We are writing in support of the concerns already expressed by the principal teachers of art and design at Perth High School and Gleniffer High School.
The points raised are not unique to the two parties and, as PTs of art and design in three Dundee schools, we have also experienced what we consider serious anomalies in the marking of the 2002 Higher paper. Many of our candidates received far lower grades than we anticipated.
This has left staff and pupils confused and demoralised. Talented pupils in our schools now wonder if they should reconsider their future and experienced staff wonder why their estimates for Higher were suddenly so inaccurate this year.
We would also like to take exception to the comment by the Scottish Qualification Authority spokesman (TESS, October 25) who stated that “it is also clear that there is work to be done in spreading understanding of what the curriculum is looking for”. Surely if some art and design departments are not clear about the expectations of the curriculum, then the blame clearly lies with the SQA.
Points of concern were raised time and time again at Higher Still meetings, and time and time again they were ignored or not addressed. Requests for the breakdown of the marking of the elements have also been made to the SQA but still this request is denied.
As a result we are unable to alter the coursework appropriately to address any problems which may exist within our teaching.
Elizabeth Chisholm PT art and design, Grove Academy, Dundee Peter Flynn PT art and design, St John’s High, Dundee Avril Mackay PT art and design, St Saviour’s High, Dundee
