In the News: Regulation on the horizon?

by Dexter Findley

The Centre for Market Reform of Education (the CMRE), a subsidiary of the Institute of Economic Affairs, is considering regulating the tuition industry. They propose the creation of the 'TTA' (The Tutor Association), holding membership of which would imply a degree of quality, a 'stamp of approval'.

The exact facts - requirements for membership, membership fees, codes of conduct etc. - have yet to be solidified.

It is worth noting that the CMRE and IEA are independent bodies - funded privately, unconnected to the Government - who act as advisors to government policy-makers. The TTA, when and if formed, would act independently from government policy. While membership would be optional, there is no doubt that the character of the private tuition sector could change dramatically through its influence.

Is regulation necessary? If so, is this the right way to go about it? What form should it take? Join in the discussion on Facebook.