THE introduction of the AS and A level system nearly a decade ago was poorly planned and flawed and implemented far too quickly.

I envisage an A-Level system where mathematics, English Literature and a modern foreign language were compulsory and then the pupil would be free to choose two additional subjects.

If pupils have aspirations to study for an academic tier of A-Levels under my system, they will be forced to respond to the incentive of developing a rounded set of skills and knowledge on entry into the high school system.

I hear the groans regarding compulsory mathematics, but the less mathematically-orientated child could choose a statistics option where the application of probability to real-life problems, investigation of variable dependence and variable dispersion (eg standard deviation) could be appreciated (statistics is an incredibly useful and practical discipline).

The system is flexible. I would have studied English Literature, mathematics (with statistics), German, economics and French, whereas my mother, who is arts orientated, would probably have chosen French, history and Latin.

The educational objective of ensuring that pupils develop sound literacy and numeracy is achieved and just watch our economic growth accelerate.

IAN ROBLIN South Rise Llanishen Cardiff