Ofqual has announced a review of controlled assessment in GCSE qualifications, on a subject by subject basis

A scientist looking closely at a flask filled with red liquid

Ofqual are taking a closer look at controlled assessments

In this announcement OfQual acknowledged that 'although controlled assessment has some benefits over coursework, it presents problems for schools in managing the practical arrangements across subjects and there are concerns about its impact on teaching and learning.' 

They said 'we'll be looking at whether there is a good case for [...] subjects to have controlled assessment when GCSEs are next revised for teaching in September 2015, following the review of the National Curriculum in England. It is important that assessment in each subject is valid and supports good teaching and learning.' 

Ofqual will be seeking the views of teachers and other stakeholders on the amount of controlled assessment and the benefits it brings to teaching and learning. The report on this review will be published in the autumn.