I am a secondary teacher. But let me just start by stating what sort of teacher I am. I am interested in the whole debate around education, where it is going, what needs changing, etc. But more importantly I am more interested in what goes on in my classroom. Sorry James, but I’m probably one of those teachers who do what I’m asked to do, even if I don’t quite agree with what is being asked (in the whole big educational issue agenda).
What is the purpose of education? The simple answer (or not so simple, depending how you look at it) is that it’s purpose is a whole range of things: learning, attainment, socialisation, development, creativity….the list is endless. I’d agree with Tom Barrett, I don’t have a clear idea of the purpose of education either.
Firstly, in my class I hope to teach students new things. I’m sure that is not an unusual answer from a teacher. Yes, I’m an English teacher and I want my students to understand punctuation and sentence structure, but also I want my students to develop as young people, to have a greater understanding of the world outside of the classroom. And to do this we have to challenge students, we need to push them, and we need to support them.
I would argue that education is about developing students’ confidence as much as their academic knowledge. It’s about motivating students and asking them to explore for themselves. You only need to spend the evening on #ukedchat to hear teachers discuss the real issues to understand that the purpose of education is educate ‘to develop the faculties and powers of a person’.
When it comes to the bigger picture. I would love to have the free range to teach what I like how I like and sod the curriculum, but that would be a foolhardy thing to do. I put my trust in educators and politicians that what they come up with is good for children we teach.
We as teachers know there are problems, but the problem is then how to address these problems….quiet chat to the head?…..meeting with the governors?…..letter to the PA?….take to the streets?…..write to your MP?….
I’d love to help….but just don’t see how….
purpos/ed
Lengthorn's Blog 
Thanks for the contribution! I absolutely agree about confidence – it’s the #1 I focus on with my son.
As regards wanting to be involved, but not seeing how, just keep following the debate, thinking and reflecting! 🙂