Education Noticeboard

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

Included in this update:

Executive Director Update

Dear Colleagues

We have reached the end of another busy half term and I just wanted to take the opportunity to say a big thank you, to you all for your continued hard work, and provide you with a few updates from me from across our broader Children’s Services. Whilst some of it may be outside the scope of your role, it is all working towards providing the best outcomes for children and young people in our borough.

I was delighted to attend the DfE SEND and Alternative Provision Change programme launch in London recently. This followed the announcement that Telford & Wrekin had been chosen to be one of the few councils in the country to be part of the Change Programme Partnership. We will lead one of nine regional areas for this exciting initiative.

You may be aware that Telford & Wrekin Child Safeguarding and Family Support Service have been selected to participate in a Family Network Support Package (FNSP) pilot by the Department for Education. This is part of the programme launched to transform children’s social care.

The pilot is designed to help keep more children in loving and stable family homes, where it is safe to do so, and to find transformative ways to involve wider family members in supporting parents. The pilot will conclude in 2025.

The first Director of Children’s Services Panel took place on last month and was brilliant opportunity to gather some helpful feedback from practitioners across the council.

The focus of the panel was to progress with a response to our annual Bright Spots survey with children in our care through the co-production of a 'You Said, We Did' action plan. The survey focuses on subjective wellbeing and children’s own evaluations of how they feel about their lives and is a uniquely insightful way to learn exactly how children and young people are feeling regarding their experiences in care.

The key messages from the survey feedback will be shared with relevant colleagues very soon and the next panel will take place in November.

We are now also in the window for an ILACS Ofsted inspection. This will be a short inspection, as we are currently judged as outstanding as a Local Authority. The inspections will focus on the effectiveness of our services to help and protect children and their experience and progress of care. This includes the children who return home, and arrangement for permanence including adoption.

I have every confidence in the staff here at Telford & Wrekin and am sure that all of the teams who will be involved are well prepared and able to communicate how they apply best practice.

There has been some outstanding work delivered so far this term. The commitment that is shown and the amount of pride you all take in your work is exceptional and I hope you get the opportunity to take a well-earned break.

Jo

Jo Britton
Executive Director: Children's Services

Leadership Conference a success for headteachers and CEOs across Telford and Wrekin schools

The Telford & Wrekin Education Strategic Partnership (TWESP) hosted their first leadership conference on Thursday 12 October 2023 which was attended by education leaders from across Telford and Wrekin. Over 90% of schools were in attendance, and enjoyed several key note speakers. These included Philip Reed, from the Department for Education, who spoke about national priorities for the upcoming year and local updates from Cllr Eileen Callear, Cabinet Member for Education, Gill Eatough, Independent Chair of TWESP, Simon Wellman, Director for Education and Skills and Jo Britton, Executive Director, Children Services. This was followed by a focus on leader’s wellbeing and we enjoyed the presentations from Martin Burder, the Art of Brilliance and James Pope from HeadsUp4HT who presented a plethora of wellbeing support for leaders within schools.

The strategic partnership is represented by the early years, primary, secondary, special sectors and post-16 providers. It includes both our academy friends and the maintained sector. It has an appointed independent chair, Dr Gill Eatough.The board aims to ensure we retain our sense of place, given the growing fragmentation of the national education system and aims to operate as the boroughs conscience, recognising that there are challenges were collectively we need to meet, discuss and plan to resolve. Our theme is that together we will always be stronger.

Our endeavours are articulated in the Partnership Charter which was launched at the conference. This illustrates our ambition to link existing networks and groups that already operate within the borough and connect them back to the strategic partnership board. To find out more about the Telford and Wrekin Education Strategic Partnership, please visit Telford Education Strategic Partnership Board website.

Councillor Eileen Callear said: “It was fantastic to see over 90% of schools and providers attend this leadership conference to not only hear from inspirational guest speakers, but to also network with other education leaders from across the borough including those new to headship.”

The Telford and Wrekin Education Strategic Partnership would like to thank all local leaders who attended this conference, and we look forward to welcoming all headteachers and CEOs in future events.

Madeley Nursery School awarded 5th Outstanding rating from OFSTED

Madeley Nursery School are proud to share that they have achieved their 5th Outstanding inspection by Ofsted. This means that the nursery has now been rated outstanding since 2007. The nursery provides government-funded education for up to 65 children from three to five years, and the five outstanding awards span the last 20 years.

Lawley Primary School give Racism the Red Card

Lawley Primary School pupils and staff turned their school from blue to red, last Friday, to show their support against giving Racism the Red Card.

After some of the children in school had shared life stories with staff, of how they had experienced racism within the community, including the Town Centre, Lawley Primary School wanted to come together to say that they will not tolerate this in their school.

The school was one of many across the borough who got involved in Wear Red Day.

The deadline for applying for Secondary School is 31 October 2023

As you are already aware, applications are open for Year 6 children who are due to start Secondary School in September 2024. The deadline for applications is Tuesday 31 October 2023.

We would appreciate if you can now check that applications have been submitted for all your Year 6 pupils.

Please consider the below actions to support applications:

You can see who has made their application by viewing the round summary page “Secondary Place 2024” on your SAM portal and viewing the leavers’ list. Each applicant who has confirmed their current school on their application will appear in this section. If they didn’t supply this information, then we might still have their application, so please check with the Admissions Team - they can check for an application and update it if necessary.
If the child resides outside of the Telford & Wrekin area, then they will have applied to their home Local Authority (LA) and we don’t always know about their applications until after the closing date (when we receive files from the other LA’s). If out of area children are yet to apply, then they should be directed to their home LA.
For those that haven’t applied to us, if you are able to chase parents/carers and remind them that the closing date is 31 October 2023 that would be appreciated. We would also ask that you confirm that all your Telford & Wrekin resident children have applied to us by the end of this half term.
As a reminder, all children with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) who are applying for a reception, junior (on roll at infant schools only) and secondary place for September 2024 also need to submit applications by 31 October 2023.

Parents can submit up to four preference schools on their application and we encourage parents to apply for more than one school as, if we are unable to offer their preferred school, they may be allocated a school that is some distance away if their catchment school is already full.

Each year we do see a lot of applications that have only one preference, which can lead to a lot of disappointment in cases where they are allocated a school at some distance from their home address.

Please note that Haberdashers' Adams has been given approval to turn co-ed from September 2024 and their year 7 entry information can be viewed on the school website.

If you or parents/carers have any queries, please send an email to admissions@telford.gov.uk.

Thank you for your cooperation.

School and setting closure line

As we move into the Autumn and Winter terms, just a gentle reminder to use the School and Setting Closure Line to report whether your school or setting is closed for any reason (e.g. adverse weather conditions, maintenance issues etc.).

Each school/setting will be responsible for keeping the information up to date about their respective school/setting.

Your School or Setting will need to be registered to be able to access and use the system. You will need to ensure that you have nominated /designated persons who will be given administration rights and be responsible for keeping the closure line for your school or setting up to date (this can be either a general admin person/email address, head teachers, PA’s or a mix of).

Please complete the form if there has been any changes to the designated persons for your schools and settings.

All the information reported on the school closures line automatically updates the Telford & Wrekin Council website. This is used to keep staff, pupils, parents and the residents in Telford and Wrekin aware of the latest school /settings closures.

If you have any issues with accessing the closure line or require any further information please send an email to schoolclosures@telford.gov.uk.

Establishing yourself as a SEND leader

Establishing Yourself as a SEND Leader is a course for new and returning SENCOs, and will be held on the following dates:

Part 1 will take place on Monday 22 January 2023, 9.15am to 3.30pm.
Part 2 will take place Monday 29 January 2023, 9.15am to 3.30pm.

This course is aimed at SENCOs who are new to the role in the last 12 months, or those who want a refresher. The content will cover the following topics, over two parts (held on the dates above in January 2024):

The role of a SENCO.
Professional knowledge.
The Local Offer.
SEND information report.
SEND Policy.
The graduated approach, including pathways of support.
There will also be much more!

SENCOs will be given information and advice which will assist them with:

Supporting the identification of children with special educational needs.
Coordinating provision for children with SEND.
Tracking and monitoring the progress of children with SEND.
Ensuring there is high quality teaching and intervention for children with SEND.
Further developing SEND Provision in the school.
Liaising with parents of children with SEND.
Liaising with other providers, outside agencies, educational psychologists and external agencies in Telford & Wrekin.

This course is priced at £348 for both parts for schools in Telford & Wrekin. The price is £417.60 for non Telford & Wrekin schools). There is also a 10% discount per person for two or more bookings from the same school.

To book your place/s, please send a completed CPD booking form to cpdschoolimprovement@telford.gov.uk.

Alcohol and drug awareness workshop: Wednesday 8 November 2023

Aquarius are delivering an upcoming Alcohol and Drug Awareness Workshop on Wednesday 8 November 2023, from 9:30am to 3:30pm. If you would be interested in attending, please also visit Eventbrite for more details and to register for a place. Please also feel free to share with colleagues who you feel would benefit from attending.

Registering to attend the workshop is completely free. However, please be aware this is still being funded, so please ensure you make every effort to attend if you do register. If you need to cancel, please either do so yourself via Eventbrite, or alternatively send an email to Elliot.Bromley@telford.gov.uk with as much notice as possible.

Update to the confirmation of Telford & Wrekin Councils safer recruitment checks for those staff either working in or visiting schools and colleges

An updated written assurance is available to download. This is to provide relevant information about council employees who will attend your sites to undertake the duties of their employment with Telford & Wrekin Council, for you to undertake your contractor and visitor vetting requirements in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.

This written assurance provides updates with regards to council employees who are employed to work in schools and colleges, and visiting employees. The council has set out its vetting arrangements, including those visiting employees subject to such vetting. The written assurance also sets out how schools and colleges can verify a council employee's suitability.

This letter should be held alongside your single central record (SCR) as evidence that you have met the statutory requirements.

Download: Local Authority Disclosure and Barring Service Letter

Subsidised Maths Champions programme

The National Day Nurseries Association’s Maths Champions programme builds the knowledge of nursery practitioners to support children’s early mathematical development. It is an online, one-year programme delivered to both Private, Voluntary or Independent (PVI), maintained and school-based nursery settings.

In each setting, a‘Maths Champion’ is selected: a senior member of staff, who is supported to drive improvement in maths practice across the setting. This member of staff, with support of an allocated Deputy Maths Champion, is supported to audit current practice and create and implement an action plan for supporting colleagues to improve maths practice throughout the year. The support includes bespoke online training, including modules on early mathematical development and coaching, resources, and one-to-one support.

All PVI, maintained and school-based nursery settings in England are eligible to participate in the programme. Settings will be on-boarded from February 2023 to June 2023, with the programme being delivered over 12 months. Settings must nominate a Maths Champion and Deputy Maths Champion who are qualified at Level 3 or above. Settings with a minimum of six 3 and 4 year olds can register their interest to take part in this project on the Maths Champions (subsidised programme) page, on the Education Endowment Foundation website.

Thrive Together: Early Years Stronger Practice Hub Autumn Newsletter

Thrive Together: Early Years Stronger Practice Hub Autumn Newsletter is now available to download.

Download: Thrive Together - Autumn 2023

Work experience students go far with Grofar

The Education Business Links (EBL) Team would like to offer a very warm welcome to their 2023/24 Work Experience programme. They are delighted to already have over 3,900 students predicted to go out on work experience – yes, work experience is definitely back and bigger than ever!

The team are thrilled to once again be helping young people acquire the skills and knowledge that will prepare them for the world of work, and inspire them to plan and achieve a successful future. Work experience plays a major part in this process, and we look forward to be working with you all again this academic year.

This year the EBL Team would like to create a uniformed process for work experience, for all our schools to work from. Invitations were sent out to schools to access our Resources Folder, to assist schools with their work experience programme, including access to presentations to help with the launch of work experience and health and safety whilst on placements. A teacher handbook ‘A Guide to Work Experience’ will shortly be launched to help schools understand and manage the process, and set up safe and rewarding placements.

In addition to this we have successfully launched our new work experience database ‘Grofar’.

The Grofar Database replaces the previous work experience database, and supports students, parents/carers and Work Experience Co-ordinators in finding work experience placements. At the simple click of a button, schools are able to track the progress of their students work experience journey, their placements, approvals and view employer details. We are pleased to announce that this system is now live, and we look forward to going far with Grofar!

Full training and access has been provided to all schools signed up to our programme. Any schools that were not able to attend our training sessions can book onto our final session. The details are:

Date: Thursday 16 November 2023.
Time: 3pm-4pm.
Venue: Microsoft Teams.

Please email the team on ebl.admin@telford.gov.uk to book your place or to sign up to the work experience programme.

Telford & Wrekin Music updates

Telford Sings is Back!
Children from schools across the borough will be coming together to sing on 13, 14 and 15 March 2024. Details will be sent out to you this week via email. Please send an email to telford.music@telford.gov.uk if you don’t receive your pack.

Recorder Festival
There is still time to register for the festival! This year it will be held at the Anstice Hall in Madeley. Sign your school up online: Recorder Festival 2024 Application

Music Curriculum Conference
This region-wide event will feature high-profile speakers as well as a wide range of workshops and discussions. – a must if you are leading music in your school. Telford & Wrekin school staff are entitled to a large discount, meaning that each place costs just £25 (normal price £85). Sign up on the Music Education Solutions website.

Music CPD
As part of The Music Partnership, Telford & Wrekin Music is able to offer schools access to a wealth of CPD opportunities. Most of these are free of charge and happen after school. Please send an email to telford.music@telford.gov.uk to book places at any of the following:

Date	Start	End	Event	Details	Price	Phase
8 November 2023	4pm	5pm	Webinar Series: Developing Core Skills in Primary Music. S3: Listening	Zoom	Free	Primary
13 November 2023	4.30pm	5.30pm	In-person: Charanga Training	Riverway Centre, Stafford, ST16 3TH	Free	All phases
16 November 2023	4.15pm	5.15pm	Recorder Festival Meeting	Recorder Festival, Microsoft Teams	Free	All phases
22 November 2023	4pm	5pm	Webinar Series: Developing Core Skills in Primary Music. S4: Notation	Zoom	Free	Primary
23 November 2023	4.45pm	5.45pm	Get to know Sparkyard!	Online training via Out of the Ark	Free	Primary
5 December 2023	4.45pm	5.45pm	Get to know Sparkyard!	Online training via Out of the Ark	Free	Primary
6 december 2023	4pm	5pm	Webinar Series: Developing Core Skills in Primary Music. S5: History of Music	S5: History of Music	Free	Primary
17 January 2024	4.45pm	5.45pm	Get to know Sparkyard!	Online training via Out of the Ark	Free	Primary
18 January 2024	9am	3.30pm	Curriculum Music Conference 2024	Riverway Centre, Stafford, ST16 3TH	£25 per delegate	All phases
22 January 2024	1pm	4pm	Primary Music Leadership Certificate. Session 1: Leading Music in your school	Face to face and Zoom. Venue tbc.	£100 for full course	Primary
1 February 2024	1pm	4pm	In-person: Improvisation Project CPD Session	Venue tbc	Free	All phases
8 February 2024	4.30pm	5.30pm	SEND Music Network Meeting	Microsoft Teams	Free	SEND
9 February 2024	4pm	5pm	Webinar: Kapow Primary	Zoom	Free	Primary
19 February 2024	1pm	4pm	Blended: Primary Music Leadership Certificate. Session 2: Planning & Assessing Music in your school	Face to face and Zoom. Venue tbc.	£100 for full course	Primary
22 February 2024	4.45pm	5.45pm	Get to know Sparkyard!	Online training via Out of the Ark	Free	Primary
18 March 2024	1pm	4pm	Blended: Primary Music Leadership Certificate. Session 3: Delivering Music in your school	Face to face and Zoom. Venue tbc.	£100 for full course	Primary
19 March 2024	4pm	5pm	Soundpots Early Years Music Network Meeting	Soundpots, Microsoft Teams	Free	EYFS
12 April 2024	9am	3.30pm	SEND Music Conferene	Riverway Centre, Stafford, ST16 3TH	Free	SEND
25 April 2024	4pm	5pm	Webinar: Development & Progression in Primary Music	Zoom	Free	Primary
1 May 2024	4.15pm	5.15pm	Charanga's Model Music Curriculum Scheme	Bridge Centre, Stoke-on-Trent.	Free	All phases
16 May 2024	4pm	5pm	Webinar: Teaching Music Inclusively	Zoom	Free	All phases
21 May 2024	4.30pm	5.30pm	SEND Music Network Meeting	Microsoft Teams	Free	SEND
12 June 2024	4pm	5pm	Soundpots Early Years Music Network Meeting	Microsoft Teams	Free	EYFS
13 June 2024	4pm	5pm	Webinar: Curriculum Design in Music	Zoom	Free	All phases
2 July 2024	4pm	5pm	Webinar: Assessment in Music	Zoom	Free	All phases

Winter coats and shoes project 2023

The Winter Coats and Shoes Project has supplied hundreds of children with a coat and pair of shoes. This year more than ever we know that many of our children will be in need of this service.

If you are working with children who do not have a suitable winter coat or footwear you can make a referral directly to Telford Crisis Support (TCS) for assistance.

When will the scheme run

6 November 2023 - 6 March 2024. Referrals can be made at any time

Who can apply

Professionals working in schools and other professionals working with families.

How can I apply?

Once you’ve identified a child who needs these items of clothing speak to the family to ask if they are happy to be referred? You will then need to find out the sizes of any clothing/ shoes needed for each child to complete the referral form.

All applications are made online via a password protected webform: Referral Form.
Please enter the following (case sensitive) password when prompted: xjoufsdpbut

This form is only for professionals please do not share the form or password publically.

What next?

Telford Crisis Support will source the items and deliver either to school or one of their designated pick up points, depending on the preference stated on the referral.

Please note the following:

One application is required per child.
Please do not share publicly for schools’ academies and partner organisation use only.
On submission of a request a confirmation email will be sent to you, please ensure your specified email address is correct and retain a copy of this email for verifying items on receipt and ensuring they are distributed accurately.

For more information on support services offered by Telford Crisis Support please visit their website. Alternatively Clothing Coordinators Debbie Hughes and Jaden Osbourne can be contacted by sending an email to clothing@telfordcrisissupport.org.uk or by calling/texting 07878 296958 (10am-3pm, Monday - Friday).

Farm and animal contact: Information for parents

Please share the following information from the Health Protection Hub with parents and carers, through your usual channels:

With half-term approaching you may be considering taking your child/children on a farm visit.

All animals naturally carry a range of micro-organisms, some of which can be transmitted to humans, where they may cause ill health. Some of these, such as E.coli O157 or Cryptosporidium (Crypto), have the potential to cause serious illness, which may be particularly severe in young children We see many cases of Crypto each year in the Health Protection Hub, particularly among children, and it’s a miserable experience for them and their parents/carers.

Follow these practical steps to help keep your child safe and healthy:

Avoid touching faces or putting fingers in mouths while in farm environments.
Don’t kiss farm animals or allow children to put their faces close to animals.
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching animals, fences or other surfaces in animal areas.
Don’t eat or drink while touching animals or walking round the farm and only eat and drink in picnic areas or cafes.
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating or drinking.
Remove and clean boots or shoes that might have become soiled and clean pushchair wheels, then wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Don’t use gels or wipes instead of washing hands with soap and water - gels and wipes don’t remove E. coli O157 or Crypto.
Supervise children closely to make sure they wash their hands thoroughly.
If someone in the family has diarrhoea or vomiting after visiting a farm or animal visitor attraction, take the following steps:
- Wash all dirty clothes, bedding and towels in the washing machine on the hottest wash cycle possible.
- Encourage good hand hygiene after using the toilet, washing hands thoroughly with soap and running water.
- Clean toilet seats, toilet bowls, flush handles, taps, hand basins and any other areas that might have been soiled with detergent and hot water, rinsing with household disinfectant.
- Visit the doctor and explain that they have had recent contact with animals.
- Please also contact the attraction you visited and inform them of the illness.

Webinar: School Food Legal Regulations, 14 November 2023

Within the September edition of the Leading Magazine you will have seen an article on the School Food Standards.

The Requirements for School Food Regulations 2014 introduced new School Food Standards that have been mandatory in all maintained schools, new academies, and free schools since January 2015, with Governors responsible for ensuring these are being met.

As we appreciate that the content of the article may be new to you, the Food Safety, Healthy Weight, and Health Protection Hub Teams are holding a School Food Standards webinar on Tuesday 14 November 2023, 5-6pm.

This information session will include:

The basic requirements of the School Food Standards.
The role of School Leadership in compliance.
Feedback from the pilot survey in Telford & Wrekin.
Support & resources available.
Q&A session to close.

If you wish to attend the webinar, please book your place online:
Telford & Wrekin Council Health Improvement Team event tickets

In the meantime, The School Food Plan, in collaboration with the National Governors’ Association, has produced good guidance to support governors in championing a whole school approach to food and help create a culture and ethos of healthy eating. It is designed to be used alongside other School Food Plan resources including the Headteacher Checklist and What Works Well website.

We look forward to seeing you at the session on the 14 November 2023.

Kids for £1

Kids4£1 is back this October half term!

Take a look at the brochure for all the activities on offer which includes badminton, fun and floats, driving range, bike hub, tobogganing, tots donuts and tennis. Activities are on offer from Monday 30 October to Sunday 5 November 2023.

Urban Games

Next week is the start of Urban Games - from Monday 30 October onwards. It’s a free sports programme from Telford & Wrekin Council’s Safer & Stronger Communities Team, and is designed to keep kids busy and ease the pressure on your pocket during half term.

Sessions are facilitated by professional coaches. There is no need to book and the sessions are free, taking place morning, midday and afternoon almost every day.

Sessions available include netball, hockey, boxing, cricket, multi-sport, biking, Chinese dancing, nature activities and BMX biking!

Children and young people need to dress appropriately for the weather.

Check out the Safer and Stronger Communities website for the full programme.

CPD courses to the end of the Autumn Term 2023

The CPD Booklet for the whole of the 2023-24 academic year can be viewed via Telford Education Services.

Courses can be booked by completing and returning a CPD booking form to cpdschoolimprovement@telford.gov.uk.

Employee Investigations Training (HR course)	Monday 6 November 2023	2.30pm to 5pm
Let's Talk PANTS Insight session KS1-2 and SEND	Tuesday 7 November 2023	10am to 11.30am
Promoting the performance of disadvantaged students (GO 505)	Tuesday 7 November 2023	4.30pm to 6.30pm
Positive Behaviour Management in the Classroom (PSS 008)	Tuesday 7 November 2023	1.15pm to 4pm
Designated Safeguarding Leads' and Safeguarding Governors' Termly Update (SG 106)	Wednesday 8 November 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
Safety Intervention Refresher Training (formerly MAPA Refresher Training) CPI accredited (BSAT 212)	Thursday 9 November 2023	2pm to 4.30pm
Supporting SEND in the Classroom for Early Career Teachers - part 1 (LSAT 502)	Thursday 9 November 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
The Importance of the Early Years Foundation Stage in Schools (GO 603)	Thursday 9 November 2023	5.30pm to 7pm
Annual Early Years Conference (EY 015)	Friday 10 November 2023	10am to 4pm
Understanding School Finance (GO 508)	Tuesday 14 November 2023	9.15am to 12noon
CSE Termly Briefing EY, KS1 & KS2	Tuesday 14 November 2023	1.30pm to 2.30pm
Primary Computing Update (CPD 512)	Wednesday 15 November 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
Safeguarding Induction Training for Governors - part 2 (SG 103)	Wednesday 15 November 2023	5.30pm to 7.30pm
Developing the Role of the EAL Coordinator (CPD 616)	Thursday 16 November 2023	1.15pm to 3.30pm
Listen with Lucy (EY 023)	Thursday 16 November 2023	1.15pm to 4pm
Understanding Nurture (PSS 101)	Thursday 16 November 2023	9.15am to 12noon
The Role of the Key Person in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EY 106)	Monday 20 November 2023	1.15pm to 4pm
Safer Recruitment Administration (HR course)	Monday 20 November 2023	3pm to 5pm
Literacy Pathway – Group 1	Monday 20 November 2023	Morning
Literacy Pathway – Group 2	Monday 20 November 2023	Afternoon
Assessment - termly update (CPD 502)	Tuesday 21 November 2023	9.15am to 10.45am
Meeting the OFSTED requirements for Equality and Diversity for Governors (CPD 717)	Tuesday 21 November 2023	6pm to 8.30pm
Assessment - termly update (CPD 503)	Wednesday 22 November 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
Raising Awareness of Prevent (SG 101)	Wednesday 22 November 2023	9.30am to 11am
Quality First Teaching for SEND - part 1 (LSAT 516)	Wednesday 22 November 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
Let's Talk PANTS Early Years Insight Briefing	Wednesday 22 November 2023	6.30pm to 7.30pm
Bright Ideas and Inspiration - for your breakfast, holiday and out of school provision (EY 303)	Thursday 23 November 2023	9.15am to 12noon
Accredited Safer Recruitment Training (HR course)	Thursday 23 November 2023	9am to 4.30pm
School Attendance Surgery (AST 005)	Friday 24 November 2023	9.15am to 12noon
Managing English as an Additional Language in Early Years Settings (CPD 710)	Tuesday 28 November 2023	1.15pm to 3.30pm
Literacy Pathway – Group 3	Tuesday 28 November 2023	Morning
Literacy Pathway – Group 4	Tuesday 28 November 2023	Afternoon
Induction Training for New Governors (GO 502)	Wednesday 29 November 2023	9.30am to 3.30pm
Early Years Coordinators Termly Update (EY 007)	Thursday 30 November 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
Child Protection Supervision (SG 203)	Thursday 30 November 2023	9.30am to 12.30pm
Preventing and Dealing with Racist Bullying (CPD 533)	Wednesday 6 December 2023	1pm to 3.45pm
Governors' Responsibilities for Exclusions (SG 104)	Wednesday 6 December 2023	5pm to 7pm
Literacy Pathway – Group 1	Monday 11 December 2023	Morning
Literacy Pathway – Group 2	Monday 11 December 2023	Afternoon
Literacy Pathway – Group 3	Tuesday 12 December 2023	Morning
Literacy Pathway – Group 4	Tuesday 12 December 2023	Afternoon
EAL for Beginners (CPD 726)	Tuesday 12 December 2023	1.15pm to 3.30pm

Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas: Sunday 12 November 2023

Diwali is a festival of lights and one of the major festivals celebrated by Hindus, Jains, and some Sikhs and Buddhists. The name is derived from the Sanskrit term ‘dipavali’, meaning “row of lights.” The festival generally symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and traditionally marks the start of a new year.

Diwali usually lasts five days and is celebrated during the Hindu lunisolar month Kartika (between mid-October and mid-November). It is observed every year in early autumn after the end of the summer harvest. It coincides with the amāvasyā (new moon) and is thought to be the darkest night of the Hindu lunisolar calendar.

In the lead-up to Diwali, people will prepare by cleaning, renovating, and decorating their homes and workplaces with diyas (oil lamps) and rangolis (colorful art circle patterns). During Diwali, people wear their finest clothes, illuminate the interior and exterior of their homes, perform worship ceremonies of Lakshmi (the goddess of prosperity and wealth, light fireworks), and partake in family feasts, where mithai (sweets) are shared and gifts are exchanged.

For many, the festival of Diwali is concluded by attending temples and offering respects to Lord Rama, the personified form of divinity, upon whom the festival of Diwali commemorates.

Bandi Chhor Divas (meaning liberation of ‘political’ prisoners’ day) is a Sikh celebration that celebrates the day the sixth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Hargobind, was released from Gwalior Fort and returned to the holy city of Amritsar.

Bandi Chhor Divas falls in autumn and often overlaps with Diwali.

The Bandi Chhor Divas is celebrated by lighting of homes and Gurdwaras (place of worship for Sikhs), celebratory nagar kirtan (a street procession) and langar (community kitchen). The day is also celebrated with a firework display.

In 2023, the two festivals will fall on 12 November.
Wishing you all Happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas.

World Kindness Day: Monday 13 November 2023

World Kindness Day is a global observance dedicated to promoting and celebrating acts of kindness. This day serves as a reminder of the positive impact that kindness can have on individuals, and communities all around the world. It encourages people to perform intentional acts of kindness and foster a culture of compassion and generosity.

World Kindness Day is an annual event that encourages individuals to practice kindness in their daily lives. It highlights the importance of empathy, understanding, and cooperation to create a more harmonious and caring world, providing an opportunity for people to start their week with acts of kindness and goodwill.

Participating in World Kindness Day is a simple yet impactful way to make a positive difference in the world. Here are ways to get involved:

Perform Acts of Kindness: Throughout the day, consciously perform acts of kindness, such as helping a neighbour, complimenting a colleague, or donating to a charity.
Spread Positivity: Share uplifting and positive messages on social media to inspire others to be kind and compassionate.
Volunteer: Offer your time to volunteer for a local charity or non-profit organization that aligns with your values.
Donate: Make a donation to a charitable cause that you believe in, whether it’s for humanitarian aid, education, or healthcare.
Teach Kindness: Educate children and young people about the importance of kindness and empathy through storytelling or classroom activities.
Random Acts of Kindness: Surprise someone with a random act of kindness, such as buying a stranger’s coffee or leaving an encouraging note for a friend.

There are a number of free resources available online to help celebrate World Kindness Day:

52 Lives - School Kindness

World Kindness Day teaching resources

Twinkl

No Pens Day: Wednesday 29 November 2023

No Pens Day is a chance for children to have fun raising valuable funds for Speech and Language UK while learning about children who struggle with talking and understanding words.

Children in participating schools can get involved in a day of talking and listening activities – beginning with the biggest ever show and tell.

To take part, each child brings in £1, which is donated to Speech and Language UK.

As well as raising money, No Pens Day also raises awareness about the 1.9 million children who struggle with talking and understanding words, and the work being done to support them.

No Pens Day 2023 takes place on Wednesday 29 November 2023.

To make it as easy as possible for you and your school or setting to have the best time ever, Speech and Language UK will provide all the resources you need to plan your day – including tons of activity ideas, take home leaflets, certificates and lesson plans.

To sign up your school to take part in No Pens Day, please visit the Speech and Language UK website. We’ll send you a free Classroom Pack containing everything you need to know to make the day a success.

Let’s Go Electric: Friday 10 November 2023

Join us for an essential, hands-on, informative, and interactive seminar, tailored for limited companies, sole traders, SMEs, micro-businesses looking to embrace the shift towards electric cars, vans either for themselves or through their business. Whether you're in transport or new to electric vehicles, EV infrastructure, world of electric renewables or seeking in-depth knowledge, this event is for you.

Let's Go Electric
Presented by: Telford & Wrekin Council, with support from Lets Experience Electric.
Date: Friday 10 November 2023.
Time: Registration begins at 8:30am for a 9am start.

What to expect:

Dive into the EV ecosystem.
look at how you can monetise EV Charging, save money through renewables.
Engage with subject matter.
See the latest PV Solar, Heat Pumps, building retrofits, infra-red heating solutions that are available locally.
Test-drive various electric vehicles, we will have a range of vehicles in the event hall and many more outside for ride and drives.
Connect with suppliers and installers of electric vehicles, electric bikes, and related charging infrastructure, including charge point operators, installers, renewable energy experts (wind/solar/carports), energy efficiency specialists, and financial solution providers.

Brands attending are:

Tesla
Volvo – Shrewsbury
Kia – Furrows
Ford – Furrows
BMW – Rybrook
Hyundai – JT Hughes
Skoda – Faintree
Jaguar/Land Rover – Hatfields
Mercedes Vans - Midland Truck & Van and Maxus Vans (All Electric Group).

Who should attend:

Car and light commercial vehicle users transitioning to EVs/hybrids.
Car park operators looking to introduce EV charging infrastructure.
Landlords and tenants interested in retrofitting or installing renewable power sources.
Stakeholders eager to understand the council's strategy in Telford and Wrekin, as well as neighbouring areas.

Representatives from local dealerships will be available to discuss options and showcase their electric and hybrid vehicles, including cars, LCVs, bikes, and mobility solutions.Exhibitors from charging operators/installers, renewable energy suppliers, and local trade organisations will also be there to demonstrate the latest technologies and business support available in the area.

A more detailed list of exhibitors will be available nearer the time.

Speakers will include:

Telford & Wrekin Council outlining the EV strategy for the Borough.
The Energy Saving Trust outlining latest grants and government initiatives.
NGED,District Network Operator, speaking about grid capacity and connectivity access.
Lyreco on their EV transition journey.
Panel Session with local businesses hosted by ZEMO.
More to be confirmed.

Register online:

New measure to protect children’s learning from strike action

This is an update from the Department for Education

Minimum service levels to protect children and young people’s education are set to be introduced in schools and colleges, the Government has announced.

The proposals will put in place protections for children, young people and parents to ensure education can continue during any future strike action.

The announcement follows the disruption during industrial action last academic year, which resulted in over 10 days of action in schools, leading to 25 million school days that were lost cumulatively, impacting children and families across the country.

This was despite the efforts from many school leaders and teachers to keep classrooms open and government guidance stating that teaching for pupils studying for exams and vulnerable children should be prioritised.

The Education Secretary, Gillian Keegan, has today written to union leaders inviting them to discuss proposals on a voluntary basis in the first instance. In her letter she is clear that should a voluntary agreement not be reached the government is committed to using powers granted through the Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act that was introduced earlier this year. Such a move would lead to a consultation and is expected to include a range of models for MSLs in education, for parents, teachers, and other stakeholders to provide views on.

Education Secretary, Gillian Keegan said: "Last year’s school strikes were some of the most disruptive on record for children, and their parents. We cannot afford a repeat of that disruption - particularly as schools and teachers continue to work so hard to help children recover from the pandemic. I am asking the teaching unions to engage with us and agree to put children and young people’s education first - and above and beyond any dispute."

Proposals to introduce MSLs in schools and colleges follows the announcement made by the Secretary of State to consult on MSLs in universities, to limit the impact of industrial action on students.

The introduction of MSLs will bring education in line with other key public services such as healthcare and transport. MSLs will provide a better balance between the right of workers to strike, and the importance of education.

In July, school teaching unions suspended their strikes when the government announced the largest pay award in 30 years for teachers, alongside meeting its manifesto commitment of increasing starting salaries to a minimum of £30,000.

This entry was posted by Claire on Wednesday, 25 October 2023.

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