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Written question asked by James McMurdock (Independent (affiliation)) on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 29 June 2026. It was answered by Georgia Gould (Labour) on Friday, 3 July 2026 on behalf of the Department for Education.

Natural History: GCSE

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, with reference to the Department for Education's press release entitled New natural history GCSE to grow next generation of green careers, published on 12 June 2026, whether she has made an estimate of the number of schools in (a) Basildon, (b) Thurrock, and (c) Essex who will offer the new qualification.

Answer

On 12 June, the department launched a public consultation on proposed subject content for a new natural history GCSE. The consultation is open from 12 June to 4 September, and we will consider feedback carefully before finalising the subject content.

It is for schools to choose the qualifications they offer at key stage 4, and for pupils to choose the qualifications they take. We have worked with stakeholders to develop content which is high-quality, rigorous, and which represents a worthwhile course of study. As the GCSE is finalised, the department will consider the delivery of the GCSE.

It is for schools to employ the best qualified teachers for any particular posts, taking into account relevant skills and experience as well as formal training and qualifications. As with other GCSEs, we will not set additional requirements for natural history teaching.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
13003
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Essex GCSE Natural history
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk