Issue - meetings

GCSE Religious Studies | Made for Wales

Discussion around Sample Assessment Materials (SAMs)

The RVE Adviser explained that the new GCSE specification has been published in its entirety by the WJEC.  Available on its website it includes consultation findings, option evening materials to help schools with promotion, sample assessment materials (SAMs) and guidance for teachers.  The new specification is for delivery from September 2025.

There are changes to the way questions are asked and there are two non-examined elements. The WJEC asserts that the content is similar to the legacy curriculum but there is no teaching about war. 

Twelve national Professional Learning events have been held to promote the new GCSE and to provide staff training.  There will be further training in the summer term.

Within the specification, schools typically choose Christianity and one other religion. Caldicot Comprehensive School has chosen Christianity and Judaism. Monmouth and King Henry VIII Comprehensive Schools have chosen Christianity and Hinduism. Chepstow School does not offer GCSE RVE.

Schools studying similar choices will work together to share resources. 

Regarding assessment, exams will last an hour and 15 minutes and there are two exams.  The RVE Adviser provided examples of the range and types of questions that increase in complexity and the marks available.  She explained about the non-examined elements.

A SAC Member commented that teachers have raised concerns that they wanted to continue with the with the legacy GCSE at the same time, and training. It was agreed that SAC needs to think about pressures on teachers in the transition period, especially in view of the small numbers of RVE specialists.  Schools, aided by the EAS, across the region and Wales will be encouraged to network to create and share resources and to discuss and support on the non-examined assessment. 

Referring to the change in content and focus, a SAC Member asked if the expansion of non-religious perspectives has been flagged as a concern by teachers e.g. human rights issues, LGBTQ plus rights, gender equality, refugee rights etc, also new topics on relationships and family ethics. It was confirmed that no teachers have come forward with any specific concerns yet.  Historically, these subjects have always been taught.  The information has only been published for a few weeks so teachers will need time to digest the contents and to consider its delivery.  It would be useful to revisit the content and delivery at the next meeting.

In response to a question, the RVE Adviser confirmed that the new specification will definitely not be postponed and the expectation is that teaching will begin in September 2025.  The Chair agreed to raise a question at his next meeting with WJEC.