United Kingdom (Photo credit: stumayhew)

This story reported by the BBC once again raises questions about the deteriorating quality of the UK’s education. It’s a RECOMMENDED READ in my view.

BBC News – Numeracy: Pupils struggle with sums in Wales says Estyn.

Forgive me for blowing my own trumpet with a somewhat conceited personal example!

I remember when I was a child, at the age of ten, I won a prize for mental arithmetic. My name was the only name on the honor’s board in the assembly room at Bell Lane Primary School in North West London for many years. Years later, I met people who were much younger than me but were inspired by my example.

What can I generalize by my own example?

Firstly, I believe that there is too much bureaucracy in teaching these days.

Secondly, I think that there should be a return to basic skills in teaching, like  reading, writing and arithmetic.

Thirdly, I believe that the teaching profession has become too political and there is a need to return to the fundamentals.

Any thoughts?

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