Stephen Metcalfe, MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock has today given his backing to bold reforms to the GCSE exams system.
The changes, announced earlier this week by Education Secretary Michael Gove, will mean an end to falling standards and a focus on the subjects that employers clearly say that they value most. They have been already been endorsed by the Institute of Directors and the Confederation of British Industry.
Under the plans, English Baccalaureate Certificates (EBCs) will replace GCSEs in the core subjects of English, maths, sciences, languages, history and geography. Pupils will be assessed on the basis of a three-hour examination at the end of the two-year course, rather than the current system of modules, coursework and controlled assessment.
Welcoming the radical reforms, Stephen Metcalfe MP said:
‘These changes will ensure that young people in South Basildon and East Thurrock have an exam system that matches the world’s best and prepares them for success in the workplace. Equally, these reforms will mean that local businesses have access to the skills that they need to thrive.
‘For too long under Labour, politicians tried to take parents for fools with tall tales of ever-improving results. From this week, exams will no longer be about making our politicians feel good, but about making sure our young people succeed.’
