A-level in leisure studies to be scrapped

Anthropology, citizenship studies, home economics, pure mathematics, performing arts and science in society will also be dropped by 2017

Among other A-levels to be dropped are anthropology, citizenship studies and home economics (Getty Images)

Leisure studies is to be scrapped as an A-level subject – but the sometimes ridiculed media studies will remain.

The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) said a number of changes would be made to the list of A-levels and GCSEs by 2017.

Among other A-levels to be dropped are anthropology, citizenship studies, home economics, pure mathematics, performing arts and science in society.

In a statement, Ofqual’s chief regulator, Glenys Stacey, said: “We are today confirming the principles against which we will determine those GCSE and AS and A Level subjects that may be offered for first teaching from 2017.

“We have considered which subjects have the potential to meet our principles, including the need to ensure that all reformed subjects are of an appropriate level of academic demand.

“It is now for the Department for Education to consider whether content can be developed for those subjects that we think could meet our principles and, in turn, for exam boards to decide whether to submit specifications to us for accreditation. Importantly, we are not ruling out the future development of any subject.”

While it has been criticised as a subject, media studies has remained popular with pupils. Some 26,000 sat the A-level exam in 2013, while fewer than 1,000 students took leisure studies.