Recent developments in the education systems of both Scotland and England suggest a potential shift in direction, with both nations re-evaluating their educational frameworks and philosophies.
England’s Move to Revert Academy Freedoms
For years, the English education system has been a model admired by many, including those in Scotland. The introduction of the academy model during Tony Blair’s tenure and its subsequent development under Michael Gove brought significant improvements in school performance. This model, which grants schools greater autonomy, focuses on a knowledge-based curriculum, and encourages collaboration through supportive clusters, has been a key driver behind England’s rise in international education rankings.
However, recent moves by the Labour government to limit the freedoms of academies have caused concern. The Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill, which proposes changes around pay and conditions, curriculum, and teacher qualifications, has ignited a debate. Critics, including Tory politicians and education leaders, argue that this move could undo the progress made in English schools. Dan Moynihan, CEO of the Harris Federation, questioned the need for these restrictions, pointing out that there is no evidence showing that academy freedoms are causing problems.
Despite the backlash, Labour’s Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, has struggled to address the concerns raised by critics, including some within her own party. This has led to political tension, especially as the bill faces amendments to reduce its scope, such as altering proposed restrictions on teachers’ pay.
Scotland’s Struggle for Autonomy
On the other side of the border, Scottish education has long been constrained by a lack of autonomy for schools. While many in Scotland’s education sector have admired England’s academy model, Scotland has remained anchored to a centralized system under the control of local authorities and trade unions. This approach has often stifled innovation, leaving headteachers with limited freedom to implement changes.
The Scottish National Party (SNP) has faced pressure from education reformers, who have pointed to England’s more successful results as proof that greater autonomy could improve outcomes in Scotland. However, attempts to empower school leaders with more independence have been stymied by political opposition and vested interests, leading to stagnation in the system.
The consequences of this lack of reform are clear. Scotland has consistently underperformed in international educational rankings, with a particularly concerning decline in maths and science. The 2023 PISA study revealed that Scottish students’ performance continues to fall, despite years of efforts to reform the Curriculum for Excellence (CfE). This curriculum, intended to focus on skills and pupil-centered learning, has been criticized for being too vague and ineffective.
One example of how this lack of autonomy has impacted schools can be seen in the case of Bruce Robertson, the rector of Berwickshire High School. By adopting a more knowledge-based curriculum, Robertson was able to turn around a failing school, demonstrating the positive impact of structured, content-rich teaching.
A New Era for Scottish Education?
Despite these challenges, there are signs that Scotland might be ready to make a change. SNP Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth, a former teacher, has expressed dissatisfaction with the current progressive approach in Scottish education and is reportedly keen on exploring more radical changes. Additionally, Scottish Labour, while still in the early stages of developing an educational strategy, seems open to moving away from the status quo and addressing Scotland’s educational underperformance.
With the 2026 Holyrood election approaching, education is expected to be a central issue. As Scotland faces the prospect of continuing underachievement, political leaders will need to address the systemic challenges within the education sector if they hope to gain the support of voters. The question now is whether Scotland will take a bold step forward in reforming its education system, or whether it will continue to lag behind its neighbor to the south.
