Good GRACE!, Poland Bans Home, Warming to the Smartphone Ban

This week we talk about the divestment of the first Catholic school to Educate Together, followed by the findings of the Grace report, indicating a discrepancy between the religious beliefs of teachers and their roles in Catholic schools. While one commentator blames the teachers, another blames the whole Catholic community.

Next, I discuss the Polish government’s ban on homework for primary students, questioning the relevance and format of homework in Ireland’s education system. I haven’t changed my stance since I recorded my podcast on the topic several years ago!

https://anseo.captivate.fm/episode/episode-39-scrap-homework

Lastly, I confess to warming to Minister Norma Foley’s stance against smartphones in schools, advocating for a broader approach that includes legislation to protect children from harmful content. While I don’t believe it’s the school’s role to lead on it, I’m very nervous of what the future generation is going to look like if we all don’t do something.

• 01:06 The Good Grace Report: A Deep Dive into Religious Control and Education
• 05:37 The Shocking Reality: Teachers' Beliefs vs. Catholic School Ethos
• 18:27 Rethinking Homework: Lessons from Poland's Bold Move
• 24:44 Smartphone Ban Debate: A Necessary Measure for Child Safety?
• 30:20 Wrapping Up: Reflecting on Education, Religion, and Technology