Hi all,
I'm a primary teacher and I've worked in special schools, an alternative indie school and state mainstream... I also met some home-educating families who joined in with the little indie school I worked at, for school trips.
My overall conclusion is that whilst most teachers are really trying their best, the current state system is so very far from what I would want for my children. In particular early testing and assessment (e.g. did you know that your child's results from the EYFS profile counts towards the schools funding!) and the short term nature rather than character/skill building. The pressure & paper work on teachers is unbelievable and that isn't healthy for them or the children.
DH and I are currently trying for our first child. He is going to be training to be a vicar in September (another scary story in itself!). The way the training system works is that you spend 3 years doing the academic training, move house and do 3 years of practical training, move house and get your own parish.
I'm a bit of a planner and it's occurred to me that during the practical bit (curacy) our child would most likely start school for 1-2 years and then have to leave. So I've been thinking about HE during this period (reception/years 1) and then reviewing it when we move house/area.
Qs: Has anyone started HE and then sent their child to school?
Has anyone boycotted testing at their child's school?
Any other words of wisdom?
Thank you!
Rozna