WIREDGOV

QCA today publishes two reports on the examinations system: Report on the performance of awarding bodies 2007 and GCSEs and A levels: the experiences of teachers, students, parents and the general public, an update on trends to 2007 carried out by MORI.

Commenting on the reports, Ken Boston, chief executive of QCA, said:

"It is encouraging to see that confidence in A levels and GCSEs continues to grow and that the levels of service provided by awarding bodies to centres satisfies the standards we have set. However, there are still issues that call for vigilance. The number of candidates with access arrangements has increased significantly this year. This may be due to an increasingly professionalised body of exam officers who work hard to ensure that candidates get the access they are entitled to, but we need to monitor the situation closely to ensure that the system remains fair for all learners."

The National Assessment Agency's National curriculum assessments - 2007 maladministration report is also published today.

Notes to Editors:

1. Copies of Report on the performance of awarding bodies 2007 and GCSEs and A levels: the experiences of teachers, students, parents and the general public are available to download from the right-hand side of this page. Also attached is 'National curriculum assessments – 2007 maladministration report' which can be accessed from the right-hand side of this page.

2. The publication of these reports coincides with QCA Annual Review event. If you wish to attend, registration for the Annual Review begins at 09.30 on Tuesday 12 February at the British Museum, Great Russell Street, London, in the East Foyer on the lower floor of the museum. Journalists should confirm their attendance in advance.

3. For any further information please contact the QCA newsdesk on 020 7509 6789, or 07798 924552 outside office hours. Members of the public should call the QCA enquiries line on 020 7509 5556.