Standardised teacher training fails to meet pupils' needs

Three reports produced as part of the University of Cambridge's Primary Review argue that attempts by central government to dictate how schools are run has reduced the autonomy of teachers.

In Primary Schools: The Professional Environment the authors state: "The relation of research to policy and practice needs to be linked more systematically and enduringly to deep issues concerning learning and motivation, rather than tied to the evaluation of ephemeral initiatives."

The National Union of Teachers warned that standardised teacher training risks neglecting the needs of pupils with special educational needs.

Acting general secretary Christine Blower said: "I am concerned that the children with the greatest needs are getting the least specialist attention.

"Teaching assistants have a vital role to play. Their work is valued by teachers, but we cannot have a situation where children with special needs miss out on the benefits of personal attention from qualified teachers."