Earlier this week, we asked educators to unite against the onslaught of political interference in education and the continuation of an education system described by Sir Ken Robinson as 19th Century paradigm.
We need something new, not revamped or “reformed”. We need a reinvention of education.
We also need support.
The Guardian offers an excellent opportunity for fearful but angry and disenfranchised teachers to have their say. However, what an indictment that they have to hide behind the pseudonym of the “Secret Teacher” when so much of what they have to say should be at the forefront of educational discussions in schools, academic institutions and indeed homes around the country.
http://www.theguardian.com/teacher-network/series/the-secret-teacher
On reflection, reading so many shocking tales through this excellent series of blogposts has made us think about the level of concern and the prevalence of these stories, which are probably replicated in schools the length and breadth of the country. We’ve also concluded that whilst we applaud the Guardian for giving significant space to these stories, they really ought to be on the front page – and not just the front page of the Guardian either.
What if all newspapers gave education more coverage? What if all newspapers committed themselves to supporting educators (and therefore supporting our future generations of children and young people) in their desire for an education system fit for the 21st Century? What if our newspapers campaigned for the “Rights of the Child” to have a good, rounded and grounded education that considered all aspects of their wellbeing, as well as their right to be literate and numerate?
The accounts that are contained within the “Secret Teacher” blog in the Guardian are worthy of a wider readership.
What if our newspapers took some of the stories within the Secret Teacher articles and placed them on their front page?
To help them consider this, we’re providing some suggestions for the national newspapers – with a link to the Secret Teacher part of the Guardian website underneath. Whilst we’ve concentrated on just one source for this, we’re fully aware that other writers, other media and other newspapers are also highlighting the many negative aspects of our school system.
Please do have a look at these and leave comments on our post.
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http://www.theguardian.com/teacher-network/2012/sep/01/secret-teacher-stress-fear-depression
http://www.theguardian.com/teacher-network/2012/aug/18/secret-teacher-pressure-a-level-grades
3D Eye 