Museum fever
From Charles Clarke Sir: Tiffany Jenkins's criticism of educational projects in museums is misguided, (Arts, 10 April).
We are not seeking to 'direct and assess . . museums'. Museums are inspiring spaces that should be appreciated and accessible to all. There is nothing like being able to see or even touch a piece of Roman mosaic to help pupils understand history and give them a real taste for learning. This is complementary to formal education, not a substitute for it — a role our great national and regional museums have always filled with distinction.
Teachers agree. The research report 'What did you learn in the museum today?', to which Ms Jenkins refers, says that 72 per cent of teachers felt that visiting a museum had increased their pupils' understanding of the subjects they had been studying. The 'Museum Fever' project, also mentioned, was aimed at young adults, opening up possibilities for enjoyment and learning from which they had previously been excluded.
It is for these reasons that Tessa Jowell and I have very recently announced a further £7 million for museum and gallery education projects over the next two years. Tiffany Jenkins should learn to trust her instincts. Extra money for museums' educational work is an unalloyed good thing.
Charles Clarke Secretary of State for Education. London SW1
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