§ Lord Lucasasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether schools for 11 to 16 year olds which permit some students to take some GCSEs a year early and then to study for AS-levels or AS-level modules in their last year will have the results of the AS examinations included in the school performance tables for GCSE points score and value added measures; and [HL4999]
Whether they consider that allowing children born in the first half of the school year to drop back, and children born in the second half of the school year to advance a year, according to their individual educational needs, might result in an improved educational experience for these children; and, if so, whether they will adjust the bases on which schools performance tables are compiled to remove disincentives to allowing children to advance or drop a year. [HL5000]
70WA
§ Baroness Ashton of UphollandThe performance tables for secondary schools already provide for pupils who take their GCSEs early. The Green Paper, 14–19Extending Opportunities, Raising Standards contains a number of proposals for greater coherence in the 14–19 phase of education, including recognition or the need for young people to be able to develop at a pace consistent with their abilities and a commitment that the achievements of pupils taking AS-levels before the age of 16 are reflected in the performance tables. These proposals will impact on the way performance tables for secondary schools are compiled in future. The Green Paper sought views on how these issues might be addressed. Once we have analysed the views expressed we shall consider what changes might be required. We shall consult on specific proposals for change as part of our annual cycle of consultation on performance tables.