Ex-teacher urges Government to call halt to tests for under-7s
A FORMER teacher from Burscough is urging the Government to abandon “stressful” tests for primary school pupils.
And she has called on more to be done to help young children develop their language skills.
Norma Mudd, a respected former English teacher, who has taught at Maghull High, Deyes High and Warwick Bolan Grammar, in Bootle, contacted The Advertiser after the Government revealed its concern at figures that show many children start school with language and attention deficits.
Norma Mudd said: “This alarming statement was issued recently, though such deficits were noted by teachers in the late 1980s! They have increased dramatically with the increase in information technology.
“Sadly, it is now almost the norm to see parents with young children who, instead of chatting with them, are talking or texting on mobile phones.
“Also, many prams are now designed so that occupants face ‘outwards’ making it virtually impossible for parents to talk or sing with the pram’s occupant.
“Moreover, in homes, meals are often not eaten as family, frequently, both adults and children are busy with mobiles or watching TV.
“Even outdoor play and communication with peers may be replaced by indoor screen time. Little wonder that these children have language and listening deficits.
“Even when children start school and reading books are sent home, so they may read and discuss the story to ensure understanding, the room itself is often dominated by TV and mobiles are left on.
“Not ‘quality’ conditions for learners.”
The ex-teacher believes schools alone cannot be held responsible for changing the situation.
She said: “It seems that the remedy for these deficits lies with the Government and schools.
“The former, having recognised the problem at last, should immediately cease informal and formal testing for children between the ages of four and seven-plus years.”
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