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Classic FM chief to lead review of cultural education

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport and the Department for Education have today launched a review of cultural education.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

The government today launched a review of cultural education, to be led Classic FM Managing Director Darren Henley.

The review will look at how children can experience a wide variety of high quality cultural experiences, both inside and outside of school.

Darren Henley is today issuing an open invitation to anyone who wants to contribute to the consultation and feed into his review. He will aim to create a definition of what a solid cultural education should comprise of and how to make sure that all young people benefit from it.

Culture Minister Ed Vaizey said:

Learning about culture and having opportunities to take part offers huge rewards to young people. Our culture brings audiences from across the world and we are particularly adept at producing world-leading performers and artists. To remain in such a strong position we need to be sure that we are giving children the best start in their cultural education. This should not just be an optional extra, but an essential part of every child’s school life.

Darren Henley did a fantastic job with his review of music education and is perfectly positioned to lead this review.

Secretary of State for Education, Michael Gove, said:

Every child should be exposed to rich cultural opportunities. Too often, this is a privilege reserved for the wealthy few. This must change.

In order for our young people to succeed in higher education and employment we must provide them with a rigorous, well-rounded education. The best schools are already doing this.

This important review will play a key role in ensuring that children from all backgrounds can reap the benefits of our culture and heritage.

Find out more on the DCMS website.

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Published 8 April 2011