The government’s ambition is to see 75% of pupils studying an EBacc subject combination at GCSE by 2022, and 90% by 2025.

This target reflects a belief that young people should be encouraged to take traditional, academic subjects in order to fulfil their potential and increase social mobility.

Critics have long challenged the choice of subjects in the EBacc, in particular, the exclusion of all arts subjects.

However, the government’s levelling up agenda and debate on young people’s employability has led to renewed questions about whether the EBacc is right for all students and the best way to use choices about the curriculum to improve social mobility.

This event, scheduled for Wednesday 2nd March 15:30-17:00, will explore:

  • Is social mobility optimised by directing students to the EBacc or allowing for a greater diversity of subjects at Key Stage 4?
  • To what extent does the EBacc help or hinder those students who progress on to non-academic pathways post-16? Which students are the winners and losers from the EBacc target?
  • Should the choice of subjects in the EBacc be reviewed?

Speakers at this event will include:

  • Jake Anders, Associate Professor of Quantitative Social Science, UCL Institute of Education
  • Julie McCulloch, Director of Policy, ASCL
  • Eddie Playfair, Senior Policy Manager, Association of Colleges
  • James Lloyd, Head of Policy and Public Affairs, AQA
  • Other speakers to be seen.

This event is free and open to all, but places are limited.

If you would like to attend, you can register here.