Understanding Primary Education

This textbook gives you guidance and insights into the knowledge, values and commitments necessary to succeed in the primary classroom, supported by links to theory and research literature and realistic scenarios you may encounter as a new teacher. Fully updated throughout, key features of this second edition include: · A new chapter on inclusive education · Newly expanded coverage of digital learning, engaging with educational research and the role of the primary teacher · New ‘View from Practice’ examples · Cross-referenced links to the Teachers’ Standards in England and the GTCS Professional Standards in Scotland and where they are covered within the book This is essential reading for professional studies modules on primary initial teacher education courses, including university-based (PGCE, PGDE, BA QTS, BEd), school-based (SCITT, School Direct) and employment-based routes into teaching.

Beginning with descriptions of the ways in which children make sense of their experience and the world, such as fantasy, stories and games, Egan constructs his argument that constituting this foundational layer are sets of cultural sense-making capacities, reflected in oral cultures throughout the world. Egan sees education as the acquisition of these sets of sense-making capacities, available in our culture, and his goal is to conceptualize primary education in a way that over comes the dichotomy between progressivisim and traditionalism, attending both the needs of the individual child and the accumulation of knowledge.

′This book is a gift for anyone teaching PSHE whether they are new to the profession or experienced practitioners. Sound pedagogical discussion is combined with practical advice to ensure lessons are relevant, meet the needs of learners and allow sensitive issues to be explored in a safe and supportive way.′ - Liz Griffiths, Lead Assessor, National PSHE CPD Programme Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHEe) is a challenging subject and when well taught, of great value. Drawing from theory and practice in education, health and welfare it encompasses sensitive issues, such as relationships, drugs, safety, and bullying, and is influenced by political concerns of the day such as childhood obesity and the health of the economy. This book, written for those training to teach and early career primary teachers, provides clear guidance on how to tackle sensitive issues and informed ideas to help you to develop into a confident PSHE educator. It has been endorsed as a PSHE Association quality assured resource. The PSHE Association is the national subject association supporting teachers and other professionals working in the field of personal, social, health and economic education. Key features: Full of practical strategies and examples from schools that clearly demonstrate how to teach PSHEe with primary-aged children. A focus on best practice teaching enabling you to plan flexibly to meet the needs of your learners. Nick Boddington acts as National Subject Adviser for the PSHE Association, Jenny McWhirter is the Research Associate for the PSHE Association, and both her and Adrian King are experienced PSHE authors and education consultants.

Understanding assessment and being able to use it effectively is at the heart of successful primary teaching. Aware of current policy and research, this book looks at the role and purpose of assessment within education, as well as providing detailed practical guidance on the main types of classroom assessment, including formative, summative, formal and informal methods. Real classroom examples and activities illustrate the practical uses, benefits, and limitations of each form of assessment, enabling you to feel confident about implementing these strategies in your own teaching. Coverage includes: The assessment planning cycle Innovative forms of assessment, including portfolios, debates, role play and mind mapping Assessment of learners with diverse needs, including SEN and EAL The use of technology in assessment Engaging children through self-assessment and peer-assessment This is essential reading for all primary initial teacher education courses, including university-based (PGCE, PGDE, BA QTS, BEd), school-based (SCITT, School Direct, Teach First) and employment-based routes into teaching, and beginning teachers. Sue Faragher is Head of Al Basma British School, a large private school in Abu Dhabi.

Understanding Primary Education will help trainees and newly qualified teachers reflect on the professional decisions they need to make within their planning and classroom practice. The authors analyse key issues and policies within contemporary education through reference to research and pedagogical practice. They encourage readers to reflect on policy and practice and support them in articulating their own beliefs and values. A broad perspective of the curriculum is outlined with a focus on what curriculum breadth and balance looks like in practice. Readers are encouraged to consider questions such as: What are the purposes of education? What values are important in a pluralist society and what values might we share? In what ways can children be encouraged to be active participants within their communities?

This book explores the foundations of modern primary education and the role that society and culture has had in shaping it. Dismantling assumptions about what education has been or ‘should’ be, Tony Birch outlines what the core principles are that underpin high quality education to provide a holistic approach. Supporting leaders, practitioners and those studying primary education, this book: - Explains key issues in primary education and what drives them - Highlights the importance of pedagogy and leadership to enrich education - Builds on the existing frameworks in schools to encourage an holistic approach - Emphasises the importance of seeing the range of a child’s potential outside of academic expectations Understanding Primary Education as a Whole is an essential resource for leaders and those studying primary education who want to understand the changing nature of their schools, classrooms and children. “All of those leading primary education at whatever level can learn from Tony Birch’s analysis of history and competing influences on primary education. This book is systematic, comprehensive and thoughtful.” Dr. Alison Borthwick, UK and International Freelance Education and Mathematics Consultant “As well as being wise, this book is also engaging, accessible and essentially practical. Read it!” Professor Emeritus David Hopkins, www.profdavidhopkins.com “Tony reminds us of the complexity and challenge of primary education, the battles that have been fought around it and the changes in systems and practice that have occurred as a consequence.” Michael Tonge MA, Chief Executive Prestolee Multi Academy Trust, UK Tony Birch is Director of Birch Education and a Senior Associate of the Association of Education Advisers. He established Bolton Council's award-winning Curriculum ICT team, was Head of School Improvement and also Assistant Director responsible for Education and Learning.

This book includes full coverage of the content of professional studies modules and goes beyond to support trainees on placements and in their learning on the course.

Beginning with descriptions of the ways in which children make sense of their experience and the world, such as fantasy, stories and games, Egan constructs his argument that constituting this foundational layer are sets of cultural sense-making capacities, reflected in oral cultures throughout the world. Egan sees education as the acquisition of these sets of sense-making capacities, available in our culture, and his goal is to conceptualize primary education in a way that over comes the dichotomy between progressivisim and traditionalism, attending both the needs of the individual child and the accumulation of knowledge.