In the blueprint for secondary education in England, published on Monday, students will have to pass tests in three "core" skills needed for the workplace - literacy, maths and information and communications technology.

BBC: NEWS | UK | Northern Ireland | Exam reform may not affect NI

In England (which the OECD no longer ranks in the top ten), a third-class or even a pass bachelor's degree will suffice, along with the most basic qualifications in English and maths.

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