Science and TechnologyWritten evidence submitted by Carre’s Grammar Scholl, Sleaford

1. Mr Gove has embarked on a crusade for raising standards through a back to basics ideology and a traditional curriculum with the perception of tougher subjects at the heart. Nobody can argue with the sentiments. However, where I take issue is the narrow approach to what is required. Margaret Thatcher placed great importance on Technology in the education curriculum; Mr Gove does not seem to understand it or its potential. If he did the Ebac would be a little more rounded to include an element of creativity.

2. The Wolfe review on vocational education had much merit. However, the unforeseen consequence has been extremely negative on creative subjects in the curriculum. The very subjects that are required to create a manufacturing/engineering base in the UK.

3. Engineering and Design Technology, are suffering more than most. In the rush for Ebac subjects, students are being guided away from these creative and necessary subjects. If we are not careful the potential damage to this country could be devastating, and pulling back from the cliff edge will prove harder and harder the more engineering and DT curriculum is reduced.

4. It is interesting; my school has been involved in an exchange visit with a Chinese school. The exchange was with Design and Technology. The Chinese are beginning to see the value in the subject as we turn our back on it. If we move to a design and made in China scenario then the outlook for the UK is very concerning indeed.

5. We hear about the importance of the three R’s. Interesting to note that when this phrase was first muttered it referred to Reading, Wroughting and Arithmetic, the wroughting being applied education as in wrought Iron work (Engineering). How enlightened the Victorians were and look how dominant the UK was in that era. So in Mr Gove’s desire to revert to tradition he needs to go back further. Engineering and design are essential if the UK is to prosper.

6. Jonathan Ives, James Dyson, Paul Smith, Royal Academy of Engineers, Rolls Royce, JCB, Toyota UK cannot be wrong. Please listen to them. The two articles below are worth considering.

7. I am more than happy to discuss my thoughts with the committee as I am passionate about the need for creativity in the curriculum. It might be nice to hear from somebody on ground.

8. http://creative-blueprint.co.uk/thinkpieces/item/reading-wroughting-arithmetic http://ojs.lboro.ac.uk/ojs/index.php/JDTE/article/view/418

Keith Jones
Director of Faculty (Technologies, ICT and Business)