Changes made to non-examination assessments in a small number of GCSEs

Amendments to NEA requirements in GCSE English Language and Literature, GCSE Cymraeg Language and Literature, GCSE Core Cymraeg and GCSE Religious Studies.

Today, WJEC has announced a series of amendments to the non-examination assessment (NEA) requirements in GCSE English Language and Literature, GCSE Cymraeg Language and Literature, GCSE Core Cymraeg and GCSE Religious Studies. We support the amendments that WJEC has requested to these qualifications. Where necessary, we have made minor amendments to the Regulatory documents to support these changes. 

The changes follow ongoing engagement with schools and other stakeholders as the new GCSEs are implemented across Wales. As the qualifications regulator in Wales, we recognise and appreciate the concerns raised by teachers and headteachers about the workload associated with the NEA requirements in a small number of subjects. We have worked closely with WJEC to consider changes that they want to make to effectively address these concerns.

We also recognise that some of the amendments WJEC is announcing can only be implemented for the cohort of Year 10 learners commencing their GCSE programme of study in September 2026. This is because centres have taught and completed units in a different order so it is not possible to make amendments that would fairly support all learners in this cohort. We have asked WJEC to put in place appropriate safeguards to support learners who commenced their GCSEs in September 2025. 

We will continue to work closely with WJEC and Welsh Government to secure the successful implementation of the full suite of new GCSEs over the coming years.