IMMEDIATE RELEASE 12May 2003
Commenting on the Prime Ministersannouncement of challenges for London schools, Doug McAvoy, NUT GeneralSecretary, said:
We are faced with two challenges: one fromthe man who understands education, Professor Tim Brighouse, and one from theman who doesnt, the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister offers an unrelentingfocus on five education authorities which face some of the most difficultproblems. Four of those authorities have had their services privatised and havebeen let down by those private companies.
The Prime Minister sees the way forward asthreats of closure of schools and sacking of teachers. This is guaranteed tomake a difficult situation worse rather than overcoming the challenges schoolsin these areas face.
Professor Brighouse, who understandseducation, what can be achieved and how to achieve it, looks to provide supportfor schools and teachers. He offers constructive help rather than simplythrowing blame around.
The Prime Minister would be better servedlearning from Professor Brighouse and recognizing the problems faced by allschools, and particularly those in London, and seeking ways to overcome themthat work rather than threats which do not.
Professor Brighouse suggests help withmortgages and professional development as ways of achieving success. Such helpshould be available for all teachers and not restricted to the so-called cream.The most effective teachers need the support of others if their effectivenessis to be to the benefit of the youngsters in our schools. I image ProfessorBrighouse is having to work within pre-determined financial constraints imposedby the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister has even failed tolisten to the advice of one of the friendly think tanks which advised againstany extension of City Academies. For Mr Blair to see that as the way forwarddisplays a daft level of thinking within Government.
E N D PR.36/03
For further information contact: Olive Forsythe tel: 020 7380 4706 (office) 020 8313 1692 (weekdayevenings) or if all else fails 07879 480061.