14-19 reform
From September 2008 the 14-19 curriculum is changing to make young people's
education more relevant to today's world. The 2005 White Paper
14-19 Education and Skills, and subsequent announcements, set out the
scope of the reforms needed to achieve this.
These reforms are the biggest changes in educational opportunity in a generation. They aim to raise the education and skills levels of students by delivering a curriculum which gives them life and social skills, sets stretching and challenging targets, and better prepares them for a fast-changing world.
The new curriculum prioritises core skills — English, maths and ICT. It also focuses on teamwork and other personal skills, preparing young people for study at a higher level or for employment.
There are three main qualification routes, but the system is flexible so it is possible to select a mix or move between routes. Good advice on choosing the best option will always be available.
Delivering 14-19 Reform: Next Steps.
This presents a clear picture of the DCSF's overall 14 to 19 reform
programme in terms of progress to date; further developments since 2005; and
our wider objectives for every child aged 0 to 19 and beyond as set out in the
Children's Plan. Read it here.
Age 14
At age 14, pupils can choose:
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the Diploma
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GCSEs
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a young apprenticeship.
Support for those not ready to select a major qualification at 14 will be given through the new foundation learning tier.
Age 16
At age 16, in school or college, they can take:
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the Diploma
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A Levels
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an apprenticeship.
A further option at 16 is to be in work, with time set aside for training.
Age 18
At 18, young people should have the qualifications to carry on in education or training, or to go into skilled work. The Government's guarantee of a suitable place at college or school for every 16— and 17-year-old is an important move towards achieving this goal.
The 14-19 White Paper
The Government's 2005 14-19 Education and Skills White Paper set out the changes to the 14-19 curriculum.
For further information on the White Paper visit the 14-19 Gateway.
Last updated: 23 October 2008
