Evolution not revolution, reduced exam time and financial education

Students, parents and employers have all told us that young people need to be more financially literate to help support young people make informed decisions about mortgages, phone contracts and starting a business. AQA's plans to encourage, deliver and assess more real-world numeracy will help support this aim.

Young people also tell us that they want to see themselves in the curriculum and that’s why it’s great to see plans outlined to reform subjects as English Literature — to better reflect Britain as it is today.

Gaining qualifications in science subjects is empowering and AQA fully supports plans for all students to have the opportunity to study triple science. This will help young people who want to begin a career in science, technology, engineering and maths — great for them and good for economic growth.

AQA CEO Colin Hughes said:

"Professor Becky Francis' report is a big occasion for school leaders, teachers, young people and anyone with an interest in education. I'd like to thank Becky and her team for their work."

“It’s positive that there is so much consensus about the best way forward. Change has an impact on teacher workload and it needs to be managed carefully over the next few years."

“Cutting the time students spend in exam halls means that they, and their teachers, will have more time to focus on the curriculum. Teachers and students have told us that this will allow young people to develop wider skills. This will be done carefully to make sure exams remain fair and reliable.”

"While today marks the conclusion of Becky Francis’ review, this is very much the beginning of curriculum and assessment reform. As the UK's largest exam board, and a not-for-profit education charity, we look forward to working with the Government, teachers, school and college leaders, and those with an interest in education in coming months and years."