The word "excellence" in education today

[UnquietDad]

Wondered what people think about the use of this word.

I find it one of those over-used and debased words (a bit like "choice"). How can every school be "striving towards excellence"?

I'm always reminded of the scene in "The Simpsons" where the teacher tells the class they are "all special", and Bart puts his hand up and very astutely points out "isn't that just the same as saying none of us are special?"

I kinda know what you mean

But I spend a lot of time encouraging my staff to be the 'best that they can be' rather than just 'good enough' - that could probably be described as "striving towards excellence" wouldn't it

Inspiring and motivating staff is hard

Maybe each school is trying to do it's best?

of course every school can be striving towards excellence. Doesn't mean any of them will actually get there

I know - there must be other ways of saying it though. "Excellence" is such an over-used word. And ultimately we can't all be excellent or it has no meaning.

But 'trying to be Very Very good' isn't good marketing

True... a shame education needs marketing...

And all schools ARE expected to be "excellent" and get all of their pupils the "correct" number of Grade C GCSEs whatever their starting levels. So if there are no "special" children and they must all fit the same round hole no matter what shaped peg they may be, then the schools must all be the same level of excellence to achieve this wonderful vision.

Love the Bart quote.

Janeite tries hard to shake off her cynicism - sorry, tis not like me really.

I know the pressures schools are under and don't blame them at all. It's just a shame they are forced to use this mindless spin-doctored marketing-speak.

No I know - I wasn't being cynical AT you - just with you!

UQD
It is endemic
As are other ultimately meaningless epithets.

challenges
champions
care pathways
And the worst one of all (I started huge thread a few days ago devoted to shite and meaningless buzzwords).......

toolkit

There is a facebook group devoted to these, moondog - if you are on it do a search for "Blue pencil".

I have not ventured near Facebook for fear of losing my RL.
It sounds grimly satisfying in a masochistic sort of way however.

I have not ventured near Facebook for fear of losing my RL.
It sounds grimly satisfying in a masochistic sort of way however.