Values, aims and purposes of the National Curriculum

The National Curriculum increases public understanding of, and confidence in, the work of schools and in the learning and achievements resulting from compulsory education. It provides a common basis for discussion of educational issues among lay and professional groups, including pupils, parents, teachers, governors and employers.

This quote comes at the end of page setting out the values, aims and purposes. It would be just what we need as a starting point for planning - if it had not been devised by bureaucrats and politicians. I bet it was never approved by the Plain English Campaign.

The aims have been so widely drawn that they avoid controversy by including every conceivable value and subject. Unfortunately the result is that there is no specific advice on the choices that must be faced, the order of priorities and an objective scale of measurement.