Thank you!

Thanks Bob!

Absolutely - which is why I prefer communication. It has to be reciprocal.

Yes! Exactly this!

Myfanwy - I’m with you on Oracy. I actually prefer communication. What about the non-verbal children?

Don’t forget the tutoring… Exams, tests and tutoring. That’ll fix it…🤦🏻‍♀️

I was having discussions with KS2 teachers in 2018 about handwriting, and with action/based research, they tracked it back to the narrowing of opportunities for physical development and gross and fine motor development lower down the school. What fixed it? Introducing these things in KS2…

Undoubtedly. But it’s bigger than just that. Everything you’re saying was a problem before lockdown.

Sue… you are always on the money.

Gross and fine motor activity before and during introduction and development of physical writing is key. COVID is only part of the issue. The formality of the curriculum and some ill advised practices post 2014 to the detriment of movement and play in Reception and Key Stage 1 adds hugely to this.

I really am. And Sue is extremely knowledgeable on this. Never understood pen licences. It’s actually more fluid to write in pen than pencil. Let kids write with what they want and what feels most comfortable for them. It’s the writing that matters.

Thanks so much Mark. This means a lot coming from you. Am a big fan of your work!

Thank god.

Thanks Simon.

Very briefly! You were in high demand!

Teachers, because they are diligent, try their best to make it work regardless. But it’s time to reflect on what’s not working and why and what might be better for our children. Keeping on keeping on isn’t ensuring change happens.