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AEAs

Advanced Extension Awards (AEAs) were introduced for advanced level students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland in summer 2002.

They replace Special (S) papers. The AEAs are designed to challenge the most able advanced level students, ensuring that they are tested against standards comparable with the most demanding found in other countries. Candidates are assessed on their abilities to apply and communicate effectively their understanding of the subject, using the skills of critical analysis, evaluation and synthesis.

They are designed to be accessible to all able students, whatever their school or college and whichever specification they are studying and require no extra content to be taught. They will also help universities differentiate between the most able candidates, particularly in subjects with a high proportion of A grades at advanced level.

QCA web links

> AEAs
>GCSE, GCE, VCE, GNVQ and AEA code of practice 2006/7

QCA Online Shop publication

> The Advanced Extension Award leaflet 1 (QCA ref: QCA/02/907)
> The Advanced Extension Award leaflet 2 (QCA ref: QCA/02/908)