Response

The MP for Glenrothes and Central Fife, Lindsay Roy, has recently commended the Briefing Paper.  Before his election to Westminster in 2008 he was the Rector of Kirkcaldy High School.  Commenting on the Briefing Paper he wrote:

As a former head teacher of 20 years standing, a former president of the Head Teachers’ Association of Scotland and currently a member of the Executives of International Confederation of Principals, I found your paper to be stimulating, highly pertinent and timely.

I endorse in particular the key points highlighted in the summary.  These are underpinning elements for careful consideration and scrutiny by political parties before an election – because there should be clarity of purpose in every manifesto.

We desperately need an education system “fit for purpose” in the twenty first century – and the key points from this paper, if adopted, can bring about the dramatic difference that is needed to develop a “world class” approach.

I have no doubt whatsoever that the abiding focus must be on inspiring learners through a high quality of learning and teaching.

I shall be happy to participate in any discussion forums that you plan to arrange with Parliamentarians to consider the paper more fully.

Scotland has, for very many years, had full control of its own education system, which has endeared itself to the people.  Although Scottish education is experiencing its own internal tensions, teachers are largely held in higher esteem in Scotland, and generally are trained to a high standard.  Such an endorsement by a Scot for ideas being promoted here in England are to be valued.

This article is tagged: briefing paper.