Wilshaw challenges government policy on English Baccalaureate
Ministers have stated that pupils starting school this September will be expected to study Maths, English, Science, a humanity and a modern language during key stage 4.
However, Wilshaw claims that the policy will be a “problem” for some young people. The Head of Ofsted has questioned whether the EBacc would properly prepare students for education after GCSEs, particularly those who wish to undertake an apprenticeship.
He said: “I can think of youngsters, even at the highest-performing schools, who will find it a problem, I can think of youngsters who would have been better suited to do English, Maths and Science and a range of vocational subjects.”
On the other hand, Nicky Morgan, education secretary says that the new policy to make the EBacc obligatory for all students is simply a matter of “social justice”.
In addition to the potential for conflict between the views of Morgan and Wilshaw, the contradicting opinions are aggravated by the Conservative Party’s pledge to prohibit schools that do not offer the EBacc from gaining higher ratings from Ofsted.
Whilst Wilshaw has admitted that ministers had not yet discussed this possibility with Ofsted, he assures that such a suggestion will receive a “robust” response if raised.
Latest News
25/09/2025 - 09:51
Charity Speech and Language UK has published its whitepaper in lieu of the delays to the government’s own Schools White Paper – delays which are damaging children’s education, mental health and future.
25/09/2025 - 09:34
The scheme will see high-achieving young people from disadvantaged areas receive letters from students at Kings College London, encouraging them to consider a university education.
24/09/2025 - 10:22
A coalition of over 60 leading organisations from the UK’s creative and digital industries, alongside education experts, are calling on the government to introduce a new Digital Creativity GCSE.
24/09/2025 - 09:59
The Government’s Youth Hub programme – which are hosted by sports clubs and other community venues, will almost double in number thanks to £25 million new investment.
23/09/2025 - 10:18
The Education Committee has released a new report outlining ways the government can achieve its mission of economic growth by investing in the further education (FE) and skills sector.
