In a debate recently in the Senedd we discussed the success to date of the Welsh Baccalaureate. The qualification is now recognised by universities and employers. We should be rightly proud of this ‘made in Wales’ qualification which gives students a broader education than more traditional options as it includes vocational as well as academic elements.

Now that we have seen that the Welsh Baccalaureate is a success, it is time to look at expanding and extending the qualification along the lines of the International Baccalaureate. In the long term I would like to see the Welsh baccalaureate developed so that it can be an alternative to GCSEs and A levels as opposed to just running alongside them.

I believe that this will provide a qualification that will equip students with the skills necessary for success in the modern world.