Staffroom Catch Up: Julie Peet, Ormskirk School
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We have been catching up with teachers across the UK to find out how teaching with Eduqas is working for them and their learners. Julie Peet, Head of English at Ormskirk School, shares her experience of teaching English with Eduqas.
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Can you tell us a little about your role and department?
My name is Julie Peet, and I am Head of English at Ormskirk School. Our department has 8 teachers, and we teach approximately 1000 learners each year across GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature. I have been teaching with Eduqas for 17 years.
What made you choose Eduqas as your exam board?
We chose Eduqas for English because the specifications offers a strong balance between academic challenge and accessibility. The literature texts are engaging, the assessment objectives are clear, and the structure of the qualification allows students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills effectively.
We also valued the quality of the support materials and the responsiveness of the subject team.
How have your learners responded to the Eduqas GCSE English specifications?
Our learners generally respond very positively. They enjoy the range of texts and appreciate the opportunities to develop both analytical and creative writing skills.
The specifications encourages independent thinking and helps students build confidence as readers, writers and communicators.
What has been the best thing about teaching English with Eduqas?
The best aspect has been the consistency and clarity of the qualification. The assessment materials, examiner reports and guidance documents provide valuable support, enabling us to plan with confidence and focus on securing the best outcomes for our students.
How have you found the level of support provided by Eduqas?
The support has been excellent throughout. Queries are answered promptly, the subject officers are knowledgeable and approachable, and the guidance provided is practical and easy to implement.
The regular updates and resources help ensure that departments remain informed and confident.
What Eduqas resources have you found most useful?
The specimen assessment materials, examiner reports, knowledge organisers, revision resources and CPD materials have all been extremely useful.
In particular, the examiner commentaries and exemplar responses help students understand expectations and enable teachers to deliver focused, effective feedback.
Have you taken part in Eduqas CPD or Professional Learning sessions?
Yes, I have attended a number of Eduqas CPD events over the years. They have always been highly informative and practical.
The courses provide valuable insight into assessment, standardisation and best practice, while also offering opportunities to share ideas and network with colleagues from other schools.
What would you say to other centres considering switching to Eduqas?
I would strongly recommend considering Eduqas. The specification is well designed, the support is outstanding and the resources are of a very high quality.
The qualification enables students to access challenging content while remaining accessible to learners of all abilities, making it an excellent choice for schools seeking both rigour and engagement.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Having taught Eduqas for 17 years, I have seen the qualification evolve while maintaining a clear focus on supporting both teachers and learners.
The combination of a strong specification, excellent resources and responsive subject support has made Eduqas a valued and trusted partner in our department.