To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) anyone consulted as part of the 2024 review of the GCSE equivalency of Level 2 Essential Skills qualifications; and (ii) the rational why Level 2 Essential Skills Literacy, Numeracy and ICT qualifications have been changed to carry a value equivalent to 0.25 of a GCSE.

In relation to part (i) of your question, last year, my officials consulted with schools on proposed changes to how qualifications with different guided learning hours, levels and grading scales are counted to produce school system level performance measures such as the proportion of learners achieving 5 GCSEs (including equivalents) at A* - C. The consultation was not specifically about Essential Skills.

As the changes were about school performance measures, engagement was targeted towards school leaders and their TUS representatives. We also advised the Education Committee of the content and scope of the consultation.

In relation to part (ii) of your question, it is important to note that performance points are solely intended to support the measurement of school system performance. They do not reflect how qualifications should be viewed by employers, further education institutions, or universities. This distinction was clearly outlined in both the consultation document and in DE Circular Number 2025/01 – Approval of Qualifications for Delivery by Post-Primary Schools in Northern Ireland.

Within the school performance framework, Essential Skills qualifications accrue performance points which reflect the number of guided learning hours (GLH) associated with these qualifications. GCSEs have 120 GLH, whereas Essential Skills have between 40 to 45 guided learning hours. Previously Essential Skills qualifications with 45 GLH were allocated 0.5 points, and those with 40 GLH received 0.25. Following the consultation all Essential Skills qualifications are allocated performance points of 0.25 as they fall into the bracket of requiring between 30 and 59 GLH to deliver the course.

It is also important to note that my department expects that almost all young people in schools will be given the opportunity to follow GCSE courses in English and mathematics, as these qualifications provide the most comprehensive and widely recognised foundation in literacy and numeracy. GCSEs are designed with a high level of rigour and depth, and they are aligned with progression routes into further education, training, and employment. For the vast majority of learners GCSEs offer the best preparation for future success.

However, the Department recognises that some learners may not be able to access GCSE courses due to specific educational needs or circumstances. In such cases, Essential Skills in Communication and Application of Number provide a valuable and credible alternative.

Data shows that this is reflected in practice with the vast majority of learners in schools following GCSE courses in English and mathematics. In 2023/24, before the consultation on performance points, 23,874 took GCSE English and 385 were recorded as taking level 2 Essential skills Communication. The figures for GCSE mathematics and Essential Skills level 2 Application of number were 26,507 and 180 respectively.