A-level Archaeology To Be Axed?

Both the A-level and AS level Archaeology will no longer be offered.

18:43 18 October 2016

The AQA exam board has confirmed that both the A-level and AS level Archaeology will no longer be offered. The board explained that its "number one priority is making sure every student gets the result they deserve".

 

But it says that for archaeology "the complex and specialist nature of the exams creates too many risks on that front".

 

"Our decisions have nothing to do with the importance of these subjects, and it won't stop students going on to do a degree in them as we're not aware of any universities that require an A-level in these subjects."

 

Following the announcement of the board’s decision, a campaign calling to have it reversed was immediately launched. It is backed by presenter Sir Tony Robinson.

 

Mike Heyworth, director of the Council for British Archaeology, said: "This is disastrous news for archaeology. Another vital route into the study of the subject is being removed."

 

Chief executive of the Chartered Institute of Archaeology, Pete Hinton, said: "The A-level in archaeology is an important route into the archaeological profession.

 

"This should be seen as a serious affront to those who believe that the study of past cultures can bring both positive benefits in terms of cultural understanding, as well as practical transferable skills for students."