C.E. Jottings

Response to Commons question on SEN teacher training less than informative

The oral question was asked by Emma Lewell-Buck (S Shields Lab) of the Children's Minister, Edward Timpson: “What assessment he has made of the adequacy of the training and support available for the teaching of children with special educational needs." The Minister's reply was, "Teachers tell us that the quality of their training in SEN has improved significantly, with 69% of primary teachers and 74% of secondary teachers rating their training as “good” or “very good” in helping them to... Read more →

Cross-party defence of real cost of special education

The best bit is the contribution by Claire Dorer CEO of the National Association of Independent and non-maintained special schools. But it's great to see cross-party support in minority-Labour-run Merton defending the real cost of special education. I missed it at the time, but the story begins with one of those ghastly, ill-thought through scribblings that pass for journalism that the Daily Mail specialises in "Council spent £338k educating one disabled boy". It's a rambling mess of a piece but... Read more →

"This is an Outstanding School" - Ofsted on Paces School

Congratulations to the whole team on an "Outstanding" result. We should have a party! The report from Ofsted will not be published on their website until 11th November, but here is an approved preview: Paces High Green School for Conductive Education Overall Effectiveness – Outstanding Achievement of pupils – Outstanding Behaviour and safety of pupils – Outstanding Leadership and Management - Outstanding Summary of the key findings for parents and pupils This is an outstanding school. Pupils throughout the school... Read more →