Not long ago, in 1998, when early years practitioners were questioning the sense of earlier entry into schools, Chris Woodhead vehemently opposed any suggestion that this was not in the best interests of the children. He strongly supported the idea that by 'educating' them earlier it would lead to higher achievement later. At that time research was quoted which compared British children's achievements unfavourably with those of children from some other countries, in particular Belgium, Hungary and part of Switzerland. In these countries the children were starting school at the age of five or six.
Not long ago, in 1998, when early years practitioners were questioning the sense of earlier entry into schools, Chris Woodhead vehemently opposed any suggestion that this was not in the best interests of the children.
He strongly supported the idea that by 'educating' them earlier it would lead to higher achievement later. At that time research was quoted which compared British children's achievements unfavourably with those of children from some other countries, in particular Belgium, Hungary and part of Switzerland. In these countries the children were starting school at the age of five or six.
It seems Mr Woodhead has now conducted his own research. Why is it that, several years and many young children later, items of 'news', which have always been known to those of us working with young children are now credited to the rich and famous? When will the Government listen to the real experts?
Clare Schmieder, Focus Nursery School, Wareham, Dorset.
