It has been forty years since the principle of selective education was largely abolished in Britain, a move reinforced by the first Blair Government in the late 1990s. No doubt the motives were well intentioned, but I question the outcomes.
Selection is not something to be ashamed of, but a reflection of the status of the individual, the fact we are all good at something, just not always the same things. The challenge is building an education system that reflects this, an education system that gives everyone the chance to be the best that they can be.
Selection has always been based on academic ability, be it grammar schools, expansion of the university system, or scholarships. This is fine and a good thing for those who are academically gifted – they should be challenged and given every opportunity – but what about everyone else?
I am proud to say that we are restoring the principle of selective education, not in a way that selects some over others, but in a way that identifies everyone’s individual skills and is selective about the best way for education to nurture and develop those skills.
This is why we have expanded apprenticeships, removed low value vocational qualifications and introduced traineeships for those struggling to hold down a job to ensure that the vocational route is every bit as rigorous and valued as the academic.
For the first time, apprenticeships will be based on standards designed by employers so that our young people have a chance of playing a central role in some of our biggest businesses and most important industries. This is particularly important for Swindon with our diverse local economy. Their quality and value will also be externally set and monitored so that young people know that their apprenticeship will count in the same way as an A-level or GCSE: recognised and valued.
It is fantastic news that we will have a University Technical College in Swindon, teaching our young people these important vocational skills.
Traineeships for 16-23 year olds will help those keen to work but who lack necessary experience. It will involve the English and maths employers say are necessary but also building transferrable skills alongside a proper work placement.
Everyone has potential. Be it being the first man on Mars, or something more down to earth we all have goals that matter to us. Education is about giving everyone the best chance to reach their goals. We can’t all be the best at everything, but we are all good at something.
We should be proud to be selective in the education we give our young people. Only the best for that individual will do and in this these reforms cannot come quickly enough.
