This thinking is not new. Allowing Sixth Formers to narrow their studies to just three subjects that they ‘enjoy’ is considered unacceptable in almost every other advanced economy. Education is about what you will need in the future, not what you like in the present. Education is about equipping pupils to be adventurous and make a difference in the world.
Political progress on this issue is sub-optimal at best and, while current PM Rishi Sunak has signalled an intention to make Maths and English compulsory subjects for all Sixth Form pupils, the reality is we are now onto our tenth Secretary of State for Education since 2010. You can’t reform education, with all the detailed care that job needs, with this much departmental upheaval.
For those who are lucky enough to have the option, the International Baccalaureate has provided a tried and tested alternative to A Levels since 1968, staying true to its mission statement of developing inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.
To the ambitious pupil, it might seem a no-brainer but young people remain nervous about making the leap from the traditional A Levels. The temptation to abandon certain subjects is strong, especially following the GCSE experience. Peer pressure is powerful and cultural expectations of a narrow curriculum are embedded. It is hard for any 16 year old to take a long-term view, to look beyond UK borders, to think of skills not scores. Long term considerations are too complicated, too uncertain and too troubling.
So let us help break things down into five simple and compelling arguments to take IB instead of A Level.
