At Edge, we have constantly called for a broader and more balanced curriculum that gives equal weight to general and technical subjects, supported by strong career education so that all learners feel prepared for a pathway that is right for them. We therefore welcomed the announcement of a Greater Manchester Baccalaureate (the MBacc) and were delighted to support the GMCA in helping to design the programme.
Announced by the Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham in May 2023, the MBacc’s aim is to create a broader curriculum offer for young people in Greater Manchester beyond the EBacc. This would include a package of general, technical and creative subjects at GCSEs aimed at aimed at providing a line of sight to the key industries of the Greater Manchester economy. These pathways would have a strong technical focus, including T Levels and apprenticeships, providing a clear route into skilled employment for those not interested in pursuing university.
In 2023 Edge convened an ‘engine room’ of experts on behalf of GMCA to help design the MBacc and consider the wider issues around delivery.
