The Department for Education (DfE) is under fire after a Facebook post meant to be an apology came off as rather sarcastic. This attempt at humour hasn’t resonated, leaving many teachers and parents fuming. The post, which talks about ‘unexpected consequences’ of initiatives like free breakfast clubs and government-funded childcare, had an overwhelming response—most expressed with an angry emoji.
The seemingly tongue-in-cheek statement highlights how parents are burdened with “unforeseen levels of free time” thanks to the introduction of breakfast clubs, while saving £7,500 a year per child on childcare. It sarcastically thanks its efforts for “creating unforeseen levels of concentration” and questions whether the bar has been set “alarmingly high” with initiatives aimed at reducing school absences and getting more teachers in classrooms.
Many took to the comments, questioning the tone and intent, with some asking if it was a joke. Comments compared it to something you’d expect from a cheeky brand rather than a government department. A spokesperson for the DfE defended the post, emphasising the department’s pride in the milestones achieved and their mission to make parents’ lives better.
Whether humour or a transparent attempt at communicating achievements, the post has certainly stirred the pot in the education community. What are your thoughts on using humour in official statements? Let us know in the comments!