Education Policies in the Brown Years (1997-2010): Objectives and Outcomes

International audienceAlthough Gordon Brown became Prime Minister in June 2007 only, he played a key role in New Labour education policies from the start with his role as Chancellor of the Exchequer. As Prime Minister he brought little change, with the exception of testing for 14-year-olds which was phased out in 2009. Several key issues are analysed here, such as standards, private sector intervention, social mobility with an emphasis on access to higher education, basic skills of school-leavers, apprenticeships and vocational diplomas. Progress is undeniable regarding apprenticeship schemes and standards although the latter are still contentious, as are the basic skills of school leavers and diplomas. Further research is needed on private sector intervention and it seems New Labour efforts on social mobility have so far had limited effects