Oh really. There has just been too much nonsense in the news over the past couple of days.
“Special advisers are providing a vital link between parents and schools, the Training and Development Agency says.”
Can the government not trust parents to undertake the most basic of tasks, such as –just possibly – communicating with their children’s teachers? Clearly not.
Of course, the Training and Development Agency is well placed to offer an objective assessment of such a scheme, and as such is simply offering a considered, professional opinion as to the likely contribution of Parent Support Advisers. Isn't it?
“The TDA is overseeing the introduction of PSAs across England, following a pilot scheme in 20 local authorities. The TDA says there are currently 2,254 advisers working to support parents and their children in 7,608 schools. “
Ah. Maybe not.
Naturally, they have the findings of what I am sure is a highly scientific survey to prove that they are not simply acting out of self-interest, and a nannying disregard for the most basic abilities of human beings:
“In a separate poll of more than 1,000 parents the TDA found 42% would not know whom to contact if concerned about their child. The survey found 53% of parents wanted more interaction with schools and 54% wanted a dedicated point of contact. “
Well, here are my top tips for those 1,000+ parents:
- Establish a good relationship with your child and show interest in his or her life.
- Find out from your child the name of his or her form tutor, pastoral care teacher, year lead, deputy head or head teacher.
- Call or visit the school and speak to the aforementioned contact, or arrange to be contacted.
- Be approachable and constructive; if the problem persists return to step 2 and repeat process with alternative contact.
Alternatively, pay 2,254 PSAs with little real influence in the school structure an average salary of £20,000/annum, and then watch as the PSA initiative is rolled out across the country in yet another flawed attempt to undermine the most basic skills and abilities of parents through unnecessary, duplicative “support”. Briefly consider why parents no longer take responsibility for their own children; blame advertising, computer games and "rampant individualism" - and then fine or imprison them.
This government will not be satisfied until it has completely replaced us with a national programme of proxy parenting extended outreach co-ordinators.
