The rise of private candidates is similar to Brexit
The rise of private candidates is similar to Brexit
For readers of this exam blog they know we sometimes find some interesting angles and opinions. This one is no different. The rise of the popularity of being a private candidate in GCSE and A Level exams can in some ways be paralleled with the rise of popularity of the UK leaving the EU. Resulting in Brexit.
Note we asked for a Freedom of information act to ofqual concerning the number of private candidates in GCSE and A level exams.
So often schools and colleges project a set of rules and timetable for exam taking. That dictate the speed of learning. Which usually is a middling speed. While having to be constrained to turning up at the prescribed time. While similar to Brussels setting the speed, regulation and time table for Government in the UK.
Deciding to take A levels as a private candidates is taking control of the time table. Away from school. Taking control of the speed of learning and where to sit the exams.
Here at the exam house our mission statement is to improve accessibility to exams.
Bringing the choice for parents and exam candidates of where they can their GCSE or A level exams. Leaving the learning to others or the exam candidate themselves.
See the piece on how Private A level Candidates are Spartans.
While being a private candidate can be lonely. In the same way leaving the EU leaves us exposed to the winds of international trade deals. Away from an overly large trading and political block.
So too is leaving the guidance of school leaves you to the guidance of online and off the shelf text books.
School and college fees continue to rise above both inflation and affordability. There are many good things that school brings. Including sports access, friendship, a sense of belonging and formal structure. The latter being often what trips up pupils and exam candidates who do not fit the main thrust and formality of school.