Where to begin? Mark McCourt has done it all. From maths teacher, head of maths, head teacher, Ofsted inspector, CEO, founder, and the creator of MathsConf. I first met Mark almost 20 years ago, and have learned from him ever since. This is Mark’s 3rd appearance on the podcast, and given he recently announced his retirement, I fear it may be his last. To access the show-notes, please visit: mrbartonmaths.com/blog/mark-mccourt-part-3/ Time-stamps: Retirement and career changes. (4:43) Potential and ability in education. (13:30) The meaning of "ability" in education. (21:31) Teaching methods and class organization. (25:30) Teacher performance and subject-specific knowledge. (33:28) Education trends and subject matter in schools. (38:06) Education sector fear and lack of agency among teachers. (44:14) Assessing student learning and understanding. (53:21) Teaching methods and mini whiteboards. (58:59) Maths education and manipulatives. (1:03:41) Using manipulatives in math education. (1:10:22) Maths education and teacher training. (1:16:35) Inadequate teacher training in the UK. (1:22:47) Teaching math concepts in a personalized manner. (1:28:42) Math education and assessment methods. (1:33:34) Formative assessment and teacher vulnerability. (1:41:00) Teaching mathematics with formal language and forward-thinking methods. (1:44:53) Teaching methods and fear of inspections. (1:51:26) The power of education and knowledge transfer. (1:59:05) Education as a maturation process. (2:05:01) Mastery approach in education with a focus on math and FE. (2:15:16) FE college math reset issues. (2:20:03) Improving mathematical literacy through precise language use. (2:27:29) Educational approach and its impact on school performance. (2:33:45) The importance of shared values and beliefs in schools. (2:40:44) The effectiveness of Ofsted and potential systemic problems. (2:46:23) Ofsted's effectiveness and potential biases. (2:52:34) Education system and curriculum design. (2:56:56) Maths education, curriculum, and technology. (3:04:41) Mastery-based education and assessments. (3:09:48) The role of teachers in education and the potential for online learning. (3:14:19) The importance of classroom experience in teaching. (3:21:58) Career challenges and personal growth. (3:26:44) Teaching, grief, and pride in education. (3:31:41) Retirement, relationships, and personal growth. (3:40:39) Education, values, and priorities with Mark McCourt. (3:45:59)