AQA, one of the largest exam boards in Britain, is reportedly looking into the possibility of tailoring its assessments in order to play to the different strengths exhibited by children of different genders according to national trends.

The idea is that boys would be given the chance to take part in an increased number of seated exams, whilst girls would be given the opportunity to take on extra coursework. This move would appear to be supported by research showing boys’ preference for traditional exams and girls’ fondness for coursework.

Although some have welcomed opening a debate on the issue, others have criticised the idea because it involves stereotyping according to sex.