06 December 2002
The National Association of Head Teachers said it was 'not convinced' by former Ofsted chief Mike Tomlinson's recommendation that the current structure, which ties AS levels to the A2 exam, should be radically reformed.
David Hart, NAHT general secretary, said: 'There are many issues linked to decoupling that must be considered, including the need to ensure that the motivation of students to embark on AS courses is not diminished. We cannot afford to see a 14–19 system that fails to remove the "besetting sin" of over-specialisation at 16.'
Education Secretary Charles Clarke, speaking in the Commons on the day Tomlinson's full report was published – an interim document was unveiled in September – accepted the findings in full. This has led to speculation that the two-tier exam, introduced by Labour three years ago, could be split.
But Clarke remained cautious, saying he would review the longer-term recommendations in consultation with schools and universities.
Publishing his findings on December 3, Tomlinson also recommended a reduction in external exams for all pupils and a longer marking time for A-levels.
Clarke responded to marking problems by setting aside an extra £6m to help the exams watchdog, the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, recruit more markers.
PFdec2002
