Big changes ahead for GCSE exams

A new era is set to begin for GCSE tests.  

First of all, there will be much tougher English and Maths GCSE exams from 2017 and students are expected to spend three years, instead of the usual two, studying these two crucial subjects.

Changes will also affect both the maximum number of GCSEs pupils will take, reducing from 12 to 8, and the grading system.

In fact, the exam papers will be graded from 1 to 9, with 9 as the top mark, in place of the traditional A* to G grades. According to exams regulator Ofqual, the move will allow greater differentiation at the top end.

At the same time, dozens of subjects including human biology, performing arts and environmental science are expected to disappear from the curriculum by 2017, because too similar to their mainstream equivalents.

With such a revolutionary change on the way, the new Education Secretary Nicky Morgan has warned young people that choosing to study science would keep their options open, while art subjects could hold them back for the rest of their lives.

Meanwhile, Ofqual has confirmed it is making changes to GCSEs and that schools will begin teaching according to the new system in September 2015.