Head teachers warn Michael Gove on one-tier EBacc

Michael Gove's new English Baccalaureate risks replicating the flaws of the GCSE by forcing pupils of all abilities to sit the same exam, a leading independent school headmaster is warning.

The Education Secretary dropped plans to offer a second-tier exam alongside the EBacc – and there are now concerns the new tests may be beyond less able students.

Christopher Ray, the high master of Manchester Grammar School and the chairman of the Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference, will urge Mr Gove next week to be more "flexible" in his approach to the EBacc.

Speaking at his annual conference, he will warn Mr Gove: "The education provided for young people should no more attempt to force all into the admittedly challenging EBacc suit of clothes than the current ... approach does at present."