Finance, Business Management and Digital Tech, will sit alongside Building and Construction, among the new vocational GCSEs being proposed by the UK Government.
The same size as GCSEs, these new qualifications will be nationally set, with subject content based on subject expert advice. Assessment and grading will be regulated by Ofqual to ensure full parity with traditional GCSEs.
The idea is every young person can pursue these new vocational GCSEs and access work experience in a major shake-up of the education system to help them prepare for the world of work.
The latest announcement builds on reforms including new V Levels, Occupational and Foundation Certificates, and expanded T Levels.
Paul Turner, FCMA, CGMA, Vice President – UK and Europe at CIMA (pictured), said: “Giving teenagers the chance to study finance alongside their core GCSE subjects is a powerful way to open early pathways into further study and careers in finance.
“Financial literacy is an essential life skill, and students should have the opportunity to build it early. Introducing finance at GCSE level can help young people understand the breadth of career choices available to them, especially those who may not have personal or family networks to show what a career in finance can look like.”
There has been a call to arms to employers to provide an additional 200,000 work experience placements to ensure all young people have vital exposure to the workplace between 14 and 16, with Mayors and local authorities helping to make links between schools and employers. This could include spending time in key sectors including accountancy firms, digital media companies and construction companies.
Education Secretary Lucy Powell said: “Our new Vocational GCSEs will give young people a stronger connection to the careers and industries shaping our economy, helping them discover and develop their talents while maintaining high standards across our education system.
“This is not about creating different routes for different children. It is about ensuring every child has access to a rich and ambitious education that opens doors, creates opportunity and prepares them for life beyond the classroom.”
