nasza_maggie
02.08.06, 13:28
The shape of things to come Little Britons Copy Teachers
Updated: 08:00, Wednesday August 02, 2006
Illiterate nursery staff who discuss their boozy nights out and hangovers in
front of toddlers risk creating a generation of Vicky Pollards, a teachers'
leader fears.
Too many students starting childcare training courses write using only text
message shorthand, said Deborah Lawson, chair of the Professional Association
of Teachers.
And she said growing numbers of young staff in nurseries dress
inappropriately, with long nails and "chunky" shoes, and discuss their social
lives in front of children.
The situation risks creating a generation of toddlers who will resemble the
infamous Little Britain character Vicky Pollard, famed for her "Yeah-but, no-
but" catchphrase and lewd behaviour.
Ms Lawson said: "I don't want to trivialise this in any way at all, but we
don't want a future generation of Vicky Pollards.
"I'm not saying that is going to happen, but that's the worst-case scenario.
"As a nanny or a nursery worker, you are acting as role models for children.
Therefore it is no good if your spelling and understanding of language is
only as good as your ability to text."
She added: "I don't want to stop anybody doing that (drinking): if that's
what works for you, that's fine.
"But that particular baggage needs to stay at the front door when you walk
in."
Her remarks followed a high-profile Government drive to raise the standards
of nursery education in England, with moves to expand free childcare for
three and four-year-olds.
A spokesman for the Department for Education and Skills said: "This
completely ignores the true picture of what is happening and is profoundly
insulting to those working hard in our early years and childcare sector.
"We are absolutely committed to creating a world-class childcare workforce."
