Darllenwch y dudalen hon yn Gymraeg
Data is a powerful tool for shaping education. In Wales, we’re committed to using it to support evaluation, improvement, and accountability in ways that benefit learners.
We’re reshaping how we communicate what’s happening in schools. Education is complex, and our understanding should reflect this broader picture—not just a handful of attainment measures. We’ve moved away from “high stakes” approaches where a few results defined performance, focusing instead on supporting individual learners and helping schools improve meaningfully.
Data use should be proportionate, balanced, and impactful, keeping each learner at the centre of improvement without creating extra burdens for teachers. By using a range of qualitative and quantitative insights, we can help every learner reach their potential whilst maintaining a clear national picture.
Consultation: Shaping the future of data use
Earlier this year, we launched a public consultation on how data should be used to support learning and improvement. We also proposed a 14 to 16 Learner Entitlement Indicators Framework to replace existing Key Stage 4 indicators.
The responses confirmed broad support for:
- Information Ecosystem Principles – guiding responsible data use across the system
- 14 to 16 Learner Entitlement Indicators Framework – reporting on learners’ experiences and outcomes under the Curriculum for Wales
Our published Decisions Report confirmed both will be implemented with refinements.
What is the 14 to 16 Framework?
The framework supports meaningful public communication about 14 to 16 learning, providing a balanced, holistic view beyond exam results—including wellbeing, learner effectiveness, and post-16 preparation.
It includes:
- Qualification-based indicators at individual qualification level—no complex composite measures
- Contextualised and disaggregated data for meaningful, inclusive results
- School-shared information alongside Welsh Government published data
What’s next?
We’re working with school leaders and practitioners representing a wide range of school characteristics through autumn/winter workshops to refine indicators, exploring options and gathering insight on alignment with improvement aims and impact. We’ll also be looking at clarity and guidance needed on information schools are expected to make available.
We’re also exploring development of digital tools to support this work, including replacing or building on platforms like My Local School and the All-Wales Core Data Sets (AWCDS), offering smarter ways to access and interpret data. A key part of this discovery work will be speaking to a broad range of users of the AWCDS and My Local School.
Timeline
Spring 2026: Finalised 14 to 16 indicators confirmed
Summer 2027: New reporting arrangements go live with first Curriculum for Wales Year 11 cohort
Supplier appointment to the discovery exercise to shape digital systems is expected January 2026. User engagement (schools, local authorities, public) will run January-March 2026. Email ims@gov.wales to register interest.
Updates will appear on our Hwb pages as work progresses.