Time for change

If I stop to compose this properly I’ll never do it so here are some random thought.

Let’s focus on what we can do. Let’s use the mantra of this whole epidemic “follow the science”. Speak to almost any academic in education and you will hear play, outdoor, risk, individual passion. Roots up rethink and step into the future. Hard with current constraints but if not now when.

Short term: Forest schools (financial support for clothing and transport), breaks every hour (Finland have been doing it for years), create multi-composite classes using family groups these classes are tied to each other and become bubbles (not ideal but would reduce e the number of contacts and possible reduce the need for social distancing). Come together and identify digital platforms for learn and use bulk buying power to save money.

A bottom up strategy allow leaders in communities to present their local solutions. Bring together a panel to advise and support them. Monitor these and use it to inform longer term planning.

Longer term
Share current thinking on learning with the population. Get them on side maybe even inspired.
Pay teacher more. It’s the most challenging job I’ve ever done and now it a high risk job.
Make a plan but not to many people round the table. Committees take too long and the outcome is such a compromise that it serves no one. Decide, live, adjust. These past few weeks are evidence of how quickly we can change.

I need to go play with my 5 and 6 year old so please excuse any typos. Good enough parent, mum, solution.

On a personal note, I would like to know if the kids are off until at least August. Even if it’s under promise over deliver. We could all move forward, plan and settle in.

Good luck.

Based on research. Local solutions. Long term essential. Change is overdue.