2 June 2014: Despite the significant changes in Government policy, schools appear to be increasingly positive in their outlook, a recent survey has revealed.
The British Educational Suppliers Association’s (BESA) findings come from its recent survey into the opinions and trends of senior leadership teams on funding and curriculum change. The ‘Strategic and Curriculum Change’ research provides analysis into the current affect that the curriculum is having on decision making and resourcing in UK state schools.
The survey of 581 UK schools (308 primary, 273 secondary) which was conducted in May 2014, found an increasingly positive view about the recent policy changes as it impacts on resources, with just 37 per cent showing a negative view compared with 68 per cent in 2013.
The findings also revealed a greater focus on reporting and assessment due to the changes in Ofsted inspection arrangements. 76 per cent of primary schools (70 per cent authority, 92 per cent academy) and 75 per cent of secondary schools (66 per cent authority, 87 per cent academy) are increasing their focus on Pupil Premium reporting.
In terms of assessment as a whole, the survey also highlighted that although summative assessment continues to be of importance (62 per cent) there is a shift towards formative assessment (79 per cent). End of lesson assessment also remains important (73 per cent). Another area of increasing focus due to Ofsted inspections across all schools is continuing professional development and training, with a significant 61 per cent increase in focus.
When it comes to those who shape schools’ investment we also start to see another trend forming, with external advisors having less influence on procurement decisions and governors, bursars, senior leadership teams, and to a certain extent, classroom teachers having a greater level of responsibility.
Caroline Wright, director, BESA said, “Although the research comes at a time of significant change the results indicate a positive approach by educators. Over the majority of areas there is a less negative view of the changes and their impact on resourcing in schools. In terms of a long-term trend this is very typical of the education sector; after a few years of concern it has worked hard to establish an effective structure to support the recent curriculum and assessment changes.”
BESA members can access the full report thorough the member’s page of the www.besa.org.ukwebsite. The report is available for purchase by non-members by contacting BESA atrlevene@besa.org.uk
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About BESA
BESA, the British Educational Suppliers Association, is the trade association representing over 300 educational suppliers in the UK, including manufacturers and distributors of equipment, materials, books, consumables, furniture, technology, ICT hardware and digital-content related services to the education market.
With 79 years of experience, BESA offers unparalleled support, research, events and advice on both UK and International markets, and the future of the education supplies industry. BESA is focused on promoting and providing support and advice to their members, the industry and to schools.
BESA has a Code of Practice to which all members must adhere, along with a stringent membership process, both of which assure buyers of a high standard of quality in both product and customer service.
For more information, please visit www.besa.org.uk.
For further press information contact:
Sue Murray
Mango Marketing
T: 01932 829 077
E: sue.murray@mangomarketing.com
For information from BESA contact:
Caroline Wright
BESA
T: 020 7537 4997
