GOVERNMENT plans to replace GCSEs with an English Baccalaureate have sparked concerns.

The changes come in to effect from autumn 2015, with the first students sitting exams in the summer of 2017. While most agree there is need for reform, some headteachers have criticised the new scheme as old fashioned.

Pupils will be taught the new exam in English, maths and science and will see a more focused arrangement with greater onus on a final three-hour exam at the end of the two-year course, rather than the current system of modules, coursework and controlled assessment.

For full story, see this week's Alton Herald.