ASCL's John Dunford to review children's commissioner role

By Janaki Mahadevan Monday, 12 July 2010

General secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) John Dunford has been asked to conduct an independent review of the office, role and functions of the children's commissioner for England.

In a statement released today, Education Secretary Michael Gove said he has asked Dunford to carry out the review as the role and remit of the commissioner have not been examined since the position was created, more than five years ago.

Gove added that there is a continuing debate about how the remit of the post should compare to that of its counterparts in other countries, including the devolved administrations.

In the statement, Gove said: "The government is committed to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and believes it is vital that children and young people have a strong, independent advocate to champion their interests and views and to promote their rights.

"The role of children’s commissioner for England was created by the Children Act 2004, with a remit to promote awareness of the views and interests of children in England. I would like to acknowledge the work that the current commissioner, and her predecessor, have done to this end to make the voices of children and young people heard."

Although Dunford alone is reponsible for determining how the review is conducted, Gove has asked him to ensure a broad spectrum of opinions are considered, including the views of children and young people.

The review will focus on the powers, remit and functions of the children’s commissioner, the relationship with other government-related functions and value for money.

The full report and recommendation will be submitted to Gove by the end of November for consideration, which may include the possibility of legislative change.

Launching his call for evidence, Dunford said: "I look forward to leading this important review into the role and functions of the children’s commissioner. I will be looking with an open mind at the best way to give young people a voice and protect their rights. That is why it is important that I talk to young people themselves to hear their views about the best way to represent them.

"I will also be talking to a wide range of children’s groups, people working in education and children’s services, and looking at successful practices in other countries."