EXAMS in sex studies may be introduced in classrooms across Worcestershire under plans to improve the teaching of personal, social and health education.

The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority proposed the tests to improve assessment in PSHE and promote the subject's importance among teenagers.

The written tests would be on "factual" aspects of the course, such as "recognising the importance of relationships to sexual activity, marriage, parenthood and family life".

The plans come after education experts and family planning groups raised concerns over the poor quality of sex education in schools.

Ministers are also aiming to halve pregnancies among under-18s by 2010.

However, Neil Morris, headteacher at Christopher Whitehead High School, was dubious over the need for further tests in schools.

"We have an extensive Citizenship programme, which lessons timetabled each week and three days a year where experts come in to talk to the students," he said.

"These work really well and throw up some great ideas.

"There are around 72 tests when you go through high school and I just don't think you need any more."

A spokesman for the QCA said the draft guidance, which was published on its website last week, is not compulsory.

However, Education Secretary Ruth Kelly is under increasing pressure to make sex education mandatory after Ofsted condemned the standards of teaching in the subject.

PSHE also covers issues such as alcohol and drugs, careers and general health matters.