A Level Sociology Education AQA Practice Exam

Which policy introduced during the New Labour government aimed to improve literacy and numeracy in schools?

1. Curriculum 2000

2. Specialist schools

3. Sure Start

4. BTECs and diplomas

The correct answer is: Specialist schools

The policy that aimed to improve literacy and numeracy in schools during the New Labour government is Sure Start. This initiative was designed to provide early educational opportunities and support for children and families, primarily focusing on disadvantaged backgrounds. By targeting pre-school children and their families, Sure Start aimed to promote better literacy and numeracy skills before children even entered formal school settings. The program provided a range of services, including early education, health services, and parenting support, which all contributed to enhancing the educational foundation for children. This aligns with the New Labour government's broader aim of reducing educational inequality and ensuring that all children have access to quality education from an early age, significantly impacting their literacy and numeracy development. In contrast, while Curriculum 2000 and the introduction of BTECs and diplomas were significant educational reforms, they did not specifically target improvements in literacy and numeracy as a primary objective. Specialist schools focused on specific disciplines but were less about broad literacy or numeracy improvements.