Regulating science V Levels at subject level

The requirements related to Condition VL6: Assessment set out that V Levels must adopt a modular assessment structure, with assessments available at appropriate points throughout the programme of study. Assessment availability should support this approach while balancing flexibility, manageability, and maintenance of standards. 

Proposal 

Having reviewed DfE’s proposed subject content for the V Level in healthcare science and technology, it is our view that the requirements around assessment structure and availability already adopted for the tranche 1 V Level subjects remain appropriate for this subject. Therefore, we propose that awarding organisations must make the assessments for this V Level available as follows: 

• one assessment series each academic year for Assessment by Examination 

• one submission window in each of the first and second academic years of the course for centres to submit marks for any centre-marked assessment to awarding organisations for Moderation 

• one submission window for centres to submit marks for a learner's Non-exam Assessment where that learner takes the qualification within one year 

We require that the Assessment by Examination takes place during May or June. This approach supports the setting and maintenance of standards, as it means that in each series there will be a larger volume of student evidence available for use when setting standards.