Anyone who has bought a “one-size-fits-all” garment knows that the description is inaccurate. Unless you are absolutely average - whatever that is - the item will be too baggy or too skimpy; it will fit at the waist, but the sleeves will be too short. The same goes for the school curriculum.
England’s Primary National Strategy is encouraging schools to bring out their own personalities and the individual talents of the children they serve. That means developing a thinking community that is open to new ways of seeing. Good teachers know their job is not about following directives, but understanding what works for them and the youngsters in their care.
This doesn’t mean that achievement in English and maths is not crucial.
These subjects are the gateway to later success, and they help people think. Children who can think creatively will grow into adults who can not only cope with whatever the future throws at them, but find innovative ways forward.
We hope this supplement on the Primary National Strategy will help you discover new styles and materials for your school. We visit a primary that teaches through the arts, and one that never stops asking questions. The magazine examines ways to improve behaviour, extend young children’s learning, and boost results. Try these ideas on and see what fits. Use what works for you and your children. You’ve got the power to innovate and have fun.
The contents of this magazine are the responsibility of The Times Educational Supplement and not of the Primary National Strategy or the Department for Education and Skills.Design Dane Wilson Production editor Mark Hayes Sub-editor Joanne Shepherd SmithPictures Nishani Kampfner, Lindsay Cameron Cover Zainab Lawal, photographed by Sam Friedrich, with thanks to Gallions Primary.
