Unit 3 - Section B: Education - THEORETICAL EXPLANATIONS - Social Democratic

Question 1

EQUALITY OF OPPORTUNITY

Answer 1

The social democratic approach is more concerned with shaping government policy to ensure everyone has an equal opportunity of success. Heavily influenced government educational policies. Meritocracy is desirable - to allocate those who are most able to the most important positions in society, regardless of gender/ethnicity/class, etc. However, social democrats argue existing education is failing. They believe that equality for opportunity is possible within the boundaries of a capitalist society - policies supported that try to redress the balance and compensatory education measures that enable everyone to participate and have equal chances of success.

Question 2

Halsey

Answer 2

Middle class children were more likely to get places in grammar schools, and thus from a social democratic approach believed that a new system should be implemented to provide greater equality of opportunity (comprehensives were introduced in the 1960s to replace the tripartite system which was seen to disadvantage working class students. Students would have sat 11+ tests, 3 different types depending on results: Well (UC/MC) = Grammar. Mid = Secondary Modern (MC). Bad = Technical (WC).

Question 3

LABOUR POLICIES (COMPENSATORY EDUCATION): 
EMA

Answer 3

‘Education Maintenance Allowance’ - additional fundings for FE (further education) students. Students could have up to £30 a week, depending on their background at home. £21,000 a year - available to many. The money was supposed to be spent on transport, trips, tutors, textbooks, however some spent the money recklessly (cash in hand) was given.

Question 4

LABOUR POLICIES (COMPENSATORY EDUCATION): SURE START

Answer 4

Even today, there are sure start centres, as it was a key success of the Labour Party (Tony Blair). Centres set up to ‘sure start’ in education for children from most deprived backgrounds (Newborn to 5 year olds). Children in care/adopted/fostered - potential developing issues. Time, money, support given to advance these children to reach the same level as others when they reach school age.

Question 5

LABOUR POLICIES (COMPENSATORY EDUCATION): CITY ACADEMIES

Answer 5

Original form of an academy - opportunity for failing schools to apply for academy status. Access to additional funding from local sponsors - wanting to invest in the local community. Impact children and to regenerate deprived areas.