for Oxford admission tutors who are struggling to decide which applicants to call for interview.

Enquiry into Testing and Assessment

Thu, 17 May 2007 13:29:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment's evidence submission to Education Select Committee

Evidence-based policy?

Wed, 18 Apr 2007 15:37:00 GMT

The first in a series of education research seminars takes place in the UK House of Commons on 25 April.

Assessment for Learning

Fri, 23 Mar 2007 15:41:00 GMT

The Cambridge Assessment Network – which provides professional development activities for all individuals involved in assessment – organised its second Excellence in Assessment seminar on 23 March 2007, on the subject of Assessment for Learning.

OCR welcomes Dearing report

Mon, 12 Mar 2007 13:46:00 GMT

UK exam board OCR – part of the Cambridge Assessment Group – welcomes Lord Dearing’s Languages Review. OCR produces Asset Languages, the assessment scheme for the Languages Ladder.

Setting the assessment agenda

Fri, 02 Mar 2007 16:30:00 GMT

A group of 50 headteachers from across the UK gathered in Cambridge to tackle some of the key issues concerning the future of assessment. They sought, and found, common ground between the teaching profession and exam boards.

Innovation rewarded

Thu, 15 Feb 2007 15:55:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment has awarded a six-month secondment to a student from the University of Wales Institute in Cardiff (UWIC), as a result of the Innovate to Educate Awards.

CIE response to IGCSE consultation

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 14:25:00 GMT

International GCSE (IGCSE) could help UK Government achieve its aims, says University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) CIE response to IGCSE consultation.

Are we getting smarter?

Mon, 18 Dec 2006 16:05:00 GMT

Almost 150 people from across the globe gathered to hear Professor James Flynn’s theories of intelligence and how massive IQ gains from one generation to another – otherwise know as “the Flynn effect” – at a seminar hosted by The Psychometrics Centre in Cambridge on 15 December.

OCR response to Dearing interim report

Thu, 14 Dec 2006 14:56:00 GMT

UK exam board OCR - part of the Cambridge Assessment group - welcomes the Dearing interim report and commented both on the Languages Ladder and GCSEs. OCR created Asset Languages, the assessment scheme for the DfES’ Languages Ladder.

QCA comparability study is not the last word on IGCSE says Cambridge Assessment

Fri, 24 Nov 2006 10:25:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment, today urged UK educators to look beyond the QCA comparability study which reviewed four International GCSE (IGCSE) and GCSE subjects.

‘Living’ English resource to set new standards

Mon, 13 Nov 2006 10:41:00 GMT

A new multimedia DVD is to help universities, professional bodies and employers tighten up on recruitment by showing what different levels of performance in a major English language test actually look and sound like.

Cambridge Assessment welcomes full consultation into iGCSEs

Tue, 24 Oct 2006 10:53:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment welcomes the Government’s decision to hold a consultation on the possibility of using the International GCSE (IGCSE) in state-maintained schools in England.

New office in Vietnam

Fri, 06 Oct 2006 11:19:00 GMT

Vietnam gains Cambridge ESOL advantage.

Top Latin American university joins drive to improve English teaching standards

Mon, 25 Sep 2006 12:15:00 GMT

One of the leading universities in Latin America is setting new standards for language teaching in Mexico by putting all of its English teachers through the Cambridge TKT (Teaching Knowledge Test).

Don't teach to the test - leading professor to help teachers learn

Mon, 11 Sep 2006 12:18:00 GMT

International educational expert Professor Dylan Wiliam, who recently returned from the USA, will speak on Assessment for Learning at Cambridge on 15 September.

Top marks for excellent journalism

Wed, 28 Jun 2006 12:32:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment is proud to support the Chartered Institute of Public Relations’(CIPR) Outstanding Education Reporting for National Journalists award, which will be presented on Thursday 29 June. The award recognises the importance of high quality reporting in the education sector.

New research leader joins Cambridge Assessment

Mon, 27 Mar 2006 12:39:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment today announces that Tim Oates will be joining the organisation to lead its growing Assessment Research and Development division. Mr Oates joins from the Qualifications and Curriculum Agency, where he has been Head of Research and Statistics for most of the last decade.

Students invited to participate in nationwide trial of new university admissions test

Mon, 20 Mar 2006 12:40:00 GMT

This week, students from thousands of schools and colleges across the country will be invited to participate in a full-scale study of uniTEST, a new generic admissions test designed to help universities in their selection processes.

New way to help teachers - Cambridge heavyweights join forces to pioneer assessment education

Mon, 27 Feb 2006 13:08:00 GMT

An innovative qualification designed to promote excellence in assessment has been launched by the Cambridge Assessment Network. The inaugural Certificate Programme in Principles and Practice of Assessment will begin teaching tomorrow (28th February 2006).

Cambridge ups the ante on education research

Mon, 30 Jan 2006 13:11:00 GMT

The latest push to expand research capacity at Cambridge Assessment takes place today. Two more recruits are sought to take the organisation’s research teams up to fifty staff. The enhanced research programme is designed to help examination boards, Government and regulators make better decisions on assessment.

BETT launch for dynamic ‘assessment for learning’ system

Tue, 10 Jan 2006 13:16:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment and leading educational publisher Harcourt Education will launch achieve, an online ‘assessment for learning’ system that supports teachers in the implementation of formative assessment at key stage 3, at BETT on Thursday 12 January 2006.

Study shows improvements in writing in GCSE English since the 1990s

Sun, 30 Oct 2005 13:26:00 GMT

A major new study published this week by researchers at Cambridge Assessment, Europe’s largest assessment agency, has shed light on the writing abilities of today’s teenagers.

New award for Multimedia and ICT students launched – Innovate to Educate

Thu, 27 Oct 2005 13:29:00 GMT

Innovate to Educate from NESTA Futurelab, an organisation dedicated to researching, developing and evaluating new technologies for learning, is a new award for students working on degree and postgraduate projects in multimedia, ICT or related subjects. Supported by Cambridge Assessment, the award encourages students to work with a teacher/educator to focus their final year or similar project on a novel digital resource to assist learning, in school or out of school.

British Council Chair, Lord Kinnock, visits Cambridge Assessment

Wed, 19 Oct 2005 13:31:00 GMT

The Rt Hon Lord Kinnock of Bedwellty, Chair of the British Council, visited Cambridge today to see for himself some of the good work that is being done around the globe by Europe’s largest assessment agency.

Cambridge calls together top global experts to debate trust in exams

Mon, 17 Oct 2005 13:32:00 GMT

Top global education experts including Baroness Onora O’Neill – renowned for her BBC Reith Lectures – debated the key issue of trust in the UK assessment system at a conference held today to launch the ‘Cambridge Assessment Network’. The Network is being established to help an international community of assessment professionals share knowledge and expertise.

EuroPortfolio Conference 05 - Cambridge

Sat, 01 Oct 2005 13:34:00 GMT

Cambridge Assessment is proud to sponsor this year's event. As Europe's largest assessment agency, we are keen to support the role that new technologies will play in enhancing the range of assessment services that can be offered.