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Why children need formality

By Jean Brown, principal and teacher at Glenfield Nursery School in Eaglescliffe, Stockton on Tees My nursery school has been running successfully for 30 years but came in for severe criticism by Ofsted inspectors on its most recent inspection. I was informed that more time should be spent allowing children to 'explore their feelings' and less time spent on formal education, such as reading and writing.

I was informed that more time should be spent allowing children to 'explore their feelings' and less time spent on formal education, such as reading and writing.

I protested strongly and demanded another inspection. Ofsted refused a further education component inspection because they considered it to be 'sound', but agreed another inspection of the care component, which they then deemed satisfactory.

I am not happy with this situation and have involved the Campaign for Real Education. Even former Ofsted chief inspector Chris Woodhead stated that he would have arranged a full re-inspection.

Children who leave Glenfield can count, know the alphabet, recognise and write up to four letter words and their names and recognise shapes. They have excellent social skills and are praised for their good behaviour on outings. Parents travel great distances to bring their children here because of our reputation.

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