The UK government is reportedly considering launching a new “British baccalaureate”, in a major shake-up of post-16 education. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to reveal more about his plans at the upcoming Conservative Party conference. The proposed baccalaureate is modelled on the International Baccalaureate (IB), and was a key recommendation of the 2022 Times Education Commission, which called for a move away from A-levels and other qualifications.
Rishi Sunak’s proposed baccalaureate would require students to study maths and English until they are 18, as well as a wider range of subjects than is currently offered with A-levels. The Commission suggested that the new system could be offered in two formats: an academic programme, where students complete three major and three minor subjects; or a vocational programme, combining BTecs or T-levels with work experience. The IB is currently only available in around 40 English and Scottish state schools, but is more common in private schools.
However, any changes to the education system are likely to take years to implement. EDSK’s Tom Richmond has said that any alternative qualification must be a “very compelling offer” to students and parents, given the considerable respect currently accorded to A-levels. Some educators have also expressed concerns that a baccalaureate may not cater to students seeking a more specialist route of study.
Sixteen-year-old Millie from Cheshire, who is currently undertaking an IB course, believes that more students should have access to the qualification: “Many A-level students only choose three subjects and suddenly realise that for their next step, they need a subject they don’t have or that they need maths or English… the programme is really good”. However, A-level student Joel, who is studying English, history and religious studies at Leeds City College, is not a fan of the proposed baccalaureate. He believes that the current system offers “loads of options” and that there is “no need to change it
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