Cry England for Hugh, George and Harry
Yesterday (30 April), at their National Conference, as Secretary of State for Education, Nicky Morgan, faced ridicule, the National Association of Headteachers threatened industrial action over Government plans to make all state schools in England academies and their plans over further testing in schools across the country. Today (1 May) as 35,603 people sign the petition against the imposition of further SATS tests, parents in primary schools up and down the land, prepare to take their children out of classes on the day of the national protest against SATS tests, this Tuesday 3 May. Here we publish the simple message from two local primary school parents.—Bay Life 1 May 2016
Dear Headteacher
It is with regret that my children Hugh, George & Harry will not be attending school on the 3rd of May.
We shall be participating in a National Protest. So learning on the 3rd of May will be happening in a different way. We may go on a forage in the woods, visit a museum or National Trust property.
As a family we are deeply opposed to the additional pressures to both our children as well as teaching staff that this years amended tests have brought about. We in no way, shape or form support SAT’s testing.
Hugh is anxious at present but coping, if @ any stage he is unable to cope with the situation we expressly forbid access to testing him. We also refuse to pursue endless revision work in support of SAT’s. We work with Hugh daily and to expect more from him is unreasonable!
In having a EHC plan pass or fail Hugh will not have to undergo a retest in Autumn. So we view this test as a plaster that needs removing but only if he is able to manage his anxiety.
Thankfully Harry appears to be unfazed by his upcoming SAT’s which is testament to the ability of his teachers.
We thank you for your efforts as teachers and hope this madness ceases as soon as is practicable.
Yours most sincerely
Elizabeth and Paul Nicholson
Local primary school parents
