Our Education System – Tidal waves of change – Update
The unexpected announcement of a new education minister as part of the cabinet reshuffle has caused a wave of interest, relief and yet further uncertainty and anticipation as we await the implications of new leadership for our schools and the children and young people in education.
Nadhim Zahawi, has started his role with an acknowledgement and appreciation for the work of schools and in his open letter to education and care professionals, he has set out a commitment and pledge to “transform the lives of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged.” He has stated his intention to “listen to you and work with you…” in the pursuit to ensure “excellence for every child and every learner… also the surrounding support and care.”
These are strong words and are welcome promises. We are still in the midst of the aftershocks and continuing challenges of the pandemic, we have a national mental health crisis and we have an education and care system that is crying out for investment, vision and sustainability to ensure children have access to the vital support, services, education and opportunities they deserve. So how these commitments and promises are fulfilled and how well Nadhim Zahawi is able to deliver, will only become apparent as time unfolds and we see the actions that follow his words.
Whilst we hope for an education system that offers wide-ranging opportunity and excellence for all, we need reassurance that children’s emotional and mental health will be a priority and that all children really do receive the support, care and commitment to be able to flourish and succeed.
