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Will There Be Changes in A-levels 2023?
As England moves on from the pandemic, formal assessments such as A-levels are gradually returning to their normal format. It is unlikely that schools will close or exams will be cancelled, as the government has implemented a return to traditional exam-based learning. While it is not the intention of the government to cancel exams in the future, contingency plans are in place in case of unexpected events.
In 2023, Ofqual announced that the pre-pandemic grading scale will be reinstated for A-level exams. The government has also stated that it will provide support to students who will be taking A-levels that year, acknowledging the disruption caused by the pandemic.
Will A-level Students Get Advanced Information?
In 2022, exam boards released the topics for some exams prior to the test in order to support students who had been impacted by the pandemic. However, Ofqual has confirmed that this will not occur in 2023. The decision was made because students have experienced less disruption from Covid-19 this year compared to previous years.
Will A-level Grades Fall Back to Pre-Pandemic Grades?
A-level grades are expected to fall back to pre-pandemic levels in 2023. This information is confirmed by multiple sources, including the Department for Education, Ofqual, and The Guardian. However, senior examiners will lower grade boundaries in 2023.
“Broadly speaking … a typical student who would have achieved an A grade in their A-level geography before the pandemic will be just as likely to get an A next summer, even if their performance in the assessments is a little weaker in 2023 than it would have been before the pandemic.” – according to Jo Saxton.
Plan B for A-levels 2023
The Department for Education and Ofqual have come up with a plan called “Plan B” in case the A-level exams are disrupted or cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic or other unforeseen circumstances. This plan requires schools and colleges to gather and keep evidence that can be used to assign potential grades to GCSEs and A-levels. Although it is unlikely that the A-level exams will be cancelled, “Plan B” is in place to make sure that students have the chance to receive legitimate and reliable qualifications even if there are disruptions.
“Schools will have to collect student performance evidence again this year in case exams are cancelled, the government has confirmed, despite half of the schools consulted saying it will increase workload.” – according to Schools Week.
A-level Results Day 2023
The results day for AS levels A-levels will be on 17 August 2023.
A-level 2023 Exam Timetables
AQA A-levels 2023 Dates
Exams will start on 15th May and end on 23rd June, with the contingency day being on 28th June.
OCR A-levels 2023 Dates
Exams will start on 15th May and end on 26th June, with the contingency day being on 28th June.
Pearson Edexcel A-levels 2023 Dates
Exams will start on 15th May and end on 27th June.
When Should Students Start Revising for A-levels?
It is crucial for students to start preparing for their A-levels well in advance of the actual exams. By beginning their revision several months before the test date, students can ensure that they have adequate time to review all the material they have learned in their classes and to practice with sample questions and past papers.
There are several important factors to consider during revision:
📌 Review class notes and materials. It is important to review all the notes and materials you have collected from your classes to ensure you have a good understanding of the subject matter.
📌 Practise with sample questions and past papers. Solving practice questions and attempting past papers can help you become familiar with the format and style of the A-level exams, as well as help you identify any areas where you may need to spend more time studying.
📌 Create a revision schedule. Planning out your revision sessions and creating a schedule can help you stay organized and on track.
📌 Get enough rest and exercise. It is important to take care of your physical and mental health while revising. Make sure to get enough sleep and try to incorporate some physical activity into your routine.
📌 Seek help if needed. If you are having difficulty with any of the material, don’t be afraid to ask for help from your teacher, tutor, or study group.
To Sum Up
Even though there will be no advanced information, there’s still some support offered for A-level students in 2023. Examiners are expected to lower grade boundaries so that the grading will be fair for students who have a learning loss.
“Next year’s exam cohort has experienced disruption to their learning over the past three years. For those taking A-levels, these will be the first formal exams they sit. It is right that this is recognised and steps are taken to ensure the cohort is not disadvantaged as a result of their experiences.” – says Sarah Hannafin, a senior policy adviser for the National Association of Head Teachers.
If you are an A-level student who is overwhelmed with upcoming exams, remember that there is still enough time for revising. If you seem to struggle with revising on your own, you can always find A-level tutors who can provide subject-specific assistance alongside career guidance and emotional support.
