Top schools adopt tougher exams to replace A-levels

Almost 150 schools are poised to adopt a new sixth-form qualification designed to be tougher than A-levels.

Leading public schools including Eton, Winchester, Rugby, Charterhouse and Dulwich College will switch to the Pre-U in at least one subject from September.

Several state comprehensive and grammar schools also plan to offer the qualification amid fears A-levels no longer stretch the brighest pupils.

The Pre-U comprises three subjects and an extended research project on a global theme. Subjects can also be taken on their own, allowing pupils to mix and match with A-levels.

The Pre-U's top grade will recognise a higher standard of achievement than even an A* at A-level, a new grade being added in 2010.

Cambridge International Examinations, the board offering the Pre-U, said almost 50 schools - 35 of them fee-paying and 15 state - would offer the qualification in at least one subject from September.

A further 100 schools are preparing to offer it in the next two to three years, the board said.