The O-level, or Ordinary Level, was introduced as part of British educational reform in the 1950’s in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, with the accompanying, and more academically rigorous, A-level (Advanced Level) also being introduced at the same time. In 1988 O-levels were replaced with GCSE exams. Education Secretary Michael Gove has now told MPs that England’s exam system needs further changes amid reports of plans to return to O-level style exams. After details were leaked to the Daily Mail he was summoned to the Commons to answer urgent questions.

Is bringing back O-levels a good idea? Read on…