WJEC Eduqas first board to reduce exam entry fees

Exam board WJEC Eduqas has informed its schools and colleges in England and Northern Ireland that it has reduced qualification entry fees by 42% this summer.

However, with the majority of headteachers expecting 75 per cent of entry fees back this year, this may not be received well.

A press release from WJEC Eduqas says: "As a charity, we would never seek to take advantage of the current circumstances and are committed to re-investing in continuously improving the support we provide to schools, colleges, and learners, as we do every year.

"Our fees not only cover the costs associated with running and delivering summer exams; they’re also needed to fund the development of new qualifications. This includes a new suite of Vocational Awards due to be launched in the coming weeks."

It goes onto say: "Following the cancellation of this summer’s exams, we have developed a range of new systems and processes to ensure learners receive a valid grade this summer.  

"We have also invested significantly in a new and extensive package of support to help schools and colleges assess their learners with confidence, including comprehensive training opportunities, assessment materials, exemplars, and detailed professional guidance."