The impact of the English Baccalaureate

Background

The "English Baccalaureate" (EBacc) was announced in last year’s schools White Paper and quickly introduced into school league tables published in January 2011.

It means that league tables now rank schools on the proportion of their pupils achieving A*-C passes in five subject areas: English; maths; two sciences; ancient or modern history or geography; and a modern or ancient language. In future, the government has indicated that pupils will achieve certificates rewarding their performance on this measure.

Its introduction has already caused widespread consternation in schools, which were unprepared for its introduction. This research investigates the likely impact of the English Baccalaureate for publishers and content owners. 

Key Questions

• What will the impact of the English Baccalaureate be on the take-up of vocational qualifications or other subjects such as music or RE which are excluded from the English Baccalaureate?
• What will its impact be on those subjects that are included in the English Baccalaureate, such as geography, history and modern foreign languages?
• Will the English Baccalaureate have an impact on the allocation of time in the school timetable and qualifications offered?
• Will it have an impact on which resources are demanded by schools?
• What are the staffing implications of the English Baccalaureate?

Methodology

20 in-depth qualitative telephone interviews were conducted with head teachers and SMT members from secondary comprehensive schools in England. 

The findings of these interviews were then verified through a brief email survey sent out to over 2000 admin addresses for the attention of the head teacher. The survey was emailed out to both state schools and independent schools.

Costs

Report Digital copy - £1500 + VAT

Additional paper copies available at £10 per copy

Timing

The fieldwork was conducted in February with the report completed in March 2011.

Contact

To order a copy of this report, or to find out more about this project please contact

Jane Powell.  Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or Tel: +44 (0)207 253 8959

About Shift Learning Syndicated Business Intelligence

Shift Learning syndicated business intelligence is designed to inform investment decisions for the education and learning sector. We investigate key decision areas and share results among the members who subscribe. This service is a cost-effective way for you to keep up-to-date with market developments. 

Recent reports for educational publishers include:

• Use and perceptions of VLEs in secondary education
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