Think Piece: Key Stage 4 reform
The Government is consulting on proposals for reforming Key Stage 4 qualifications, initially replacing GCSEs with ‘English Baccalaureate Certificates’ (EBCs) in the English Baccalaureate core subjects (English, mathematics, sciences, history, geography and languages). This think piece outlines the proposals, their rationale and some of the implications, including the potential impact on schools achieving floor standards. It suggests that DCSs (in line with the statutory guidance on their role) should engage with school leaders (and others) to try and forge a common position on the best outcome from these vital reforms, uniting school and broader community interests – thereby helping to secure a result with greater stability and longevity than the current lack of political consensus on the proposals otherwise holds […]