Jane Mackenzie, a privatised education correspondent, highlights the challenges of the government's catch-up tutoring programme after COVID-19, touching on funding issues and effectiveness. Ian Hislop, the sharp-witted journalist and Private Eye satirist, alongside writer Francis Wheen, dives deep into Robert Maxwell's controversial legacy, exploring his intimidating tactics and the media's complicated dance with this notorious figure. Their discussions also draw eerie parallels with contemporary media personalities, making for a thought-provoking listen.
The National Tutoring Programme's complex funding distribution through private companies undermines schools' ability to effectively address their unique educational needs.
The renewed interest in Robert Maxwell highlights concerns about misrepresenting his legacy, as discussions often overlook his bullying tactics and media control.
Deep dives
National Tutoring Programme Oversight
The National Tutoring Programme aims to support children who have faced educational disruptions due to COVID-19 by providing tutoring services. Despite the substantial budget of £350 million to facilitate this support, there are significant concerns regarding the distribution of this funding. Instead of going directly to schools, the money funnels through private companies selected by a consortium of charities, which adds unnecessary complexity to the scheme. Consequently, this system not only limits the schools' ability to address their unique needs but also raises questions about the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the tutoring services provided.
Cost Implications for Schools
Schools face considerable financial challenges when utilizing the tutoring services provided under the National Tutoring Programme. The companies participating in the programme charge high rates for tutoring, even after offering discounts that can seem substantial, such as up to 75% off their usual fees. However, this can often translate to costs that are equivalent to or even more than what schools could have spent by recruiting tutors directly. Therefore, many schools are opting out of the program entirely as they struggle to manage their already tight budgets.
Effectiveness of Tutoring
There is ongoing debate regarding the effectiveness of tutoring, especially for students who have missed significant portions of their education due to the pandemic. While studies suggest small group tutoring can help students catch up by several months, most of the research predates the unique circumstances caused by COVID-19. Many educators and experts express skepticism about the adaptability of traditional tutoring models to the context of lost schooling time, which involved first-time exposure to previously unlearned subjects. This uncertainty raises concerns about whether the proposed tutoring strategies will truly meet the needs of the affected children.
Robert Maxwell's Legacy and Media Tactics
Robert Maxwell, a controversial figure in media history, is once again in the spotlight due to renewed interest in his life and actions stemming from various upcoming publications and documentaries. He was notorious for using aggressive legal tactics to silence criticism, effectively instilling fear among journalists and editors. Despite claims of being a protector of press freedom, Maxwell's actions often reflected a desire to control narratives and avoid scrutiny. As discussions arise around his legacy, analysts express concern that he is being misrepresented as a charismatic figure rather than as a bullying business tycoon who exploited others while operating in a climate of intimidation.
Episode 59. Jane Mackenzie reveals how the government’s catch-up tutoring programme for Covid-hit schools is going to work (or not work), and Ian Hislop and Francis Wheen discuss the suddenly fashionable Robert Maxwell and his habit of putting on the writs.
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