The British government has unveiled the most comprehensive overhaul of the national education system in over a decade, introducing significant changes aimed at reducing exam stress, improving digital literacy, and preparing students for a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Under the new framework, General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) exam time will be reduced by up to three hours per student, representing a 10% cut in Key Stage 4 assessment volume. In addition, Year 8 students will undergo new standardized tests in mathematics and English to identify learning gaps earlier in their academic journey.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson described the reforms as a “bold step” toward balancing academic rigor with mental health and future-readiness. “The current system is excessive,” Phillipson said. “We’re easing that while building skills for a digital world.”

Among the most notable additions to the curriculum are mandatory lessons in primary schools focused on identifying misinformation, understanding artificial intelligence ethics, and financial literacy. Post-16 students will be required to complete modules in data science and AI, while triple science GCSEs will become standard across secondary schools. An “oracy framework” will also be introduced to promote public speaking and communication skills, and schools will be mandated to provide access to sports and arts programs.

The reforms are based on a Labour-commissioned review and are scheduled for implementation beginning in 2027. The review is the first major evaluation of the UK education system since 2015 and comes in response to rising concerns over student wellbeing, including a 20% increase in exam-related distress cases reported in 2023 and a 34% youth anxiety rate.

While education unions such as the National Education Union have welcomed the reduction in workload, some educators have expressed concern over the introduction of additional testing. Anjum Peerbacos, a former teacher, warned that the Year 8 assessments could contribute to an “exam factory” culture and exacerbate mental health challenges among students.

The Department for Education has pledged to support schools through the transition, though funding and implementation logistics remain key concerns among stakeholders.