NUT: No quick easy solution to pupil absence
Commenting on the figures published today for Pupil Absence in Schools in England during autumn term 2012, Christine Blower, General Secretary of the National Union of Teachers, the largest teachers’ union, said:
“All pupil absence is a serious issue but not necessarily one for which there is an easy or quick solution. What teachers understand, however, is that the curriculum plays a major role in engaging young people and reducing disruptive behaviour.
“The proposals for the National Curriculum, and examination reform, urgently need more discussion. The concerns raised about whether the new curriculum will motivate and engage students must not be ignored. Vocational and academic subjects in the secondary phase must be given the recognition and space in the curriculum, and ‘speaking and listening’ skills must not be given second class status behind reading and writing. Many pupils who truant have communication difficulties. Schools need access to specialist support to address issues such as these.
“In particular, what curriculum reform will mean for pupils with special educational needs, who are over represented in today’s figures, need to be much better thought out. The Government’s other SEN reforms in the Children and Families Bill will lead nowhere fast, if the national curriculum is wrong for children with SEN.”
END pr99-2013
For further information contact Caroline Cowie on 0207 380 4706 or 07879480061
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