14-19 Curriculum 14-19 Curriculum Conference FeedbackConference Feedback

Best Practice in Vocational and Work-Best Practice in Vocational and Work-Related Teaching and LearningRelated Teaching and Learning

• Educational Case

• “broad balanced curriculum”

• “that prepares pupils for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of adult life”

• “enabling progression and retaining young people in learning”

• The case for lifelong learning

Best Practice in Vocational and Work-Best Practice in Vocational and Work-Related Teaching and LearningRelated Teaching and Learning

• The Economic case• Needs of the economy• Needs of industry• “employability” of all young people• Current and emerging practice in the workplace• Responding to a fast changing society and

employment• Do GCSE’s do this?

Change in PolicyChange in Policy

• “an educational system that will deliver the technical and vocational skills of an advanced economy”

• “a curriculum that better meets the needs of that economy”

• “responding to the needs, interests and aspirations of young people”

• “education with character and diversity”• “the norm will be for most young people to take a

vocational course with a broad and balanced curriculum”• “improving retention and progression”• D. Blunkett Feb 2001

14-19 Proposals14-19 Proposals

• Predominantly vocational programs

• More approved vocational programs

• Statutory requirement for WRL

• Entitlement to enterprise education

• Integrated approach to personal learning development

OFSTED on New GCSE’sOFSTED on New GCSE’s

• Learners positive• High quality work from

learners with modest prior attainment

• Most teachers enthusiastic

• Some good examples of links with business

• Good or better teaching in 40% of lessons

• Targeted at lower achievers

• Vocational relevance the most challenging issue to overcome

• Weak links with business• More support needed in

understanding the assessment scheme

• 25% unsatisfactory teaching (50% in L&T)

The Perfect School 1?The Perfect School 1?

• Independent specialist• Extended or federated • Partnered with a range of other providers• Managing own assets/employing own staff• 3 Year budget linked to SIP and pupil members• Working in partnership with parents and the

coimmunity• Aware of the impact of skill trends and gaps in

provision• Participating in local HE partnerships

The Perfect School 2?The Perfect School 2?

• Increasingly providing assessment on demand• At least 60% of 16 year olds gain good GCSE’s• Minimal truancy 100% Staying on rate(?)• Every young person is engaged in positive

activities outside school• Enhancing greater take up of sporting activities

in school• Reducing child obesity and teenage pregnancy• In other words “Every child matters”

Key questions 1Key questions 1

• What is the point of a vocational course that does not provide learners with the skills for success in the vocational sector?

• How will employers value vocational qualifications if young people with them are unemployable?

Key Questions 2Key Questions 2

• Is education primarily about;• Preserving the past or preparing for the

future?• Preparation for university or preparation

for life?• Success in examinations or success in

life?• Preserving credibility of the system or

increasing inclusion and progression

Key Questions 3Key Questions 3

• Who have you enlisted the help of most often in your life

• A Builder?

• A Solicitor?

• A Car Mechanic?

• An Architect?

• A Hairdresser?