It is that time of year again when we are out and about talking with parent groups about transition, preparation and choosing a school.

I am working in Orbost Victoria over the next couple of days with parents and teachers. Have just returned from Horsham. Up to ACT in the middle of the week and up to Sydney and Brisbane next week.

I have just spent the day at Stockdale Road Primary school. Such excellent examples of strong leadership, clear vision and great team work.

I spoke at another school readiness presentation last night.

I have returned from the trip to Arnhem Land.

I'm waiting for my plane at Cairns to take me to the Gove Peninsula and Arnhem land. Cairns is hot and very humid!!

I'm heading off to work with some teachers and children up North for a week. It is a wonderful opportunity for me to visit remote areas of our country.

I have been to Sydney, Ocean Grove, Ringwood and other places this week presenting public sessions for parents on a range of topics.

I have been lucky to have lots of radio interviews lately about my new book for parents. I have enjoyed almost all of them and found the interviewers interested and generous with their feedback.

How unsurprising and yet such a shocking indictment on policy makers and advisors in this country that teaching and drilling teaching to the test in schools is now officially demanded.