Ofqual Chief visits college

Yesterday the college received a visit from the Chief Regulator of Ofqual. Ofqual is the ‘watchdog’ that oversees examinations and qualifications in England. 

The Chief Regulator, Dr Jo Saxton, spoke to staff and students to gain a first-hand insight into their experiences of the exams and qualifications system. She was particularly interested in hearing first-hand how the Covid pandemic has affected preparations for this summer’s public examinations. For many students these exams will be the first they have sat after their GCSEs were replaced by ‘centre assessed grades’ in 2020.

Students told Dr Saxton that they were understandably nervous about their upcoming exams, but they were looking forward to the sense of achievement and validation for their hard work which they felt the exams would bring. 

Dr Saxton commented, “I’m so grateful to Blackpool Sixth Form College for hosting me, and to students and staff for making time to talk with me. I was so encouraged to hear about the amazing support students have had from their tutors and the exams team at the inspiring sixth form. The students spoke of being determined to prove themselves and I, of course, wish them all the best in achieving their ambitions.”

Dr Saxton was accompanied on the visit by other senior leaders from Ofqual, Danielle Cartwright (Associate Director GQ Policy and Strategic Relationships), Jane Parsons (Director of Communications), Emma Scott (Director of Operations VTQ).