Debate: The Primary Review

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By John Coe is General Secretary of the National Association for Primary Education

Sir Jim Rose is reviewing the primary curriculum and will make an interim report in November. What do teachers hope he will conclude?

Dear Sir Jim, are you imagining a primary teacher at your elbow as you write the review? I know the Secretary of State is there as well, and you must be sure he’s happy, but please, keep us in the forefront of your mind. You carry with you the hopes of all of us in primary schools.

The political imperative is very strong. Government faith in market forces has dictated policy for so long. We teachers have done our best for children despite tests, targets and tables which, being the hottest of political hot potatoes, you have been asked not to include in your review.