Stand back and reflect, think and learn!

It's a sad reflection that the Government has become obsessed with structures and failed to articulate in big picture terms a compelling, authentic and modern vision for learning and skills. The success at the London Olympics reminds us all about the importance of passion, persistence, discipline, focus, hard work and creating a culture of excellence. Whether we are looking at the start of the new Premier League season, the City of London, the press and media or the  education system we need to stand back and reflect, think and learn.

As far as schools are concerned we need to see learning as three distinct and critical stages: the early years from birth to seven, the middle years from seven to fourteen and the pathway years from fourteen to nineteen and we need to very clearly describe what these phases of education and learning are expected to achieve. 

We need particularly to focus on the basics in the early years so that we improve parenting, develop aspiration and ensure that every child reads, can counts and becomes a brilliant little learner before they enter the middle years. In the middle years we need to inspire young people to see themselves as powerful learners who can achieve and be successful with a focus on master coaching, deep practice and inspiration. In the pathway years we need to provide opportunities and develop pathways for our young learners that lead to academic and vocational success and the world of work.

Chris