Dr Rebecca Allen
In 1992 Sweden introduced a voucher system whereby privately run schools could receive public funding for each pupil they educated on the same terms as state schools. This came at a time when 10% of secondary school pupils were choosing to attend privately run free schools, with places strictly allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Dr Allen summarises research on the impact of Sweden's educational reforms on pupils' academic achievement. The best evidence on Sweden's reforms indicates small improvements in academic achievement in areas with more free schools. Small positive effects are evident in both the private schools and – through competition – in state schools.
However, Allen concludes that the educational advantages of school competition were too small to translate into any long term advantages for pupils, and she argues that Sweden's experience is limited in the extent to which it can predict the impact of comparable school reforms in England.
In listing research, EdCentral makes no judgment or recommendation as to its quality, validity or methodology and none should be inferred. Through peer ratings left by education practitioners, EdCentral’s aim is to support the development of a repository of shared knowledge and experience.
* Please note that your reading list can only be saved permanently if you are logged into your account.
