Edexcel A Level Music: September 2021 update
We recently reduced the number of set works in our A Level Music specification, following feedback from teachers that the volume of work was too high and needed accelerated change in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of these changes, we removed the highly acclaimed British Jazz artist, Courtney Pine.
The first thing to say is that we got this decision wrong. As a learning company and qualifications provider, we agree entirely that pupils should study music by composers from diverse cultures and backgrounds. We hold ourselves to the highest standards and, on this occasion, we have fallen short.
Diversity and inclusion in education is an ongoing conversation and commitment for us at Pearson. It is a complex issue, but we are fully committed to working together with key stakeholders, schools, and young people to drive this change.
As a first step, we will be returning Courtney Pine to the set work list. We will publish official confirmation of this change once we have agreement with Ofqual.
We will also work together with teachers, learners and a range of stakeholders to carry out a further review of the set works and the wider listening pieces. This will be completed in time for students starting their A Level music studies in September 2021.
We will continue to keep you updated on this crucial work as soon as we have more to share. In the meantime, we would very much welcome your input, if you would like to get in touch please fill out this form.
