Contrary to the impression left by your front-page story (TES, November 19), the Government is not proposing to hand over the education system to the Women’s Institute (notwithstanding its virtues).
The National Agreement enriches the quality of education for the next generation while freeing teachers to teach. Many schools are fortunate to exist in communities that contain invaluable expertise and experience.
The freedom to draw on such resources to enrich the curriculum can mean a more tailored learning offer for pupils. It is for heads to make professional decisions on how to support pupils. We trust them to make the right decisions.
David Miliband Minister for School Standards Department for Education and Skills
