We should be wary of aspiring to the educational systems of Pisa’s high-scoring countries, such as Singapore, China and South Korea. Any nation could technically emulate such stringent systems but it would come at a price. UK independent schools are already high-performing, but they place as much emphasis on developing rounded individuals - by encouraging what are commonly understood to be “soft skills” - as they do on academic success. Top global companies are the first to say that when they employ very academic students many are hopeless in the real world of the workplace. Adaptability, social skills and teamwork are essential requirements for employers that we cannot afford to ignore.

David Hanson, Chief executive, Independent Association of Prep Schools.