One in, one out rule for education policy
An old education policy should be removed for every new one that is instigated, the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) has said.
Additionally, policies should not aim to “describe every detail”, ASCL general secretary John Dunford said, but rather set out a framework for teachers to work in.
“The role of education policy is not to micromanage, but to create a climate in which leaders and teachers can thrive,” he told attendees at the association’s annual conference.
“No policy should be introduced without a reality check on implementation. No policy should be introduced without examining its effect on other policies. And no policy should be introduced unless another one is removed.”
The ASCL also expressed concerned over the new 14 to 19 specialised diplomas, which Mr Dunford described as too complex and “an expensive option”.
To make them a success, the ASCL said they must be offered by both maintained and independent schools and recognised by all universities.
The new diplomas are part of a massive overhaul of England’s exam system, but education secretary Alan Johnson has warned the ASCL conference the reform could go “horribly wrong” unless the diplomas are seen to have the same status as GSCEs and A-levels.
