Well, there's a turn-up for the books - Government gives go-ahead for GCSE in natural history

                                                    

Catherine McKinnell - moving ahead

THE Government has today given the green light for a new GCSE subject - natural history. 

In a statement issued in the ' Commons, education minister Catherine McKinnell said: "This Government recognises the importance of providing all children and young people with the knowledge, skills and behaviours to understand and develop a connection to the natural world, access green careers and thrive in life and work in a world with a changing climate.

"We are, therefore, pleased to confirm that we will be moving ahead with a new GCSE in natural history. 

"This GCSE will enable more young people to benefit from the opportunity to learn about the natural world in more depth at key stage 4. 

"It will equip them to understand and respect the natural world and to contribute to the protection and conservation of the environment locally, nationally and internationally.

"The content of the new natural history GCSE will need to build on the curriculum content that pupils learn earlier in their schooling related to the natural world in subjects such as science, geography and citizenship. 

"We therefore plan to finalise and consult on proposed subject content for the new GCSE after the independent Curriculum and Assessment Review has concluded. 

"The Review Group is expecting to publish its final report with recommendations in autumn 2025."

The decision follows a long campaign by wildlife author Mary Colwell who has expressed delight at the announcement.