This document presents the final recommendations of the Working Group on 14-19 Reform which was set up in Spring 2003, chaired by Mike Tomlinson, to address issues within the 14-19 education system including: low post-16 participation and achievement, an over-burdensome curriculum and assessment system, a fragmented system of vocational qualifications, and concerns regarding the extent to which students develop generic skills, knowledge, and personal attributes.

The Working Group proposed a four part framework for diplomas: entry, foundation, intermediate and advanced. Increased flexibility is a key feature, with learners able to transfer credit from one diploma to another. Open diplomas will offer the opportunity to select a mixed pattern of subjects, while specialised diplomas will allow a more focused approach. A common core to all diplomas will ensure that all young people will develop skills in areas including numeracy, literacy and communication and ICT.

This document replaces the Working Group’s Interim Report (DFES/0013/2004).

Further information can be found by following the web link below. The Government’s response can be found on www.dfes.gov.uk/14-19, while a full response will be presented in a White Paper in early 2005.

Includes:

  • Introduction
  • Programmes and diplomas
  • Core and main learning
  • Diploma volume, thresholds and progression
  • Meeting the needs of different learners
  • Assessing the diploma
  • Grading and reporting achievement
  • Strengthening the vocational offer
  • Reducing the assessment burden
  • Stretch and challenge
  • Raising participation and tackling disengagement
  • Quality of learning and teaching
  • Entering and leaving 14-19 learning
  • Quality assurance of the new system
  • A supportive infrastructure
  • Implementation