"Potential", in mainstream educational discourse is everywhere to be "reached" or "unlocked". Here's a fine example. I have, as they say, "redacted' the name of the institution.
"XXX’s purpose is: Unlocking Potential Through Learning. With a nationwide network of colleges and training centres, we work with more than 20,000 businesses and 133,000 learners every year, regionally and nationally, to help them reach their full potential and build a talented workforce through high quality training.”
Does anyone have any idea what the phrases underlined actually mean? Does anyone have a theory of teaching and learning that can explain what "reaching" or, worse, "unlocking" "potential" actually means?
So why do educators and politicians keep saying it?
For example: even the Prime Minister - briefed by civil servants - has been at it. Proposing, last October, a National Teaching Service, he said it would help more young people "reach their potential and succeed in life".
Might those who taught the future Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland think he has "reached his potential"? If not the Prime Minister, then who? Me? You? Bradley Wiggins?