26th October 2012 9:00
By Blue Tutors
Further plans for 16+ exams have emerged this week, after a newspaper leaked information that voluntary-work, and an extended dissertation could form part of the new exam system. The Department for Education is considering an Advanced Baccalaureate, which would compel students to study a wide range of subjects including arts and sciences.
Significant revelations include the prospect of scrapping AS Levels in favour of one examination at the end of the 2 years, accompanied by a 5000 word dissertation for some subjects. This format more closely resembles the International Baccalaureate, and is intended to feature contributions from universities who have complained that the existing system does not prepare students for the rigor of a university course.
Teaching Unions have criticised the lack of consultation, and pointed out that ordinary schools had to hear about the plans from a newspaper leak. They also raised concerns that the initial plans indicate that the AS Level will continue for some years alongside the new Baccalaureate, which would cause confusion for the students and make teaching and administration very difficult.