§ Mr. WillisTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment (1) what plans he has to reform the 14 to 19 qualifications structure; and if he will make a statement; [29982]
(2) what assessment he has made of the advantages of introducing a baccalaureate structure into post-16 education. [29983]
§ Dr. HowellsThe consultation paper, "Qualifying for Success", published in October 1997, set out our proposals to take forward our manifesto commitments to broaden A levels and upgrade vocational qualifications, underpinning them with key skills. It also sought views on whether and how to move towards providing a high quality overarching certificate at advanced level, which retains achievement in existing qualifications and encourages greater breadth of learning. The consultation paper built on the recommendations in Sir. Ron Dearing's "Review of Qualifications for 16–19 Year Olds".
We expect to announce decisions next month, in the light of responses to the consultation and advice from the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority.