Join AQA’s Student Advisory Group

Are you currently studying at school or college? Do you want to be involved in shaping the future of assessment with the UK’s largest exam board? Do you think you can provide us with the insight and understanding to help make exams better for students?

If you do, then we’re looking for you.

We’re recruiting new members for our Student Advisory Group. Now in its fifth year, the group has an important role advising our Board of Trustees and providing a student’s perspective on exams and assessment.

Over the years, they have made significant contributions, for example in the development of digital exams, the impact of assessment on young people’s mental health, environmental issues, and equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in our specifications.

They also represent the student voice at key events, including at the Houses of Parliament, and with influential stakeholders. Earlier this year, the group met the then Shadow Schools Minister, Stephen Morgan MP, to discuss the future of assessment and skills, and Alison Chang, chair of the group, gave evidence to a parliamentary committee for Schools, Learning and Assessment on ‘What knowledge, skills and competencies will be most important for life and work in the 21st century, and how best can they be assessed?’.

We’re keen to hear from students who have taken AQA qualifications including GCSEs since 2022, AS and A levels, non-General Qualifications (Functional skills, ELC, FCSE, Tech levels, Tech Award, Applied Generals) or any qualifications provided by our wider group including TQUK.

The students selected will attend a series of meetings, where they will be able to advise AQA as well as develop valuable skills that will help them in their future studies and careers.

If you’d like to apply to be part of the Student Advisory Group, go to our Become a Student Advisor page. The closing date for applications is 5pm on Monday 2 October 2023.

The successful candidates will join the group for one year, with the option to extend for a further year.

Alison Chang, student co-chair of the group, said:

“It’s such an exciting privilege to chair the student advisory board. I’m aware of how important our work can be, as a student voice speaking directly to the nation’s largest exam board.

The staff at AQA listen to our insight and I look forward to what we can accomplish in the Student Advisory Group going forward!“

AQA Trustee and group co-chair, Elizabeth Kitcatt, said:

“It’s been a real pleasure for me to watch AQA’s Student Advisory Group members develop and become more confident this year.

“They have responded with interest and enthusiasm to the assessment and curriculum related issues that AQA leaders have shared with them, talking about them with their peers in schools and colleges and bringing very useful insights to the table in discussions.

“The students work well together and with AQA staff, who have invited them to a number of events at which they have skilfully contributed a student perspective to debates.

“I am extremely proud to be co-chair of the group and I look forward to welcoming new members in the autumn.”

– AQA’s Student Advisory Group for 2023