Table 1 shows the number of achievements by adult learners in LSC-funded further education provision of GCSE English language and GCSE English literature in each academic year since 2003/04, the earliest year for which we have comparable information.
Academic year GCSE English language GCSE English literature Of which: achieving both 2003/04 8,770 220 70 2004/05 8,760 160 70 2005/06 8,440 110 40 2006/07 8,270 140 80 2007/08 7,520 80 60 Notes: 1. Age is based on age as at 31 August (academic age). 2. This information does not include learners studying GCSE English language or GCSE English literature in schools or higher education institutions. 3. Learners achieving both GCSE English language and GCSE English literature are included in both of the columns for these GCSEs and also the column for learners achieving both. 4. Figures are rounded to the nearest 10. Source: FE ILR.
Awarding Body data on GCSE examination entries are analysed by the Department for Children, Schools and Families as part of the School and College Achievement and Attainment Tables publication. However, this work only covers qualifications entered for by 16 to 18-year-olds. Therefore, we do not have information readily available on adults being entered for GCSE English language and GCSE English literature examinations.
A GCSE may not necessarily be the most appropriate learning outcome for many learners and colleges have been encouraged to advise learners to study the most relevant qualification to them. Many learners who may previously have undertaken a GCSE in English now have their language needs picked up through embedded learning in other courses.
Over the past few years, the Government have prioritised investment in adult skills towards those courses that best provide individuals with the skills to enter into sustained employment and progress into further learning. This strategy has paid dividends with record levels of adults participating in Skills for Life (numeracy and literacy), full level 2 and full level 3 qualifications.