13/06/2014

Strike Will Not Impact Exam Results - CCEA

The Council for the Curriculum and Assessment (CCEA) has said that upcoming industrial action will not impact on this summer's GCSE and A level examinations.

It follows trade union NIPSA raising concerns that industrial action due to be taken by a "small group" of CCEA staff over 'time off in lieu', would affect school pupils waiting on exam results.

In a statement on the CCEA website, Chief Executive Richard Hanna said: "Examinations are the culmination of years of hard work by pupils and their teachers. CCEA’s priority at this time is to ensure their achievement is recognised and rewarded. It is disappointing that a decision has been taken to take industrial action at this important and sensitive time.

"I would like to reassure pupils, parents and teachers that marking will continue as normal and grades will be issued as planned.

The industrial action does not apply to our contracted teams of expert examiners. The action is being taken by a group of staff who provide support to these teams and only applies to meetings outside of normal working hours.

"Contingency plans are in place to ensure CCEA’s examiners continue to receive the support they need to undertake and complete this very important work.

"The matter in question was raised with us at the end of March. Negotiations to resolve the concerns of these staff have been ongoing and good progress has been made. We are committed to continue to work hard, in a consultative and inclusive manner, to resolve outstanding issues."

(MH)


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