State School Viewpoint
There are a wide range of opportunities for students attending state schools to develop a range of skills including academic ability, sport, leadership, communications and many others.
Indeed the new Key Stage 3 curriculum will ensure that all students in the state sector will not only develop these skills but will also have their developments tracked and recorded. It is a pity that those in the private sector will not have the same opportunity.
Students in the state sector are taught to problem solve, think and develop independent learning. It is impossible to achieve GCSEs and Vocational Qualifications without developing high level skills in these areas.
Young people living in urban areas already take on the responsibility of looking after themselves.
Often, in order to manage the high cost of living, both their parents work. So children may be responsible for younger siblings. Some students also act as carer for a disabled parent and state schools now have the responsibility of identifying and supporting these courageous youngsters.
Young people need to feel safe in school. Home can be stressful and the local community is frequently dangerous. Many urban schools ensure the safety of their students by employing security guards to monitor the school perimeter and escort truants back to class.
I certainly do everything I can to encourage parental participation in the education of my students. Attendance at parents’ evenings and other events is usually above 75%. I would, of course, like this to be 100% and we will continue to strive towards this. Many of our parents had a poor experience of school themselves and a significant proportion from abroad had no school experience at all. Most state schools provide parents with advice and guidelines as to how to support their children. This information is provided in hard copy, via the internet and by word of mouth.
My students respect their teachers and feel an allegiance to their school. On my arrival at Woodside High in Tottenham, my students requested that the uniform be changed to a traditional blazer, white collar and tie. They worked with consultants to develop the new school name and logo and also helped choose house names. This involvement was crucial in creating pride and engagement. This has been carried into the local community, where my students work hard to cultivate a positive reputation.
My school is just one example of the many excellent state schools striving to prepare their students to contribute to society and to lead successful, happy lives.
Joan McVittie is headteacher of Woodside High, a large inner-city comprehensive in Tottenham
