AN INQUIRY into how much people in Wales understand the Welsh Baccalaureate has been launched by a committee led by a Gwent AM.

The Welsh Assembly's Children, Young People and Education Committee has opened the inquiry into the qualification, following concerns some universities, including Oxford, will not accept it as equivalent to an A-level.

Although the Welsh Bacc is currently optional for 16 to 19-year-olds, the Welsh Government wants all schools to offer it.

Committee chairwoman Torfaen AM Lynne Neagle said: “The Welsh Baccalaureate is a key part of the Welsh Government’s education strategy and is designed to help young people secure higher education study or have the personal skills needed to be job-ready when they enter the employment market.

“But we want to know if it delivers these aims, and how much people understand about the Welsh Bacc, what it means for learners, parents, schools, colleges, universities and employers.

“I would encourage anyone who has either completed the Welsh Bacc, is currently undertaking it or who delivers it to contribute to our inquiry and help to inform our recommendations.”

For more information call 0300 200 6565 or email SeneddCYPE@assembly.wales