Education
Jhon Bateman
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
If I were in charge of local authority education services, I would put extra funding into schools to be used on inclusive projects, such as inclusion training for teachers and lessons on diversity.
I would use my position to lobby the Cabinet to focus on inclusion in all schools. Every Child Matters would be a phrase used to its true potential. I would focus on ensuring every child had the tools to become whatever they want to become.
I would scrap the name "special school" and ensure there was a mix of disabled and able-bodied children in schools instead. I would ban the use of confusing words, which are solely used to trick the public into believing the government is inclusive. I would speak the facts and from the heart.
On a lighter note, I would adapt the cycling proficiency course so there was a wheelchair proficiency course as well.
I would tell teachers how brave they are and how they are an inspiration. Disabled people like me are often patronised because of our disabilities and told we are inspiring just for being ourselves. I would speak to the teacher's "carer" instead of directly to the teacher - I have got so used to this happening to me.
Do you know a child or young person who could tell adults a thing or two? Email lauren.higgs@haymarket.com or call her on 020 8267 4918
