New Qualifications from CCEA

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1 Issue 11 Spring 2009 New Qualifications from CCEA Personal Money Management GCSE Moving Image Arts Business and Communication Systems

2 Spring 09 contents Unique CCEA CCEA is a unique educational body in the UK, bringing together the three areas of curriculum, examinations and assessment. CCEA is responsible for: Advising Government on what should be taught in Northern Ireland s schools and colleges; Monitoring Standards ensuring that the qualifications and examinations offered by awarding bodies in Northern Ireland are of an appropriate quality and standard; and Awarding Qualifications as Northern Ireland s leading awarding body, we offer a diverse range of qualifications at: Entry Level, Levels 1 4, GCSE, GCE and AEA, and BTEC Firsts and Nationals. CCEA S Mission and Values CCEA places learners and those who have a concern for their educational and personal development at the forefront of its thinking. CCEA s mission is: To enable the full potential of all learners to be achieved and recognised. QDS Newsletter qds newsletter is published by CCEA twice yearly: once in the autumn and again in the spring term. It provides teachers, lecturers and tutors in post-primary schools, colleges and other educational settings with up-to-date information on development and support matters relating to our full range of qualifications. qds newsletter is published by CCEA, 29 Clarendon Road, Clarendon Dock, Belfast BT1 3BG. Tel. (028) , Fax (028) , Web: 1 Welcome 1 Citizenship and LLW 2 CCEA Qualifications 3 Leading Qualifications 4 New Qualifications 6 From GCSE Coursework to Controlled Assessment 8 Revised GCSE and GCE Specifications 9 GCSE Mathematics is Being Revised 10 GCSE Revised Qualifications 11 More Specifications to Be Revised in GCSE Religious Studies 13 Examining with CCEA 14 Why Study CCEA Art History? 16 Employer and Provider Recognition Schemes 17 Graded Objectives in Modern Languages 18 Awards & Recognition 18 Celebrating Achievement 18 Customer Service Excellence Award for CCEA 19 Celebrating Excellence 19 CCEA wins European Award 20 Qualifications Information Back Cover CCEA is Getting Greener Creation of the Education and Skills Authority For further information on the content in the qds newsletter, please contact the individual(s) named at the foot of each article. For editorial matters, please contact Doon Storey, Programme Manager: Operations Support, on (028) / dstorey@ccea.org.uk

3 Spring 09 1 welcome Over the past few years we have revised 21 of our GCE and 29 of our GCSE qualifications, as required by the regulatory authorities. This year the revision process continues with the focus again on GCSEs (English, Gaeilge, ICT and Mathematics), as well as on some of our GCE Applied qualifications. Find out more on page 11. You can now book a place to attend our teacher support events online. Go to to see what events are available for your subject. While we will continue to send invitations by post, booking online is straightforward and allows you to see how many places are still available. Two of our recent achievements were winning the European Excellence Award and two additional special awards, for Customer Focus and for Continuous Learning. We also became the first public sector body in Northern Ireland to achieve the Customer Service Excellence standard. While we are proud of these achievements, our aim is to translate winning into better service for our customers. See pages 18 and 19 for more details. We recently made some new appointments to our management team in the area of qualifications. These include our Qualifications Director, Anne Marie Duffy, our Examinations Manager, JJ Cavanagh and our ACETS Manager, Charlie Sproule. They are responsible for setting priorities for our qualifications and for supporting Neil Anderson, our Acting Chief Executive, in leading the organisation as we approach our transition to the new Education and Skills Authority. If you have any comments on issues raised in the qds newsletter, please contact the individual(s) named at the foot of each article or contact me at ldoherty@ccea.org.uk / (028) , as appropriate. Citizenship and LLW Helping Democracy to Function Citizenship is more than a subject it is about enabling young people in Northern Ireland to make their own decisions and to take responsibility for their actions. The main reason for teaching citizenship is to help democracy to function at its best. In Northern Ireland we need active, informed and responsible citizens - people who are willing to take responsibility for themselves and their communities and to contribute to the political process. Citizenship education allows young people to develop self-confidence and helps them deal successfully with life changes. It allows them to have a voice in society and prepares them for the challenges and opportunities of adult life. It also helps them deal with the many pressures they face in the 21st century, such as illegal drugs, discrimination, anti-social behaviour and bullying. Our revised GCSE Learning for Life and Work specification addresses: the statutory curriculum for Local and Global Citizenship; Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE); and Employability at Key Stage 4 (apart from the career entry profile). Learning for Life and Work helps young people to develop as contributors to society, the economy and the environment. Through a study of real life situations and scenarios, they have opportunities to explore and express their own values and attitudes concerning human rights, social and economic responsibilities. They also develop an appreciation of the needs and perspectives of others. To find out more, or to start teaching our GCSE Learning for Life and Work qualification in your centre, contact Donna Finlay on (028) ext / dfinlay@ccea.org.uk Lorna Doherty Manager Operations Support

4 2 Spring 09 CCEA Qualifications Serving the needs of learners and centres Schools and colleges are working towards the introduction of the Entitlement Framework in This is an initiative of the Department of Education to introduce wider choice and flexibility in the courses offered by schools in order to better suit their learners needs, aptitudes and interests. Entitlement Framework qualifications are categorised as General and Applied and equate to levels on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). We have been expanding our portfolio of qualifications in recent years to help centres offer a wider choice of courses to their learners: we now offer 103 General and 79 Applied qualifications. The table opposite illustrates how our qualifications relate to the NQF. The Qualifications section of our website allows you to search for all our qualifications that meet specific criteria: Entitlement Framework; Vocational/Applied only; and/or General only. You can also narrow your selection down to subject level, view specifications and follow links to subject microsites for more detailed information. As we increase our range of qualifications, we are aware of the need to help you provide coherence in the particular combinations of courses that are available to individual learners. Our qualifications can help you provide your learners with clear progression routes to further and/ or higher education and employment. Increasingly, learners are choosing a mix of both General and Applied qualifications. In future editions of the qds newsletter we will highlight, through local case studies, how our qualifications have helped various learners to progress along their chosen pathways. National Qualifications Framework NQF Level 5 Professional, chartered, management NQF Level 4 NQF Level 3 Advanced, technician, skilled, supervisory NQF Level 2 Intermediate, operative, semi-skilled NQF Level 1 Foundation Entry Level Higher Degrees, Advanced Diplomas etc First Degrees, Foundation Degrees/HNDs CCEA Entitlement Framework General GCE General AS/A Levels GCSE grade A*-C GCSE grade D-G Entry Level Qualifications CCEA Entitlement Framework Applied GCE Applied AS/A Levels BTEC National Diploma Business Enterprise Personal Effectiveness Key Skills L3 GCSE Applied grade A* C BTEC First Certificates Occupational Studies L2 Key Skills L2 GCSE Applied grade D G Performance Skills L1 Occupational Studies L1 Key Skills L1 Occupational Studies First Skills A General course is one in which knowledge, understanding and skills are developed within a subject-specific context. An Applied (or Vocational) course is one in which subject knowledge, understanding and skills are developed in relation to a work context.

5 Spring 09 3 Leading Qualifications Meet the business managers JJ Cavanagh, Business Manager, Examinations and Charlie Sproule Business Manager, ACETS Meet the people who lead the teams responsible for the development and delivery of our General and Applied qualifications: JJ Cavanagh, Business Unit Manager, Examinations JJ recently joined us and is responsible for all aspects of the development and delivery of our General qualifications. I am delighted to join an organisation with a commitment to quality and excellence. From the developmental stages of our GCSE and GCE A Level specifications, throughout the marking process and right up until learners receive their results, our focus is on the customer. The Examinations Team is committed to providing top class support and guidance for our diverse range of specifications. Charlie Sproule, Business Unit Manager, Awards and Certificates in Education, Training and Skills (ACETS) Charlie is responsible for the development and delivery of our ACETS qualifications. To see the full list of General and Applied/Vocational qualifications we offer, please go to and click on the Qualifications tab on the home page, or see the March 2009 edition of our qualifications posters, recently mailed to post-primary centres. The ACETS Team is committed to expanding our range of work-related and lifelong learning qualifications to suit a diverse and growing range of customer needs. ACETS qualifications not only increase the skills of the individual, they also help them to make a valuable contribution to the social and economic well-being of Northern Ireland. You can find details of our General and Applied qualifications at

6 4 Spring 09 New Qualifications Personal Money Management New Level 1 Qualification We have developed a new Level 1 qualification to help learners develop skills and confidence in managing their personal money. It will teach them how to budget and save their personal money. It will be particularly relevant to young people who are receiving a wage or living away from home for the first time. Content and Structure The qualification requires 30 guided learning hours. It consists of three units of 10 hours each. Unit 1 Identify personal finances In this unit learners have the opportunity to record their income and expenditure, and to identify ways to make savings. Unit 2 Managing your own money In this unit, learners focus on how to manage their personal money. They also learn about bank accounts, statements and items on pay slips. Unit 3 Planning your money for a significant expenditure In this unit, learners apply the knowledge they have gained in Units 1 and 2, focusing on how to plan and make a significant expenditure. They learn how to raise the money they need for the expenditure, compare prices and identify suitable insurance. Through planned activities, the learners gather a portfolio of evidence. The teacher assesses this portfolio against set criteria and we will moderate it. Learners who successfully complete the course are awarded a Level 1 Certificate in Personal Money Management. To facilitate progression we are also developing a Level 2 qualification in Personal Money Management. To find out more about our new Levels 1 and 2 qualification in Personal Money Management, contact Margaret Huddleston on (028) / mhuddleston@ccea.org.uk

7 Spring 09 5 Moving Image Arts New GCSE Qualification We have just launched a new GCSE qualification in Moving Image Arts. It offers an ideal progression route following on from the new requirements to teach the moving image at Key Stage 3 in English and Art and Design. It is also a stepping stone for learners wanting to progress to our GCE Moving Image Arts qualification. GCSE Moving Image Arts provides learners with opportunities to develop: an understanding of film language in both theory and practice; and develop technical competence in the use of filmmaking techniques. It is a unitised specification which means that learners have the opportunity to sit one unit in the first year of teaching. To find our more about our new GCSE and current GCE Moving Image Arts qualifications, visit or contact Roger Trigg on (028) ext / rtrigg@ccea.org.uk Business and Communication Systems New GCSE Qualification We have just launched a new GCSE qualification in Business and Communication Systems. The new qualification emphasises practical ICT skills that enhance business activity and reflects the ways in which market environments are changing because of ICT. GCSE Business and Communication Systems provides learners with opportunities to: actively engage in the study of business and economics to develop as effective, independent learners and reflective thinkers; and be familiar with relevant terms, concepts and methods and use these effectively to describe business and economic behaviour. This specification is a unitised course. This structure increases flexibility and choice for teachers and learners. The first assessment for the following unit will be available in summer 2010: Unit 1: Use of ICT. The first assessment for the following units will be available in summer 2011: Unit 2: The Business Environment; and Unit 3: E-Commerce. To find our more about our new GCSE Business and Communication Systems qualification and our other Business Studies Entry Level, GCSE and GCE qualifications, visit or contact Amanda Swann on (028) ext / aswann@ccea.org.uk

8 6 Spring 09 From GCSE Coursework to Controlled Assessment How the changes will affect you Concerns surrounding coursework led to a review carried out by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) on behalf of the three regulatory authorities in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. This review confirmed that coursework was an invaluable internal assessment tool but needed to be improved. The regulatory authorities consulted with teachers and the awarding bodies before devising new regulations on controlled assessment the new term for coursework. These new regulations focus on three key areas: task setting; task taking; and task marking. The regulations in these areas will: make assessments more valid and reliable; avoid assessments that are too formulaic and predictable; support good teaching and learning; discourage and detect assessment malpractice; allow teachers to confidently authenticate learners work; make assessment more manageable for learners and teachers; and ensure assessment judgements are of the highest quality. The regulatory authorities produced controlled assessment regulations for all subjects that offer a coursework element. We then developed our specifications in line with these new regulations. Each of our revised and new GCSE specifications (except Religious Studies and Economics) has an element of controlled assessment worth 60% or 25% of the overall assessment....greater control over the authentication of internal assessment time or word limits are defined...

9 Spring 09 7 Questions and answers These are some of the questions that teachers have asked about changes to internal assessment, and our responses. Your Questions What were the main issues with coursework? Why have internal assessment at all? How will the new controlled assessment arrangements benefit me as a teacher? How will the new controlled assessment arrangements benefit my learners? There are new terms being used for controlled assessment, such as the levels of control. Where can I find out the meaning of these terms? Where do I get subject-specific information on controlled assessment? Our Responses The issues included: the authentication of the learners work; and the guidance that teachers received on the type and extent of support and advice they should provide for their learners. Internal assessment provides opportunities for learners that written examinations cannot give, for example: it assesses skills that cannot be assessed in a written examination; it gives learners the opportunity to study areas of a subject in greater depth; and it provides opportunities for learners to be responsible for their own learning. Benefits of controlled assessment to teachers include: it gives greater control over the authentication of internal assessment; time or word limits are defined to allow greater clarity for delivery; and most of the work is done under a medium to high level of control. (This means that students carry out more of the work in class.) Benefits of controlled assessment to learners include: students carry out most of the work in class; and it creates a more even assessment based on their overall performance. We have provided a full glossary of terms at the back of our revised specifications. Go to Section 6 of the revised specifications to find out more about what controlled assessment means in your subject. Information To find out about the regulators review of coursework, go to the QCA website: To access an electronic copy of the specification and specimen assessment materials for your subject, visit our website: For further information on support available for your subject, go to your microsite by selecting it from the Microsite Quickfind menu on our website: If you have a question you would like to ask about controlled assessment, please contact your subject officer via the contact details on page 20.

10 8 Spring 09 Revised GCSE and GCE Specifications Challenges and choices We have been revising our specifications on a rolling basis over the past few years. Rather than just making changes to meet criteria set by the regulatory authorities, we set ourselves a challenge: to be Northern Ireland teachers first choice for specifications. We wanted our specifications to be refreshingly relevant, stimulating and rewarding. To achieve this we did things differently from when we last revised our specifications. This time, the process included: having the specifications available one year in advance of first teaching; asking teachers and other stakeholders what they wanted us to include; making sure that content is linked to the Northern Ireland Curriculum, where appropriate; addressing the skills and competences agenda; and providing opportunities for progression. We also introduced a new approach to supporting teachers and learners, by: producing generic and subject-specific materials such as resource packs, student guides and fact files; having support available on dedicated subject microsites; and hosting free information and workshop training events in advance of first teaching dates. Are we your first choice for your subject specification? If you already offer our specification, we hope you are enjoying the benefits and will choose to stay with us. However, if you are not currently with us, compare us to your awarding body by checking if their specification: has been developed in consultation with Northern Ireland teachers and stakeholders; has content that is up to date, relevant, innovative and stimulating; is supported by: - free training events; - specimen assessment materials (specimen question papers and mark schemes); - examination papers that are developed and marked by local teachers and other subject specialists; and - staff who will respond quickly to issues and can visit you in your centre. Most importantly, because we are a local exams provider, our staff make personal centre visits to meet and support teachers.

11 Spring 09 9 We hope that our combination of: up-to-date, relevant, stimulating and rewarding specifications; quality, free support materials and training events; and local accessibility, responsiveness and dependability will meet your needs. Contact us now to: discuss your specification needs; attend one of our free training events; or ask one of our subject officers to visit you. See contact information on page 20. Contact Us! GCSE Mathematics is Being Revised Make yourself heard! The study of mathematics is an essential part of the school curriculum for every learner: mathematics affects many aspects of our lives. In school it forms the basis for many other subjects, and studying it is fascinating in its own right. It also leads on to a variety of fulfilling careers. A good grade in GCSE Mathematics is generally a requirement for entry to many careers and into further and higher education courses. Work on the development of a new GCSE in Mathematics has now begun, but it is still in its very early stages. Now is the time to make your views heard. your ideas and suggestions directly to: mathematicsfeedback@ccea.org.uk

12 10 Spring 09 Advice Support GCSE Revised Qualifications Support for teachers and learners Last autumn we held 70 subject-specific launch events, and have just held support workshops for our 29 revised GCSE specifications. These support workshops provided teachers with guidance and advice, particularly on new and unfamiliar areas of teaching and assessment. They included: providing detailed schemes of work; guidance on controlled assessment (except for GCSE Economics and Religious Studies); providing student guides; and an opportunity to have questions answered by members of our examining teams. Copies of the above materials are available on our website. Booking a place at support events Teachers can book online to attend support events at We also post invitations to teachers before events. Suggestions for future support We ask teachers at our events and through consultation for their ideas about additional support that they would find helpful. If you have missed these opportunities, or you have any further suggestions, please contact one of our specification support officers (see page 20) with your ideas. We look forward to hearing from you. How to book your place at support events Log on to Choose your level, subject and date, then... search events From your list of events, select... details Then fill in your details to... book your place!

13 Spring More Specifications to Be Revised in 2009 Is your specification affected? We have already completed the revision of the majority of our GCE and GCSE specifications, but we are revising the following specifications in 2009: GCE Applied Business Applied Health and Social Care Applied Information and Communication Technology GCSE English Mathematics Information and Communication Technology Gaeilge. Focus of the GCE revision The focus of this revision is on stretch and challenge and the attainment of A*. It involves two phases: Phase 1 is focusing on changes to the question papers and mark schemes only. You will receive specimen assessment materials for these specifications during the summer term in Phase 2, later in the year, will focus on making changes to content. Focus of the GCSE revision The focus of this revision is on including skills which are important for young people to develop for real life contexts (functionality) and to ensure that the content and assessments are up to date and appropriate for the needs of teachers and learners. We held consultation workshops and an online survey this term for teachers to express their views on our draft revised specifications. We also carried out consultation meetings last term. Staying up to date Here s how you can keep up to date with the latest developments relevant to you: visit pick up a copy of Spec Changes newsletter (the next issue will arrive in centres later this term); or get Spec Changes newsletter ed to your inbox just go to and click on the specchanges link to register online. What s happening in your subject Go to and use the drop-down menu to locate your subject microsite; and/or contact the appropriate specification support officer (see page 20 for details).

14 12 Spring 09 GCSE Religious Studies A look inside the revised specification We have revised our GCSE Religious Studies specification for first teaching in September The revised specification: has a unitised structure that allows for flexibility of choice for learners and teachers; incorporates a short course that is fully co-teachable with the full GCSE; offers opportunities to build on the skills and capabilities developed through the delivery of the Key Stage 3 Northern Ireland Curriculum; has a single tier of entry for examination papers; and is accompanied by course textbooks and CD-ROMs with downloadable activities to support the units. What units are available? There are nine units. These are: 1. The Christian Church through a Study of the Catholic Church and One Protestant Tradition; 2. The Christian Church with a Focus on EITHER the Catholic Church OR the Protestant Tradition; 3. The Revelation of God and the Christian Church; 4. Christianity through a Study of the Gospel of Matthew; 5. Christianity through a Study of the Gospel of Mark; 6. World Religions: Islam; 7. World Religions: Judaism; 8. An Introduction to Christian Ethics; and 9. An Introduction to Philosophy of Religion.

15 Spring Examining with CCEA New and revised specifications Why don t you take the opportunity now to get involved in examining with us and enhance your personal development and increase your income? We are currently recruiting teachers and lecturers to assist with marking and moderating examinations in our GCSE, GCE A Level and Applied subjects, including our revised specifications. When are the units available? The scheme of assessment is flexible. The following possibilities are available to full course learners: Take both assessment units at the end of two years of study. Take one assessment unit at the end of one year of study and the other assessment unit at the end of the second year of study. Take both assessment units at the end of one year of study. Both the full course and the short course award will be available for summer To find out more about our revised GCSE Religious Studies specification, please contact Arlene Ashfield on (028) , ext / aashfield@ccea.org.uk If you join an examining team, you will gain: greater insight into how the assessment and examinations process works, which may help you better prepare your learners for examinations; and access to a highly professional network of subject specialist knowledge, experience and information, which could both have a direct benefit on your learners achievements and contribute significantly to your own professional development. We would welcome an application from you if you: teach our subjects at GCSE and GCE A Level, including our new and revised specifications (check out our website for a list of subjects); and/or are fluent in the medium of Irish in any of our GCSE, GCE A Level or Applied subjects. By completing and returning an application form, you are opening up the potential to raise your learners achievements and get ahead in your career. And, of course, there is financial reward for you too. We look forward to hearing from you. You can apply by: going online at telephoning our Appointments Section on (028) ; or sending an to appointments@ccea.org.uk

16 14 Spring 09 Why Study CCEA Art History? GCE History of Art How do we make sense of the world in which we live the culture we and others have inherited and the culture to which we and others belong? Art is produced by people who are shaped by, part of and influenced by a range of factors, including time, place, language, politics, literature, economics and religion. One way to make sense of the world we live in is to study art history. Those who follow courses based on our History of Art specification: develop the ability to formulate ideas orally and in writing as they gather and analyse information both visually and verbally; and have the opportunity to examine some of the most beautiful, challenging and complex art objects and ideas that have shaped individuals, societies and cultures over time. We have recently revised our GCE History of Art and Design specification. We have made a number of improvements to it, including: expanding the range of study options - while Irish art, from 1900 up to and including the work of artists such as Basil Blackshaw, Rita Duffy, Willie Doherty and Paul Seawright, is covered, teachers can now select course material from a very broad range of western art, architecture, craft and design, from antiquity through to the present; adding the study of craft and design based on a chronological rather than a thematic approach; and changing the specification name from GCE History of Art and Design to GCE History of Art. We maintain a dedicated microsite ( where teachers and learners can freely download the latest version of the specification. They can also choose from an extensive range of support materials that includes: specimen papers; mark schemes; schemes of work; frequently asked questions; and

17 Spring an ever expanding set of art study notes produced by our Chief Examiner. Over forty texts are currently available, giving detailed guidance on terms, concepts, methodologies, movements and works, with a particular emphasis on architecture, craft and design. Teachers often cite support such as this as an important reason why they choose our specification. This includes an increasing number of schools and colleges who offer our specification in England. Our revised GCE History of Art specification is available for first teaching from September 2009 and is fully supported as indicated above. If you would like to find out more, please contact Marion Miller on (028) / mmiller@ccea.org.uk or Nola McLarnon on (028) , ext / nmclarnon@ccea.org.uk

18 16 Spring 09 Employer and Provider Recognition Schemes Have your training programme recognised as a qualification While education and training provision can go some way toward meeting national targets for developing a highly skilled and qualified workforce, increased employer involvement is also vital if we are to meet this challenge fully. Working with us, employers and training providers can now obtain accreditation or endorsement for their training programmes. We offer two routes to obtaining recognition for your training programme: Accreditation You could have your company training programme accredited to the new Qualifications and Credit Framework. You can do this by working with us or on your own. If you work with us, we will help to ensure that you know and understand what is involved and how to comply with the regulatory arrangements. Once it is accredited, you can deliver the qualification to your employees and we will assess and award it. At some later stage, you could work independently from us as an employer-led awarding organisation. Training Programme Approved! Endorsement Alternatively, you could have your company training programme endorsed. Endorsement means that, while your programme does not contribute to the national qualifications system, it is recognised by us as being of sound educational value in its own right. We have considerable experience working with local employers and providers to endorse training programmes. If you meet the criteria for endorsement, your scheme is officially recognised and you can use our logo on your published materials. How to get accreditation or endorsement for your programme In the first instance, get in touch with us. We can explain the process and offer you guidance and support. Contact: Amanda Simpson on (028) / asimpson@ccea.org.uk or Chris Tracey on (028) / ctracey@ccea.org.uk Ordering Additional Copies of qds newsletter Approximately 20 copies of qds newsletter are sent to each of those listed on our mailing list. Subject to availability, a limited number of additional copies are available on request by contacting: Stephen Cassells, Distribution Operations, on (028) / scassells@ccea.org.uk

19 Spring Graded Objectives in Modern Languages A new web approach allowing them to establish innovative connections between languages and ICT. Because this is an online resource, materials will always be up to date and available. As we phase in OAS, our current paper-based GOML will be phased out. We will be introducing OAS: in our 2009 summer series assessments in German and Italian; in our 2009 winter series assessments in Spanish and Irish; and in our 2010 summer series assessments in French. Our popular paper-based Graded Objectives in Modern Languages (GOML) scheme is being replaced with a new web-based system from summer 2009 onwards. The new system, known as the Online Assessment System for Modern Languages (OAS) to highlight its electronic method of delivery via the web, will continue to provide teachers with the resources they need to teach and assess their pupils Listening, Reading and Writing in our French, German, Irish, Italian and Spanish qualifications at this level. OAS will not require teachers to have extensive ICT skills, and is supported by a full training programme for all centres. OAS will permit the online delivery, marking and assessment of pupils learning in a user-friendly, fresh, stimulating and interactive online environment using a creative blend of text and colourful images. It will enable teachers and pupils to experience more engaging approaches to teaching and learning by We have designed OAS to be as future-proof as possible by using the most up-to-date technology and standards. This is consistent with our policy across the organisation to use technology to meet the growing demand from teachers and learners for more innovative approaches to learning, assessment and delivery of qualifications. As part of the phasing in of the new system, we invited all teachers who currently offer our existing paperbased GOML assessments to attend a training event. By attending a training workshop, teachers found out about: timescales for migrating from paper-based GOML to OAS; what s new in OAS; and guidance and training on using the OAS system. If you would like to find out more about the replacement of GOML with the new Online Assessment System for Modern Languages (OAS), please contact Roisin Radcliffe on / rradcliffe@ccea.org.uk Obtaining Copies of CCEA Support Materials and Specifications Check out the online publication Examinations and Assessment Sales Catalogue to view the full list of available materials and instructions on how to order. The latest versions of our support materials and specifications are available to view and download free of charge on

20 18 Spring 09 Awards & Recognition Celebrating Achievement Awards and Certificates in Education, Training and Skills Celebrating Achievement is an important annual ceremony in Northern Ireland that recognises learners outstanding achievements in: Key Skills; Essential Skills; Occupational Studies; and Work-Related and Lifelong Learning qualifications. Teachers and tutors can make nominations for outstanding achievement awards using application forms that we send to all centres. Each centre can nominate: one learner per occupational area for Occupational Studies; and up to three learners for each of Key Skills, Essential Skills, and Work-Related and Lifelong Learning. A panel then selects outstanding learners and invites them to a special award celebration. This year, the ceremony was held on Tuesday 31 March 2009 in the CCEA building, Belfast. At past ceremonies we also recognised the achievements of tutors and centres. However, as we intend to consult with our centres in 2009 on how best Award winners with CCEA Acting Chief Executive, Neil Anderson we can continue to celebrate these achievements, we have decided this year to focus solely on learners. Last year we presented 35 awards. Over 120 friends, relatives and colleagues attended the celebration at CCEA. To find out more about the administration of the Celebrating Achievement awards for learners, contact Joanne Schofield on (028) , ext / jschofield@ccea.org.uk Customer Service Excellence Award for CCEA We have become the first public sector body in Northern Ireland to achieve the Customer Service Excellence standard. This has replaced Charter Mark as the new customer service standard for the public sector. Like Charter Mark, the Customer Excellence Standard focuses on an organisation s customers and on how it anticipates and meets their needs and expectations. We have held the Charter Mark Standard since December We achieved the Customer Service Excellence standard following two days of assessment by an external assessor who interviewed CCEA staff, our customers and colleagues in other organisations that work with us. Commenting on the achievement of the Customer Service Excellence standard, Neil Anderson, Acting Chief Executive CCEA, said: This gives me great confidence that the level of service provided by CCEA is of the highest standard and that we remain committed to improving. To find out more about the Customer Service Excellence standard, please contact Heather Clarke on (028) / hclarke@ccea.org.uk

21 Spring Celebrating Excellence Award Ceremonies for GCSE and GCE High Achievers We hold our Celebrating Excellence award ceremonies each year to recognise the achievement of those students who have received overall highest marks in our GCSE and GCE summer series examinations. The GCE ceremony is normally held just before Christmas and the GCSE ceremony in the autumn term. This year, however, while the GCE ceremony took place as normal, the GCSE award ceremony will take place on Tuesday 7 April in the CCEA building, Belfast. We believe that it is fitting to celebrate the achievement of students who are first overall in their particular subject. As well as recognising their hard work, we also recognise the contribution of their teachers and the support given by their families all of whom have helped the students achieve so much. The ceremonies provide an excellent platform to thank all those involved. At the ceremonies, each student receives a specially designed certificate which they can keep as recognition of their achievement. These events have proved to be very popular with everyone involved, especially the families of the students. Award winner with teacher For more information on the administrative aspects of Celebrating Excellence, please contact John Boyle on (028) / jboyle@ccea.org.uk CCEA wins European Award Recognition for Excellence We have been embedding a culture of excellence within the organisation over the past number of years and have won quality awards at Northern Ireland and United Kingdom levels. In October 2008 we achieved our highest level of recognition yet by winning the European (EFQM) Excellence Award. We also received awards in two special categories for Customer Focus and for Continuous Learning, Innovation and Improvement. We were measured in business areas such as leadership, people development, customer satisfaction, and financial and non-financial results. It is always rewarding to receive recognition for your work, and these particular awards are external evidence that we now sit alongside organisations viewed as role models in Europe. However, there is never room for complacency: in the current climate of change within the education sector in Northern Ireland, we remain committed to continuing to improve and innovate and to delivering top quality qualifications and support. For more information on the continuous improvement model we have been using and the EFQM Excellence Awards, please contact Heather Clarke on (028) / hclarke@ccea.org.uk

22 20 Spring 09 Qualifications Information Entry Level GCSE GCE AS/A Level Mathematics, Sciences, ICT and Technology Entry Level GCSE GCE AS/A Level Society, Economy and the Environment Entry Level GCSE GCE AS/A Level Health and the Arts Catriona Skelton (028) ext Additional Mathematics Further Mathematics Mathematics Mathematics for Life Applied ICT ICT Applied Science Biology Chemistry Physics Science Single Award Science Double Award (Modular) Science Double Award (Non-Modular) Science (Entry Level) Construction Engineering Graphical and Material Studies Manufacturing Technology and Design Arlene Ashfield (028) ext Applied Business Business and Communication Systems Business Studies Economics Financial Services Geography Government and Politics History Leisure and Tourism Motor Vehicle and Road User Studies Physical Education Religious Studies Nola McLarnon (028) ext Applied Art and Design Art and Design History of Art Health and Social Care Home Economics Home Economics: Child Development Hospitality Drama Moving Image Arts Music Learning for Life and Work To find out more about our qualifications, including support for and downloading the latest specifications, visit and use the Qualifications Quickfind feature on the home page.

23 Spring Who to Contact If you need advice or information, or you have a query about our qualifications, you can contact one of our support officers. They have the knowledge and expertise to respond to most queries. If they are unable to help you, they will put you in touch with someone who can. Entry Level GCSE GCE AS/A Level Languages and Communication Essential Skills Key Skills Occupational Studies Work Related and Lifelong Learning BTEC Awards and Certificates in Education, Training and Skills Your New Contact! Your New Contact! Eimear Dolan (028) ext edolan@ccea.org.uk English English Literature Journalism French Gaeilge German Irish Spanish Margaret Huddleston (028) mhuddleston@ccea.org.uk Essential Skills Application of Number Communication ICT Literacy Numeracy Key Skills Application of Number Communication ICT Wider Key Skills Occupational Studies Agriculture Care Construction Design Digital Technology Engineering Hairdressing and Beauty Horticulture Hospitality and Catering Media Office Administration Retail Sport, Leisure and Travel Vehicle Studies Work Related & Life-Long Learning Business Enterprise Creative Craft Drug Awareness Studies Employment Skills Performance Skills Personal Effectiveness Personal Money Management Teaching Assistants Working in the Community BTEC Applied Sciences Art & Design Business Beauty Therapy Sciences Construction Engineering Health & Social Care Hospitality IT & Computing Land-based Media, Music & Performing Arts Public Services Retail Sport Travel & Tourism

24 Spring 09 CCEA is Getting Greener Working together to reduce, reuse and recycle We have identified that our paper and energy use are the most significant aspects of the impact of our business on the environment. In response to this, as a first step, we are reducing our paper and energy consumption by: making more use of our website to publish information; moving towards printing on-demand; reducing the number of copies of publications we print and store; and recycling the paper, print cartridges, aluminium cans and plastic bottles we use. We have developed a management system that considers all elements of the impact of our business on the environment, which we now use to obtain and retain ISO environmental accreditation. We are assessed twice a year against this standard. Becoming greener is not an option it is a journey we all have to make, and rapid progress is essential. If you have any suggestions to help us further reduce the negative impact we are having on the environment or would like to find out more about ISO 14001, please contact Marisa Getgood on (028) / mgetgood@ccea.org.uk Creation of the Education and Skills Authority What to expect before and after 2010 The education sector in Northern Ireland is to undergo large-scale reform. In January 2010 the creation of a single Education and Skills Authority (ESA) will bring together nine separate education bodies, including the five Education and Library Boards and CCEA. Reform will be a gradual process over a number of years. During this time it is our top priority to ensure that you continue to enjoy uninterrupted service of the same high quality that you have come to expect from us. ESA and CCEA qualifications The CCEA logo on our qualifications and certificates reflects their quality, relevance and status. Eventually these will become ESA qualifications and certificates. CCEA awards will continue to have the same high value with universities, colleges and employers. The period of change During this time: we will continue to provide you with the same range of qualifications; you can continue to contact our subject officers and support teams using the same telephone numbers and addresses; we will continue to provide you with our full range of online, print and event-based support free of charge; you can contact us on a dedicated helpline (we will publish this number later this year); we will publish information about changes that are happening on our website and contact you directly, as appropriate; and we will continue to listen to your views through our annual Customer Satisfaction Survey. The ESA Implementation Team has been set up by the Department of Education to help the Chief Executive Designate to establish the Education and Skills Authority. To find out more, go to their website at