Highlights of the week ending 22 January 2021
The week began with the monthly quizzing of ministers by MPs – topics ranged from exams, to school meals, to remote education.Ìý
The situation in schools continues to be a top story withÌýGavin WilliamsonÌýhoping schools in England will open before Easter (No.10 refused to commit on this), theÌýChief Medical OfficerÌýbelieving reopening will be phased, and stats showing higher rates of infection in teachers and support staff than in the general public.Ìý
OfqualÌýhas published its response to the ongoingÌýreview of Level 3 qualifications, warning against destabilising the qualifications market and adversely narrowing student choice. The review forms part of the government’s drive to improve the standing of Further Education and to develop the workforce of the future. This was laid out in theÌýSkills for Jobs White Paper. Reaction has been mixed, with the recognition of the sector welcomed but some saying proposals don’t go far enough.
We also saw anÌýinterim response to the Augar review of HE financeÌý(status quo until the next Comprehensive Spending Review), and consultation onÌýPost Qualification Admissions, and the publication of the review into theÌýTeaching and Excellence Framework.
Although this week’s slew of policy papers from government might not go as far, or as quickly, as some might have wanted or expected, they do at least reiterate a commitment to progress and reform.