The Royal Society responds to the Curriculum and Assessment Review

Sir Adrian Smith, President of the Royal Society, said: “The Government’s curriculum and assessment review is welcome, but it is in danger of repeating the ineffective tinkering that governments have done for decades. It is worth remembering that A levels were introduced in 1951, when the telephone was the new technology being adopted by the masses. In a world dominated by maths, data and technological change, around half of UK adults are no better with numbers than a child leaving primary school.

“We need a review that produces a broader education system that challenges young people and provides them skills and knowledge they need to thrive in well paid jobs and in society. Change that will break down barriers, deliver better life chances, and enable more young people to succeed. That is how we deliver growth, but it will not be easy.  Change needs a long-term view and the involvement of teachers, employers, students and their parents. This time we need radical reform.”