Gateway Qualifications has welcomed the publication of the Curriculum and Assessment Review Interim Report, which was released on 18 March 2025. The report, commissioned by the Department for Education and led by Professor Becky Francis CBE, aims to evaluate the existing national curriculum and statutory assessment system in England.
Writing on LinkedIn, Fabienne Bailey, Chief Executive Officer of Gateway Qualifications, shared her thoughts on the report, expressing a mix of optimism and concern. “It’s positive to see the acknowledgment that ‘a significant proportion of young people require a mix of qualifications.’ This recognition is crucial for ensuring that funding continues for qualifications that support young people who are not ready or wanting an A-Level or T-Level,” Bailey stated.
However, Bailey also highlighted areas where the report fell short. “The section on the ‘vocational and technical parts of the system’ suggests otherwise. We must not lose the flexibility that previous reform plans set to destroy. Young people do not all fit the same mould, and a significant proportion will never mould to an A Level or T Level,” she emphasised.
The interim report also addresses the need for greater nuance in the measures for GCSE resit rules. It suggests that students who fail to pass GCSE English and maths at school should still be required to study these subjects in post-16 education, but with more tailored approaches to ensure positive outcomes.
Bailey concluded with a hopeful outlook, stating, “Wouldn’t it be great if we could look back in 10 years and say, ‘Wasn’t that Curriculum and Assessment Review brilliant? Look at the difference it has made!'”
Gateway Qualifications remains committed to supporting young people through flexible and tailored educational pathways, ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to succeed.