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The institutionalised sixth former
The education system is built on inherent contradictions and tensions. There is much debate about the role of education alongside the bitter warfare of whether one adopts a progressive or …
The beginning of the end: student stress and anxieties
Phew, I had a tough first week back after half term. I seemed to spend most of my time talking to students who were experiencing quite raw emotional difficulties. Some …
It is time to talk about young people’s mental health.
Children’s Mental Health Week 8 – 15th February 2016 The theme of Children’s Mental Health Week this year is ‘building resilience’ and teaching children to ‘bounce forward’ from life’s challenges. …
Why attachment matters
Young people’s ability to form relationships is shaped by their early childhood experiences. I have found that some of the puzzling behaviour we face as teachers can be understood by …
Robbing Peter to pay Paul and other educational dilemmas.
It used to be easy to read the landscape in education. The horizon seemed a long way away but there were clear markers along the way and obstacles that would …
Linear A-levels: Hobson’s choice or Morton’s Fork
The DFE announced that the reform would not dictate a particular model for AS and A-Level programmes, but I think they do. We have a classic example of a Hobson’s Choice or a Morton’s Fork.
I try to be objective. I do not claim to be detached.
Like it or not, teaching is a political act.
If the personal is political, then teaching is a political act.
The stories we tell ourselves about education
I love a good story, well who doesn’t? Good storytelling is good for the soul, helps us make sense of ourselves and connect to a wider world.
Reciprocal vulnerability
This term I have been trying to notice things a bit more. I have tried listening, not the usual head-nodding and jumping to conclusions listening. But I have been really …
The problem with mocks
I have just finished marking my mocks. It is a bit depressing if I am honest. It would seem very little of my teaching or advice about the exams has stuck.
It is ok, I tell myself …
the unconscious curriculum 