Assessment Without Levels

September 2014 update

Angela Jenkins

Education Improvement Adviser

RBWM Professional Learning Community

The role of the group is to:• Explore pertinent research, develop a shared

philosophy around assessment and create a set of underpinning principles.

• Select (or create) tools for periodic assessment that reflect the key principles, pilot in school and evaluate.

• Feedback to all schools, offering advice and guidance.

“A culture shift regarding the nature, range and purposes of assessment needs to take place, in recognition of the new opportunities provided both by the new curriculum and the removal of levels.” (Beyond Levels: alternative assessment approaches developed by teaching schools, NCTL, Sept 2014)

4

Agreed assessment principles

THE ‘4 CORNERSTONES’

Strong senior and subject leadership

Collaborative working

Secure self evaluation processes

Effective, consistent, evidence-

based pedagogy

Broad and balanced

curriculum

CPD provision

Characteristics of effective learning

• http://www.windhill.herts.sch.uk/Curriculum/Media/

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07J7op_wVUg&feature=youtu.be

Assessment Layers

Assessment tools to capture and record progress

Assessment

tools to support individ

ual

progress through feedback

The PLC is currently…• Leading and promoting discussion in their own schools

around the potential opportunities now that NC levels have gone. Encourage all colleagues to engage with research and undertake professional reading and debate. Use this dialogue to explore beliefs and agree on school-based principles around the purpose and nature of assessment. Share with other AWL group members via e-mail/Twitter etc.

• Prior to the next meeting, use the Assessment Principles agreed in school to guide further research around a particular model/approach/resource. Share ideas/comments/questions via e-mail etc. Prepare a 5 minute feedback for 4.12.14.