On The Shoulders of a Giant

I am a fervent campaigner for equality across the curriculum and feel that the under-representation of subjects that students are good at and passionate about, is a tragic disservice to our future generation. At school, I was an academic high achiever, top of every class, test and assessment. When I was deciding between a degree in Law and applying to London Drama schools, choosing the latter was undoubtedly cast as a seriously inferior decision. I felt for many years that I had discredited myself and my potential, despite being blissfully happy and creatively and intellectually fulfilled there.

I am not alone in my campaign for the implementation of equality and diversity across the school curriculum and this has long been called for, in the most eloquent and urgent of fashions. Sir Ken Robinson PhD, the most watched man on TED of all time, advised governments, spoke internationally and published on the very same subject. Diversity and creativity in education is woefully lacking and desperately needed. Our teachers are inherently creative professionals who must be entrusted to impart those skills of mentorship unto our inherently creative young.

Tens of millions watched and downloaded Sir Ken Robinson’s TED Talk; what does this tell us? There is a hunger, an appetite for change and innovation perhaps. A readiness to embrace progress. Can we begin to develop, devise a more inclusive system that allows for brilliance in English and science for example to sit alongside “just” a functionality in maths and a brilliance in dance or art, all held in equal esteem and hope for the future?

My hope is a profound and resounding yes. YES, YES, YES! And in this pursuit and commitment, I stand upon the shoulders of a giant.