To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills why it is proposed that there should no longer be a foundation and higher programme of study in mathematics at key stage 4 under the proposed changes to the curriculum of the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority. (126013)

Mathematics is currently the only subject to have a tiered programme of study at key stage 4. Pupils should be entitled to access all learning relevant to the key stage at the level most appropriate to them. The current tiered curriculum creates an artificial ceiling of expectation for pupils following the foundation tier. The new single programme of study will enable teachers to personalise the curriculum to suit the needs of individual pupils, allowing them to engage with mathematics at all levels.