We so often meet teachers who feel their hands are tied when it comes to innovating in the classroom and we seek to encourage them to go for it and try new things. After all, what’s the worst that can happen?
(And remember, they need you more than you need them.)
So when we met up with a representative from the QCA at a conference in Germany recently we asked for a message from Mick Waters, the current head of the QCA, to prove in black and white, that child-focussed, learning-friendly practice in the classroom is not only permitted but actively sought after.
This is it for your staffroom wall next time the inspectors come to call:
"Schools that are providing an inspiring and challenging curriculum look not only at the subject requirements but also at the development of the underlying skills, qualities and competencies; the skills that contribute to life-long learning. Above all, these schools engage their pupils in an open-ended, investigate approach to learning where pupils’ interest is engaged, where there is a sense of purpose and relevance, where pupils are active, where new ideas are explored, and where learning is fun."
Mick Waters, Director of Curriculum, QCA, 2006