For the last 18 years I’ve been speaking to young people in schools, yet like the celebs I’m not a trained teacher and because of that i can sympathise with Simon Callow in many ways. The show like most TV is contrived to bring out conflict / good / watchable TV. The reality is that young people aren’t impressed by big expensive props and famous names especially when their lives are so chaotic – like many of the young people in the show. What young people respond to is authenticity, patience and you surviving a few of their little tests! They need to know that you know what you are doing, know you are in charge but without arrogance, disrespect or defensiveness.
If all they have had is bad experiences, then that’s what they’ll expect and in David Starkey’s case that’s what they got. Young people didn’t need to see 3 million pounds worth of artefacts – they just need someone who can engage with them. Teachers must earn their respect just like anyone else, and Simon Callow experienced some breakthroughs there.
Here’s the deal – if the young people don’t take responsibility for their own education then no amount of talking from “famous” or not famous people will bring them round – they have to want to change, and we should persuade them why, in their language. I have worked in some of the most challenging schools in the country and the way you work well with these young people is knowing your content, the ability to keep on going, but above all show them that you are human not “the expert in an ivory tower” – well done Simon Callow for your honesty, as for the rest of the teachers and the show – time will tell.”
“Lee Jackson is the one of the UK’s most experienced school speakers and author of the book “”How To Be Sick At School” which help teens succeed in school – www.howtobesickatschool.com “
