How long has Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) been around, and how much longer will it be in vogue?

When I graduated in 1973 as a primary teacher, “teaching through a topic” was the only game in town. This cross-curricular, practical methodology gave way, in the 1980s, to the structured approach of SPMG maths, and a variety of reading schemes with - wow - proper “follow-up” activities.

The 1990s challenged us with the concept of 5-14. Reading schemes were re- branded as “language”, and pupils got “talking”.

With CfE, we are going back to where I started, that is, teaching through a topic, in a fluid, cross-curricular, practical way. Is there nothing new?

At least the four mantras are original, aren’t they? Reading the 100th anniversary edition of the Boy Scouts handbook, I spotted some familiar concepts. Enjoy reading these archaic excerpts, and see if you can match them with a modern version.

“In playing games and practices by which you gain experience . you have learned sufficient to pass the test . and win the badge”.

“A friend to all . smiles and whistles under all circumstances . is prepared in mind and body”.

“Must do a good turn every day . do his duty before anything else”.

“To help other people at all times. Scoutcraft comes in useful in any line of life that you like to take up”.

Dib . dib . dib!

Margaret Powell, Hospital Education Service (retired), Springfield Road, Bishopbriggs.