UCLES
From Free net encyclopedia
←Older revision | Newer revision→
Image:CambridgeAssessmentLogo.png The University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate or UCLES Group is a department of the University of Cambridge in England. On July 21 2005 it started trading under the name of Cambridge Assessment.
It is responsible for setting and marking a large number of examinations, both in the United Kingdom and internationally. It is perhaps best known for its EFL qualifications, the University of Cambridge ESOL examinations, but it also offers a large number of other academic and vocational qualifications. UCLES is not responsible for internal examinations at the University of Cambridge.
It is one of the largest international assessment agencies recognised by governments around the world. It has units that focus on research, expanding e-assessment capabilities and delivering university entrance tests as well as three educational operations:
- OCR, the UK awarding body that designs, constructs and examines GCSEs, A levels and a wide range of vocational qualifications;
- University of Cambridge International Examinations (Cambridge International Examinations) (CIE) that provides assessment services to many governments and supplies International GCSEs, A levels and vocational qualifications worldwide;
- University of Cambridge English for Speakers of Other Languages (University of Cambridge ESOL examination) which operates in over 150 countries;
The Cambridge Assessment Network is to establish an international network of experts to promote and maintain high standards in examining. It delivers a programme of Professional Development in assessment and related issues.
UCLES was established in 1858. In 1873, the universities of Oxford and Cambridge created the Joint Board of Oxford and Cambridge Schools Examination Board, which later became part of UCLES. Since then, it has absorbed several other examination boards, including the Southern Universities Joint Board and the Midland Examining Group.
Cambridge Assessment is a not-for-profit, non-teaching department of the University of Cambridge.