On this episode of Mind The Gap, Tom Sherrington and Emma Turner are joined by special guest Ben Newmark. From skepticism towards methods that only focus on clever children to the importance of not categorizing all students under the umbrella term of SEND, this episode challenges conventional thinking and calls for a more inclusive and personalized approach to education.
Recognizing the Limitations of the Top-Performing Students
During the interview, it was emphasized that pedagogies and teaching methods that focus solely on gifted students may not be effective. The discussion highlights how such approaches can lead to false positives and fail to address the needs of all students. Ben reflects on teaching a top set in a grammar school and using a creative approach, like juggling while discussing historical events, which resulted in all students achieving high grades. This example highlights the importance of recalibrating teaching methods to benefit all students.
Recognizing the Importance of SEND Provision
The episode highlights the significance of SEND provision and emphasizes its importance in providing resources for children who find learning difficult. The trio argues against eliminating the SEND designation, as it could have detrimental effects on children who require additional support. The trio emphasize the need for a comprehensive framework that caters to the unique needs of each student, ensuring no child is left behind.
The Need for a More Inclusive Education System
The trio emphasized the importance of considering individual educational needs and questioned the idea of teaching all students together without differentiation. They discuss the challenges faced in primary education, where there is a broader range of children with various needs. Ben advocates for an approach to education that values differentiation as a means to ensure all students can succeed at their appropriate level, rather than being misunderstood as lowering expectations.
Beyond Exam Grades: A Holistic Approach to Education
The conversation delves into the limitations of the education system’s focus on exam grades and instrumentalist outcomes. Ben notes that education should have a more comprehensive goal, promoting personal growth, critical thinking, and a love for learning. They highlight the need for a more sophisticated debate around education, avoiding simplistic arguments that limit its purpose.
Breaking down barriers and embracing individual differences is crucial in education. This episode of Mind The Gap provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by the education system while advocating for a more inclusive and personalized approach. It serves as a reminder that education should be a transformative journey, empowering students of all abilities to reach their full potential. Only by embracing the uniqueness of each learner can we unlock a future where education truly knows no limits.
Watch more episodes of Mind The Gap to learn about making education work globally.