A Nottinghamshire school principal has told parents their children will no longer be asked to raise their hands in class to answer questions.
The principal at Mansfield’s Samworth Church Academy, Barry Found, wrote to parents to announce he had decided to ditch the tradition.
In the end of term letter he said the practice did not “challenge and support the learning of all”.
He said: “We have taken the decision at the academy to dispense with the age old ‘hands up to answer’ a question.
“From Monday, November 28, hands will only be raised in the academy to establish silence for listening (the students are very used to this practice and are brilliant at it.)
“We will use a variety of other techniques to ensure that every student is challenged and developed in class through our questioning and that every student has opportunities to contribute and participate.”
The move drew a mixed reaction from the profession and created a debate online.
Former headteacher at Trinity School in Aspley, Michael McKeever said the decision is a “step backwards”.
He said: “It is totally unnecessary because a good teacher wouldn’t go back to the same person, you make sure everyone in the classroom is engaged.
“This is an issue of teacher professionalism, not a rule change. It’s a bit gimmicky in my opinion.
“Putting your hand up is showing enthusiasm, if you’re suppressing that then its not good.
“If the reason is that the same children are always putting their hand up then the issue is the teacher and their methods.”
Reminders about school uniform, attendance and equipment were also raised in the letter.
Jane Crich, of the National Union of Teachers said: “Any professional teacher should be trusted to teach a particular topic in a particular style according to the class they have.
“I don’t know if there was a discussion before the decision was made but it shows a lack of respect to the teachers at the school.
“Teachers are never backwards in discussing new educational techniques but banning one from the classroom is strange.”
Other people were more supportive of the decision.
Emily White wrote on Facebook: “I agree with it. It was the worst bit in school when you put your hands up and eyes fell on you.”
