The unique perspective of our Government on the ‘value’ of education is plain to see. Over the past few months I have been trying to focus on the actual language used in Government announcements to unpick the intention. We have obvious ‘military’ language: ‘the battle against coronavirus’, the ‘front line’ and ‘protect lives’. In a time of national emergency, it is easy to get carried away in the spirit of the moment, but all the more important not to take things at face value.
The unbelievable circus that surrounded children returning to nursery and school was a perfect example. The lack of any meaningful consultation and the unwillingness to listen to practical concerns led to a road crash. Children’s entitlement to education has never been questioned, but the obvious disconnect between Government and those committed to children’s rights was stark. The Government wanted children back so the workforce could return. That’s ok, but why not just be honest about it? Headlines about the ‘damage’ done to children abounded, the moral thumbscrews were on.
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