AS entries have dropped substantially in summer 2017 as more of the available AS qualifications are ‘de-coupled’ and AS results no longer count towards A Level grades.

This is one of the main findings from Ofqual’s publication of provisional entries for this summer’s GCSEs, AS and A Levels.  The report’s figures reflect changes to qualifications as well as wider policy changes

42% fewer AS entries have been made this year with some of the largest percentage decreases in engineering, performing arts and drama. AS entries are now lower than A Level entries overall.  

Other findings include:

• Entries in EBacc subjects at GCSE increased overall by 9%.  Entries for all non-EBacc subjects declined.
• GCSE English and English Language (9 to 1 and A* to G) are up 52% due to more year 10s taking English Language a year early and more year 11 students taking GCSE English language now that international GCSEs in this subject no longer count in school accountability measures.
• English Literature (9 to 1) GCSE entries are up 48%.  This is likely to be a result of accountability measures (Progress 8 and Attainment 8) that double count the better of English language/English literature grades, providing both are taken.
• GCSE entries from both years 11 and 12 and above increased overall.
• 53% of students have been entered for the higher tier of GCSE mathematics.  Data suggests that this is lower than in previous years.
• A Level entries remained stable.  Most notable increases in entry were in science, computing and political studies.  Maths remains the most popular subject.