ACE Breakfast with Professor Alan Reid

Professor Alan Reid

We had a great start to the year (2010) with our first event on the 12 March 2010, the Breakfast with Professor Alan Reid. Alan presented to 180 people on the topic of the National Curriculum. The Advertiser referred to the event as a 'sold out event'. The topic focused on 'What the problems and possibilities are for schools in relation to a national curriculum'. A very well received presentation which provided some interesting perspectives and insights into a new national curriculum. The issues Alan discussed provided a basis for debate and further exploration back at sites with colleagues.

Front row: Louise Bywaters, Mike Hudson Middle row: Linda Vining (Membership Officer), Helena Sobulis, Margaret  Clark (ACE CEO), Alice George, Mary Asikas (President SA) Back row: Michael Critchley (Treasurer), Greg Carey, Di Russell (Secretary), Alan Reid (Guest Speaker) and Bob Conway.

Many may have heard the national curriculum referred to as a 'world class' curriculum which involves 21st century learning. Many have expressed mixed views about this new education policy. Some would say 'it's about time we had a common curriculum', and 'at least we know what we are teaching year by year'. Others would say 'it is politically driven', 'how can 1 size fit all' and it undoubtedly 'excludes those from disadvantaged backgrounds'. Whatever the view, we need to start engaging with it in our own context with a critical analytical policy lense. The dialogue has barely started and we don't really know what we don't know about the national curriculum!

Mary Asikas, FACE
President: SA Branch