The role of the Department for Education: the system of education in England and Wales and the control of developments in schools

Prior to 1983, schools determined whether and how to use Records of Achievement. In 1983, the Northern Examining Association (NEA)introduced a Northern Record of Achievement (NRA) and involved Northern Local Education Authorities, thus gaining access to schools. Also in 1983 the Department for Education (DFE) set up schemes to pilot a national Record of Achievement. The NRA was not involved. The DFE initiative was widely welcomed by teachers until 1990 when the DFE announced that Record of Achievement should, after all, be determined by the schools. Analyses these events, using data from schools, reports,memoranda, etc. Makes the analysis in the context of the operation of the system of education in England and Wales. Shows that the NEA became involved largely through financial self‐interest. The LEAs failed to provide a positive framework for schools developing Records of Achievement. Concludes that in certain aspects of the work of schools the DFE should exercise direct and detailed control, which would be acceptable to the majority of teachers.