Policy Hub
On 7 October 2008, the House of Commons Public Accounts Committee (PAC) published a report which examines the government’s 14-19 education reform programme on the basis of evidence from the Department for Children, Schools and Families.
The 14-19 education reform programme aims to increase young people's participation in education and training beyond age 16 and to raise their educational attainment. Central to the programme are new diploma qualifications in 14 different occupational areas that offer a blend of academic and vocational learning.
The report notes that there is still much work to be done to convince parents, employers and universities that diplomas are a credible alternative to existing qualifications. To help make the qualifications more understandable, it argues that the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) and its partners need to demonstrate clearly how diplomas will help young people progress into further learning and employment.
To provide good quality opportunities for young people across the full range of diplomas, the report insists that local providers of education and training must collaborate closely; for example, to share the expertise and facilities relevant to occupational skills such as engineering and construction.
Preparations to deliver diplomas are being undertaken at a local level by consortia of schools, colleges and others, led by local authorities. At present, some consortia are much further ahead than others. The report contends that less well advanced consortia will need additional assistance if they are to be able to offer diplomas in later years. In particular, they will need to secure good quality facilities, make it easier for local employers to get involved, and support teaching staff to gain the requisite skills and knowledge.
Preparing to deliver the 14-19 education reforms in England (PDF)