Commenting on today’s GCSE results, Geoff Barton, General
Secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said:
“Congratulations to the pupils and their teachers on this
year’s GCSE results which have been achieved in very challenging
circumstances. They have performed miracles amidst a sea of
curriculum change which continues unabated next year. They
deserve tremendous credit for their hard work.
“We have once again seen a decline in entries to subjects
which are not included in the English Baccalaureate. These are
very important subjects such as design and technology, drama and
music. We agree that a rigorous academic curriculum is essential,
but we also believe in curriculum breadth. The evidence is clear
that the government’s reforms are narrowing the curriculum and we
think this is to the detriment of our young people and to the
country.
“We are concerned to see a slight decline in the overall rate
for grades C/ 4, and above, and fear that this may be the result
of driving children down this narrow academic route which does
not necessarily suit every child. In addition, the new reformed
GCSEs are more challenging and children sit more exams.
“These factors are putting young people under great pressure
and creating increased stress and anxiety. We are increasingly
concerned about their wellbeing and we will be raising this issue
with the Department for Education as a matter of urgency.
“School and college leaders are firmly committed to raising
standards. But the government has to understand that this is not
achieved by putting young people and teachers under intolerable
pressure. The solution lies in proper funding for education, and
improving the supply of teachers into the profession, not by
constant meddling with the curriculum.”
