Education Noticeboard

Welcome to the Education Noticeboard. A round-up of news, guidance and key updates for education settings.

Included in this update:

Director Update

Dear colleagues

Cllr Shaun Davies has visited one of our Primary Schools – a visit the children really enjoyed. If you would like to arrange a visit, all of the contact details that you require are included in the article.

Our 10 by 10 scheme continues to be popular, with over 1,000 children across the borough taking part in the summer reading challenge. It is wonderful to see the effect that this scheme is having, and as always we appreciate your help in continuing to support publicise it.

As always, we have put together relevant education updates, including an introduction from our new Attendance Advisors, updated fair Access Panel Protocols and details of a couple of conferences that are on the horizon.

We are approaching Black History Month, and there are a number of events taking place to get involved in. These events welcome all and take place in the community. It would be great to see some of you there.

In terms of housekeeping, the articles you can find include CPD listings to October half term, updates from the Skills Service and Early years Team, and other information and resources that you might find useful.

Don’t forget we are always on the lookout for positive stories from across early years settings, schools and post 16 providers. Please send your good news stories to educationnoticeboard@telford.gov.uk

Have a great end to the week.

Simon

Simon Wellman
Director: Education & Skills

Council Leader visits Key Stage 2 children at St George's Primary School

Cllr Shaun Davies visited local school children, to spend time with them at the start of the new school term:

“What a pleasure it was to spend time in St George’s this week visiting local school children at the start of the new school term.

Once again, the children’s questions never fail to make me smile - every single question raised was really important to help our young people understand more about the real-life behind our council services. I have no doubt that there were some aspiring councillors in the audience too!

Thank you for having me St George's!”

If you would like Cllr Davies to visit your school please get in touch by emailing Nicola.woodley@telford.gov.uk

10 by 10 sparks a love for reading in more than 1,000 children

Telford & Wrekin Council has announced a successful summer in its libraries, as over 1,000 children across the borough joined the Summer Reading Challenge by reading six books. The Summer Reading Challenge, which ended Mid-September, is part of the council-run 10 by 10 programme, encouraging primary school children to explore ten enriching activities by the age of 10.

The theme was ‘Ready, Set, Read’ and children received incentives, such as golden stickers, as they completed each book as well as a medal and certificate if they completed the challenge.

Over 300 young bookworms across the borough joined the library for the first time to take part in this challenge.

Councillor Shirley Reynolds (Lab), Telford & Wrekin Council's cabinet member for Early Years, Children and Young People, said: “We want all children in our borough to have the best start in life, to experience new things.

“Our council-driven 10 by 10 initiative supports them to do this. As part of 10 by 10, we are delighted that so many children took part in the Summer Reading Challenge this year. We hope that the Summer Reading Challenge has managed to inspire a love of reading for life for many children, sparking their creativity and confidence and contributing to their future learning and development.

“It is wonderful to see how proud children are of their medals and certificates and how much they enjoyed choosing and reading the books this summer.

“I would like to thank everyone who got involved and made the Summer Reading Challenge such a success - including the staff from all our Telford and Wrekin libraries and of course, the children and their families who participated with such enthusiasm.

“We want reading to be accessible to everyone which is why we offer a range of resources in our Telford and Wrekin Libraries - including audiobooks, digital copies that can change the font and colour of background for easy reading, braille copies were made available for our Summer Reading Challenge certificates as well.”

You can find out more about what’s on offer in Telford & Wrekin Libraries on their website.

Parents and carers are encouraged to visit the 10 by 10 website to find out more about the 10 by 10 news and offers.

Leadership Conference for Head Teachers and CEO’s: Thursday 12 October 2023

Telford & Wrekin Education Strategic Board, a collaboration between education leaders in Telford and Wrekin and the Local Authority, is pleased to announce a Leadership Conference for headteachers and CEOs of all schools across Telford and Wrekin.

Thursday 12 October 2023, 9am-1pm

This conference will provide the opportunity for all education leaders in Telford and Wrekin to meet in the Autumn 2023 term, welcome new colleagues, focus on the successes and key priority areas in Telford and Wrekin and share our ambitions to support and inspire.

Key note speakers:

The Art of Brilliance - Martin Burder
Martin Burder is a sought-after keynote speaker with a passion for wellbeing and an authentic approach that creates change in people's lives. Martin has spent the last few years developing a wellbeing curriculum for schools and businesses which means he is the world's leading expert in embedding wellbeing into workplaces. Martin will be delivering an enthusiastic and engaging session on wellbeing which will inspire all who attend.

HeadsUp4HT - James Pope
James Pope was formerly a Headteacher and executive Headteacher, and now the Director of InspirEDucate and Founder of the HeadsUp4HTs network, Associate Director of Whole Education, Founding Director of CORE Coaching Group International and Advisory Board member of CollectivED at Leeds Beckett University. James has worked in education for 26 years. With a passion for leadership and education and the transformative power that this can have on the lives of our young people James now works across the English and international education systems, collaborating with, trusts, schools, teachers and leaders. James will be delivering an insightful session to focus on what Headteachers can do for their own well-being and that of their school leaders.

Department for Education - Philip Reed
Philip Reed is the Head of Delivery for West Midlands Central at the DfE including Birmingham, Solihull, Walsall and Telford and Wrekin. Philip has held a number of roles in the DfE and its agencies including Head of School Performance for the West Midlands and Head of Financial Strategy for Open Free Schools in the ESFA. Philip will provide an update about national priorities in education for the next 12 months which will offer attendees to reflect upon.

The board is delighted to welcome all headteachers, and CEOs to this conference and early booking is advised. There may be some space for Deputy Heads to attend too, but we ask they only attend alongside their Headteacher and not as a replacement.

Tickets for this conference are priced at £60.00 per person or a discounted offer of £100.00 for two tickets when booking from the same school. We have priced this conference so that we cover our costs only. Lunch will be included! This conference will be held at a venue within central Telford and you will be sent details of the venue confirmation 10 days prior to the conference date.

To book your place for this Leadership Conference, please send a completed booking form at cpdschoolimprovement@telford.gov.uk

We really hope you can make it and it would be great to have representation from across all our schools and academies!

Fair Access Panel protocols 2023

Please download the updated Primary and Secondary Fair Access Protocols for operation from September 2023:

Primary Fair Access Panel Protocol: September 2023

Secondary Fair Access Panel Protocol: September 2023

These have been discussed at the Fair Access Panel meetings in July and the revised protocols agreed in September 2023. The changes reflect the agreed modifications to the operation of the protocol, these changes have been highlighted in yellow.

Andy Cooke would like to add his thanks for the rich discussions at both panel meetings that have allowed us to make these changes and has help us to achieve the main aims of support which is to get young people back into schools as quickly as possible, whilst ensuring that no school is adversely affected by taking too many hard to place young people.

Any queries can be sent to Andy Cooke. SDM: Alternative Provision and CIC, via email to andy.cooke@telford.gov.uk.

Introducing the new Attendance Advisors

In line with the DfE guidance ‘Working Together to Improve School Attendance’ we are pleased to inform you that we are ready to begin to schedule the termly targeted meetings to support schools to improve attendance and reduce persistent absence.

These meetings are designed to focus on the strategic management of attendance and how schools are developing a culture where attendance is everyone’s responsibility. Our aim is to work in partnership with all schools and educational settings to analyse associated data and focus on the complexities of reducing school absence.

To undertake this role, we are delighted to inform you that we have welcomed to the team two Attendance Advisors: Jo Antenbring and Karen Parkinson.

Jo and Karen will be contacting schools directly over the next few weeks to schedule appointments. It is expected that the Headteacher and any SLT member with attendance responsibility will attend these targeted meetings. Any member of the Governing board nominated to lead on attendance is also invited to join the meeting. It is anticipated that the initial meeting will take approximately 2 hours.

Any queries can be directed to the Attendance Support Team by calling 01952 385220 or via email to attendancesupportteam@telford.gov.uk.

Attendance data sharing request

80% of schools are sharing daily attendance data with the Department for Education and accessing tools on view your education data. Mainstream schools can compare their attendance with other schools.

The DfE recently asked you to share some additional data. Please log into your Wonde portal to share:

child in need (CIN)
child protection plan (CPP)
pupil admission and leaving date

Wonde has emailed all schools asking you to agree. If you have not received a request, email support@wonde.com. Please agree, even if your MIS does not hold this data. We’re collecting these to improve the service.

Please also see the links below to sign up to Wonde to share your attendance data:

Share your daily school attendance data

Working together to improve school attendance

Any queries can be directed to Kay Burford, Attendance Support Team Leader, by calling 01952 385222 or via email to attendancesupportteam@telford.gov.uk.

SEND Newsletter: September 2023

The September edition of the SEND Newsletter is now available to download:

DOWNLOAD: Send Newsletter: September 2023

Latest updates from PODS

PODS Woodland Sessions

Woodland Sessions will take place from Saturday 23September 2023 to Saturday 18 November 2023 at Lightmoor Nature Reserve, Telford, TF4 3QJ

Join PODS and Shropshire Wildlife Trust for woodland sessions! Please see the list below for the itinerary for each date. Please note that activities may change. Parents/carers must attend. Open to all ages and siblings. Tickets must be purchased for each child/young person attending. Directions and parking information will be emailed to you before the session. Access to the nature reserve is uneven and is in a wooded area.

Saturday 7 October 2023 - Slack lines and challenges, IDs, bug hunting, and den building. Lightmoor Nature Reserve.
Saturday 21 October 2023 - Clay hedgehogs, hedgehogs and bonfire night, IDs, bug hunting and den building. Lightmoor Nature Reserve.
Wednesday 1 November 2023 - Campfire cooking and forest explorers IDs, bug hunting and den building. Lightmoor Nature Reserve.
Saturday 18 November 2023 - Ice treasures and winter bird feeds, helping nature over the winter months, IDs, bug hunting. Lightmoor Nature Reserve.

BOOK: PODS Woodland Sessions. Tickets are Non-refundable.

PODS Admaston Family Group

The PODS Admaston Family Group will take place on Monday 2 October 2023 from 10am-12noon at Admaston House Community Centre, Telford, TF5 0BN

Join a friendly Family group, a chance to catch up on updates, discuss services and access non-judgemental peer support with fellow parent carers. Telford Children's Autism Hub will be there on the day to talk about the services they provide.

Any family members welcome to join you and refreshments and treats will be provided (donations welcome).

BOOK: PODS Admaston Family Group

Wellbeing Hub Fayre

Please join PODS for their first SASA Wellbeing Hub Fayre. Organisations representing various wellbeing areas will be available for information and advice. The community café will be open, and refreshments available.

The fayre will take place on Saturday 30 September 2023 from 11am - 1pm at Admaston House Community Centre, Telford, TF5 0BN.

Everyone is welcome.

PODS Family Experience Annual Survey

Please help PODS to share your experiences with their annual survey.

The evidence from this report is used in discussions with strategic and operational teams - across health, social care, education to work with services to understand the parent carer and family voice, and to improve outcomes.

To take part in the survey, please click the following link: PODS Family Experience Annual Survey

If you wish to be entered into a prize draw to win a £50 shopping voucher, please complete your name/email/telephone details at the end of the form.

This survey will take approx 6 minutes to complete and all information shared will be anonymised.

Talking Early Years and Childcare Conference – Friday 10 November 2023

The Talking Early Years Conference will be held on Friday 10 November 2023, 10am-4pm, at the Telford Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort.

Sessions:

AM session: JAN DUBIEL Pedagogy and the Contexts for Teaching and Learning.
PM session: MUSIC FOR EYFS Practical Ideas for Teachers and Practitioners.

For more information about the guest speakers, please download the event flyer.

Pricing:

Telford & Wrekin settings, schools and academies: 1 delegate £174, 2 delegates £300. Additional delegates £120 thereafter.
Out of area: 1 delegate £208.80, 2 delegates £350. Additional delegates £140 thereafter

Further information:

Please contact the Talking Childcare team by calling 01952 385424 or by emailing talkingchildcare@telford.gov.uk'

COVID-19 Recovery Programme: Apply for spring term 2024 funding

Funded support is available for early years settings/school nurseries and childminders from the Department for Education (DfE) Early Years Experts and Mentors Programme.

Please note: Even if you do not meet the above eligibility criteria detailed below, you may be able to access the support so please read all of the information provided.

About the programme:

The Experts and Mentors Early Years Covid-19 Recovery Programme from the Department for Education is focused on supporting Early Years practitioners and leaders, to address the impact of the pandemic on the youngest children.

The programme is available nationally, across England, until July 2024.

Eligible early years practitioners, leaders and whole settings will be offered bespoke support to be delivered both face-to-face and virtually. The offer to settings will include leadership support, coaching for leaders, mentoring for practitioners and whole-setting support, depending on needs.

Settings that are selected will receive the support of an Expert and Mentor for a set number of days within one term, between January 2024 and July 2024.

The Experts and Mentors who will be providing support to settings are experienced early years professionals.

Which settings are eligible for this programme?

The Experts and Mentors programme will support Private Voluntary or Independent (PVI) nursery settings, maintained nursery schools and school-based nurseries.

To be eligible for the programme, settings must fit at least one of the following criteria:

been judged as Requires Improvement (RI) or inadequate by Ofsted in the last 3 years
high numbers of children in receipt of EY Pupil Premium
high numbers of children with SEND needs
high numbers of children taking up the disadvantaged 2-year-old offer.

Please note: This programme will not support reception year. For example, a school with reception year only, is not eligible to receive support through this programme.

What are the benefits of joining this programme?

By joining the programme, settings will receive the support of fellow early years professionals, who are passionate about supporting others to improve practice and outcomes for children.

This support is free and available across the country, for eligible settings.

Settings will also gain the opportunity to develop working relationships and network with others who have the common aim of improving standards for children following the Covid-19 pandemic. This includes DfE, local authorities, our delivery partner for the programme Pen Green Research Centre, and early years professionals from other settings.

How to apply for support from the programme:

For more information on the programme, please read this information for settings.

The DfE are currently looking for settings who are interested in receiving support from January 2024, for the Spring term (academic year 2023/24).

If you are interested in receiving support from this programme, please complete the form linked Early Years Experts and Mentors programme - Request for support Spring 2024.

This page will remain live, to allow you to submit your interest in receiving the support. If your setting is not selected for the Spring term, there will be further opportunities to receive support later in the programme.

You will be notified if you have been selected to receive support for the Spring term during December 2023.

Please direct any queries to Lisa Seymour by calling 01952 385424 or emailing Lisa.seymour@telford.gov.uk.

Telford 16-19 website

A reminder to all providers to ensure that they have let us know their course and open evening updates for the Telford 16-19 website. The Skills Service are now giving advice and guidance for September 2024 applicants.

Any updates to please be sent via email to datasupport@telford.gov.uk.

Educational Visits Network Meeting: Thursday 5 October 2023

The Educational Visits Coordinator (EVC) Termly Network Meeting is a forum for local and national updates regarding the management of Educational Visits and Journeys. It is an opportunity to share practice and experience between EVCs including ‘lessons learned’ and develop the support that is available locally through a collective approach.

The next EVC Network Meeting will take place on Thursday 5 October 2023 at Wellington Town Council Chamber, accessed through the Library at the Leisure Centre.

There is free parking for up to 3 hours at the front and rear of the building, but you will need a ticket. There is additional parking across the road, and on nearby side streets.

The cost for Telford & Wrekin Council SLA holders is free of charge, otherwise £99 per head.

No booking required - please accept/decline your calendar invite, or email EdVisits@telford.gov.uk.

All schools/establishments following TWC Educational Visits and Journeys Guidance must have a trained EVC who has either been trained by TWC or has, within 3 years, revalidated their training with an accredited OEAP Provider.

Every EVC must attend at least one TWC EVC training course and then may maintain subsequent revalidation by attending at least 1 out of 3 Network Meetings each year. Attendance at Network Meetings is recorded and used for revalidation of the EVC role every 3 years.

EVCs are also welcome to attend repeat EVC training if this is deemed appropriate. The numbers of EVCs required by the school / establishment is a decision for the Head Teacher / Senior Manager.

Aims:
1.      A forum for local and national updates regarding the management of Educational Visits and Journeys
2.      Share practice and experience between EVCs including ‘lessons learned’.
3.      Develop the support that is available locally through a collective approach
4.      Respond to specific queries or concerns.

Agenda

12.45pm Arrivals, sign in and grab a cuppa.

1-3pm, Network Meeting.

Welcome and introductions.
Telford & Wrekin Update
1. Updated Ed Visit Policy & Guidance 2023/24 (in EVisits Document Library)
2. Change of Outdoor Education Adviser for T&WC
3. Management of Visit Emergencies – Recap
4. Use of school grounds and Forest school training
OEAP Updates
1. How to use National Guidance
2. Table of Amendments
EVC Updates – matters that you would like to share or ask others for help with
1. Self-led lowland/hill walking qualifications and first aid -what’s needed?
A.O.B (Please raise in advance
1. Saturday 14 October 2023 - Institute for Outdoor Learning online conference. £10 per head offer through T&WC SLA – email EdVisits@telford.gov.uk to book.

EVC Termly Network Essentials - 45 min online update

The Termly Network Essentials session will take place on Wednesday 11 October 2023, 3.30-4.15pm via Microsoft Teams. No booking is required - please accept/decline your calendar invite, or email EdVisits@telford.gov.uk.

If as an EVC, you cannot make the in-person meeting this alternative is offered – it is a quick go through the essential information from the full Network Meeting. This is not available for revalidation.

EVC Training

The next EVC training will take place on Friday 26 January 2024, 9am-3.30pm. Email EdVisits@telford.gov.uk to book.

EVC Network Meeting

The next EVC Network Meeting will take place on Tues 30 January 2024 (Wellington Town Council Chamber). Calendar invite to follow.

Queries:

Any queries can be directed to Jo Barnett, Outdoor Education Adviser for T&WC, via email to EdVisits@telford.gov.uk

ADHD Awareness Month: October

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a very common disorder which affects children and adults. It has for many years been recognised as a childhood issue that affects focus, self-control and many other important skills. However, it has only recently been recognised as an adult problem too. The cause is an imbalance in the brains anatomy and its wiring.

In the UK, the prevalence of ADHD in adults is estimated at 3% to 4%, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 3:1. ADHD is associated with poverty, lower family income and social class. In adults, it is more frequent in the unemployed and in people with disabilities.

Out of 14.6 million UK children under 18 years, it is estimated that 423,000 girls in the UK under age 18 have ADHD but are three times less likely than boys to be diagnosed and supported

It is estimated that there is 2.6million people in the UK with ADHD (694,000 children, 1.9 million adult).

(Facts and figures from Lancet)

Please download some useful ADHD classroom tips.

Black History Month: October

As the calendar turns towards the month of October, we extend a warm invitation to organisations, workforces, schools, colleges, and individuals across Telford & Wrekin to join us in celebrating and commemorating Black History Month. It was in October 1987 that the UK first embraced this celebration, a momentous year known as the African Jubilee and, not coincidentally, the 150th anniversary of Caribbean emancipation.

This year’s chosen theme revolves around honouring and celebrating our esteemed sisters, acknowledging and applauding the invaluable contributions that black women have made throughout the diaspora. To all the remarkable black women, both past and present, this month is dedicated to you. We acknowledge your presence, draw inspiration from your achievement’s, as we salute you all.

Below you will see our programme of events which will provide a fresh reminder of our continuous engagement with various organisations by focusing on our history, education, art, black authors, businesses, and community services. We want people from all backgrounds to come along to learn, discuss and celebrate with us Black History Month 2023.

Throughout October
The Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust’s 2023 temporary exhibition ‘The Daily Grind’ shines a spotlight on the lives of the industrial workforce of the Ironbridge Gorge from the 18th century until the early 20th century. You can also learn the stories of the Windrush generation who worked in Telford’s industries. To celebrate Black History Month, IGMT has collaborated with Windrush Exhibition of Telford & Wrekin to incorporate the stories of individuals who arrived in the UK between 1948 and 1971, which will be told through several panels throughout the exhibition. For more visit the Ironbridge Valley of Invention website.

Southwater One
In commemoration of Black History, will be illuminating its building throughout the month in the vibrant colours of red, yellow, and green. This significant initiative not only pays tribute to the rich heritage and achievements of Black individuals but also serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of diversity and inclusivity within our community and will stand as a beacon of unity and respect, fostering an atmosphere of mutual understanding and appreciation for the cultural tapestry that defines our society.

7 October 2023, Randlay Community Centre, 4-9pm
We cordially invite you to join us in commemorating Nigerian Independence Day. This celebration is dedicated to fostering cultural awareness, preserving a rich heritage, and promoting education, all while embracing the spirit of inclusivity. This family friendly event will warmly welcome everyone to partake in the festivities and share in the cultural richness that defines Nigerian heritage. We look forward to coming together to celebrate this significant occasion with you.

7 and 10 October 2023
Wellington Orbit cinema will be showcasing ‘Chevalier’. Directed by Stephen Williams, the film is a thought-provoking cinematic masterpiece that captivates audiences with its brilliant storytelling and compelling performances. Set when society's norms and values have drastically shifted, the film explores themes of identity, morality, and the human condition this is a thought-provoking narrative which challenges societal conventions. "Chevalier" is a cinematic experience that will leave you questioning your own beliefs and the world we live in, long after the credits roll. Booking is essential, please visit the Wellington Orbit website or call 01952 743377

13 October 2023, Microsoft Teams, 9:30-11am
You are cordially invited to join the Race Equality Group's monthly meeting. This inclusive gathering offers an excellent opportunity to acquaint yourself with our dedicated members, gain insights into our group's mission and objectives, and explore our upcoming initiatives for the future. Whether you prefer to actively engage in conversations, quietly observe, or share your perspectives on race-related topics, issues, and situations, your participation is greatly valued. To confirm your attendance, kindly click on the provided link to add the event to your calendar. For any inquiries or to request an invitation, please feel free to contact robert.wilson@telford.gov.uk. We look forward to your presence at this important and enlightening meeting.

13 October 2023, Hadley & Leegomery Community Centre, 6-10pm
Please join us for an inspiring and enlightening evening as ACCI proudly incorporates Black History Month and World Mental Health Day into a night of edutainment and upliftment. We are thrilled to announce local artists who will grace the stage, generously offering their talent and wisdom for this special event. Prepare to be moved by the power of spoken word and the beauty of soulful singing as we come together to celebrate culture and well-being. This event is open to all with free admission, as we believe in the importance of unity and inclusivity.

18 October 2023, Microsoft Teams
You are invited to listen in or participate in a thought-provoking sister panel discussion, centred on this year's Black History Month theme, "Saluting our Sisters." This engaging online discussion will be hosted by Leanora Dixon, our distinguished mental health social worker, who will lead on insightful conversations addressing current affairs, interests and celebrating the vibrant contributions of Black women locally. We encourage you to join this unique and interactive session, which promises to offer valuable perspectives and foster meaningful dialogue. Use link provided click here to join the meeting or contact robert.wilson@telford.gov.uk for invites.

26 October 2023, Wrekin Housing Trust main office - TF3 4AW, 12noon-2pm
We are excited to announce our closing event in partnership with Wrekin Housing Trust (WHT) at their main office located at Colliers Way, Telford. This event serves as the culmination of our Black History Month celebrations and promises to be a dynamic and informative experience. The centrepiece of our event is the Culture Café, offering a diverse array of activities and opportunities. Attendees will have the chance to delve into the rich tapestry of Black history, sample delectable and authentic Caribbean cuisine, explore Nigerian fashion, and admire inspired art from our talented local artists.

Furthermore, our community advisor will be available to provide valuable insights on immigration-related information. For avid readers, 'The Bookends,' a wellington bookstore, will be on hand to offer recommendations on essential Black History Month reads. To infuse the event with rhythm and energy, we have organised an interactive African drumming session that will captivate and engage participants during this two-hour networking session.

We extend a warm welcome to both Wrekin Housing Trust staff and those from Telford & Wrekin staff to join us in celebrating the rich cultural heritage and contributions of the Black community. It promises to be an enlightening and memorable occasion.

Libraries Week: 2-8 October 2023

Take part in some fabulous free activities to celebrate Libraries Week:

Children’s Activities Including Planting, Stories and Crafts

Newport Library 3.15pm Wednesday 4th October 2023.
Wellington Library 3.30pm Thursday 5th October 2023.

Green Libraries Week Celebration- Pop along for crafts and more

Southwater Library 10am-2pm Saturday 7th October 2023.

For more information and bookings visit : Ticketsource: Telford & Wrekin Libraries or email Libraryenquiries@telford.gov.uk.

National Poetry Day: Thursday 5 October 2023

Allow the library to become for ‘refuge’ and celebrate National Poetry Day:

Southwater Library Thursday 5th October 2023

We will be joined by amazing performance poets Jane Seabourne and Gracie Bee who will be sharing their poetry from 1.30pm.

Then from 2.30pm to participate in our Eco-Poetry workshop! Explore poetry all about our environment, nature and climate! Have a go at writing your own eco-poem!

Open to all ages and abilities

For more information and bookings visit : Ticketsource: Telford & Wrekin Libraries or email Libraryenquiries@telford.gov.uk.

CPD courses to October half term 2023

As always, the CPD Booklet can be viewed on the Telford Education Services.

The majority of courses can be booked by completing and returning a CPD booking form to cpdschoolimprovement@telford.gov.uk.

For courses run by the HR team, please either book via Ollie or by sending an email to HRhelpdesk@telford.gov.uk.

Talk Boost KS1	Monday, October 02, 2023	9am to 3pm
Pay and Conditions of Employment (HR course)	Monday, October 02, 2023	2.30pm to 5pm
The Visually Impaired Child in Your Class (SIS 001)	Tuesday, October 03, 2023	9am to 4pm
Assessing and Monitoring of Progress in EAL (CPD 701)	Wednesday, October 04, 2023	1.15pm to 3.30pm
ELSA Training - part 4	Wednesday, October 04, 2023	9am to 3pm
Accredited Safer Recruitment Training (HR course)	Thursday, October 05, 2023	9am to 4.30pm
Raising Awareness of Child Protection (SG 108)	Thursday, October 05, 2023	9.30am to 11am
Quality Assurance Policy - Briefing for Governors of for LA Maintained Schools (NEW)	Thursday, October 05, 2023	5pm to 6pm
ELSA Training - part 5	Wednesday, October 11, 2023	9am to 3pm
Designated Teacher for Children in Care Network Meeting (Post 16 )	Wednesday, October 11, 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
Designated Safeguarding Leads Refresher (SG 107)	Wednesday, October 11, 2023	9.15am to 4pm
Leadership Conference	Thursday, October 12, 2023	9am to 1pm
Best practice in your breakfast, after-school and holiday provision (EY 104)	Friday, October 13, 2023	9.15am to 12noon
Absence Management of Employees (HR course)	Monday, October 16, 2023	2.30pm to 5pm
Literacy Pathway	Monday, October 16, 2023	Full day
ELSA Training - part 6	Wednesday, October 18, 2023	9am to 3pm
Messy Mathematics in an Outdoor Learning Environment (EY 341)	Wednesday, October 18, 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
Behaviour Support Intervention Refresher Training - non-accredited (302)	Thursday, October 19, 2023	8.45pm to 12.30pm
Raising Awareness of Prevent (SG 101)	Thursday, October 19, 2023	3.30pm to 5pm
Meeting the Statutory Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements of the EYFS (EY 009)	Thursday, October 19, 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
Exploring & Creating Resources to Enhance Vocabulary during Story and Song Time in the EYFS (EY 342)	Tuesday, October 24, 2023	1.15pm to 4pm
Designated Teachers & Governors for Children in Care Network (compulsory school age) (GO 503)	Tuesday, October 24, 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
Literacy Pathway	Tuesday, October 24, 2023	Full day
Managing Absence (AST 002)	Wednesday, October 25, 2023	9.30am to 11.30am
The Role of the Early Years Practitioner in Supporting and Enhancing Play (EY 008)	Wednesday, October 25, 2023	1.15pm to 4pm
Safeguarding Induction Training for Governors - part 1 (SG 103)	Wednesday, October 25, 2023	5.30pm to 7.30pm
Effective Circle Times in the EYFS (EY 302)	Thursday, October 26, 2023	1.15pm to 4pm

Free Quality Assurance Policy briefing: Thursday 5 October 2023

Following the Heads and Chairs briefing at the start of this term, governors will be aware that the Local Authority has updated its Quality Assurance (QA) Policy for schools, which outlines the process for classification and QA visits to maintained schools.

Along with visits to senior leaders, this year we also plan to meet with all governing boards of maintained schools. The purpose of this visit will be to discuss the role and responsibilities of governors in relation to the 3 core functions, as well as areas such as recruitment and training.

To provide further information about the Quality Assurance process for schools and the role of governors, we would like to invite you to a Teams information briefing session on Thursday 5 October 2023 at 5pm. This session is being held free of charge to participants.

The Quality Assurance Policy 2023-24 is available online:

Telford Education Services - Quality Assurance Policy 2023-24

To reserve a place on this briefing governors are asked to send an email to cpdschoolimprovement@telford.gov.uk with their name, email address and school name, thank you (completed CPD booking forms are not required for this event).

Please send any queries via email to cpdschoolimprovement@telford.gov.uk.

Leading behaviour and culture national professional qualification

This is an update from the Department for Education

A course is available to help teachers learn how to create a culture of good behaviour and high expectations in which staff and pupils thrive.

Who this course is for:

This course is suitable for all teachers and leaders who are, or want to be, involved in developing and implementing behaviour and wellbeing strategies in their school.

This course is also suitable for other specialised roles including:

behaviour management lead
special educational needs co-ordinator
welfare management manager
pastoral team lead
key stage and phase leaders
social, emotional and mental health lead.

Overview:

This one-year course will help you develop skills and gain the confidence to enact changes in:

setting a culture of high expectations and learning in your school
enabling conditions for good behaviour for pupils and ensuring colleagues are supported in their classroom-level approaches
supporting pupil wellbeing and understanding the impact this has on behaviour.

This course will:

take 12 months to complete
involve an average of 1 to 2 hours of study each week
be a mix of self-study and group sessions
involve a written assessment
start October 2023

Funding:

Funding to cover the course fees is available for most teachers and school leaders in state funded settings in England. More information is available online:

Learn about funding.

Course content:

This course covers themes including:

creating a culture of high expectations, including the impact this has on school outcomes
enabling conditions for good behaviour, including through implementing effective behaviour management systems
dealing with complex behavioural needs, including how to prevent and respond to bullying
developing effective professional development linked to behaviour and culture
implementing evidence-based improvement plans.

For full information, including how to apply, please visit the DFE website:

Leading behaviour and culture: National professional qualification

Free online family events from Eric - The Children’s Bowel and Bladder Charity

Free online events are available for parents and carers, led by staff from the expertly trained Eric Family Services Team.

These topic-based events are delivered live and designed to answer some of the most commonly asked questions that that come up via their Helpline. The events that are available for you to book are listed below.

9 October 2023, 10am-12:30pm
How to tackle potty and toilet avoidance
The vicious circle of poo withholding and constipation, the perplexing problem of wee withholding and the mystery of where children choose to wee and poo. Insights and ideas to help you plan your child’s journey to the toilet.
Free

9 October 2023, 7:30-8:15pm
How to make sure your child gets the support they need in school
What are schools required to do for children with wee or poo issues? What do you need to do to ensure your child’s needs are met?
Free

9 October 2023, 7-8:30pm
How to get the poo moving when your child refuses their laxatives
Creative ways to help your child drink macrogol laxatives plus a look at what alternatives are available, including other oral laxatives and suppositories, enemas and warm water washouts.
Free

11 October 2023, 7:30-8:15pm
How to help your child relax for toilet sits
Busy children find it difficult to make time for effective toileting. Sharing of ideas for how to engage your child in the process, making it a fun time.
Free

12 October 2023, 10am-12:30 pm
How to go about toilet training when your child has additional needs
“Oh yes they can!” A positive approach to toileting, busting the myths that surround so many of our children with additional needs.
Free

12 October 2023, 7-8:30pm
How to manage your child’s bedwetting
Understanding why children wet at night, what the treatments are and how to work out what is best for your child.
Free

For more information about these sessions or Eric, please visit their website.

Girl Guiding volunteering opportunities for students

Girl Guiding (Shropshire County) are sharing a volunteering opportunity, which might be of particular interest to those students who are participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.

To register interest as a volunteer, please visit their website: Become a volunteer

Please download the poster, postcard and social media post which you can use to publicise this opportunity with your students.

Girl Guiding Volunteering – postcard

Girl Guiding Volunteering – poster

Girl Guiding Volunteering – social media post

This entry was posted by Claire on Wednesday, 27 September 2023.

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Every week during term time we publish a new update for the education community. It includes essential briefings and specialist information about education.

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