OCR is helping teachers at schools and colleges around the country prepare for new style A Levels which will be taught from next year.

A brochure has been sent to 50,000 heads of departments and exams officers explaining the changes and providing a timeline of key dates over the next few years.

Research by OCR shows that the primary concern for 85 per cent of teachers is understanding and keeping abreast of the changes.

Draft specifications, which will be available to teachers by the end of the month, are being written to support new criteria announced by the QCA (Qualifications and Curriculum Authority) and will be taught from September 2008.

"We're working closely with heads of department and exams officers to prepare them for the changes ahead and offer continued support throughout the transition" said Clara Kenyon, Director at OCR.