Teachers warn exam change will ruin children's education

Education Secretary Michael Gove revealed plans last year to replace the qualification with new English baccalaureates, starting in 2015.

But nearly 100 groups put their names to a letter stating that the proposals have not been thought through and are being rushed into place.

They want a meeting with Prime Minister David Cameron and his deputy Nick Clegg to discuss the changes.

The letter calls for exams that make sure pupils get "a rigorous, broad and balanced curriculum. We do not believe the current proposals will do that."

It also criticises the second-class treatment of sport and creative and vocational subjects.

"These reforms will jeopardise our children's education and undermine the economic and cultural health of our nation."

They want a slow-down so that many more people can have their say.

The government currently plans to introduce the baccalaureates in English, maths and science in autumn 2015, with the first exams in 2017.

A consultation on the plans closed in December.

The Department for Education said: "The core academic subjects most valued by universities and employers will make up the baccalaureates.

"Schools will be able to continue to offer qualifications in other valuable creative or vocational subjects."