§ 3. Sir David MadelTo ask the Secretary of State for Education what conclusions his Department has drawn from the A-level results in England in 1993; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Mr. Robin Squire)The 1993 results confirmed that GCE A-levels are popular and successful qualifications. More of our young people are taking them, more are passing them, and more are getting good grades than ever before. The recent report by the Office for Standards in Education has confirmed their reputation for quality and rigour.
§ Sir David MadelAre the Government considering changes in the A-level system in view of the fact that the number of candidates for science subjects dropped in 1993, and that both Government and industry are keen that many more people should have A-levels in science and then go on to university?
§ Mr. SquireMy hon. Friend makes a valid point. With his wide educational knowledge, he knows that, under the national curriculum, all young people are now required to take maths and science until the age of 16. Many of us trust that that will ensure that more students come to recognise that those subjects are neither boring nor, worse, only for boys—some of the myths that are spread. In due course, that will ensure that a greater number carry on to post-16 studies, whether via A-levels or via the new vocational qualifications.