End of Loophole allowing Tutors to smack children in England

I was very pleased to read today that a loophole in English law has finally been closed. The government had not reversed a law which allowed education providors outside schools to smack children. Although I doubt anyone would think that it was permissible for private tutors to smack children in their care, this story does raise issues about governments' attitudes to the private tuition industry and the lack of regulation in it.

I very much hope that we see the day of compulsory Disclosure Scotland/CRB checks/ISA registration for tutors very soon. Tutors' Alliance is committed to bringing this to the top of the tuition industry's agenda.

Gift-Giving in Education

The BBC is reporting today that teacher are receiving more and more presents to thank them for their work.

I do agree that teachers (and tutors!) are appreciated but that gifts are not necessary at all. Of course it is lovely to be thanked for the work you have put in over the year but in my own experience, receiving a letter or a card means a lot. I keep all of them at home in my "treasures" box. It is really pleasing to see that pupils do appreciate what teachers do for them and a little thank you goes a long way.

On that note, I would also like to wish all pupils in Scotland a very good Easter holiday! For those revising over the holidays - stick in there!

When will this chaos end?

I was looking on the net today for recent stories about tutors who have been involved in alleged criminal activity. It is shocking just what is going on, often behind closed doors. Just a few short weeks ago, this story appeared
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/crime/7377242/Ballet-teacher-accused-of-having-sex-with-teenage-male-pupil.html

All tutors have a moral responsibility to have Enhanced Disclosure Scotland or CRB checks. This moral obligation MUST be made legal as soon as possible to protect our country's young people as far as possible. The system is not a fail-safe one, but it is certainly a very good start. Please, tutors - get a check. Parents and pupils - make sure your tutor has one and act responsibly to protect your child.

Lack of University Places Piling the Pressure on Young People

I was reading an article in the Times this week with the shocking statistic that 50 000 young people will not get a place at university. This is a very sad reflection both on the funding cuts which have been made to universities and the problems with the entry systems. Young people ought to be supported in their dreams and many will be left now in a very difficult position. For those who do have offers, the pressure is very much on to meet them. With exams coming up, for many it will be a time of stress which can only be exacerbated by the recent news. All tutors should make themselves aware of the situation with their pupils who are in their final years of school and applying to university to ensure they are aware of the grades which are required. Although tutors cannot guarantee the grades, they can ensure pupils are feeling more confident.

Read about the story here.