Rigour, not reform: Pisa data warn against diluting core schooling

An FT opinion argues that declines in Pisa scores across high‑income countries stem from weaker standards and reform-driven shifts away from core knowledge; England’s strict, content‑focused curriculum contrasts with reductions in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland; Mississippi’s gains show the benefits of evidence‑based teaching and accountability; the piece warns that digital distractions and an emphasis on transferable skills could erode essential knowledge unless rigorous curricula and robust assessment are preserved.