‘A happy school’ better than a high-achieving school

Parents are strongly in favour of a ‘back to basics’ approach in the curriculum

More than 70 per cent of parents believe that a happy atmosphere is the most important aspect of any school. In an online survey conducted by Tom-Brown.com, the results also revealed that a good atmosphere means more to parents than discipline and order in the classroom, and academic results.

A friendly and caring headteacher and staff came next in the order of priorities, with 62 per cent of people stating this is ‘very important’. Good discipline followed, gaining 53 per cent of the votes, and academic results were rated as important by 50 per cent of parents.

Get back to the three 'Rs'

The survey also revealed that parents are strongly in favour of a ‘back to basics’ approach in the curriculum. In fact, 70.4 per cent of parents said that greater emphasis should be placed on reading, writing and maths in the curriculum.

“The tide certainly seems to be turning against SATS, as 55 per cent of parents told us that they favour schools that are against the testing of young children,” reveals the site editor, Gail Dixon.

“The media can portray this generation of parents as being ‘pushy’ and over-ambitious, forcing their children to attend ‘exam factory’ schools,” Gail continues. “However, our survey shows that most people value their children’s happiness above all other things, and have the healthy conviction that if kids are content at school, then other good things will follow.”