§ Mr. BradyTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what assessment she has made of the implications for social inclusion of the introduction of a matriculation diploma. [41204]
§ Mr. Ivan Lewis[holding answer 7 March 2002]: The Green Paper, 14–19: extending opportunities, raising standards sets out the proposal for an overarching award—the Matriculation Diploma. A key aim for the Diploma is that it should provide a clear goal for all young people. It should motivate a greater proportion to remain in education and training until 19 and so contribute to social inclusion. Our proposal for an Intermediate Diploma should be within the reach of the majority of young people, and we suggest too that we should recognise the progress of those who make a sustained effort but do not reach the threshold for the Intermediate Diploma by awarding them with a record of progress setting out their achievements. Our proposals for guidance and support for young people during the 14–19 phase should make an important contribution to the inclusion of those most at risk.