Commentary: If at first you don't succeed - lessons for students and education policy champions alike

Of all the Big Ideas bequeathed by the Blair government, the one that has intrigued foreign leaders more than most is his Delivery Unit, headed up by Sir Michael Barber in the early 2000s.

The idea that success is the mundane application of a handful of disciplines ("government by routine, not government by spasm") may not appeal to a politician's ego, the glossy brochure industry or the media but "it works", says Sir Michael.

13 things we've learnt since the Syria debate

1. Tony Blair has profoundly devalued the office of prime minister and the Dodgy Dossier should be placed on the Fourth Plinth to mark his dishonour.

2. “Something must be done” and “never again” are understandable human reactions, not policy positions.

3. No.10 is no longer the natural home of the national interest. The natural interest resides in about 14 different places across the country at any one time.