AoC comments on key stage 4 progress measures

Catherine Sezen, Senior Policy Manager at the Association of Colleges, said: “The Department for Education key stage 4 progress measures including 14-16 direct entry provision in schools do not tell the full story. “Direct entry provision was set up to provide an alternative to the school-based curriculum, with a focus on core skills and high quality technical education. It most often caters for young people who have not thrived in a mainstream school setting and should therefore not be judged in the same way. “College data shows incredible added value, high levels of post-16 progression to Level 2 and 3 programmes and apprenticeships, improved progress from entry point, better attendance and increased engagement.”