Education policy
Simon Binns
Monday, January 25, 2010
I would make sure that young people were consulted every step of the way. At the moment, MPs make decisions that affect every person up to the age of 18, but those who are spending the vast majority of their time at school, college or in employer-based learning aren't asked what changes they would like to see or how their education could be altered to suit their needs.
I would make sure that the UK's education system is flexible enough to nurture everyone's talents, concentrating on letting young people find out what they flourish in rather than focusing on areas of weakness.
I would have less teaching to test and league tables, and more engaged, fulfilled students looking forward to promising careers.
Young people will only discover their strengths if they are given access to a broad curriculum that provides more practical and vocational learning alongside academic study, reflecting the fact that not everyone is academic. I would want all young people to feel excited about their education.
Simon Binns is on the Edge Learner Forum team. To have your say on the education system, visit www.edge.co.uk/haveyoursay
Do you know a child or young person who could tell adults a thing or two? Email ross.watson@haymarket.com or call him on 020 8267 4703
