GCSE rival to gain state acceptance

A rival to the GCSE designed along the lines of the traditional O-level may soon win backing from government exam watchdogs and find its way into hundreds of state schools.

The move would allow schools to offer it as an alternative to GCSEs - because they would receive government financial support for the exam.

Growing numbers of independent schools - including some of the most famous such as Winchester and St Paul's have already abandoned GCSEs in some subjects in favour of the International GCSE (iGCSE).

However, the Government has refused to sanction its approval for use in state schools and league tables - claiming it must meet the published GCSE criteria and the requirements of the national curriculum.

Now, though, the Department for Education and Skills is indicating that the exam could win recognition if it changed its name.

The iGCSE is popular with many independent schools which claim the GCSE has been "dumbed down". Its alternative, they add, is devised along the lines of the old O-level with no coursework and is indeed marketed in some foreign countries as an O-level.

The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, the Government's exams watchdog, has indicated it would be prepared to consider giving the exam recognition if exam boards come up with a new name.

One of the two boards offering iGCSEs - University of Cambridge International Examinations - said it was looking forward to "productive" talks with the QCA about naming the exam.

Geoff Lucas, secretary of the Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference, which represents top independent schools such as Eton and Harrow, said: "Our members said they would be willing to accept a change of name providing it had kudos and meaning.

"We would like to see the awarding bodies [exam boards] submit it under the title 'O-level'."

This, however, might be a step too far for ministers as it could be interpreted as an indication that the GCSE had failed to replace O-levels.