Meeting the specific needs of language learners
‘Since Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE), our first exam, was introduced in 1913, Cambridge ESOL’s approach has always been to develop tests that meet the needs of specific groups of learners.
We have now extended our range to include exams across all levels of English ability and that are intended for a wide range of practical purposes.
We work with national governments and other organisations around the world to develop learning and testing solutions that meet their precise needs. Where our existing range of assessment does not offer a solution, we develop specialised services tailored to meet those needs.
To help people match the right assessment to the right purpose, all of our examinations and tests are aligned with the Council of Europe’s Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) – an internationally accepted system of describing language ability.
Cambridge ESOL was involved in the early development of the CEFR and we continue to work towards its future development through projects such as SurveyLang.
We also believe that no test can be considered a good one if it is not fair to the candidate, but our commitment to test fairness goes beyond that immediate concern and reflects our wider concern for education and ethical behaviour within society.
Our approach to fitness for purpose in assessment therefore takes into account both the need for fair, accurate and appropriate testing of the individual and also the consequences of that assessment for individuals, groups, and society as a whole.’
Dr Neil Jones,
Assistant Director, Research and Validation, Cambridge ESOL
Find out more:
- CEFR
Cambridge English exams have had a long history of being linked with the development of the CEFR. - Fairness
Cambridge ESOL’s approach to test fairness. - Using the CEFR: Principles of Good Practice
We have published this document to help you find your way around the CEFR and supporting documents.