Tag Archives: Department for Education

Best education for all pupils

Posted on October 25, 2015 by ianchisnall

A question in the House of Commons on Thursday raised the issue of how our Trainee Teachers are prepared to educate pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN). The question was answered by Nick Gibb (Minister for Schools and MP for Bognor Regis and … Continue reading →

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The Homework ate our Government

Posted on September 20, 2015 by ianchisnall

A fascinating exchange took place in Parliament on Wednesday when Kevin Brennan, Labour MP for Cardiff West asked a question that is relevant for all teachers and potentially all students and parents: Department for Education – Classroom Assistants To ask … Continue reading →

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Time for a U Turn

Posted on July 27, 2015 by ianchisnall

One of the very positive impacts of the Blair Government came as a consequence of his speech on education. The realisation that investment in early year’s education and the need to raise the profile and standards of those who work … Continue reading →

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A measurable character

Posted on December 7, 2014 by ianchisnall

Over many years I have participated in a number of discussions, presentations and even workshops on the theme of character. It is clear that in selecting people for roles and vacancies, that character is one of those hard to measure … Continue reading →

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If you can’t teach, be a special adviser

Posted on October 8, 2013 by ianchisnall

According to satirist H.L. Mencken Mencken “Those who can — do. Those who can’t — teach.” this cynical phrase was extended to “Those who can’t teach – teach teachers” by person or persons unknown at a later date. There could … Continue reading →

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Who looks after our children best?

Posted on September 22, 2013 by ianchisnall

On the 13th September the Government published a set of statistics and some analysis relating to children who live in a range of institutional residential settings across the UK. The full set of data available can be found on the website of the Department for Education … Continue reading →

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Lets educate the Government

Posted on August 3, 2013 by ianchisnall

The Government appears to be trying to reconcile a certain amount of internal conflict. It frequently speaks about engagement, consultation and localism, all of which suggest it recognises that any legislation and guidelines should reflect local needs and imply that the State which … Continue reading →

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Gove and some playground calculations

Posted on May 11, 2013 by ianchisnall

According to a recent article in the Sunday Telegraph, the MP for Surrey Heath who is so focused on strengthening basic skills in our schools, has failed to apply some simple sums in his own department. According to the article, there are several consultants working … Continue reading →

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