Name: Mike Jones Position: support teacher for children with specific learning difficulties in Newport, Wales
Q If you had David Blunkett’s budget what would your priority be?
A I would set up a compulsory national screening policy for specific learning difficulties. One trained teacher could cover a large comprehensive and all its feeders. This could save millions of pounds in terms of the educational costs of disaffected and frustrated pupils whose needs go unmet. I’d also award a sabbatical year for all teachers after seven years, with a minimum of six months in athird world country training, teaching or doing research.
Q If you had a blank cheque for your own school what would you buy?
A I’d get rid of makeshift, temporary classrooms which are still there after 20 years. I’d insist on buildings meant to last, surrounded by landscaping and plants.
Q What treat would you buy yourself?
A A colourful narrowboat and two season tickets for the RSC at Stratford and Newcastle FC.
Mike Jones was talking to Reva Klein. If you would like to publish a shopping list for education, please e-mail friday@tes.co.uk
