This edition of the SecEd webinar discussed accessibility in GCSE maths study and examination – considering how we can ensure that all students can access the curriculum and achieve to their potential in this vital subject.
We considered common barriers to GCSE maths and asked what schools can do to identify these barriers and support learners.
SecEd teamed up with OCR to deliver this webinar, in which we discussed examination accessibility and what the exam board is doing to support fair access for the more than 70,000 learners who sit OCR GCSE maths every year.
The webinar included information about OCR’s support and resources, including modified papers for SEND learners and other exam preparation materials.
We discussed how teachers can use these materials as they prepare their students for GCSE examinations. We also considered accessibility in the mathematics classroom, including resources to support curriculum delivery and teaching techniques.
- What are the common barriers to pupils accessing GCSE Maths papers? What specifically can SEND learners find challenging about GCSE maths papers?
- How can schools and teachers work to overcome these barriers? What must teachers consider when planning curriculum delivery and assessment preparation?
- What is OCR’s approach to accessibility in terms of exams and support materials. What feedback about accessibility has OCR had from its centres?
- Does accessibility in the classroom need to mirror accessibility in the assessment?
- What is the future of accessibility in terms of teaching, curriculum and examination?
The webinar was hosted by Pete Henshaw, the editor of SecEd. His guests were:
Natalie Pickering, Director of Maths, Carlton Academy Trust: Natalie is an experienced senior leader and has been overseeing maths at the Carlton Academy Trust in Yorkshire since January 2024. Prior to this, she was a lecturer for two years at Nottingham Trent University delivering its PGCE maths course. She has opted to enter students for the OCR Maths GCSE at every school she has worked at in the last eight years, supporting other schools in her trusts to do the same.
Nicola Fareham, Assistant Headteacher, Harrogate Grammar School: Nicola has been Assistant Headteacher, Executive Head of Maths, and Maths Hub Lead at Harrogate Grammar School, a large 11-18 mixed comprehensive academy in North Yorkshire, since September 2019. Nicola teaches maths and leads the Yorkshire Ridings Maths Hub. In this role, she designs and delivers training programmes, works with subject leaders to develop their leadership and teaching and learning in their departments, and oversees the planning and evaluation of all Maths Hub activities. In her 20 years of teaching, Nicola has experienced teaching a wide range of specifications for GCSE Maths, including OCR.
Neil Ogden, OCR Subject Advisor: Neil has worked with OCR since 2012 in a variety of qualification lead roles. He led the development of the current GCSE (9-1) Maths qualification (J560) and following its accreditation most of his time is spent supporting teachers delivering the qualification.
Amy Jones, OCR Subject Advisor: Amy Jones has worked with OCR since 2023. Prior to this, she was a teacher for five years, with experience in both state and independent schools. Amy graduated from the University of York with a degree in mathematics and economics and recently completed her MA in Education.