What we are not allowed to say about curriculum intent

Since the curriculum became the Next Big Thing in English schools - a miraculous solution to the fundamental problems of schooling - we have seen the inevitable mutations, cynical instrumentalism, and BS proliferate. None of this is a surprise; that is, if you take the time to observe the faddish tendencies of a system which … Continue reading What we are not allowed to say about curriculum intent

The economics of high need don’t add up

I have been following with interest the recent debates around provision for special educational needs, specifically the concerns about the dominant deficit model of disability and learning difficulty. In particular, I have found the recent blogs and publications by Ben Newmark and Tom Rees to be compelling and thought provoking. I am no expert in … Continue reading The economics of high need don’t add up

Teaching and the Modern Prometheus

In 1818, Mary Shelley published her classic, Frankenstein, which she subtitled The Modern Prometheus. The book's release coincided with the rise of the philosophy of vitalism; a belief that the phenomenon of life could only be explained with reference to some special spark. The reanimation of Frankenstein's monster is the artistic embodiment of this philosophy: … Continue reading Teaching and the Modern Prometheus