Curricula and Qualifications

This section briefly outlines the major reforms in 14-19 curricula and qualifications that were announced in the 14-19 Education and Skills White Paper

These include the introduction of new Diplomas, changes to GCSEs and A levels, an increase in the number of Apprenticeships and the development of a Foundation Learning Tier.  These changes will mean that all young people can choose a qualification which suits their interests and learning style and allows them to fulfil their potential.

In turn, these will impact on all professionals in pre and post-16 learning. For instance, the introduction of Functional Skills to Year 10 students in the autumn term of 2008 will mean that teachers and trainers in post-16 learning may observe greater capability to function mathematically amongst their students in 2010.

Hence this section provides links to more detailed descriptions about these changes, from a range of quality-assured national websites (See weblinks below), and importantly, it offers opportunities for professionals in the region to share their approaches and experiences.

For an overview of the National Qualifications Framework(NQF) and the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications(FHEQ) see QCA- Qualifications

At present, this section covers the following topics:

• Diplomas
• New Secondary Curriculum
• Functional Skills
• A levels and GCSE reforms
• Apprenticeships
• Skills for life