Two organisations are highlighting the need for the arts as a whole to respond to the Department for Education’s consultation ‘Reforming Key Stage 4 qualifications‘.
The consultation sets out the Government’s plans to ‘restore rigour and confidence’ to the examination system with the introduction in England of Baccalaureate Certificates (EBacc) in English, maths, the sciences, history, geography and languages – subjects including art, music, design and technology, drama and dance are all notably absent from this list.
engage, the National Association for Gallery Education, has provided its own response to the consultation along with a check list for members wishing to take action.
Director Jane Sillis said: “We encourage members not only to voice concerns, but to make practical suggestions for how the arts can be incorporated into the new structure. For example, how can artists and arts organisations better partner with and support schools, teachers and teacher education?”
Bacc For The Future, a campaign set up by Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM), has provided outline statistics and a template letter that can be adapted by individuals in response to the consultation.
Jonathan Smith, Bacc for the Future Project Manager, said: “If the creative subjects are not included in the EBacc, a broad and balanced education for our children will be put at risk. Pathways from school to the creative industries will be undermined. Considering the creative sector is one of the few success stories in our current economy, we simply cannot afford to put our creative industries at risk.”
Both organisations are asking that responses be distinctive and unique in order to make the campaign more effective and to give the Department for Education as many diverse views as possible.
The closing date for responses to the consultation is 5pm Monday 10 December.
More on a-n.co.uk:
Elizabeth Price and the Turner Prize spotlight – Turner Prize winner ‘lets rip at Michael Gove and the exclusion of the arts from his English Baccalaureate’.
Arts education in England under scrutiny – Elizabeth Murton reports from the School for Change event which explored the latest developments in policy affecting arts and cultural education in England’s schools.
