Wales puts planned science GCSE changes on hold

Three separate GCSEs in chemistry, physics and biology will remain among the options

Secondary school pupils in Wales will continue to be able to take three separate GCSEs in chemistry, physics and biology after a controversial plan to scrap them in favour of a double science GCSE have been put on hold.

A further consultation on GCSE science will take place in 2028, the Welsh qualifications regulator said.

It said there were "differing views" on which and how many science GCSEs should be available to 14 to 16 year olds.

Qualifications Wales said the new double and single award GCSE qualifications would, however, continue to be established in schools and colleges and be awarded for the first time in summer 2028.

"We will confirm the future range of science GCSEs in spring 2029," Qualifications Wales said.

"Any changes to the range of science GCSEs as a result of this consultation will come into effect for first teaching from September 2031," it added.

The regulator said there was continued debate over "how learners can be provided with the best foundation in science study that will prepare them for life, further learning and work".

The change to GCSEs was introduced to fit in with a new curriculum which is gradually being rolled out in schools in Wales.

The curriculum, seen as the biggest change in Welsh education in decades, aims to offer a broader, more rounded education with an emphasis on the experiences children get, not just the knowledge and skills.

The new GCSE The Sciences (Double Award) has been designed to readily support progression onto AS and A-level qualifications in biology, chemistry and physics.

Meanwhile, GCSE Integrated Science (Single Award) is not aimed at pupils planning to move on to AS and A-level qualifications in the sciences.

"We understand that some centres that have previously offered separate science GCSEs have already begun to transition to the new double award as the primary science qualification," Qualifications Wales said.

"We want to take the opportunity to emphasise that centres should continue to deliver a science offer that works best for them and their learners," it said.

Wales Education Secretary Lynne Neagle welcomed the decision to continue to engage with schools, colleges and other stakeholders.

"Learners can be confident that both the new The Sciences GCSE (Double Award) and existing separate science GCSEs will continue to support progression to AS and A levels in biology, chemistry and physics, and on to Stem careers where that is their chosen pathway," she said.

Meanwhile Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Education, Natasha Asghar, said Labour's original plans risked putting Welsh pupils at a disadvantage to their peers in England and Scotland.

"Labour must now go further and abandon any future consultation and scrap these changes entirely," she said.