Workplace learning should be there for all

Pat Rowland

Education - it's not just teachers UNISON tells Conference Congress approved a statement form the general Council on class size, teacher numbers and budgets for teacher education.

UNISON supported the statement which commits the council to working with unions "representing the education team".

The statement expressed concern over school closures dictated by public spending cuts, at the same time that pledges on class sizes aren't being met.

But "Education isn't just about teacher numbers and class sizes" was the message from UNISON's Pat Rowland.

She spoke up for the rest of the education team "who tend to be the lowest paid and least valued".

Pat also questioned the priority given to reducing class sizes as the key to improving educational attainment wondering the cost and disruption involved were fully justified. "This is a heavily researched policy area". She told Congress.

"The evidence of links between small class sizes and improved learning outcomes."

Pat then went on to outline other mechanisms that might be more effective including changed teaching methods, the use of nurture classes, greater use of educational psychologists and classroom assistants".

But her key message was clear "The quality of education provision will be boosted by involving the whole education team in the process of change".

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