The NUS have expressed fears surrounding Education Secretary Michael Gove's plans to alter the A Level system, arguing that the changes will have a negative impact on pupils who are not planning on going to university.
Michael Gove is responding to criticisms from top universities that the current A level system does not provide students with the adequate skills to commence undergraduate study.In a letter to the qualifications watchdog, Ofqual, Gove has suggested that Russell Group universities set A level exams and outline the content of the syllabus.The hope is to shift towards more independent study for students and open ended exam questions.
Gove's proposals have sparked outrage amongst the NUS, as they suggest the 'elitist' changes to A levels are unfair for students who wish not to take the university route.Liam Burns, the NUS President, remarked "There is no good reason why universities should be put in the uniquely privileged position of engineering an A-level system that must cater for a wide variety of learners and foster a wide diversity of routes to study and work which increasingly require flexibility rather than a linear approach."
With the introduction of higher fees, the number of students applying to begin university courses in 2012 has dropped by more than 15%, according to the Telegraph. It is therefore of paramount importance now more than ever that the education system provides a basis upon which students can learn valuable life skills, as A Levels will be the highest educational qualification for a growing number of students not willing to pay the £9,000 fees.
By tailoring A levels to suit university demands,more pupils who do not wish to go into higher education may be alienated and tempted to do without A levels altogether.In the fiercely competitive job market, this lack of qualifications will undoubtedly propel youth unemployment.
The French have found the issue of youth unemployment so troubling that they have introduced a scheme known as the 'second chance schools'.Youth unemployment in France stands at a worrying 22%.Lack of qualifications has been cited as a major set back for many youths in their search for work. 'L'Ecole de la deuxieme change' tailors teaching to the individual needs of students and focuses on the area in which they want a job or higher training.The schools are based on an EU project set up by former French Prime Minister Edith Cresson.One hundred schools across the country have been set up, with a rise last year in 42% students attending, according to the BBC.Over a period of ten months the students will each do around eight three week work placements in companies related to the career they wish to pursue.The schools boast a low drop out rate, with 60% students going on to employment or further training.
