New South Wales Minister for Education Adrian Piccoli has announced that the School Certificate will be abolished as of 2012.

 

"The external tests currently administered to all Year 10 students will not continue after this year," Mr Piccoli said.

 

He said the decision to abolish the certificate was made as a result of consultation undertaken by the Board of Studies with key stakeholder groups representing principals, teachers, parents and all school sectors.

 

"The message from stakeholders was that the School Certificate no longer meets the expectations of employers. It has not responded to changes such as the increase in the school leaving age, and the introduction of NAPLAN testing," he said.

 

Mr Piccoli said he had requested the Board of Studies conduct further consultation to make recommendations about an alternative credential.

 

This year's School Certificate external tests will be conducted on schedule in November 2011.