NO - Christine Blower, acting general secretary, National Union of Teachers
I cannot understand the logic of saying 29 per cent of pupils with five GCSEs A*-C represents failure and 31 per cent is success. I urge the government to drop the phrase 'poorest-performing schools'. It is unfair and inaccurate. Very many have good inspection reports. If the government is to provide meaningful support to the 638 secondary schools identified, it has to lift the threat of closure for failing to meet arbitrary targets. No head or teacher mindful of their career will join a National Challenge school if they think it will be closed and turned into an academy in the following year.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here