Here’s what we had to say after Michael Gove wrote to Ofqual about future changes to A Levels, including the development of new standalone AS levels.

A Pearson spokesperson said:

“Pearson is pleased that students will retain the opportunity to study a greater breadth of subjects past age 16 with the retention of an AS qualification.

“We support greater involvement of Higher Education institutions in the new qualifications, and this will be particularly important to build recognition of a new AS as well as to ensure that A level continues to be held in high regard. Pearson is already working with a range of stakeholders from higher education and industry on our A level development, to ensure they prepare young people for further study at university, vocational courses and employment.

“We will now work with the regulator to fully understand the implications of the changes and we welcome the sensible delay to the start date to 2015 to enable a smooth transition.”