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Summary of Education News December 2007 Science in schools Press comment during December suggests that science and maths appear to be given less priority within the state sector than at independent schools. This enables students from private schools to win more university places to read sciences. Whether or not students wish to follow a scientific career, it is likely that a good science degree is likely to stand them in better stead in the longer term than a more general arts degree. It could easily be felt by some employers that following a science course demands greater rigour of thought and analytical skills that could be useful in an increasingly technological world. Concern has been expressed that geography and other “social sciences” have also been ‘dumbed down’ in schools. Conversely, Google has reccently launched a website resource for teachers aimed at supporting history, geography and citizenship lessons. Languages also seem to be suffering in state schools with a reported 30% slump in those studying them. English as a second language It has been reported that English is a minority language in some 1,300 schools throughout the UK. This should not, however, necessarily be seen as a bad thing from all perspectives, since anything that encourages multi-culturalism and integration must be a benefit to society. However, it is important that schools are able to cope with the inevitable pressures that will result.A world class education? Recent league tables suggest that UK secondary schools have lost ground in terms of reading and maths standards. This was revealed at the same time as tests were introduced for thousands of children of a new, 'lighter touch' assessment system that could lead to the end of national curriculum testing at 11 and 14. Proposed new Advanced Diplomas (as an alternative to “A” levels) will be equivalent to 3.5 A-levels (420 UCAS tariff points), while Higher Diplomas will equate to 7 GCSEs at A*-C grades. To encourage take-up, schools and colleges teaching Diplomas to 14-16 year olds will get around £1,000 extra per student. However, these are unlikely to be as academic or comprehensive as the International Baccalaureate, which is gaining ground within the independent schools sector. If you require any further information about the services that we provide or would like to review your financial planning position, please contact us |