The system was never designed to recruit from the outside. Furthermore, we believe top level appointments, including for the roles of Director of Education and deputy directors could be from outside the civil service. This would bring in more specialists where it is needed. Indeed, we would prefer the Secretary of EMB to be a political appointment so that the proper accountability links are clear. Furthermore, the advisory structure was developed as a substitute for a democratic culture.
Advisory bodies exist by and large to endorse executive policy.
The advisory and consultative process is highly controlled. As such, the Government appoints from a relative limited pool of people. Not too much is expected of the appointees, leaving many dedicated people frustrated. Schools know better what works and what does not work in teaching and learning. There is no best method to teach or for students to learn.