But the ones in the news are there because they are newsworthy: i.e. unusual.
I still think that rather than withdraw (the easy option), the parents could do something to improve the situation - becoming a govenor, for example. I think it's that fact that it's a postion of luxury that irks me: working class parents could not afford to withdraw their children, simply because they need to be out earning money during the day. It's the Chelsea Tractor brigade
(I'm all right Jack)

I don't feel much of an affinity with children so don't ever want one. But the only thing that endears me to a child is the idea of teaching it new thngs and watching it learn. It must be a pleasure to do this. But I would only do it as an extra curricular thing anyway. I think a parents call stll 'remedy' the effects of a sink school.....my secondary school was awful and so most of my learning and coursework was all done at home anyway. My parent's didn't have time or couldn't help with the academics but they provided books and quiet space and time....

thanks for that - and not having children obviously doesn't include anyone from having a view.

the reality of teaching under Blair's Gov in recent years is that teachers are leaving in droves due to increased pressure - many who weren't up to the new job description have left. performance management, professional development targets etc. have made teachers (rightly) more accountable - this has always been the case in industry. this is balanced by excellent training and new working conditions (such as 'non-contact' time to properly plan work, prepare lessons and assess pupils). schools are really well resourced with materials and staff (including highly trained classroom assistants).

to comfort those of you who are planning on having children and sending them to state schools, some teacher vacancies are attracting up to 100 applicants - heads choose the very best. supply teachers are also increasingly good. many are used repeatedly and get to know the school and children better than in the past.

you're spot on about socialisation, juno

doesn't EXCLUDE anyone from having a view ('slow down and check your work...')

yummy hot chocolate... i've missed this!

can't promise i'll be around as much as i used to be (about 10 times a day) - my loss, not yours - but i'll be more computer-bound in the next couple of weeks than i have been over the past several, so i'll be able to catch up with everything i've missed before i disappear again (for a well-earned holiday this time). yay

i believe congrats are in order to mrs. H?

you're probably all out partying or something - but it doesn't matter because this thread's all mine... i have no need to register on 'myspace, i've got it right here.

(boring, eh?)