Unit 3 - Section B: Education - THEORETICAL EXPLANATIONS - New Right

Question 1

RAISING STANDARDS TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THE ECONOMY

Answer 1

Apprenticeships = David Cameron - millions of pounds invested, to raise standards for those who weren’t achieving in ‘mainstream’ education (Vocationalism).

Question 2

CONSERVATIVE POLICIES:

FREE SCHOOLS

Answer 2

Free schools: Coalition Government (Conservative/Liberal Democrats). Government funded schools introduced in ‘area they are needed’ - Gov.uk. This promotes a parentocracy in parents (business, charities, etc) set up meaning they have a say in how they are governed. Grammar schools: Eutist form of education, have to sit 11+ tests which is a unique form of testing (tutor paid for) to gain a place, high quality education.

Question 3

NATIONAL CURRICULUM

Answer 3

The Conservative party brought back Linear A Level in 2016/17. This aimed to implement rigorous testing - assessed at the end of two years of study rather than a modular approach under Curriculum 2000 (introduced by Labour). This was to promote competition and raise standards. The Coalition party in 2014 (Gove) mass implemented in 2016/17 - differentiation of students in regards to ability. Meritocracy (achieving a 9 - A/A*) promotes standards and competition.

Question 4

LEAGUE TABLES

Answer 4

Competition in schools can be damaging to educational experiences as schools are likely to strive for best success in league tables, placing great importance on test results without regard for the consequences or the quality of educational experience that may suffer.