The watchdog has published the findings of a report into whether the current A level qualifications support progression to higher education.
The independent study, which has been chaired by Professor Mark E Smith, the vice-chancellor of Lancaster University, concludes that “the content is fit-for-purpose in two subjects, and can be made so in most others, but mathematics and further mathematics require more fundamental work”.
As such, Ofqual says that A levels in English language, English literature, the sciences, history, geography psychology, art and design, sociology, business studies, economics and computing will all be ready for first teaching from September 2015.
New A levels in mathematics and languages are being developed for first teaching in September 2016, with plans for other subjects still to be confirmed.
The A level Content Advisory Board, established by the Russell Group, is to offer guidance on subject content in mathematics and languages.
Reformed A levels will be linear with more synoptic assessment. The AS level is also to be “decoupled” from the A level. The Department for Education is to host a consultation this autumn on proposed subject content, with Ofqual hosting a consultation on regulatory arrangements.