The Government is introducing a new foundation qualification in English and maths for young people who do not achieve a grade four in their GCSEs. Education secretary Lucy Powell said almost a third of students currently miss this benchmark, which can restrict access to employment, apprenticeships and further education. Until now, many have been required to resit their GCSEs repeatedly, despite only around one in five subsequently passing. Powell described this as a damaging 'treadmill of failures' that can undermine young people’s confidence and opportunities. The new Level 1 qualification will provide a stepping stone towards GCSE-level achievement while demonstrating practical literacy and numeracy skills to employers. Ministers hope it will particularly improve access to apprenticeships and vocational careers. The announcement coincides with GCSE results day, when students in England can access their results digitally through the new Education Record app. The government says it wants every young person to have worthwhile academic, vocational, technical or creative routes into further education and employment.