Ukrainian GCSE 2026-01-19
2026-01-19
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Ukrainian children, including those in the Ukrainian St Mary’s Trust with headquarters in Kensington and Bayswater, lack access to formal qualifications in their language despite being warmly welcomed. Some have to take exams in Russian which undermines their national identity.
Why has the government's programme failed to recognise the impact on organisations across Bristol South? What steps she is taking to introduce a Ukrainian GCSE alongside educators and representatives from AQA exam board, who have met with Powell and others?
Grateful for all brilliant educators who have welcomed Ukrainian children; positive conversations ongoing. Delighted to meet hon. Friend and educators to support taking this forward.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific timeline or concrete steps for introducing the GCSE were provided, only a willingness to discuss further.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Some Ukrainians are encouraged to learn Russian as a GCSE, which can retraumatize children. There is concern that Ukrainian refugees should not feel pressured into learning Russian.
Does the Minister agree with me that until a Ukrainian GCSE is rolled out, no Ukrainian refugee should feel pressured into learning Russian? Does she support this principle?
Absolutely agree that all children should choose their GCSEs, and supports development of qualifications for Ukrainian children. Right hon. Friend has written to exam boards about this.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific action or timeline was given, only agreement with the principle.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The Education Committee heard from the chief regulator at Ofqual about demand for GCSEs in Ukrainian and British Sign Language. There is no legal obstacle to a new organisation delivering these subjects.
Given strong demand for GCSEs in both Ukrainian and British Sign Language, what is the Minister doing to identify, encourage and equip organisations outside the four main awarding bodies to deliver these important subjects?
Support development of a British Sign Language GCSE; also support Ukrainian GCSE. Taking this up with exam boards, will continue doing so.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific steps or timeline were provided for identifying and encouraging new organisations to deliver these GCSEs.
Response accuracy