Congratulate success but consider reform, says NUS
The National Union of Students (NUS) today congratulated students on their excellent results, whilst also raising concerns over the current 14-19 education system.
NUS Vice President (Further Education) Ellie Russell said: "Today's results are proof of the long hours and hard work that both students and teachers have put in to achieve such excellent results. Let's hope that the tired old claims that A-levels are becoming easier do not mar what is actually a great cause for celebration.
However, it is true that times have changed and that the A level system is in need of review. For too long now we have seen vocational courses being viewed as the poor relation, with A-levels being seen as the 'gold standard'. Additionally, many students are missing out on the chance to progress and take A-levels, as just under 40 per cent of students are still failing to achieve 5 or more passes at GCSE level.
What we would like to see is a framework of qualifications which provide alternative pathways to further and higher education, ensuring more students are able to continue on up the education ladder. We need to see a shift away from assessments taken at a set age, which, at present, almost two fifths of students are failing. We also want a system which genuinely recognises the parity of students' achievements in vocational and academic qualifications."
Gemma Tumelty, NUS National President added: "This week alternatives to the present system have been put forward and we would welcome an open debate on the merits of these proposals. NUS believes that everyone who has the desire and potential to achieve in higher and further education should have the opportunity to do so. Lets celebrate our students' achievements today but also look to ensuring even more can achieve success in the future."
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