Can comprehensive schools force a student to sit GCSE exam if the want to?

No, in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, a comprehensive school cannot *force* a student to sit a GCSE exam if the student doesn't want to. While schools strongly encourage students to take GCSEs, compulsory education only extends to a certain age (16 in most cases), and students have the right to choose which subjects, if any, they wish to pursue beyond the required curriculum. A student can choose to leave school at the legal leaving age without taking GCSEs.

However, there are some nuances:

* School policies: Schools may have internal policies that link GCSE entries to continued attendance or participation in certain programs. These policies cannot *force* an exam entry, but might influence a student's options within the school.

* Parental involvement: Parents generally have a significant say in their child's education, particularly at younger ages. While they can't force a child to sit an exam against their will, they can strongly encourage it.

* Legal requirements: While GCSEs aren't legally required for all students beyond the compulsory schooling age, some vocational pathways or future education options might require specific qualifications, making GCSEs practically necessary.

In short, while schools exert influence, they cannot compel a student to sit a GCSE exam against their will. The ultimate decision rests with the student (and their parents, where relevant, depending on the student's age).