MY thanks to Thelma Walker who was has been in touch following last week’s column about the damaging effect of testing on 11-year-olds.
The head teacher of a school in a deprived area, she told me that her staff are "dismayed" with the way test results are used to judge schools.
She said: "Yes, of course we must strive to raise standards but children's well-being must also be a priority."
I’m glad Mrs Walker agreed with my argument in last week’s column. I write about education quite a bit, but always with a sense of caution.
Although I was once a teacher, it’s been nearly four years since I last stood in front of a class of children. Also, I’ve never taught in the English school system, meaning I’ve no first-hand knowledge of Sats and league tables.
So it’s always good to hear from people like Mrs Walker who, unlike me, speak from a position of experience.
