National Courses in session 2020–21

Wednesday 16 September 2020

We have been consulting on modifications to National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher courses for the 2020–21 session and the 2021 exam timetable. I would like to thank everyone who has responded to the consultation, including many thousands of teachers and lecturers, young people and their parents and carers across Scotland. We have listened to your feedback – and have developed a set of proposals designed to assist with learning and teaching this year. 

The Deputy First Minister outlined in his opening statement to the Education & Skills Committee earlier today that he has asked SQA to pause publication of outcomes of our consultations until after publication of the Priestley Review.

We fully recognise that teachers, lecturers and learners are seeking clarity on these issues as quickly as possible, but it is also beneficial that the system receives as much clarity and certainty as possible at the one time, when all the related information is available, so an informed decision about next steps can be made.

This means that we will be able to provide teachers and lecturers with a package of support, including the details of modifications to courses, the exam timetable and guidance on the collection of appropriate assessment evidence.

Thank you again to everyone who took part in our consultations. Together, we will continue to deliver for Scotland’s learners in these challenging times.

Fiona Robertson SQA Chief Executive and Scotland’s Chief Examining Officer