A-Level results debate

Date published: 15/08/2008

Commenting on the A-Level results Samantha Dunbar, Policy Manager for Employment, Skills and Workplace at Greater Manchester Chamber, said: ”We need to move away from the usual debate about whether standards have declined. Instead we should be looking at whether the current curriculum meets the needs of the economy.

"One area where there is genuine concern is in the so-called STEM subjects: Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. Fewer young people are studying these subjects, yet they are vital to the future prosperity of our country.

“Also employers often tell us that school leavers don’t have the skills they need for the workplace.

“The only way to resolve these issues is for employers and schools to work together much more closely so that each party can understand what the other needs."