CLEOBURY Mortimer’s MP has backed changes by the Department for Education that will see 16-year-olds who do not get a C grade or better at GCSE English and mathematics continue with the subjects as they stay on in sixth form or further training until 17.
Conservative Philip Dunne said: “Basic qualifications in English and maths are now expected by most employers. School leavers without these GCSEs are at a severe disadvantage when looking for work.
“Proficiency in English and maths give young people a greater chance of finding a job, as well as equipping them with the ability to continue their learning independently once they finish school or college.
“Basic qualifications in English and maths will ensure students leave school or training with the skills and qualifications they need to succeed, either in the workplace or in further education.”More than 250,000 students leave school each year without at least a C grade in maths or English, 90 per cent of whom will not go on to achieve a higher grade by the time they leave education.
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