A PROPOSED change to the way schoolchildren learn has been met with concern.

At a meeting of Worcestershire County Council's Education and Lifelong Learning Panel members discussed a Government's green paper.

The consultation document is called 14-19: Extending Opportunities, Raising Standards. It sets out plans to reform the structure and content of education.

Unveiled by the Secretary of State, Estelle Morris, last month it increases the subjects available for study and includes vocational courses to replace "traditional" subjects.

"It's quite a significant document for the council as well as the national agenda," said Colin Weeden, head of educational policy.

"The expectation is that it will increase the staying-on rate up to 19-years-old."

There would be just four core subjects from the age of 14. These are English, maths, science and information and communication technology. Vocational courses would include applied science and health and social care.

The green paper also allows brighter pupils to be on a fast-track to completing exams earlier.

But some members of the panel thought the Matriculation Diploma, was not the way forward.

"Sadly our history of education initiatives is that they don't work," said the Rev David Morphy.

"It is a sad and out-dated curriculum for our children."

The green paper has gone out for consultation across schools. The Department for Education and Skills will announce its provisional outcome in the summer.

"The key thing about education is not what you learn but how you learn to learn," said Councillor Liz Tucker. "If we're just providing the tools for the economy then we're losing the point of education."