The Qualifications Regulator in England (Ofqual) has decided that with the implementation of revised (linear) science specifications, first teaching from September 2015, the assessment of practical skills will not contribute to the overall qualification grade. This could have significant implications for post-16 science teaching. The decision was taken by Ofqual in the light of issues that they identified with the current A-level science practical assessments. How science is taught and how our young people are prepared for study at third level education is at stake. Can we be sure that the decision taken by Ofqual is right?