Theoretical perspectives of education: New Right

Marketisation of Education: New Right view advocates introduction of market principles into education where schools compete for students. This encourages efficiency, improved standards and provides parents with a choice.
Role of State: According to New Right thinkers, the state should not provide education but establish a framework for competition among schools, such as national curriculum and standardised testing to promote competition and thus increase standards.
Vouchers System: One solution proposed by the New Right is the Vouchers System. Parents would be given a voucher for each of their children which they could ‘spend’ at a school of their choice. This would increase competition among schools and raise standards.

Inequality: Critics argue that competition between schools and parental choice may lead to increased inequality. Wealthier parents are more equipped to make effective choices and can possibly afford better schools.
Contradictions: Critics also highlight contradictions within the New Right theory. The aim to reduce state control contradicts with the need for the state to enforce a national curriculum and standard testing.
Success and Failure: Critics dispute the New Right claim that competition raises standards. Some argue that it simply legitimates inequality by blaming failure on schools or students, rather than addressing underlying social issues.

Policies inspired by New Right: Several educational policies in the UK, such as introduction of academies and free schools, show influence of the New Right perspective.
Influence on other theories: The New Right perspective has influenced other theories and perspectives of education. For instance, it has influenced Neo-liberal views on the need for competition and reduced state intervention in education.