Reminder: GCSE English qualification options for first teaching in 2015

As part of the government programme of general qualifications reform, from first teaching in 2015 OCR will no longer offer a combined GCSE English qualification.  

The new GCSE (9–1) English Language (J351) qualification replaces both the combined GCSE English (J350) and the GCSE English Language (J355) qualifications, which will be examined for the last time in June 2016, with a retake opportunity in November 2016 (tbc). Please refer to the table below.

Any centres currently offering the combined GCSE English (J350) qualification will need to ensure that they have moved to the separate GCSE (9–1) English Language and GCSE (9–1) English Literature pathways from first teaching in 2015. The last entry date for students currently following the combined GCSE English (J350) or GCSE English Language (J355) course, for certification in June 2016, is 21 February 2016.

*Resit arrangements are still to be confirmed. Ofqual, the regulator for qualifications, examinations and assessments in England, has launched a public consultation on resits for legacy GCSEs, AS and A levels. You can find more information and give your views on the consultation via the Gov.uk website. This consultation closes on 2 February 2016.

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