Responsibility is not a common idea: obligations aren’t to be shared; duty is to be ignored. These are the philosophies that define most primary schools — with teachers refusing to offer their pupils any tasks, wanting instead to make education a simple thing. Laughter is to be given, not worries; and all young students are to gain a love of learning (simply by being provided with only positive experiences and an utter lack of stress). This is understood to be right.
It can also, however, be understood as dangerous.
When students aren’t offered structure they can gain an expectation of ease. All days are assumed to be without care; but, when the years eventually yield high school and all of its challenges, that assumption can falter — leaving pupils unprepared.
It’s essential therefore that teachers offer a modicum of responsibility to their classes. Create roles for students to try each week: cleaning the chalkboards, taking attendance, caring for the class pet, serving as a messenger to the office. These jobs are not difficult, but they will inspire work ethics. Children will not simply expect their hours to be filled with arts and crafts. Instead they will understand that there are duties they must follow (and these must all be achieved at specific times, can’t simply be ignored or forgotten). This will allow them to gain confidence and realize that education isn’t always about visiting with their friends.
This distinction is vital — and should be offered early. Don’t allow a grammar school to serve as an excuse for a lack of responsibility. Provide young children with little jobs to accomplish instead. This will encourage involvement, boost esteem, offer time management skills and provide a foundation for the work they must be willing to offer later. Simple tasks will prove to be invaluable when they’re faced with high school schedules, leaving pupils able to anticipate them.