Demos has warned ministers against introducing a "son of the Gold standard" to replace the A Level.

In a report issued on Friday, the think tank warned that the current system is too focused on university admissions procedures and not on the actual education attainment of pupils.

Forum Response: Association of Teachers and Lecturers

Gwen Evans, deputy general secretary of ATL, said: ""Demos has highlighted a key issue in the current scramble for HE places. ATL members have reported that they are under pressure to use 'battery production methods', teaching to the mark scheme rather than teaching for understanding.

"That is one of the reasons why ATL is running its current Teaching to learn campaign.

"We look forward to a thoughtful response from Vice-Chancellors since our members are very well aware that the existing system is coming towards the end of its useful life. Demos has started a debate which raises important issues. There are no easy answers but it is certainly time to start the debate."

Forum Response: Professional Association of Teachers

Jean Gemmell, general secretary of PAT, said: "The debate on the future of A Levels must be considered and measured and all the options pursued. This is just one possible option, and there would certainly be merit in a system that would allow a more accurate and ongoing assessment of students' abilities.

"PAT has always advocated the need for a broader, more flexible curriculum that can develop the skills and meet the needs of all pupils. We would certainly like to see fewer exams, as students are currently over-tested.

"There would also be considerable advantages in a system that allowed students to apply to university once they knew their A Level grades, rather than before.

"Schools, students and parents do not need knee-jerk reactions, and the education secretary must resist pressures for quick-fix measures to scrap the current system in favour of something else.

"There is already an alternative system - the International Baccalaureate - that schools can use if they so wish, and PAT is following with interest the pilot Welsh Baccalaureate scheme.

"PAT will participate fully in consultations on the future of post-16 education."