PROPOSALS to ditch GCSEs and A-levels in favour of a diploma - with a broader curriculum and fewer exams - have been broadly welcomed by headteachers.

Under proposals outlined by former chief schools inspector Mike Tomlinson, students would have to study English, maths and computer skills which they would combine with a mixture of academic, job-related and optional modules.

They would be encouraged to stay-on at school until they were 19 and could face fewer written exams.

Sir Iain Hall, headteacher at Parrs Wood Sports College - one of just three Manchester schools to offer A level courses - says the new qualification would recognise a broader level of success and would give employers a broader picture.

"There has been enormous pressure on youngsters over the last few years and unfortunately the only thing that seems to be recognised as success is five GCSE grade A*-C," said Sir Iain.

"This totally ignores young people who will not make this grade but who make brilliant contributions to the school and the local community.

Contributions

"This new award will recognise such contributions and help employers see a more rounded picture of the young person."

Peter Tavernor, principal at MANCAT - Manchester College of Art and Technology - believes the proposals represent a significant step in recognising the importance of vocational education.

He said: "This will make a significant change and end the vocational and academic divide."

For Paul Dixon, headteacher at independent Cheadle Hulme School, the main advantage of the new system would be the reduction in the number of examinations.

He said: "We have to get rid of the public examination s that are making life unbearable for 16 to 19 year olds."

But Dr Martin Stephen, high master at independent Manchester Grammar School, says the new diploma could leave students unprepared for degree courses.

He said: "The mix of academic and vocational is never going to work; the answer is not to mix and match. The key thing is to get ourselves a rigorous and separate set of vocational qualifications.

"Post 14 you need to offer students a certain broad and general base but just as importantly you need to allow real specialism."

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