John Bald: Copying is not an effective way for pupils to learn
It can mask a lack of knowledge and causes constant switches in attention. The time is right for a concerted effort to get rid of it.
Posts by John Bald
John Bald began teaching in 1973, and has extensive experience as an adviser with Essex and Hackney, as a trainer of new and experienced teachers and as an Inspector. He has written two books on the teaching of reading and spelling.
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John Bald: My law of education – the more that is written down, the less is actually done
The paperwork mountain grows for Special Needs – yet children are still sent to schools that leave them suffering.
John Bald: Labour’s education policy of hiding failings by abolishing tests and independent inspection is the way of the ostrich
But there remains important unfinished business for the Conservatives to carry out – if we get the opportunity.
John Bald: Education was once a source of pride in Scotland. It is now a serious embarrassment to the SNP.
Wales is the only home country to be below the OECD average in reading, maths, and science.
John Bald: Tolerating poor behaviour in schools is a major threat to the mental health of teachers
There should be the right to impose an immediate and substantial detention. Heads who don’t maintain order should be required by Ofsted to change their ways.
John Bald: A new approach is needed to sort out the mess of special needs provision
A global approach to quite different challenges has failed. A long-term decline in specialised teaching skills must be reversed.
John Bald: The legal system – and a book that indoctrinates, not educates
A feminist account declares that judges “decide our laws”. There is no mention of parliament.
John Bald: Labour’s threat to take schools back to the 1970s
Successful schools would have to toe the line or be subject to the attentions of local democratic controllers. They could be destroyed without shutting them down.
John Bald: The party conferences have shown up deep-seated divisions over the purposes of education
Despite the proven success of schools like Michaela, the Left’s policies are more destructive than ever.
John Bald: Why other schools should and can apply Michaela’s principles
Despite the obstacles and abuse she faced while setting up the school, Birbalsingh had staff who shared her values, commitment and determination.
John Bald: “Points mean prizes” has to stop.
It was a great slogan for Sir Bruce Forsyth’s game show. It does not serve the needs of children, teachers and schools.
John Bald: Academy scandals. Hinds now needs to take control to stop them.
We must listen to whistleblowers, cut out the graft, and make sure that the money is spent for the benefit of children.
John Bald: A lesson from Great Yarmouth about how to combine school discipline with happy pupils
The misery of bullying and vandalism has ended. I did not hear a raised voice during my visit, except for the loud recitation of poems learned by heart.
John Bald: Mixed ability teaching is still stopping our children learn languages
Vacuous proposals for a “national strategy” are made – with no reference to standards or teaching methods. Wishful thinking won’t fix the system.
John Bald: How to boost technical education in our schools
Practical skills such as bricklaying, electrical work, carpentry, and plumbing, can be taught alongside GCSEs.