ACME publishes open letter to Michael Gove regarding the future of post-16 Mathematics

The Advisory Committee on Mathematics Education (ACME) has written to the Secretary of State for Education, Michael Gove, in response to his reported comments on the future of Mathematics AS and A levels.

In response to Michael Gove, the letter from ACME makes five key points:

  • 1. The best way to improve provision for those of high ability in mathematics is to review and develop the extension papers which already exist and to encourage the study of Further Mathematics
  • 2. Mathematics A level is studied for a wide range of purposes, and is not just a precursor to degree-level STEM subjects - it must meet the needs of a wide range of subjects

    a. Single A level mathematics is not, and never has been, designed to be full preparation for university mathematics
    b. A wide range of stakeholders must be involved in the design of A level mathematics
  • 3. Making A level mathematics harder will mean fewer students will choose to take the qualification
  • 4. Linear assessment must not be the only option available at A level; it is incorrect to assume that the modular system is wrong for all subjects and all students
  • 5. The post-16 landscape is wider than A level, and AS levels are an important part of this.

The letter also highlights the dangers of repeating the mistakes of Curriculum 2000 which made the subject less accessible. A notably sharp drop in A level entries was recorded following this; a decline which took almost eight years to recover from.

ACME also mention their forthcoming position paper on post-16 Mathematics which will propose a range of level 3 mathematics qualifications, including AS and A level, which would allow all students to study an appropriate volume and level of mathematics post-16. They also reiterate their desire to work closely with government going forward, to advise and assist them with the provision of effective and rigorous mathematics education.

The full letter can be found on the ACME website.


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