The betrayal of our children continues...

The latest fad from the Department for Education and Skills (DfES) is to introduce a new beauty diploma that studies ancient Egyptian make-up, hairstyles in society and cuticle care as a substitute for traditional GCSEs in history, geography and the sciences.

The diploma, one of 14 work-related courses to be introduced in secondary schools by the end of the decade, will count for either six GCSEs or three A-levels, depending on the level at which it is taken. There will be little time left for any other qualification beyond the core subjects of English, maths and information and communication technology.

Thousands of pupils taking the diplomas will, in effect, drop subjects such as modern languages, history, geography, science, design and technology and art, or study elements of them through the diploma.

A spokesman for the DfES defended the diplomas and said that their strength lay in the involvement of leading employers in their design.

"Accusations that the hair and beauty diploma content is in some way ‘dumbed down’ are as predictable as they are incorrect," she said. "The diploma will give students a broad and robust education that introduces them to the range of skills and experiences they need for work. It is a highly practical course.

"Students can elect to study optional subjects such as history just as every other student chooses optional subjects."

How can history be optional? How can ignorance of what makes and made this country great ever be optional?

(with Julie Henry)