An educational process, rooted in the 19th century; a subject-based curriculum which sees living and work skills only as a by-product, and an educational leadership which offers measurement as the main mantra, will ensure that she has a long wait.

It is too soon to expect the Government to re-engineer the curriculum until at least we have reached consensus on the type of society we want.

Earlier prime ministers and secretaries of state have initiated “great debates”. Perhaps we should do so again.

Ken Ruddiman. Principal and chief executive. The Sheffield College. Sheffield, South Yorkshire