New Labour's educational agenda: issues and policies for education and training from 14+

New Labour was elected to govern the United Kingdom in 1997 with education as its central mission. This monograph explores the key points of New Labour's educational agenda as it approaches a second term in office. The study offers a detailed analysis and criticism of the Government's policies for 14+ education and training. It assesses the extent to which New Labour has met its objectives and what has yet to be achieved. Based on interviews with ministers, policy advisors and government officials, the authors describe established and developing policies for education and training. Key issues include how the `Third Way' translates to education and training policy, the impact of the Conservative government's policy on education and training, a critical assessment of the New Labour's strategy, and recommendations for future policy. It is suggested that New Labour, having dealt with the Conservative legacy in education and training policy, now needs to define its own agenda in preparation for a second term of office. The analysis provides a comprehensive overview of emerging policies and recommendations for the future, and highlights the concerns of the different stakeholders involved in education research, policy and practice.

New Labour was elected to govern the United Kingdom in 1997 with education as its central mission. This monograph explores the key points of New Labour's educational agenda as it approaches a second term in office. The study offers a detailed analysis and criticism of the Government's policies for 14+ education and training. It assesses the extent to which New Labour has met its objectives and what has yet to be achieved. Based on interviews with ministers, policy advisors and government officials, the authors describe established and developing policies for education and ...  [+] Show more