Children go to school to gain a better understanding of the world and their place in it. From and early age, they are shaped and moulded by adults who live in a very different world to their children. As time progresses, the world becomes a much more complicated place to be in and there are many pressures on young people which are sometimes overwhelming. In addition, pressure mounts and converges on a few key subjects which are heralded to hold they key to future success in a job or other career.
But in doing so, we often forget to offer what the soul needs to develop; the arts, physical activity, singing, cooking, dance, performing, creating, publishing and sharing and in doing so, we limit the emotional growth of the individuals we have in our care. Having fun and enjoyment are key aspects of good development - play, if we want to reduce it to elemental levels. Sure you can be successful in maths, but real enjoyment comes from the celebration of the spirit through the arts.
Children aren't things to be moulded, they are people to be unfolded
So, it shouldn't be all about standards and Sir Ken Robinson has been speaking about this since 1998 when he was asked to look at creativity in schools - and I think he's still looking, in many cases. Take a look at his video