The innocently titled Education Reform Act of 1988 — with the introduction of the National Curriculum, the setting up of Ofsted, the mandating of national tests at ages 7, 11 and 14, the delegation to schools of own budgets, and the options for parents to specify a school of their choice — was truly revolutionary. Twenty five years on, the approach to state education in England that it set out — standards, freedom and choice – still marks the way in which schools are overseen and held accountable.
We are delighted to host the launch of a new publication, edited by Wild Search, celebrating a quarter century since the Act’s passing. The panel discussion will cover the history behind the Act’s development, its impact on schools and discuss how the Act still influences education today.
SPEAKERS:
Neil Carmichael MP, Member of the Education Select Committee
Nick Stuart, Former civil servant who spent time as a private secretary to successive prime ministers from 1973 – 1976, and was Deputy Secretary (Schools) during the passage of the Act,
Martin Stephen, Former High Master of St. Paul’s School who has spent over 40 years in education, and was working in schools at the time of the Act’s intoduction
(CHAIR) Jonathan Simons, Head of Education, Policy Exchange