Survey on existing WJEC separate science GCSEs (GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry, GCSE Physics)

Background

On 16th September 2025, Qualifications Wales announced that a further consultation on the range of science GCSEs will take place in 2028. As an interim measure, the current GCSEs in biology, chemistry and physics will continue to be available, pending the outcome of the 2028 consultation.

WJEC needs to decide whether we make any amendments to the existing biology, chemistry and physics GCSEs, and if so, which type of amendments. To inform our decision, we need to understand the appetite for amendments from stakeholders.

We have identified four options which we’ve outlined below. We have not included an option to introduce changes to all units in the GCSEs in biology, chemistry and physics for September 2026, as it would not be possible to make such changes with sufficient lead in time. We also have not included an option to defer the introduction of all science GCSEs to September 2027 as QW has confirmed in its announcement that the new science GCSEs will continue to be implemented from September 2026 as planned.

Please read each option and answer the questions about the extent of your support towards each option, considering the impact on centres and learners.

In addition to this survey, we will be holding discussions with stakeholders. We will publish our decision later this term.

*separate science qualifications = existing GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry, GCSE Physics