Education

A long road back for education

Published

3 years ago

June 4, 2021

EVEN before schools find out what the new normal will be, the pressure is already on the education system to deliver significantly more.

Some talk about a ‘lost generation’ needing to ’catch-up’ amid concerns those comments stigmatise children. However, the reality is that children have missed months of face-to-face teaching, and that has inescapable consequences.

DISADVANTAGED SLIP FURTHER BEHIND

Wales’s learners have been part of the pandemic’s ‘collateral damage.’

Although, for now, there are more questions than answers, solutions to repair that ‘damage’ will need to be carefully considered and delivered during the Welsh Parliament’s sixth term.

Even before the pandemic, Wales already faced an uphill struggle to secure good educational outcomes for all its learners.

The most disadvantaged learners have extra challenges which can prevent them from achieving their full potential.

Even though the previous Welsh Government invested £585 million since 2012 through the Pupil Development Grant (PDG), the attainment gap it was seeking to close, didn’t narrow.

It also typically widens as learners get older.

There’s a stark difference between children eligible for free school meals and their peers at Key Stage 4, the two years where learners usually take GCSEs and other examinations.

Children and young people themselves are well placed to give their verdict.

A 2021 Children’s Commissioner survey of 20,000 children found that 35% didn’t feel confident about their learning, compared to 25% in May 2020.

63% of 12–18-year-olds were worried about falling behind.

There are countless reports setting out adults’ views about how missing more than half a year of ‘face-to-face’ schooling has affected learners.

One of the major concerns is the variation between what schools have delivered to pupils.

There’s a long list of potential impacts:

· ‘Lost learning’ meaning pupils could underperform academically and have their long-term prospects affected.

· A loss of confidence in the examination and assessment system.

· Long-term reductions in school attendance, a factor known to be key to educational outcomes.

· Difficult transitions between school years and from primary to secondary.

· Challenges in re-engaging learners and addressing low motivation.

· An unhelpful ‘catch up’ narrative about lost learning placing unnecessary psychological pressure on children and young people; and

· A negative effect on learners’ ability and confidence to communicate in Welsh where they haven’t been able to do so at home.

WIDER EFFECTS

As well as these obvious educational issues, there are wider predicted effects.

Current learners could earn less, with one estimate of up to £40,000 in a lifetime.

The harm to children’s physical health and a higher prevalence of mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, are also serious concerns.

The pandemic’s wider economic impact is also likely to increase the number of children living in low-income families.

Again, it’s the most disadvantaged learners who are predicted to bear the brunt in the longer term.

For example, in March 2021, the Child Poverty Action Group found that 35% of low-income families responding to its UK wide survey were still without essential resources for learning, with laptops and devices most commonly missing.

The Fifth Senedd’s Children, Young People and Education (CYPE) Committee heard that there is “plenty of evidence” that” there are striking differences between families in terms of their ability to support young people in their learning: the resources they have around them, the enthusiasm, the engagement, the commitment”.

REBUILDING TRUST

There must be work to rebuild relationships that have been under significant strain during the past 12 months.

Those between teaching unions and the decision-makers within the education system; between parents/carers and schools; and perhaps, most importantly, re-establishing the relationship between learners and their teachers.

Some of the immediate solutions which are already on the table or up for discussion are: more money, including the ‘Recruit, Recover and Raise Standards funding’; more teachers and learning assistants on the ground; changing term times; and setting up summer schools, holiday clubs and home tuition.

However, the longer-term problems are far harder to solve.

One estimate puts the cost of Wales’s journey back from COVID-19 at £1.4 bn to meet the challenges to the education system alone.

The opportunity exists for major reform and an examination of the whole approach to and aim of education.

Children and young people’s return to the classroom has been heralded as a big chance to put their well-being at the heart of education. As well as having a positive impact on well-being, put, mentally healthy children are much more likely to learn.

Following pressure from the Fifth Senedd’s CYPE Committee and its stakeholders, Wales has already made a significant shift towards establishing a ‘Whole School Approach to Mental Health’. The challenge during the Sixth Senedd will be to deliver it.

PERMANENT CHANGE

The potential sting in the tail is that, at the same time, the education system is getting children back to school, it also contends with major legislative reform.

This is in the form of wholesale changes to both the school curriculum and support for learners with Additional Learning Needs.

Some may argue that there’s been no better time to have such significant changes.

If the education system can successfully implement these three major reforms, arguably Wales will complete significant leg work and be on a firmer footing to meet the challenges presented by Covid-19.

At this stage there may be many more questions than answers for the education system.

The world into which learners will move has changed forever.

Not only has the pandemic interrupted their schooling, but the future journeys they were expected to make into the workplace or further and higher education could be unrecognisable.

The skills and aptitudes needed in the ‘new normal’ are only now beginning to be identified and are likely to be different from those needed before the pandemic began.

Education

Pupils take centre stage for dance competitions

Published

2 days ago

April 17, 2024

Richard Lewis

MORE than 230 Pembrokeshire pupils have taken part in exciting dance competitions at primary and secondary school levels.

Sport Pembrokeshire hosted the primary school dance competition on March 19th at Fishguard Leisure Centre.

Seven schools from across the county and more than 160 pupils took part, including both boys and girls from school years 3-6.

All style and street dance were the categories that teams, solos and duos could enter. There were 55 solo performers entering the street dance solo category.

Pupils from Ysgol Bro Gwaun performed a group dance and some performed brilliant solos for the primary pupils to watch.

Finola (FF Dancers), Kelly (Kelly Williams School of Dance) and Lowri (Lowri Jones School of Dance) judged the high standard of competitions with dance coaches Lucy Kerrison and Kelci Francis helping out during the day.

They are all thanked for their help and expertise as putting on an event of this nature would not be possible without their valuable input.

Forty eight medals, 22 trophies and numerous certificates were presented, including awards for stand-out performers.

The atmosphere was great and it was brilliant to see the pupils taking part, getting creative and showcasing their skills, all with a smile on their faces.

The secondary schools dance competition was hosted on Thursday, 29th February at Haverfordwest Leisure Centre.

In total 77 girls from school years 7-11 competed in various categories such as teams, duos and solos. These included street, all style, freestyle, jazz and cheer.

Finola and Kelly judged the day with the help from Lucy and Kelci. Kelci, a former Ysgol Harri Tudur pupil, also gave showstopping performances.

It was a great day with a fantastic atmosphere and very rewarding to see so many girls taking part in sport and enjoying every minute.

Some of the schools who attended are now through to the UDOIT Dance Competition in Cardiff.

Hundreds of pupils have enjoyed school dance competitions over recent weeks.

Education

Second Pembrokeshire Chess Tournament celebrates youth and skill

Published

3 weeks ago

March 29, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE SECOND Pembrokeshire Chess Tournament drew participants from 21 schools across the region, culminating in a day of intense competition and camaraderie.

The tournament, reported by Vicky Brown, saw young chess enthusiasts gather for a day marked by strategic gameplay and exceptional talent. Henry Burton from Redhill emerged victorious, claiming the top spot in a closely contested field. The duo of Steffan Hughes and Huw Holliday, also from Redhill, followed closely in second place, while Osian Griffiths (Ysgol Caer Elen), Bryn Williams (Milford Haven Community School), and Iolo Hughes (Redhill) shared the third place, showcasing the depth of talent present among the participants.

In recognition of outstanding sportsmanship, Carys Callan from Redhill was honoured with the ‘David Pinch Award’, embodying the spirit of fair play and respect that marked the tournament. A special mention was given to Tyler Davison-Hall from Johnston CP School for participating in the Game of the Tournament, further highlighting the event’s competitive yet friendly atmosphere.

The tournament benefitted significantly from the expertise of Ian Eustis from the Welsh Chess Union, who served as Arbiter, ensuring the smooth running of the games. The event was also supported by Martin Jones and Scott Hammett, who took on the roles of stewards, and the Friends of Redhill (FOR), who managed the refreshments, contributing to the day’s success.

The local chess community, including participants and spectators, expressed their appreciation for the organisational efforts that made the event possible. For those interested in furthering their chess skills, the Pembrokeshire Chess Club extends an invitation to meet on Tuesday evenings in Steynton. Martin Jones, contactable at 07884384131, is available for further details regarding membership and participation.

Looking ahead, Redhill is poised to host its next chess tournament on Saturday, 8th June, promising another opportunity for young chess players to demonstrate their skills and passion for the game. The success of this event not only highlights the thriving chess scene in Pembrokeshire but also sets the stage for future tournaments that continue to inspire and engage the youth in the noble game of chess.

Education

Difference between homeschooling and distance learning

Published

3 weeks ago

March 28, 2024

Niki Favorido

IN the ever-evolving panorama of schooling, alternatives to standard classroom settings have gained enormous interest – homeschooling and distance studying. As technology continues to reshape our method of getting to know, it becomes essential to apprehend the nuances that differentiate these academic pathways. This weblog publishes objectives to delve into the differences between homeschooling and distance studying, dropping mild on their precise features, blessings, and potential drawbacks.

Defining Homeschooling and Distance Learning

Homeschooling and distance-gaining knowledge, even though sharing a few commonplace grounds, range basically in their execution. Homeschooling entails the mother and father taking over the role of the primary educators for their youngsters, designing and implementing a personalised curriculum. This approach offers flexibility, catering to character studying patterns and pace.

On the other hand, distance mastering refers to an academic device in which students acquire instruction remotely and regularly through online structures. It can be facilitated via conventional schools or dedicated online establishments, supplying an extra formalised approach than homeschooling.

Flexibility and Customisation

One key differentiator between homeschooling and distance-gaining knowledge is the extent of flexibility and customisation each offers. Homeschooling offers unparalleled flexibility, permitting families to conform the curriculum to fit the child’s wishes, pastimes, and learning fashion. This personalised technique fosters deep expertise in topics and encourages a love for gaining knowledge.

In comparison, distance studying, even as bendy in phrases of the region, may additionally have a more inflexible curriculum set by means of an academic institution. The customisation options are confined to the pre-hooked-up structure, doubtlessly proscribing the adaptability wished for by college students.

Educational Resources and Support

Another crucial issue to consider is the provision of tutorial sources and support in homeschooling and distance learning environments. Homeschooling regularly relies heavily on the creativity and resourcefulness of parents, who can also make use of various materials, online sources, and network activities to complement the mastering revel.

Distance learning, however, tends to provide a greater prepared help system. Students enrolled in distance study applications generally have the right to access a broader range of resources provided by the organisation. However, the extent of individualised attention may additionally vary, with some college students thriving within the independence of distance learning, while others may additionally feel a lack of customised assistance.

Technology Integration and Accessibility

In the digital age, technology plays a pivotal position in both homeschooling and distance studying. Homeschooling families have the power to choose the quantity of technology that is integrated into their curriculum. Some may additionally opt for a more traditional method, whilst others include online structures, instructional apps, and digital assets.

In contrast, distance learning heavily relies on era for content shipping, communication, and assessment. This can be superb, presenting college students with treasured digital literacy abilities and publicity to digital collaboration. However, worries concerning display time and the ability to handle technological issues can also stand up.

Addressing Concerns and Seeking Feedback

Before delving into both homeschooling and distance studying, it’s critical for dads, moms, and students to cope with worries and seek comments from dependable assets. Platforms like Scamfighter offer sincere comments on diverse academic offerings. To read writingpapersucks review, which includes “Is SpeedyPaper reliable”, can provide insights into the studies of others. Additionally, exploring questions like “Is myassignmenthelp.com good?” and perusing paper help reviews can help in making knowledgeable selections. Visit scamfighter for trustworthy feedback.

Addressing Socialisation and Extracurricular Activities

Beyond lecturers, socialisation and extracurricular sports are vital additives of properly-rounded training. Homeschooling can also face scrutiny in this factor, as critics regularly have specific concerns about the capacity lack of social interplay. However, homeschooling households regularly actively interact with community companies, sports activities teams, and cultural businesses to offer adequate possibilities for social development.

Distance getting to know while making an allowance for socialisation through digital ways may also pose demanding situations. The absence of face-to-face interactions can affect a pupil’s ability to develop vital social abilities. Educational institutions presenting distance mastering packages may additionally need to discover innovative methods to foster virtual communities and extracurricular involvement to deal with this problem.

Parental Involvement and Time Commitment

One huge issue influencing the choice between homeschooling and distance learning is the level of parental involvement and time dedication required. Homeschooling demands tremendous funding of time from the mother and father, who act as both educators and facilitators. This dedication may be rewarding but may also pose challenges for families with time constraints.

In assessment, distance mastering often presents a more established method, lowering the direct time commitment from parents. However, parental involvement remains important in tracking development, supplying support, and ensuring a conducive learning environment. Striking a balance between independence and parental steerage is prime for success in a distance getting to know putting.

The Role of Assessments and Grading

Assessment methods and grading structures vary significantly among homeschooling and distance-gaining knowledge. In a homeschooling environment, evaluation techniques can be tailor-made to in shape the character student’s needs, emphasising understanding over standardised trying out. Grading may be more qualitative, focusing on the mastery of concepts rather than comparative performance.

In contrast, distance-gaining knowledge often incorporates standardised assessments and grading structures to measure pupil development uniformly. This method aligns with traditional instructional fashions, offering a clear benchmark for academic achievement. However, it could no longer absolutely capture the depth of knowledge and personal increase emphasised in homeschooling.

Conclusion

Both homeschooling and distance studying present viable alternatives to standard schooling, each with its precise advantages and challenges. The decision between the two should be primarily based on personal preferences, studying patterns, and the level of involvement desired. By expertise the distinctions mentioned in this weblog and looking for dependable comments, parents and college students can make informed selections, ensuring a satisfying and powerful instructional enjoyment.