Think piece: What we need is a new middle tier

2nd August, 2024

Read Jonathan’s think piece: ‘What we need is a new middle tier’ here.

Key points from this think piece are outlined in an article published in Schools Week.

This think piece presents a vision for a more collaborative and locally-driven solution that leverages the strengths of Combined Authorities (CAs) to address current and future challenges facing the UK’s education system, emphasising the need for a kind of ‘middle tier’. It argues that as no major restructuring is planned, this is the only way to tackle a fragmented system and achieve a much better use of resources.

The education system is struggling with recruitment and retention crises, declining pupil attendance, an overwhelmed SEND system, inadequate school buildings, and financial instability among many Local Authorities (LAs). The think piece advocates for the empowerment of CAs to address these issues effectively. CAs have the potential to bridge the gap between central oversight and local needs, drawing from successful international education models.

Emphasising local collaboration, the think piece suggests that CAs, LAs, and School-Led Partnerships can work together. Priorities are likely to include improving school inclusion (SEND and attendance), initiatives for professional development, and school improvement.

A gradual devolution of power from the Department for Education (DfE) to local bodies is proposed, enabling them to make more informed and effective decisions. This includes establishing strategic governing boards within CAs to oversee education initiatives. Drawing on examples from Greater Manchester, North of Tyne, and other regions, the think piece illustrates how local partnerships can address specific challenges like attendance and support for students with SEND.

Finally, the think piece calls for an arms-length body to coach, support, challenge, spread best practices, and set success criteria for leaders of local partnerships. This recognises that while many strong partnerships exist, others are less developed, and the DfE needs to be confident that high standards are maintained. However, the think piece stresses the importance of an approach that is not too top-down.