North East school leaders critically underrepresented in national education policy
Schools North East has taken decisive action today by writing to the Secretary of State for Education, His Majesty’s Chief Inspector, and senior civil servants to address the severe underrepresentation of North East educators on key advisory bodies within the Department for Education and Ofsted. This lack of representation significantly undermines the effectiveness of education policy-making and fails to consider the unique challenges faced by schools in the region.
One more than Guernsey
As one of the most disadvantaged areas in the country, the North East struggles with the highest rates of long-term disadvantage, Free School Meals (FSM) eligibility, and the largest proportion of students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Despite this, North East school leaders are vastly absent from the decision-making tables that shape national education policies. For instance, the Department for Education’s Curriculum and Assessment Review Panel has no representation from North East schools, and out of 94 members on Ofsted’s seven external reference groups, only two are from the region—just one more than Guernsey.
This stark underrepresentation raises concerns about fairness and inclusivity in policy development, as blanket, “one-size-fits-all” approaches often fail to address the pressing needs of vulnerable students in regions like the North East. Adding to the problem, the North East faces significant funding disparities. In 2023/24, the region had the lowest success rate for Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) bids, with only 26.8% of bids approved, compared to the national average of 41.4%.
North East schools lead the way
Yet, despite these challenges, 92% of North East schools are rated ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted—second-highest in the country—and they consistently lead in outcomes for long-term disadvantaged students.
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, emphasised the importance of including local voices: “The expertise and resilience of North East educators cannot be overstated. Their voices must be heard in national policy discussions to ensure decisions reflect the reality of challenges faced by schools in disadvantaged regions. Without this input, ineffective, blanket policies will continue to fail students in areas like ours.”
Chris also called for greater transparency in the selection of members for advisory bodies, noting that the process currently lacks clarity, leading to the same contributors shaping policy with limited room for input from those with frontline experience in underserved areas.
By advocating for greater representation and transparency, Schools North East aims to ensure that policies reflect the true diversity of the education landscape and better serve all students, especially those in disadvantaged regions.
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