I was struck last week, as many people were, by a teacher's letter written to pupils at a Primary school in Lancashire after their Key Stage Two test results.

The letter can be seen in full on the BBC News website here and goes to the heart of our target driven culture which seems to pervade many aspects of our lives, from education, to public services, and the workplace.

In short, this heartfelt letter reminds pupils that their grade, is not the only measure of them worthy of note; it fails to capture their unique talents for languages, poetry, creative endeavours, nor their characteristics of trustworthiness, kindness and thoughtfulness.

A grade will tell you something, but not everything; if you want to realise people's potential then you have to have meaningful conversations which encourage, build confidence, and create rounded individuals.

Don't focus on the number, focus on the person.

John

www.bowlandsolutions.com