Politics & Policy

Attain does not just report the news. In past issues, we have received substantial publicity in the national press, including The Spectator, The Times and The Daily Telegraph. In each issue, we include high profile interviews with the key figures in education, and over the years have interviewed all the ministers from the main political parties. This section offers a selection of articles, grouped into topics.

Politics of Education

A Reply to Lord Adonis

When Lord Adonis attacked the sector in his interview in Attain, many Heads felt the criticism was unfair. One was John Claughton of King Edward's School in Birmingham. He explains why. More...

Political Interviews

A Failure of Responsibility?

Former Schools' Minister, Lord Adonis, feels independent schools missed a golden opportunity to become involved with academies. He explains to Attain's Editor why he feels they are 'too timid'. More...

Issues for Schools

The Challenge of the 'S' Word

The definition of 'academy' has quietly changed - under the Coalition they can now also be academically selective. Michael St John Parker asks why selection is still such a sensitive issue. More...

Curriculum

Revitalising Geography

The importance of teaching geography is arguably greater today than it has ever been, yet the subject remains under pressure in schools. Attain's Editor talks to Dr Rita Gardner, Director of the RGS. More...

Examinations

Future of Common Entrance

Much has been written about Common Entrance (CE) and the transition at 13+. Julie Robinson, IAPS Education and Training Director, sets out the IAPS position and offers hope for the future. More...

League Tables

Time, Gentlemen, Please!

League Tables foster superficiality, materialism and downright falsehood. Michael St John Parker argues they play into the hands of those who see education as an exercise in social engineering. More...

Partnerships
& Public Benefit

Who Benefits?

What do the assessments of five independent schools by the Charity Commission mean for the sector? Attain asked three Heads, a leading QC and the Chair of the Commission. More...

Governance & Regulation

The Threat of State Control

Michael St John Parker, traces the transition from 'public' to 'independent' schools and laments the loss of freedom to schools caused by ever increasing Government regulation. More...