Index has signed a petition opposing the British government’s move to replace GCSEs with the English Baccalaureate, excluding creative subjects from the core qualification at 16.

Many leading figures in the arts have voiced their dismay at this short-sightedness, pointing out the successes of the arts in the UK in both social and economic terms.  We want to add our voice because the arts are central to the free exchange of ideas.  Relevant, robust arts and culture are vital to a healthy, participatory democracy.

Access to the arts is important. Arts education in schools allows all young people to learn skills to express themselves and so be able to participate directly in shaping their world.  By downgrading the arts, the government is showing indifference to their value as a means to explore diversity  and enlarge sympathies.

Index will be writing a submission to the open consultation on Reforming Key Stage 4 qualifications, which closes on 10 December.