Straw in the wind? Harbinger? Hint or intimation? Dunno.
Snowball in hell? Impossible odds? Flash in the pan? Dunno.
Still, worth noting that at the time of writing 24,412 parents (or people claiming to be parents) have signed an online petition supporting a strike – yes, worth reading that again: a STRIKE – that will keep some kids out of school for a day in protest against SATs testing at an early age.
Worth noting, too, is the parental plea – or do I mean ‘demand’?
‘ We want our kids to be kids again and enjoy learning for learning’s sake not for Ofsted results or league table figures. Bring back the creativity and the fun – say goodbye to repetition and boredom!’
‘Learning for its own sake’ . There, in the second paragraph. Unadorned and unashamed.
A Headteacher writing in support of the strike, eloquently sets out the damaging consequences of high stakes testing. The letter ends apologising for not signing the letter, or giving the name of the school ‘because I’m afraid of repercussions’.
Not to be pursued in this short blog, but there is a wider issue here, and that is the contraction of the public space available for independent thought and action. Areas other than education should perhaps reflect on this.
Parents refusing to send their child to school without good reason – a strike is not likely to be seen as a good reason – lay themselves open to a daily fine of £60.00 rising to £120.00 a day if not paid within 21 days. The price of independent action?
As to the evidence that might support the value of independence, there is none. It is not susceptible to the sort of evidence that is purportedly considered persuasive. The Good Ship Independence must proceed under its own power, aided of course by a fair wind. But then, one can also make one’s own weather.
You may wish to sign the petition.
Bernard Spiegal 