The short term nature of education policy means there is little progress on long-term, deep-rooted issues.

The Foundation for Education development believes that we need a longer-term view of the cycle of planning in our education system. Their research highlights:

• Equity – the English education system fails too many children, young people and other learners.
• Technological Change – the English education system needs to move from analogue to digital to keep pace with global developments and prepare learners for the world of today and the future of tomorrow.
• Productivity – England has one of the most unproductive economies in the modern world – our education system needs to consider its role in the future success of our economy and country.

The Foundation for Education Development (FED) provides an independent and neutral space for policy influencers from education, business, politics and beyond to shape the future. They engage all sectors and all interested parties to build on the wisdom and experience of policy makers, practitioners and young people themselves.

Working collaboratively, they design and build the foundations for a long-term plan for education in this country.

The FED is driving long-term change in education by fostering a shared vision and strategy for the UK’s education system. With a focus on collaboration, innovation, and sustainability, the FED brings together voices from across the sector to influence policy and practice at all levels.

The FED's key achievements include:

• National Consultation: Engaged thousands of education leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to co-create a unified, long-term vision for education.
• Policy Influence: Played a pivotal role in shaping cross-party discussions on education reform and long-term planning.
• Knowledge Sharing: Published influential reports and resources to promote evidence-based approaches to education strategy.
• Leadership Convening: Built a network of leaders dedicated to creating an inclusive, forward-thinking education system for future generations.

The FED’s work is laying the foundations for a world-class education system that prepares all young people to thrive in a rapidly changing world. 

Carl Ward is the Founder and Chair of the Foundation for Education Development (FED), driving a long-term, sustainable vision for the UK’s education system. He is also Chief Executive of the City Learning Trust, a 3–19 Academy Trust in Staffordshire.

With extensive regional, national, and international experience in education strategy, leadership development, and school to school improvement, Carl is a highly respected voice in the sector. He served as President of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) in 2017–2018 and played a key role in the Prime Minister’s Talent & Enterprise Taskforce between 2009 and 2011. During this time, he advised the Number 10 Policy Unit on education strategy and workforce development.

Through the FED, Carl continues to unite stakeholders to build a collaborative, long-term vision for the future of education in the UK.