A survey has suggested that schools are failing to teach children the "three Rs". Its findings reveal that 42% of employers were unhappy with reading, writing and numeracy skills of those who work for them. Communication and team-working skills were also cited as in need of improvement.

There are already proposals to improve the basics and make GCSEs more difficult, according to the Department of Education. It has been suggested that by 2008, league tables will be altered to measure schools performances in English and Maths rather than all subjects, as is current practice.

Government spokesman, John Dunford said: "I do think that schools have become aware that they are needing to put more emphasis on achievements in basic maths and English. but schools now have a wider responsibility in preparing pupils for life and are expected to teach broader skills than just the 'three Rs'."

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