A leading teacher educator at the University of Worcester, is urging the public, teachers and young people to take part in the Government’s consultation on the proposed Natural History GCSE, as the qualification moves a significant step closer to becoming a reality.
The Department for Education has launched a 12-week consultation on the content of the new GCSE, which will cover topics including UK habitats and wildlife, human impact on the environment, biodiversity, conservation and climate change, alongside a strong emphasis on hands-on fieldwork.
Elena Lengthorn, University Lead Mentor for PGCE Geography, who has played a key role in shaping the qualification as part of national advisory panels, said the consultation is a crucial opportunity to ensure the GCSE delivers maximum impact.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape a qualification that could transform how young people engage with the natural world’” she said. “I strongly encourage teachers, students, parents and anyone with an interest in nature to take part in the consultation and have their say.”
She continued: “The Natural History GCSE has been a long time coming, and it’s vital that we get it right. The voices of educators and communities will help ensure it is relevant, inclusive and inspiring for all learners.”
The new qualification has already attracted high-profile support. Naturalist, explorer and broadcaster Steve Backshall has endorsed the GCSE, describing it as something that could spark a lifelong sense of discovery in young people and equip them to tackle challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss.
The initiative has also been backed by leaders in science and conservation, including the Director of the Natural History Museum, who highlighted the strong demand among young people to learn more about nature and the importance of equipping them with the knowledge and skills to protect it.
Elena, who is also a Fellow of the National Association for Environmental Education, emphasised that this growing support reflects the urgency of strengthening environmental education.
“It’s incredibly encouraging to see such strong backing from leading figures in science, education and conservation,” she said. “It shows just how important this qualification is – not just for education, but for the future of our planet.”
She added that the GCSE could play a vital role in supporting future careers: “This qualification will not only deepen understanding of the natural world but also develop practical and analytical skills that are essential for the fast-growing green economy. It has the potential to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders.”
The Government has made clear that the GCSE is designed to help prepare young people for careers in sustainable sectors, which are experiencing significant growth, while also fostering a stronger connection with nature through real-world learning.
Elena concluded: “We have a real opportunity here to embed nature connectedness into education at a critical time for our environment. I would urge everyone to engage with the consultation and help shape a GCSE that can inspire, educate and empower young people for years to come.”
The consultation is now open and welcomes responses from across the education sector and wider public.