GovWire

Ofqual has decided to implement the proposals set out in the consultation document. The majority of respondents were in favour of students being given formulae sheets for GCSE mathematics (95% agreement) and revised equation sheets for physics and combined science (96% agreement). No issues were raised by those responding to the consultation that have made it necessary to revise the proposals.

Ofqual has changed its rules to require exam boards to provide students with support materials in the form of formulae and revised equations sheets for GCSE mathematics, physics and combined science exams in 2024 only. The support materials will set out the formulae and equations that students must memorise in a normal year, as set out in DfEs subject content and as presented on the sheets provided for 2022 and 2023. Ofquals updated conditions require exam boards to:

• publish the formulae and equation sheets in January 2024 so that students may become familiar with them before the exams
• provide clean copies with their 2024 exam papers

This means the formulae and equation sheets to be used in 2024 exams will be the same as those used for exams in 2023. As such, before the exam boards republish the sheets in January 2024, students and teachers may access exam boards 2023 sheets for practice purposes, if they wish.

The decision relates to GCSE mathematics, physics and combined science exams being taken in 2024 only. For GCSE mathematics this will apply to exams taken in November 2024.

DfE has confirmed that2024 will be the final year for these changes to its subject content requirements. There will be a return to normal exam arrangements for these subjects in 2025. This means that formulae and revised equation sheets will not be availableafter 2024. Students preparing for GCSE mathematics, physicsand combined science exams in 2025 and beyond will be expected to know and recall all the usualformulae and equations set out in DfEs subject content.