A-levels 'leaving students unprepared'

A-level exams leave many students unprepared for the future, it has been claimed.

Nansi Ellis, head of education policy at the Association of Teachers and Lecturers, commented: "The real problem with A-levels is that too many students leave school or college with their heads stuffed with fast-forgotten facts, instead of having developed the skills they need for higher education or work and for successful lives."

Furthermore, she suggested that many students are being lost to education and are bored by the endless tests they are forced to sit.

Ms Ellis said it is "shameful" that this year many capable students will be left without a place at university.

Figures released by Ucas last month show there has been an 11.6 per cent surge in university applications this year.

A-level pass rates rose to a record 97.6 per cent last week, with 27 per cent of candidates achieving an A or A* grade.
 



Published On 23/08/2010