HC Deb 05 March 2003 vol 400 c1130W
Mr. Wray

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what the content of general studies lessons is; whether general studies covers guidance on how to complete(a) health, (b) benefits and (c) career-related forms; and if he will make a statement on the value of general studies periods. [100438]

Mr. Stephen Twigg

All National Curriculum subjects in England provide opportunities to promote pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development. Explicit opportunities to promote pupils' development in these areas are provided in religious education, citizenship and the non-statutory framework for personal, social and health education (PSHE).

PSHE helps to give pupils the knowledge, skills and understanding they need to lead confident, healthy, independent lives. They learn how to make confident, informed choices and decisions about issues that affect their health and well-being. They learn to use a range of financial tools and services, including budgeting and saving, in managing personal money; and to use career services to help them develop career management plans.

Young people in years 9, 10 and 11 receive advice and support on careers and work, including career-related forms, through careers education and guidance programmes delivered by their school, supported by independent information, advice and guidance on learning and career options from the Connexions Service.

There is no GCSE or pre-16 subject of general studies. The awarding bodies do offer an A level course in general studies.