New GCSE System

Talks have been going on for months now about replacing the current GCSE system and today the change was announced. The new system is called the EBACC and it stands for English Baccalaureate Certificate. From 2015 pupils will start studying for the exam in 2017 (when the first exams under the new system will take place). With the EBACC system, instead of being marked on coursework over a period of time, there will be a single 3 hour exam at the end of the year. Also, instead of the top mark being A* it will be called 'Grade 1'.
The new system gives students the opportunity to catch up (if necessary) as you take take the exams between the ages of 16 and 18 years old. Nick Clegg says the new system will "raise standards for all our children".

Originally Posted: 16/9/2012