According to Chris Skidmore and Neil Carmichael, if we do not reform our education system, we will be letting down future generations of today’s learners.

It is clear indeed that reform is not only necessary, it is essential if we are to ensure that pupils are equipped with the knowledge and skills for the twenty-first century.

In particular, rebalancing the economy with a focus on engineering and manufacturing requires higher standards in the STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). Some experts have noted the need for a solid academic record for all pupils, including those interested in vocational qualifications, and universities are expressing interest in having a stronger role examination setting and shaping the content of courses, especially in sciences.

Furthermore, we are in a global race, in which the qualifications of the twentieth century will no longer equip us with the necessary skills and knowledge needed for the modern world. This means that we not only need to look outwards, to emulate the countries that are powering ahead, fuelled by a rigorous education system that will not accept second best.

In a nut shell, we must recognise that if we do not reform our education system, we will be letting down future generations of pupils who will be competing in this modern, international world. This is why we need reform, and why it is wrong to bow down to the forces of educational conservatism.

Christopher James Skidmore FRHistS FSA is a British politician, author and historian. Skidmore serves as the Conservative Member of Parliament for Kingswood, Gloucestershire and, since 2015, as PPS to the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

William Neil Carmichael is an English Conservative Party politician. He has been the Member of Parliament for the Stroud constituency in Gloucestershire since the 2010 general election.

By: Mr. Rolando T. Limua | Head Teacher III | MNHS – Poblacion