10.11.2025: The Government has announced that it will remove the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) in a move that is a huge win for music education and the arts. 

The announcement came in the Government’s response to the Curriculum and Assessment review.  The introduction of the EBacc in 2010 has significantly contributed to the decline in music provision in secondary schools. Since the EBacc does not include arts subjects, schools have often prioritised EBacc subjects at the expense of music and other creative options. 

In recommending its removal, the Curriculum Review stated that “it is clear that the EBacc performance measures have to some degree unnecessarily constrained students” choices.  

UK Music has campaigned extensively for the EBacc’s removal. It formed a key part of our submission into the Curriculum and Assessment Review and was a key recommendation in our five-point plan for music education earlier this year. 

Alongside the EBacc changes, the Government confirmed several other changes off the back of the review. These include: 

• Music curriculum reform – The Government will overhaul the music curriculum, clarifying its purpose, aims and content. A revised curriculum is expected by spring 2027, following consultation. 

• A new core enrichment offer – Schools and colleges will be encouraged to provide enrichment activities beyond the statutory curriculum, including music, performing arts, and visits to museums and galleries. 

• New V-Level qualifications – A new post-16 vocational pathway will be introduced alongside A-levels and T Levels, replacing current Level 3 qualifications like BTECs. Each V-Level will be equivalent in size to one A-level. 

• Progress 8 reform – The Government will consult on changes to the Progress 8 accountability measure, which assess school performance, so that schools are incentivised to offer a broader curriculum including arts subjects. 

UK Music Chief Executive Tom Kiehl, said: “UK Music is delighted to hear that Government is set to scrap the EBacc system and encourage pupils to pursue creative subjects like music.

“This move represents a huge victory for UK Music following years of campaigning heavily on this matter. EBacc reform has been at the heart of our work on music education and was the No.1 point of our Music Academic Partnership (MAP) 10-year report earlier this year.

“A great music education is vital for the development of young people, and we are thrilled to see Government recognise its importance.”

You can read more on our MAP report here https://tinyurl.com/p8wmz387 

This news was covered by:

The Daily Mail