Happy 2024! I'm back with an interesting post about Piaget and children's understanding of the principle of conservation.
Tag: Teacher Development
Learning Through Play: EYFS Outdoor Provision
Two days ago at Hillingdon Primary School, I discovered the magic of learning outdoors. The idea was clear: no matter the weather, children should explore and learn through play. The outdoor spaces were purposeful, from a mud kitchen to a water play zone. Limited resources meant no clutter, letting educators create focused learning experiences. Quality interactions happened at the child's level, fostering communication and language.
‘Shadow’ Pupils: A Challenge for all Teachers
In this post, I wanted to discuss a crucial issue - the "shadow" pupils, students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) who lack an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP), a document outlining their essential support. A recent study by the Education Policy Institute (EPI) reveals that these "shadow" pupils, despite receiving extended school support, performed no better in their 2020 GCSEs than peers with EHCPs. The EPI is urging policymakers not to limit EHCPs to save funds. This study also highlights disparities among different ethnic groups in the education system. The key message: every child, regardless of their background, deserves equitable opportunities and support to succeed.
Teacher Mentorship: Pros vs Cons
Helping new teachers is a special and tough job. When I mentored at the University of Reading, I saw how complex it is to guide someone into teaching. Being a mentor is more than just enjoying shaping the next generation of teachers. It's about thinking about my own teaching and communicating well. In this post, I talk about the good and tough parts of mentoring, from the joy of growing professionally to the challenges of time limits and meeting different needs. Mentoring is not just giving advice; it's a journey that affects both the mentor and the new teacher in a lasting way.
