PRESS RELEASE : Nick Gibb responds to Independent AQA story [September 2011]

The press release issued by the Department for Education on 27 September 2011.

Schools Minister Nick Gibb responds to today’s Independent front page on proposals by the AQA (Assessment and Qualifications Alliance) to rank all A-level students according to the schools they attend.

Schools Minister Nick Gibb said:

Universities are in charge of deciding their own admissions policies. But this proposal risks confusing employers, teachers and pupils by giving different values to the same A-levels and would undermine the integrity of public exams.

All pupils who work hard and achieve high standards deserve to have their qualifications recognised. The key to widening access to university is by ensuring more young people are achieving good grades in the right subjects – regardless of background.

That’s why we are stepping in to drive up standards in failing schools; raising teacher quality and training; strengthening exams and curriculum; and targeting investment at those who need the most support through the Pupil Premium.