Education Policy Evolution: From Tripartite to Neo-Liberal Reforms

The Tripartite System

Introduced in 1944, had two main types of secondary school (grammar and secondary modern) with selection by the 11+ exam.

Grammar School

Most middle-class pupils attended the grammar school.

Secondary Modern School

Most working-class pupils attended the secondary modern.

The Comprehensive System

Introduced in 1965, abolished the 11+ and all pupils attended the same local comprehensive school.

Marketisation Policies

Policies that encourage competition among schools.

League Tables

Schools with good results encourage the best (usually middle-class pupils).

Funding Formula

Schools are funded on how many pupils they recruit, so good schools get more money.

New Labour Policies 1997 - 2010

Aimed to reduce inequality in education by introducing various initiatives.

Education Action Zones

One of the initiatives introduced by New Labour to reduce educational inequality.

Aim Higher Programmes

Programs introduced by New Labour to encourage higher education participation.

Education Maintenance Allowance

Financial support for poorer 16-18-year-olds introduced by New Labour.

Conservative Policies Post 2010

Reflected neo-liberal thinking about reducing the role of the state.

Academies

Schools encouraged to become academies, some funded by privately-owned chains.

Free Schools

State-funded but set up and run by parents, teachers, religious groups, or businesses.

Spending Cuts

Cuts in government spending on education in areas such as Sure Start and EMA.

Grammar Schools Reintroduction

Parliament has discussed the reintroduction of grammar schools.