A HEADTEACHER has called for a debate on the future of education in Britain to halt the 'steep decline' of standards.

Dr David Hempsall of Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School, Blackburn, said the examination system needed a radical overhaul to meet the needs of the 21st century.

He said it was time the Government and teachers decided on the future direction of education, given the conflicting demands of students, parents, universities, colleges and employers.

Speaking at the school's annual prize-giving last night, Dr Hempsall said: "A generation ago, the then Prime Minister Jim Callaghan launched what he called The Great Debate on education. It never really happened.

"Instead, we blundered on without ever once asking fundamental questions about education, about the educational system and about the public examination regime which is supposed to serve it.

"Our educational system is, I believe, in steep decline through over prescription. Our public examination system is rickety beyond repair. Getting good grades is easier than it used to be. Given the conflicting demands of candidates, parents, teachers, universities, employers -- all of whom want examinations to do different things -- the system simply cannot bear the strain. We must ask, what is the purpose of education? Only then may we construct an assessment regime which serves education."

Dr Hempsall also paid tribute to the students and staff who had worked hard throughout the year and spoke of his pride in the new Early Years Department, which meant the school now took children aged four.

He said exam results in GCSEs and A-levels were outstanding again but the school would never become complacent about its achievement.