Labour Conference: Ministers explore future of education with OCR and Cambridge

Government minister Cath McKinnell joined OCR Chief Executive Jill Duffy on the panel for a discussion of the future of 11-16 education, at Labour Party conference at the ACC Liverpool on Monday. 

The event, organised by OCR and Cambridge University Press & Assessment with the Education Policy Institute (EPI), also featured former Education Secretary Charles Clarke, Chief Executive of EPI Natalie Perera, and Chief Executive of Education South West Matthew Shanks. 

It comes after the recent release of Striking the Balance, OCR’s thorough review of 11-16 curriculum and assessment in England, chaired by Charles Clarke. 

The discussion was a chance to reflect on the findings of that review and look to the future, as the government undertakes its own curriculum and assessment review. 

Education reform, particularly of the 11-16 period, is viewed as a high priority for stakeholders across the sector, as demonstrated by the widespread support for Striking the Balance in September, and the discussions over what should be included in the government’s review. This was reflected in the high level of interest in the event, which was standing room only. 

The audience, including representatives from education unions, publishing organisations, and health charities, was engaged and after a discussion between panel members there were a number of questions from the floor. 

Questions ranged from topics including food education, religious education, working experience, and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Minister for Schools Standards Catherine McKinnell told the event that the government was: “very focused on creating an inclusive education system that ensures every child can thrive, and that educational needs and disabilities are nurtured.”

Jill Duffy, OCR Chief Executive said: “Improving a complex and interconnected education system is no small feat. So it was really positive to see so many people at our event and across the conference schedule, taking an active interest in this issue. I hope the discussion generates some useful ideas for the government’s vital curriculum and assessment review.”

“Thanks to Cath McKinnell and all of our panel members, and also to our audience who provided us with a lot to discuss and think about.” 

OCR and Cambridge expertise on 11-16 curriculum and assessment reform and on the impact of Covid in schools was cited and praised during other fringe events at the conference. 

Next week, Cambridge and OCR experts will attend the Conservative Party Conference, engaging with opposition figures on the future of education.