Withdrawal of Cambridge OCR AS and A Level Geology qualifications

Following a review of their qualifications portfolio, Cambridge OCR have made the decision to withdraw AS and A Level Geology (H014 & H414) along with several other qualifications. 

Details of what is changing and when: 

The Geological Society has met with Cambridge OCR, representatives of Eduqas/WJEC and ESTA, and has consulted with teachers to better understand the decision and its impact. The Society is concerned about the effect that the withdrawal will have on the geoscience pipeline, particularly in regard to equity of access to geoscience education. There is a risk that having to switch exam boards in order to continue provision will mean that some centres may not be able to guarantee students access to advanced geology after the final assessment opportunities.  

We understand that 27 education centres offering A or AS Level Geology in England and Wales will be affected by this decision. Most students (78% in 2025)1 who take AS and A Level Geology follow the alternative Eduqas/WJEC specification, however we recognise the workload and uncertainty facing teachers who wish to continue provision at centres offering a Cambridge OCR qualification. 

We are keen to understand and mitigate the impact that this decision will have on students, teachers, education centres, and other education stakeholders - and welcome hearing from those impacted. You can find contact details for both exam boards, the Earth Science Teachers' Association, and The Geological Society’s Education Team below.

We are reassured that Eduqas/WJEC have affirmed their commitment to offering advanced geology qualifications and are in communication with representatives about how the Society can bolster their support for teachers through this transitionary period. We are also working with the Earth Science Teachers’ Association to offer impacted teachers access to peer to peer support, guidance, and resources. 

Cambridge OCR  have specified that while regrettable, this decision is final, and that the outcome of this review cannot be altered. They have confirmed that their qualification resources will remain available to teachers until the last examination date, and we are exploring ways in which access to resources can be retained after this date (subject to licencing and permissions). They have been in contact with the exam offices of every impacted education centre and intend to follow up with teachers shortly. There was no stakeholder consultation conducted as part of the review, however, they have emphasised that their Subject Advisor for Geology is contactable for further information or support. 

Eduqas/WJEC are preparing materials to support teachers planning to make the switch. We and the Earth Science Teachers’ Association are looking to facilitate dialogue between impacted centres and Eduqas/WJEC and would welcome hearing from those who wish to contribute to or shape this offer. 

In light of this challenging announcement, the Society remains committed to supporting geoscience education at all levels, and will continue working with both exam boards, education centres, examiners and teachers to maintain the strength and quality of geoscience education nationally. 

Contact us directly at education@geolsoc.org.uk to register an interest in the activities above or to share your thoughts.

Support from the Geological Society

Are you a teacher or education centre currently offering Cambridge OCR Geology impacted by this decision?

We would like to hear from you directly at education@geolsoc.org.uk. Alternatively, join our Schools Affiliates Scheme to stay in touch, receive updates, and access information and resources.  

Are you a teacher or education centre who has recently switched between exam boards and have insights to share? Are you a teacher or education centre who teaches Eduqas/WJEC Geology and would be willing to share your expertise? 

We would like to facilitate dialogue and knowledge exchange between teachers to ease the workload and uncertainty of transitioning. If you think you might be able to help or have resources or insights to share we would like to hear from you. 

Support from ESTA, the Earth Science Teachers' Association 

Join ESTA for an in-person support session on Saturday 12 September 2026 during the ESTA Annual Conference in Leeds. Designed specifically to support teachers transitioning from the Cambridge OCR Geology specification to the Eduqas/WJEC specification, this session will provide a clear overview of the Eduqas/WJEC structure, content, and assessment approach. ESTA members currently teaching the Eduqas/WJEC specification will highlight key differences and opportunities so you can be confident when adapting your current schemes of work. 

ESTA | Earth Science Teachers' Association 

Support from WJEC/Eduqas 

WJEC Eduqas is committed to the provision of AS and A Level Geology. They welcome enquiries from teachers currently following the OCR specifications who will be looking to start teaching Eduqas Geology from September 2026 or 2027 onwards. They are ready to support centres to make the change. Please email geology@eduqas.co.uk if you require further information.  

AS and A Level Geology | Eduqas 

Support from OCR 

Cambridge OCR has offered support for schools and colleges to ensure a smooth transition to appropriate alternatives where necessary. 

They understand that you may have questions about this announcement or wish to discuss how it affects your centre and are happy to help you with any concerns and to provide additional support that you may need. Please call Cambridge OCR Customer Support Centre on 01223 553998 or email support@ocr.org.uk. 

Important: Withdrawal of selected Cambridge OCR general qualifications