The return of traditional subjects

Today’s A-level results once again see the pass rate continuing to rise, in this instance for the 28th year in a row, with 97.6% of entries gaining an E or above, up from 97.5% in 2009. While not wishing to detract from the efforts of students and teachers, unfortunately such a rise has become all too expected, to the point where there would almost have to be a public inquiry if it were not to happen. Nor should the introduction of the A* at A-Level warrant particular attention, except perhaps to say that it serves as a symbol of how far we have allowed grade inflation to go.  
 
Crucially, however, this year’s A-Level cohort have distinguished themselves in one particular regard. Faced with the reality of the most competitive year for university admissions in a decade, the decision of more students than before to ditch softer-subjects and to return to more traditional A-Levels should be welcomed.