The Live Wire



Press Release

Children and young people's views of education policy

29 March 2011

Commenting on the research by the Children's Commissioner undertaken by the National Foundation for Educational Research, Christine Blower, General Secretary of the National Union of Teachers, the largest teachers' union said;

“It is a testament to the hard work and commitment of teachers that the vast majority of children and young people enjoy being in school and find their lessons interesting. It is also great news to hear what all teachers know, that schools are supportive places of learning despite the restraints of a plodding and restrictive curriculum.

“The fact that too many children think there is excessive pressure on them to do well at school shows, yet again, that the punitive system of assessment and league tables puts an unacceptable strain on pupils. Creating unnecessary stress simply holds children back. Teacher assessment would take much of the fear out of learning particularly in our primary schools.

“No one should have to tolerate rude or aggressive behaviour in schools. This research certainly supports existing evidence that the majority of schools are safe places for children, and teachers deal effectively with behaviour in the classroom.

“For children and young people to be engaged in their learning it is absolutely right that they should have a proper voice within the school. While it is not appropriate that pupils should have a final say in the appointment of teachers they should certainly be represented on school councils and involved in imaginative ways with the work of school governing bodies.

“The research bears out all the international evidence that a school's most important resource is its teachers. Children and young people know this; it is time those in Government recognised it and put their trust in teachers.”



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National Union of Teachers

National Union of Teachers

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