This Is Guernsey

By Gemma Hockey

EDUCATION has put economic policy before children, say teachers’ representatives. National Union of Teachers spokesman Sean McManus said teachers in the island were concerned about the lack of political support for local schools.

‘Colleagues across the island, and in particular at the three schools in the firing line, have endured an unnecessarily discomforting period recently,’ he said.

‘Some feel that the educational needs of local children are being sacrificed on the altar of economic policy.

‘A number have expressed their specific concerns at the lack of overt political support for local schools and communities from political representatives who, it is claimed, appear to be seeking educational cloaks for financial expediency or career advancement.

‘There have been widespread concerns expressed about the way in which this matter has been handled by the politicians responsible.’

He said it has been suggested that the island now has an opportunity to realise aspirations which have long been regarded as pipedreams.

‘The provision of nursery education and the maintenance of small classes should be viewed as positive goals which can be realistically encompassed within the policy objectives of the Government Business Plan,’ he said.

‘Such provision, on sites such as St Andrew’s and St Sampson’s Infants, would also enable the Education Department to ensure that no schoolchild is moved during a Key Stage.’

Teachers have shown their support for the decision by Deputy Dan Le Cheminant to step down from Education.

‘I have been struck by the number of colleagues who have spoken in support and in admiration of Deputy Dan Le Cheminant,’ he said.

‘Deputy Le Cheminant has been a real champion of education in the island and his caring yet progressive contribution to the service has been very highly valued by teachers over many years.

‘It is a pity that Deputy Le Cheminant feels there is no longer a comfortable place for him on the Education board in the current political and financial climate.’

Article posted on 21st January, 2008 - 12.00am