Education and Inspections Bill: why all the fuss?

28 February 2006

Commenting on the publication of the Education and Inspections Bill, the Institute of Directors (IoD) welcomed some of its provisions but queried the associated rhetoric and hullabaloo. Richard Wilson, Head of Business Policy, said:

“The proposals in the Government’s White Paper may have been billed as ‘pivotal’ and sparked high-octane debate, but we should be clear that this Bill is largely evolutionary rather than revolutionary. It is none the worse for that.

“IoD members support giving greater autonomy to schools. We welcome Trust schools as a vehicle for promoting flexibility and collaborating with external organisations. Eight per cent of IoD members already sponsor specialist schools and city academies.”

He continued:

“Ultimately, the evolutionary reforms of the Bill should not distract attention from the Government’s pressing priority: to raise standards of literacy and numeracy. Only 45% of pupils got five or more A*-C GCSEs including English and mathematics in 2004/05, whilst only 57% of 11 year olds achieved the standard expected for their age in the Key Stage 2 reading, writing and maths tests. Improving this level of attainment must remain the key focus.”

Responding to other provisions within the Bill, Richard Wilson said:

“The Government is absolutely right to clamp down on failing schools and pupil indiscipline.  However, the necessity for the new specialised Diplomas is less clear. Most IoD members still value GCSEs and A levels and at the time of their announcement in last year’s White Paper,  there was no obvious evidence of employer demand for Diplomas. This is an obvious worry – qualifications will only be valued by employers if they meet their needs; they are far less likely to be successful if their development is driven by the desire of government ministers.”

The Bill also provides for the creation of the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills. This body – essentially a revamped Ofsted – will absorb a number of inspectorates, including the Adult Learning Inspectorate. It is vital that the new inspectorate pays due attention to adult learning and training.