UK plans would give schools greater independence

Proposal to let school sponsors appoint governors

The British government is proposing to let existing secondary schools become foundations with their boards run by governors appointed by sponsors, the Times Education Supplement has reported.

Since Labour has come to power only 20 schools have become foundation schools, says TES.

The government last month launched a three-month consultation programme on foundation schools and more information is at this web page.

Scots propose independent schools funded by taxpayer

Independently-run, taxpayer-funded schools are proposed for Scotland in a bid to boost classroom standards, increase competition and give parents more choice

The plans were unveiled last month by the Scottish Tories. Council tax could also be cut under the proposals as schools would be funded from a central pot administered by the Scottish Executive, rather than by local authorities.

It is reported that wealthy private citizens would like to invest in some of the worst performing schools in Scotland in return for taking control of them.

More information on the Scottish proposal is at this web page.