Students with conditions requiring additional learning support, such as SEN, are often expected to undertake nine or more GCSEs. This can lead to situations where these students leave school without any qualifications. Reducing the number of GCSEs to a manageable amount can help these students achieve success and move forward confidently in life.

Growing up, I have witnessed how a system that compels students to juggle numerous subjects without considering individual limitations fails those who need more time and specialized support. Imagine dedicating all your effort without seeing the results reflected in qualifications—it's disheartening and unfair.

Here's a real-life solution to support these students better and help them secure a brighter future. By allowing students in years 7 and 8 to explore all subjects, they can identify where their strengths and interests lie. From year 9, students struggling with ALS or similar challenges should focus on 6 GCSEs: Maths, English, Sciences, Geography/History, and a subject of their choice. This change allows them to concentrate on their strengths and achieve the 6 passes that many future pathways demand.

SEN children and their parents should be able to have this choice until the end of Year 10 - but the sooner the decision is made, the more time the child will have to focus on the selected GCSEs.

Statistics show that having fewer subjects decreases stress and increases the pass rate among students facing educational challenges. It’s crucial we provide a pathway that accommodates their unique needs rather than setting them up for repeated failures or the dreaded resits.

Let's give every student the opportunity to succeed and build a future they can be proud of. Such a policy could be transformative, ensuring these students feel confident and capable. If you believe in equality in education and understanding over rigid educational requirements, join this effort to revise the GCSE expectations for students requiring additional learning support.

Sign this petition to transform the educational system and empower students with ALS, giving them the fair chance they deserve to succeed.

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