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Press Release

Statement on speech by Ed Balls to Labour Conference

30 September 2009

Voice: the union for education professionals has welcomed the measures to improve behaviour in schools and tackle bullying in the speech by schools secretary Ed Balls to the Labour Party Conference today (30 September 2009).

General Secretary and former deputy head teacher Philip Parkin said: "Some parents need to realise that they can be held responsible for their children's failure to attend school, for their children's behaviour at school and for their own behaviour when dealing with school staff.

"Parents and pupils have rights but they also have responsibilities. Some need to be reminded that schools do have powers and duties when it comes to discipline in schools.

"Maintaining good order is essential to enable teachers to teach and children to learn and it is sometimes useful to remind everyone involved of the sanctions and support that are available.

"Schools need the support of parents. All too often schools get the blame for poor pupil behaviour, but children need to arrive at school ready and willing to learn. Their mental and physical preparation and their attitudes to staff and fellow pupils begin at home.

"The government and schools need to be able to work together to encourage parents to foster in their children a greater respect for staff and other pupils, and a belief in the importance of education.

"Those removed from mainstream classes for whatever reason need suitable places where they can continue their education, receive the support they need and then make a successful return to normal schooling."



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Voice: the union for education professionals

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