Teaching core subjects to a high standard 'is vital'

Professionals in teaching jobs may no longer be required to take lessons in core subjects if the Academies Bill is implemented.

This is the view of the Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE), which said it is vital that schools teach maths and science to a high standard.

According to the group, this is because these disciplines are held in high regard by employers, the Guardian reports.

However, becoming an academy would mean schools are no longer tied to the national curriculum, which currently places a heavy emphasis on traditional core subjects.

"Not requiring schools to follow the national curriculum for science and maths seriously risks leaving pupils unprepared for modern life," said Imran Khan, director of CaSE.

He stated that more than 90 per cent of businesses employ people with skills in science, technology, engineering and maths, but added that two-thirds find it difficult to find candidates who meet these requirements.

This comes after Lord Hill, parliamentary under-secretary for schools, said he is delighted with the amount of interest there has been in gaining academy status, particularly among outstanding schools.

Posted by Tim Colman
 

Published On 26/07/2010