Update on conflicts of interest process for assessment materials

In 2019 Ofqual released new conditions and guidance about conflicts of interest when setting and delivering assessment. We are committed to maintaining the integrity of our examinations and we have now implemented some changes, in line with Ofqual's advice, to the production of assessment materials. 

Ofqual's new guidance states: 'There is no 'one size fits all approach' to mitigating the risks of a teacher misusing confidential information about assessments. Each awarding organisation must use safeguards that are appropriate for each of its qualifications'. All of our assessment specialists have a contract that clearly sets out our and their obligations, and there is an on-line training module for those with a conflict of interest. We have collected feedback on this training and will review it regularly.

We have also introduced other enhancements to our processes in order to protect the integrity of assessments and assessment specialists including:

• A more detailed declaration of interest process
• Communications to schools and assessors
• An updated policy document for assessors
• Updated guidance and training for assessment specialists
• Declaration of interest dedicated phone line and email address for assessment specialists

We would appreciate any support you can offer within your school to make sure teachers follow the new guidance provided by Ofqual.

If you have any queries about this update please call our Customer Support Centre on 01223 553998 or email general.qualifications@ocr.org.uk.