Evaluate the proposals made in the Tomlinson Report on education for teenagers

University Degree Education and Teaching

Gail Rudge

Evaluate the proposals made in the Tomlinson Report on education for teenagers

The Tomlinson Report is a proposal to radically replace the current G.C.S.E and A-level examination structure, with a four level diploma comprising entry, foundation, intermediate and advanced. The proposal if passed by government is hoped to be implemented in ten years time, though the government hope to start a four-year pilot scheme with the first changes likely to be in 2007.

The reasons for the proposals is to recognise the skills of teenagers right across the board and not just academically. All pupils would still have to pass the basic core skills of English, maths and computing but there would more emphasis on those who want to pursue a non-vocational career such as plumbing or hair and beauty. Pupils will also be able to sit the diploma when they feel they are ready.

On the whole the report has been welcomed by many head teachers, universities and colleges who hope the new diploma will encourage more pupils to stay at school.

Early criticisms of the report are that it is going to ‘kill off’ the current G.C.S.E and A-level examinations, this has been disputed by Tomlinson as the foundation, intermediate and advanced levels would be the equivalent of G.C.S.E, D to G, A-star to C and A-level respectfully. There will be three grades in the equivalent A-level advanced with –A,A+ and A++ being proposed. This is hoped will make the selection process ...