All our futures: Creativity, culture and education

This influential report is a response to the 1997 Government White Paper Excellence in Schools, which recognizes the need to foster motivation and esteem in schools - the human capital of the twenty-first century. The report, by the National Advisory Committee on Creative and Cultural Education, argues that a national strategy for creative and cultural education is essential to raising young people's abilities, expectations and cohesion. Creative education is defined as "forms of education that develop young people's capacities for original ideas and action...and forms of education that enable them to engage positively with the growing complexity and diversity of social values and ways of life".
The report develops five main themes:
1/ The Challenge of Education: we need new priorities in education, and more of a balance in the curriculum;
2/ Creative Potential: creativity is possible in all areas of human activity;
3/ Freedom and Control: creative education involves a balance between teaching knowledge and skills, and encouraging innovation;
4/ Cultural Understanding: education must enable children to understand and respect different cultural values and traditions;
5/ A Systematic Approach: promoting creative and cultural education calls for a systematic strategy.
The publication is in four parts. Part One sets out definitions and the framework for creative and cultural education. Part Two looks at the implications for the school curriculum, for teaching and for assessment. Part Three argues for a broad base of partnerships between schools and other agencies, and considers issues of resources and training. Part Four presents a series of recommendations as a framework for a National Strategy.
The report is addressed to the Secretaries of State and contains many recommendations for Government action. However, the report will also be of interest to parents, teachers, governors, union leaders, and all those interested in the potentialities of creativity.