Sixth form inquiry launched

Experts say separate sixth forms are a better for learning

A major review has been ordered into the performance of England's sixth forms.

The inquiry is being launched by the Learning and Skills Council - the government body responsible for education and training.

School sixth forms get up to £3,000 more per student than other colleges so they will be scrutinised to see if they are giving value for money.

A debate has also raged about whether a school is the best environment in which to educate those aged between 16 and 19.

Students' needs

An LSC spokesman said nothing had yet been decided and that all education providers, including separate colleges, were under review.

He added: "We are charged with allocating large amounts of public money and we have to make sure it is done in an efficient way to meet the goals we have been set in raising standards in education and training.

"This is about meeting the needs of the students."

The organisation says the review is not about planning for the abolition of school sixth-forms and that failing colleges are just as likely to face closure as failing sixth-forms.

Any proposal to do away with England's 1,800 school sixth forms would meet widespread opposition.

Martin Ward, deputy general secretary of the Secondary Heads Association, said: "It depends on the individual person and the school or college.

"What's better for one young person may not be better for another.

"There should be a position in favour of a status quo unless there is sufficient evidence that change will be beneficial."

The LSC, which has an annual budget of £9bn, is also carrying out a series of 'strategic area reviews'.

These will look at post-16 education provision region by region, to decide whether each is gaining value for money.