School discipline has deteriorated because teachers are no longer allowed to
cane unruly pupils, according to parents in a recent poll. According to Mori who organised eight 90-minute discussion groups in London and Manchester, on
behalf of the Department for Education and Skills, behaviour is the ‘key education issue’.
Mori’s report said many participants were of the opinion that it had declined
over the past few years – with more reports of attacks on teachers and other
pupils. Teachers were also believed to have fewer rights to enforce order.
Generally parents were satisfied with their children’s schools and thought
standards had risen. There was also great support for head teachers and teachers “both of whom are
held in the highest regard”, the report said.
I’m pleased to see the parents being so supportive of teachers.
