The document suggests the replacement of "free-standing" GCSE and A-level exams with achievement in individual subjects recognised within the new certificate which would be similar to the continental Baccalaureate.

The diploma would also give more information about non-exam activities carried out by the candidate such as voluntary work, which Mr Tomlinson says would raise overall standards as well as provide a more useful guideline for employers.

Is it time that the current exam system was reformed? Will it improve standards? Or could the changes lead to more youngsters leaving school without any qualifications?

The following comments reflect the balance of views we have received:

This debate is now closed. Read your comments below.

Your reaction:

Those who would do well under one will do well under the other Grant Valentine, UK

No they should not. Whether the course is an IB-type course or an A-Level type course is irrelevant - those who would do well under one will do well under the other. And vice versa.
Grant Valentine, UK

Let's make one thing perfectly clear, Tomlinson is not suggesting introducing the International Baccalaureate(IB). The reason why? Because it is controlled from abroad and the government wouldn't be able to interfere in the standards it sets. No, they intend to introduce a British version over which they have control and can meddle with.
Stephen, England

To all those who say that exams are getting easier, do they realise how horrible it is to hear this every results day? I have just taken my A-Levels and this results day I know that however hard we have worked, the success will be tinged by these sort of claims.
Tracey, UK

If the standards are maintained then I think it's a great idea. I failed my GCSEs and would go back to college to do this if the changes happened.
Ian, Leamington Spa, UK

Whatever the system, standards must be maintained Sally, UK

I believe that there is much to be said for the continental system whereby breadth of education is maintained for longer, but it must also be remembered that continentals remain in education on average much longer than us brits which means there is a danger that, by following the continental system, our standards will not be as high unless we also study for as long. GCSEs, A-Levels and also degrees are now not as much of an indication of academic excellence as was once the case, and I firmly believe that, whatever the system, standards must be maintained.
Sally, UK

There is nothing wrong with the current system. GCSE's allow you to take up to about 10 subjects and give you a flavour of most things. A levels then allow you to narrow your studies to only 3/4. I personally couldn't have chosen more than 4 subjects that I was interested in at A Level, and what is the point in making people study things that they have no interest in, as it will only increase drop out rates? Having studied engineering at uni, lecturers were complaining that A Levels contained less than a few years ago, and the degree content had to be dumbed down to teach the basics, surly this will enhance that problem.
Stephen, N Ireland

I am academically lazy but very able. When I studied for my O'and A-levels, I found the system was perfect for me - I could fit two year's work into a week or two. I have always despised coursework and other forms of continual assessment. Would the Baccalaureate-style system cater for people such as myself? If not, it would mean similarly able people would not be recognised.
Toby, Spain (originally UK)

Even degrees are starting to be meaningless Maggie, UK

If they hadn't messed with them in the first place, replacing GCE's and CSE's with the easier GCSE and making 'A' levels easier (so more people could pass them), we wouldn't be in this mess now. If something works why 'fix'it? Trouble is the damage is done now. Even degrees are starting to be meaningless, some pretty basic jobs ask for them!
Maggie, UK

The proposed "British" Baccalaureate would be pointless as students wouldn't want it. Many students choose not to take Maths and English at A-level as they don't like these subjects but the Baccalaureate would force them to carry these subjects on. Already the government's white elephant that is Key Skills has proved that students will not study Maths, English and IT if they are forced to. The best route would be to leave the system as it is, with options for practical students to achieve as well as academic, and those students who are exceptionally academic can take the International Baccalaureate - which already exists and doesn't need inventing.
Peter, UK

The current system would be fine, apart from the lack of examiners for marking. I was state educated and have 5 A-levels at grade A. I was in the guinea pig year for AS/A2 and liked the system because it gave me the chance to study politics on top of my science and math subjects. It also allows you to calculate exactly what you need to pass at A2 after sitting your AS exams. A-levels are a great system I would have hated being forced to do subjects I dislike such as French. As for Key Skills I sat an exam in them, passed and no employer cares.
Anon, UK

I did the International Baccalaureate and found it to be an ideal preparation for university Ursula, UK/ Belgium

I did the International Baccalaureate and found it to be an ideal preparation for university. I chose it because it allowed me to study a wide range of subjects and I certainly didn't want to specialise early. However, it is not suited to everyone, any system needs to be flexible enough to allow room for those who, for example, would find it very hard to be forced to do a modern language/ science or whatever their pet hate is!
Ursula, UK/ Belgium

The A level used to be the golden standard but year upon year we see it watered down and devalued in a statistical press to make us believe that that education standards are miraculously increasing. A-levels have been further devalued in recent years by the new two tier exam. General studies could always provide some diversity. We have two options. We can roll back time and restore integrity to the A Level and GCSE system or we can introduce a French style baccalaureate. If we take the later route, we must still remove the spectre for political meddling to inflate grades year upon year. This does nobody any favours.
Phillip, UK

The whole system needs reforming. GCSE's are of limited use. Their main purpose is still as indicators for further education, particularly A Levels, and A Levels are primarily designed for university entrance. This would be fine if the world of work didn't require such diverse skills nowadays and employers took training more seriously. But even where university courses are concerned, the first year of many degrees comprise the A level course the students have already done! That is partly why so many people say their A Levels were harder than their degree, and the first year has such a reputation as a breeze. By all means keep GSCEs and A Levels, but then cut degree courses to two years, thereby saving everybody a lot of money, and force employers to take their responsibilities seriously. Otherwise, introduce a baccalaureate type qualification, and make all of those three years at university really count.
Steve, UK

We just need to make sure that the exams and the marking system is fair and consistent. Afsar, Leeds

There's nothing wrong the GCSEs and 'A' levels in theory. We just need to make sure that the exams and the marking system is fair and consistent. This can only be achieved by having one examining board. What purpose does the presence of multiple examining boards serve? Competition? Offering better grades than the board down the street?
Afsar, Leeds

I cringe when I see us attempting to reinvent the wheel. Every time we attempt to change a system that has worked for all of us. I am from the developing world and can vouch for the GCE "O" and "A" levels. They created an even playing field. We all, irrespective of race, creed, colour, geographic location; in other words, clear across the British Commonwealth and Empire, yes, I will use that title. We all sat the same tests. Please do not interfere with a system that provided a lot of us with a quality of education that was a solid foundation, and stands us in good stead.
Dora Brown, United States

Although I took A-levels, my younger brother took the International Baccalaureate when he was living in Italy. Rather than this being a 'dumbing down', he worked extremely hard on a wide range of subjects (that he had chosen himself) and felt very well prepared indeed for his degree. Many universities look upon the IB as a superior qualification these days, and rather than finding his degree 'more difficult than A-level students' he was well prepared for the years of hard work his degree entailed. I have thought for several years that this would be a much better option than the current system. Mr Tomlinson is correct to say that it would raise overall standards, and I now think that more information needs to be given to the public to allay their fears of a 'dumbing down' of the education system.
Fay, UK

So we are heading for another education muddle. If we are going to have yet another shake up then why not go down the European Baccalaureate route and not a Baccalaureate-style diploma. Then we would have a qualification that means something throughout Europe as appose to a British only mish-mash. Or do we not have the educational resources to provide a proper Baccalaureate?
Pete, UK

It is certainly a good idea to think about reforms of the GCSE/A-level systems. However, the new proposal seems to reinforce early specialisation, rather than a broad-based education that is so important to enable children to become responsible citizens in our democratic society. When in life is there a better a chance to learn about the world and the people around you than at school? No question that English and Math are essential, but so are Science, History and Foreign Languages. Schools should prepare for life, not just for the job market!
Frank Schubert, London, UK

Bring back the old A-levels, with end-of-course assessment and specialisation. What's the problem with specialisation, anyway? The A-level is really designed to prepare students for university - and you specialise much more there. Also, bring back polytechnics for the good-quality vocational training they used to offer, and get rid of the unnecessary targets for numbers of students in university. University is suited to those who are academically-inclined; it isn't an answer to all the country's ills as it seems to be seen.
Neil Williams, UK

Very cute... voluntary work, how sweet. What about disciplinary/criminal records as well to keep things balanced? Sorry to be cynical but along with recent major proposals for health and transport (trains) the motivation behind all of these new proposals seems to be to sweeten up the electorate in the face of policy failure.
Peter, UK

The fact is that we all know that the only priority this government has is to dumb everything down so that the state schools look as good as the private schools. At some point, everyone will get 100% and they can announce that we have the best system in the world and that the private schools are no better. Then the target will be met, but, as usual, the reality will not have changed for the better.
James, UK

By specialising, British graduates know their subject better than their foreign counterparts Elliot Van Emden, UK

The GCSE and A-level are respected all over the world. They do have to be modernised, but it is with this separation that Britain can churn out among the best graduates in the world. By specialising in subjects from A-level, British graduates know their subject better than their foreign counterparts.
Elliot Van Emden, UK

Perhaps I have the old-fashioned view that education should not train people for the job market: that is what employers are for. Education should inspire children (or adults) to learn, in whatever field they enjoy, and not merely for the potential advantages this might bring in future employment. Further streamlining teaching and learning towards the needs of employers will lead to worse standards, rather than better.
Emma, UK

It just sounds like an American graduate diploma, why not just say we're going to copy that rather than pretending it's some innovative new idea?
Giles Clinker, UK

Stop trying to introduce new measures, sharpen up what we have got Lyn Hardy, UK

No, GCSE and A-levels should not merge, nor should Bacs be introduced. Those who have done Bacs have found it much harder at university than those who have studied A-levels. Lowering standards at universities would not be the answer! Stop trying to introduce new measures, sharpen up what we have got.
Lyn Hardy, UK

I'm concerned some students may leave at 18 without a single qualification because of failing say, one or two subjects. This is assuming that a student would have to pass all subjects to be awarded the diploma. Some students are exceptional in certain areas but very weak in others and the current system of GCSEs and A-levels takes this into account.
Barry, Wales

Tomlinson has not made a sufficient case for the change he is advocating. His agenda seems to be mainly about inclusion and ensuring everyone gets something worthwhile. Whilst this is laudable in some respects, I do not see him giving the same attention to the need for a set of qualifications that will produce future generations of scientists, doctors, lawyers and other specialists.
Chris Symonds, UK

For years the government have cynically manipulated the exam system Sam Vine, United Kingdom

It's about time that the exam structure in this country was overhauled. For years the government have cynically manipulated the exam system to their advantage. The one problem that will still remain is that the system will still not be independent of the government. A far better idea would be to implement the International Baccalaureate throughout the country and remove any chance of political interference.

All this appears to be to me is the removal of any sort of tests on people - ie a way to allow people who cannot pass the tests to get the grade anyway. More dumbing down.
Tom, England

Yes go ahead, dumb down the exam system, it will keep it in line with everything else in this country of "dumbed down Britain".
Richard, UK

If teachers and education experts see this as a way of improving the standard of education to pupils, and they have a strong say in how it is implemented - yes. If this is another example of government making changing to help meet their own arbitrary goals, and it is against the advice of those within the system - no. I know which one I would bet on!
Colin, UK

I would like to see a European system where all subjects are taught till 16 Miki, London

The current system is far from adequate. The original system of O and A-levels was far better and defined learning abilities and success. Personally I would like to see a European system where all subjects are taught till 16, requiring the need to pass each one to proceed to the next year. At 16 the pupils can then choose their stream which will help them move towards university or specific jobs. This will give every child a much broader education and not produce a nation that is unaware of its surroundings both physically, emotionally, and psychologically.
Miki, London

Yes! The present system is clearly not working as a preparation for life. Employers are typically not looking for someone who knows how to pass exams - they want a well-rounded individual with good key skills and some common sense. If applied properly, a Baccalaureate system could produce school-leavers like this.
David Watterson, United Kingdom

The proposal sounds reasonable, but any changes must be introduced after consideration and consultation with all parties, rather than another slap-dash attempt at a quick-fix.
Patrick, Scotland

I'm an A-level student. At the moment we enjoy being able to select our own courses with virtually no limitations. I don't want to do vocational work yet. I plan to do engineering at university and I need to get good academic qualifications.
David, UK

The authorities seem persistently to force people to stay in education for as long as possible Lance, UK

Every change to the education system seems to be for the worse. The authorities seem persistently to force people to stay in education for as long as possible. This is extremely discriminating against more practically minded individuals who wish to go out to work straight after GCSEs and learn on the job. What kind of society would we be in if everyone was a professor or politician, banker or statistician? Society needs to lend more respect to builders, farmers, factory workers, cleaners and dustmen. Society would not exist without them.
Lance, UK

I did the International Baccalaureate in the Netherlands, and am grateful for it every day. Scrap the whole current, flawed system and introduce the IB from day one.
Joe, Loughborough, UK

Everything this government seems to say about education is contradictory - on one hand, we need more 'specialised' individuals - but they want to broaden the curriculum baccalaureate-style. They want more +16 year olds to go into further education - so they propose to introduce a more challenging academic qualification. The government needs to sort out its priorities, and then find the right solution for the problems in the system.
Jenny, UK

The international baccalaureate makes people continue with core subjects until the end of their education, and having taken it and then gone to a UK university, I found myself with a much broader education than my peers, which still gives me advantages today. To stop learning either English or Mathematics at age 16 seems ridiculous for an 'educated' person.
Andrew Tulloch, UK

The exam system offered me the only chance to prove myself Catherine O, UK

I was a quiet pupil and many of my teachers assumed that I was lazy and unmotivated. As a result, my Christmas report, in which teachers awarded A-E grades, was always poor. In the summer, when my report was based on my exam results, the teachers would note an astounding improvement, only to mark me down again the following Christmas. The exam system offered me the only chance to prove myself and I would have been written off, had my results been based on teacher assessment.
Catherine O, UK

I left school at 16 with good GCSEs to do a modern apprenticeship. Industry needs a mix of people, both office and manual workers, that the new exam system may not offer.
Simon Kirkman, UK

What a breath of fresh air! Tomlinson's proposals outline an exciting future for education in this country. A system which gives recognition to the achievements of all our young people, encouraging them to continue education beyond 16, should be welcomed and applauded.
Geoff, UK

If the UK Government really wants to retain more pupils after 16, then they should concentrate on the financial reasons why people drop out. Many parents of kids at the north eastern comprehensive I went to could not afford their now adult sized children to continue on to sixth form. That's the black hole, not the status of the exams.
Katherine, UK

Why doesn't somebody actually ask us - the people doing the exams what they think? More teacher assessment means more coursework, this is far more of a problem than a few hours of exams.
Jordan Chitty, UK

If it is done correctly this could work very well Lee, UK

I have been suggesting that this should happen for years. The simple fact is that the only use for GCSEs is to get into college after which they then become useless. It should also mean an end to children having to specialise too much and too soon by taking a wider range of A-levels. If it is done correctly this could work very well.
Lee, UK

Finally we might see an education system that isn't a complete farce - where students leave school with more rounded skills - instead of being dumped into the market place at 16 without a hope in the world.
Dan A, UK

It's about time the government of this country took a major decision. Instead of making experimental but minor changes to the education system every few years, they have to take radical steps and ditch the current system altogether. The system of GCSE and A-levels obviously doesn't work these days, as it's designed to provide qualifications for early dropouts at the expense of those who wish to pursue an education.
Bob, UK

Who is going to pay for all these people staying in school until 19? Ian S, Birmingham

Improve standards! How? You'll have a large drop out rate with people having no qualifications at all, but they'll be 19 not 16. And who is going to pay for all these people staying in school until 19? And finally at the end of it all, you've got a proportion of the population still with no hands-on experience. The system we've got needs fixing not a completely new one brought in.
Ian S, Birmingham

I was fortunate enough to have lived in Ghana, where the International School there taught GCE O-levels, while my friends in the UK were doing their GCSEs. When I returned to the UK to do my A-levels, I had a massive advantage as the GCEs had better equipped me for the A-level course. I hope another change will not dumb down the material taught again!
Tim Fouracre, UK

Why the focus on core computer skills? The UK job market is flooded with unemployed software engineers, but you can't find a plumber for love nor money.
Colin MacDonald, Scotland

This should and will happen. It is just not helpful to compare the mistakes of previous changes with what is tried-and-tested system, more suitable to both the needs of individual students and employers alike. It will increase self-esteem amongst many who are currently side-lined. And to the point about the plumber: he or she will need IT skills if one day they want to run their own business.
Martyn, UK

Barely a year goes by without some change or another in the education system Andy, Oxford, UK

Leave the exams alone! Barely a year goes by without some change or another in the education system. All these changes only serve to leave teachers confused and constantly in a state of flux. They do nothing to help the educational standards in the country.
Andy, Oxford, UK

Not all pupils are willing and able to study to A-level standard. A single diploma would have to be done very carefully so that everyone of any standard has their achievements properly recognised, and that is very difficult to do with a catch-all solution. Also, I am worried about the requirements for maths and English. My sister has a degree but had to take both maths and English GCSEs three times to get a C because she is dyslexic - not that the school picked up on that, they just treated her like she was stupid.
Stephanie Clarke, Cambridge, UK

They should be merged. The average literacy level at GCSE level is appalling and does not justify qualifications. The new qualifications would do well to take into account the extra-curricular activities which define how well-rounded a person's education is.
Andrew Hammond, UK

Any move towards a more "comprehensive" and better-structured examination system would be a good move in principle. However, both teachers and parents will quite rightly expect evidence of a commitment to reform for the long-term rather than the incessant tinkering and meddling to which they, pupils and the examination system have been subjected over the past 15 years or so.
Robert Crosby, Nottingham, UK

It is time the system reflected educational objectives only Peter M, UK

The government has tampered with exams in this country for far too long. The current system is the legacy of successive government attempts to manipulate results for political gain. It is time the system reflected educational objectives only and not the spin of ministers and government departments.
Peter M, UK

Just how much more messing about does the government want to do to our education - haven't they learned their lesson yet?
Andre, UK

It seems bizarre for the UK to be moving towards a baccalaureate-type system at a time when years of discontent with the rigid 'Bac' have French educators planning something more like A-levels (more advanced study in subjects selected from a wider range than currently available here).
Darien Bernstein, France

This proposal appears to be about expanding the current "Record of Achievement" and removing most of the final exams. As "Record of Achievement" already exist, this will not add value, just turn the education world on it's head yet again and cause disruption to kids in school.
Dave, UK

What will this mean for the students wishing to go to university? Already we are having to change first year degree courses to include subjects that used to get taught at A-level but are now missing. Is this why most other countries have degree courses that last for 4-5 years rather than 3?
Karen, Wales