The OECD Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) rankings for 15 year olds were released this week. They measure core learning across 57 countries. The results were widely reported in the press.

Between 2000 and 2009, Britain has fallen:

• In maths: from 8th to 28th.
• In reading: from 7th to 25th.
• In science: from 4th to 16th.

This is yet further evidence of why we need a dramatic overhaul of standards in our schools. It illustrates why the government is right to focus on encouraging innovation in the classroom, by allowing teachers, parents and communities to apply for academies and free schools - which will give them the the freedom and flexibility to drive up standards, and spread best practice.