Our school’s PANDA (performance and assessment data to you) is looking peaky. Distinct black shadows under the eyes. The school’s looking fine - good teachers, happy kids - and we are small enough to look at our pupils individually to ensure they are achieving their potential. But collectively, statistically, benchmarked against schools with the same free school meals uptake, we underperform.
The reasons for this are complex - a high proportion of children with special needs, an unusual preponderance of boys, family breakdowns. We must also admit to an underlying reluctance to regard test results as the most important factor in a child’s development. Unfortunately, OFSTED will not agree with us. We know the solution: rigorous drilling, teaching to the test, booster classes, endless mock tests.
A friend in a neighbouring village tells me her school went down this route when its slide down the league tables threatened pupil numbers. She has now asked for her son to be moved out of top-set maths at his secondary school. His shiny level 5 does not actually reflect his mathematical ability and without intensive coaching he is struggling.
However, PANDA’s health is paramount. Pity it can only be maintained at the expense of other endangered species - creative, inspirational teachers and carefree children with a love of learning.
Joan Dalton
