ASCL is strongly opposed to the accountability changes to attainment 8 and progress 8. We would encourage the DFE to remove the constraints of the breadth category and allow pupils and schools more freedom in their options choices and curriculum structure. We do not believe that they give pupils enough flexibility to follow their career aspirations. It also provides a straight-jacket for schools at a time when teacher recruitment and retention is a major concern. There are national and localised shortages of teachers in certain subjects that are preferred by this proposed model, and it will create challenging conditions for schools to meet the demands of these curriculum constraints.

The Government has not explained why it rejected the expert recommendation from the independent Curriculum and Assessment Review to keep the P8 methodology the same. ASCL’s preferred approach (a core of English, maths, double science and four open subjects) is set out in our response. If not this, then we think the Government should accept the CAR’s recommendation rather than these proposals.

Full response to consultation