Education Noticeboard - 9 November 2023

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

We are now into the second half of the Autumn Term, with a very full Education Noticeboard. As always, we start with positive news stories.

I am pleased to share that good progress continues to be made on the Telford Digital Skills and Enterprise Hub. We will continue to update you on the progress as this exciting new provision develops.

I am equally pleased to report that businesses across Telford & Wrekin have launched a new Supported Internships Forum. This will provide an invaluable resource in terms of supporting SEND pupils on their journey to the workplace, by giving them a combination of skills and practical experience.

We have included several important updates this week. These include articles from the Safeguarding Team and updates from the Early Years and Skills Service Teams. Some key pieces of information around protecting the health of students and staff are included, an update on the Christmas pay date for education staff, key dates and comprehensive CPD listings.

There are a couple of consultation opportunities, information about a writing competition for care-experienced children and young people, and Anna Freud have launched a resource hub for use by Mental Health Leads. All information about these is provided below. The DfE have send through a few updates too, following the half-term break, so please take the time to see if there is anything relevant to your role there.

There is too much to list everything this week, but as always, we have tried to summarise the key communications in one place as we know that time can be at a premium. Your engagement with the Education Noticeboard is both appreciated and encouraged.

Before I sign off, if you know of any organisations or community groups, who will benefit from grant funding to support youth led projects, please direct them to the High Sheriff of Shropshire Fund. Applications are being welcomed from today, and all the information that is needed is in the article.

Have a great rest of the week everyone.

Simon

Simon Wellman
Director: Education & Skills

Progress continues on Telford’s Digital Skills and Enterprise Hub

Construction is well underway for the Digital Skills and Enterprise Hub in Telford's Station Quarter, a project set to offer advanced education and support for business start-ups.

Led by Telford & Wrekin Council in collaboration with educational partners Telford College and Harper Adams University, this initiative is poised to become a central hub for digital and business learning in the region.

More than just a place of learning, this hub serves as a bridge from education to employment. The primary goal is to attract and retain young talent, upskill residents of all ages, and aid businesses in their growth journeys. The courses to be offered here are carefully designed to equip individuals with the skills that employers are seeking, thus fostering business growth and diversification.

The curriculum planned for delivery at the Digital Skills and Enterprise Hub encompasses a wide range of digital studies, including computer science, infrastructure, and digital support, offering courses ranging from level 1 to level 5. These programmes cater to full-time 16-18 year old students, part-time adults, and apprentices. Additionally, mathematics courses are on the agenda, supporting the Levelling Up initiative, including functional skills and GCSE courses for adults, and computer science and further mathematics for pre-16 pupils in collaboration with local schools.

For Telford College, the investment in Station Quarter is an opportunity to make its curriculum even more accessible to people across the borough, and to help local employers develop the sort of skilled workforce they require - providing local people with a vital pathway to higher quality and better paid careers.

Harper Adams University, known for its forward-thinking approach to Digital and Engineering, is set to offer a range of degrees, including Applied Data Science, Robotics, Automation & Mechatronics, Engineering Business Management, and Digital Manufacturing.

This partnership further enhances the hub's impact by aligning it even more closely with industry leaders and experts. The facility will also provide business support services and flexible enterprise incubator accommodations, making it an attractive destination for new or young enterprises in the digital and related sectors to establish and expand in the town centre.

Graham Wynn, Chair of Telford Town Deal Board, underscored the significance of this project, stating, "The Towns Fund programme aims to rejuvenate towns and drive long-term economic growth. Through the Government’s Towns Fund program, Telford secured £17 million of funding to help advance the transformation of Telford Town Centre."

Graham Guest, Principal and CEO of Telford College, said: "This is a unique alliance between industry and education, elevating aspirations, shaping our future workforce, and contributing to economic success in the area. Our courses at Station Quarter will be targeted towards equipping people for careers in sectors such as cybersecurity, AI and robotics, virtual and augmented reality, cloud computing, wireless technologies, 5G innovation, and much more.”

Professor Ken Sloan, Vice Chancellor of Harper Adams University, added, "The Digital Skills and Enterprise Hub is poised to become a dynamic learning environment that nurtures talent, fosters collaboration, and contributes to the growth of digital skills in Telford."

Councillor Lee Carter (Lab), Telford & Wrekin Council Cabinet Member for Place (The Economy & Neighbourhood Services), said: "The steel frames now in place signify tangible progress toward our vision. It is a testament to Telford’s commitment to providing diverse and industry-relevant education, thereby driving economic growth in the borough."

Keep up to date and follow the project's progress by visiting the Telford Towns Fund website.

Businesses join supported internships forum to help young people with SEND

Businesses across the borough have joined forces to launch a Supported Internships Forum.

The new network has been set up to support young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and move them closer to the workplace by giving them skills as well as practical experience.

Local companies and training providers have come forward to join the forum and help give young people new employment opportunities.

The forum took place for the first time on Friday 20 October at Wrekin Housing Group and attracted businesses from different sectors locally.

Supported internships last from 6 to 12 months and typically, the young person will spend part of the week in training and the rest of it in the workplace.

They are a structured, work-based study programme for 16 to 24-year-olds with SEND who have an education, health and care (EHC) plan.

An internship is a substantial work placement, facilitated by the support of an expert job coach, and should contribute to the long-term career goals of the young person and match their capabilities.

Alongside their time with the employer, supported interns complete a personalised study programme delivered by their school or college, which includes the chance to study for relevant qualifications, if appropriate, and English and Maths at an appropriate level.

There are many benefits to businesses which support an intern which include improved performance or retention rates in some hard-to-fill posts and developing a workforce representative of the local community which demonstrates they are a fair and inclusive employer.

It can also help to boost workplace morale and give existing staff the opportunity to demonstrate their leadership qualities by mentoring young people on the programme.

Supported internships can also help young people to develop the skills valued by employers, demonstrate their value in the workplace and gain confidence in their own abilities to perform successfully at work.

Councillor Eileen Callear (Lab), Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Employment and Visitor Economy, said: “We are keen for employers to support our young people with special educational needs – helping them to gain valuable experience in the workplace and a firm foothold with their future career. We know our employers are already very supportive of our young people but they may want to find out more about accommodating those with disabilities and special educational needs. Hopefully, this forum will help businesses to work together and share how they can best deliver supported internships in their workplaces.”

Businesses that are interested in joining the forum and can help young people across the borough can call Mark O’Neil on 01952 383142 or email Mark.Oneil@telford.gov.uk.

High Sheriff of Shropshire Fund: Applications are now open

Organisations or community groups can apply for grant funding of up to £1250 to support youth led projects that encourage young people to positively contribute to their local community.

The High Sheriff is particularly keen to support projects that could go forward to the National Crimebeat Awards and therefore welcomes applications towards projects that provide opportunities for young people at risk of involvement in crime or exploitation.

The fund is available to organisations or community groups based within Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin.

Applications will be assessed by a committee comprising of the High Sheriff, a trustee from the Shropshire Community Foundation and the High Sheriff in Nomination for Shropshire 2024/25.

Applications are welcomed from today on the Shropshire Community Foundation website.

Phase one closing date is 15 December 2023.

Haven: Domestic Abuse training offer

Telford & Wrekin Council and The Haven Training are working together to provide Domestic Abuse Awareness training to individuals, organisations, community groups and volunteers working in the local area.

Following the success of our Domestic Abuse Awareness and Ambassador/Champion training, we have further specialist courses available from September for anyone who lives and/or works within the Telford & Wrekin area.

Tuesday 14 November 2023	Domestic Abuse Ambassador	6 hours online via Teams
Friday 17 November 2023	DASH	3 to 3.5 hours online via Teams
Wednesday 22 November 2023	Domestic Abuse Awareness	3 to 3.5 hours online via Teams
Thursday 30 November 2023	Working with Men who abuse in relationships	3 to 3.5 hours online via Teams
Tuesday 5 December 2023	Domestic Abuse Awareness	3 to 3.5 hours online via Teams
Friday 8 December 2023	Stalking and Harassment	3 to 3.5 hours online via Teams
Wednesday 13 December 2023	Domestic Abuse Ambassador	6 hours online via Teams
Tuesday 9 January 2024	Forced / Child Marriage & HBA
Wednesday 21 February 2024	Domestic Abuse and LGBTQ Communities
Wednesday 20 March 2024	Female Genital Mutilation

Contact training@havenrefuge.org.uk for more information or to request a booking form.

Steer Clear: Helping young people to say no to knife crime

Sometimes, young people can feel they have no option but to carry a weapon if they live somewhere that they don’t feel safe.

Steer Clear want to try and change that. They work with young people aged between 10 and 18 years old all across the West Mercia area that are at risk of being exposed to, or are already involved in, knife crime and help them to find alternative solutions.

They focus on education and support, aiming to tackle knife-related crime and create safer communities for everyone.

For more information please download their leaflet.

You can make referrals to the service online, and can email the service at Steer.clear@childrenssociety.org.uk

Cranstoun Domestic Abuse Services: Men and masculinity intervention offer

Who is Cranstoun Men & Masculinity?

Cranstoun is a charity empowering people to live healthy, safe and happy lives.

Cranstoun has been awarded the contract to deliver the Cranstoun Men & Masculinity Programme in Shropshire from 1 August 2023.

About Cranstoun Men & Masculinity

We are a perpetrator led intervention which also offers help and support to partner and ex partners of service users.

Cranstoun Men & Masculinity has been designed to help participants learn new skills and find better ways to manage and control their abusive behaviour. It encourages participants to think and behave more positively to prevent harm to their partner, children and family in the future.

What to expect from Cranstoun Men & Masculinity?

At the first appointment fully trained staff will meet with participants to develop their own tailored engagement plan. Meetings can also be held online. The engagement plan may include:

Setting up one-to-one sessions.
Participating in group work sessions.

Staff will work closely with participants to ensure they feel comfortable and confident to take the next step in their Inspire to Change journey. Cranstoun Men & Masculinity can also provide support, advice and signposting/onward to help address wider issues linked to abusive behaviour such as addiction problems, debt and unemployment.

Who is suitable?

Refer if...	Do not refer if...
Over the age of 16.	Under 16.
We have consent to contact.	No consent from the service user.
Recognition of abusive behaviours.	No indication to work on abusive behaviours.
Intimate Partner Violence.	Where the primary reason for referral is to address the following: Alcohol. Mental Health. Substance Use.
Interfamily Violence.	If subject to a community order or Licence where the index offence is related to Domestic Violence.
	There are no contact details for the service user.

Who is not suitable?

If the person you want to refer is already subject to a current community order or licence where domestic abuse/violence is the index offence, then Cranstoun Men and Masculinity will be unable to accept them.

PLEASE NOTE: New Guidance in relation to Family / Civil court referrals

Unfortunately, we cannot accept and process any referrals via family or civil court, whether for a generic DA intervention or a DAPP approved programme. As a Respect accredited service, they have instructed us to cease accepting referrals via family/civil courts for the foreseeable future.

How do I refer?
Contact TW@cranstoun.org.uk to request a referral form or visit the Cranstoun website for further information.

Open consultation on mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse

During its seven-year investigation the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) gathered evidence from many victims and survivors of child sexual abuse who made disclosures or presented information to a responsible adult, with no action being subsequently taken to inform the relevant authorities. This included cases where perpetrators continued to have access to children, despite senior leaders being aware this put children in harm’s way. A common reason for these failures was the prioritisation of protecting an individual or institution from reputational damage over the safety and wellbeing of children. The Inquiry noted that this was particularly marked in closed communities or organisations with a culture of strict deference to hierarchy or moral/spiritual authority.

In its final report, the Independent Inquiry recommended that government introduce a legal requirement for certain people to report child sexual abuse when:

they are told about it by a child or perpetrator
they witness it happening
they observe recognised indicators of child sexual abuse.

Through the consultation the government is particularly seeking views from respondents on:

how the government should define who is subject to the duty
what protections should be in place for reporters
a limited circumstances in which the reporting duty may not apply
what sanctions should apply in respect of the duty.

Through the consultation, the government is seeking the views of respondents on what will need to be put in place to support those who will be subject to the new duty to discharge it effectively and create the right conditions for this change to have the greatest impact for those it is designed to protect: children who have been sexually abused. The responses to the call for evidence were instructive in surfacing the range of issues for consideration and resolution before the duty is implemented, including reporting processes, training, and guidance. We acknowledge these challenges, and the need to address them across the wide range of circumstances in which mandated reporters are likely to operate.

For full details of the proposed Mandatory reporting duty, and to access the consultation, please visit the GOV.UK website: Mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse consultation

Anna Freud - Schools in Mind: Mental health lead resource hub

Anna Freud have now launches a mental health lead resource hub on their Mentally Healthy Schools site.

In partnership with and funded by the Department for Education, Anna Freud have collaborated with a range of education and mental health experts to produce this new hub for mental health leads and other education staff. This hub is a comprehensive resource that signposts and showcases practical resources from trusted organisations and training providers - all in one place. It will enable mental health leads to continue to develop in their role, and embed an effective whole-school or college approach to mental health and wellbeing.

Mental health lead resource hub

Vodcast: Updated EYFS Profile 2024 Handbook

The Department for Education has published a new vodcast for local authorities on the updated Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Profile 2024 handbook.

The updated handbook was published on 9 October 2023, and is designed to support teachers and early years practitioners to complete the EYFS Profile at the end of this academic year. The vodcast includes:

An overview of the EYFS Profile and findings from the evaluation of the 2021 EYFS reforms.
Key changes made to the updated EYFS Profile 2024 handbook and updated EYFS exemptions guidance.
Links to resources and information that can provide further support for completing the EYFS Profile.

Ofsted’s Role in Regulating Childcare: Poster for Parents

Ofsted have shared an updated poster that childcare services can display. It clarifies Ofsted’s role in childcare registration and regulation, how to contact them, and where parents can find additional information on early years settings and childcare.

The poster, Ofsted's role in regulating childcare, is available to download.

16 -19 Telford & Wrekin post 16 prospectus

It’s that time of year when our year 11 cohort are applying for their post 16 destinations.

The Telford 16-19 prospectus has information on the local offer including the new T levels, almost 300 A-levels, BTECs and Apprenticeships across six schools and colleges making Telford an inspirational hub for learning, opportunity and achievement.

Please utilise with students to help them make informed decisions on their post 16 destinations and link to the prospectus from your websites.

Careers in Telford: Careers Guide

A careers guide aimed at raising awareness of the local labour market and supporting parents, teachers, students and job seekers looking for diverse career opportunities has been launched by Telford & Wrekin Council.

The guide provides valuable insights into the companies in the borough, job opportunities, how to progress in a career, what training or qualifications are needed and the support that is available.

To view and download the Telford and Wrekin careers guide visit the Invest Telford website.

NHS Academy session dates

Whether you are considering a career in the NHS or just want to find out more about your local hospitals, our free People's Academy and Young People's Academy (for those aged betwen 14-25 years) these courses might be just what you're looking for.

2023/24 dates for the Young People's Aacdemy are as follows:

Thursday 2 November 2023, 8.30am-5pm - SECC, Royal Shrewsbury Hospital
Thursday 15 february 2024, 8.30am-5pm - Education centre, Princess Royal Hospital
Wednesday 22 May 2024, 8.30am-5pm - SECC, Royal Shrewsbury Hospital
Wednesday 24 July 2024, 8.30am-5pm - Education centre, Princess Royal Hospital
Wednesday 30 October 2024, 8.30am-5pm - SECC, Royal Shrewsbury Hospital

For more information, including how to register, please download the NHS Academy flyer.

Learn Telford: October newsletter

The October 2023 Learn Telford newsletter is available online:

Learn Telford: October 2023

STOMP Survey to collect views and experiences about psychotropic medication

The STOMP and STAMP team at NHS England have created a survey to find out people’s views and experiences about psychotropic medication.

The survey is for children, young people and adults who are autistic or have a learning disability, their families, and carers. The information from the survey will be used to inform plans to improve how psychotropic medication is used – so people get the right medication at the right time for the right reasons.

The more people who complete the survey, the better informed their work can be, and the happier their team are by seeing all of the responses and incredible support they are receiving!

STOMP STAMP Survey

There is also an easy read guide available, to introduce the survey.

Coram Voice – Creative writing competition

Please share the following with care experienced children and young people in your setting:

The Voices 2024 Creative Writing Competition is open for those who are care experienced and aged between 4-25 years old.

Would you like to get creative, be heard and celebrate your voice and imagination? The Voices 2024 Creative Writing Competition is open, so get your thinking cap on and prepare to submit your song, short story, poem, rap or any other form of creative writing you like.

For more information including how to sign up to be a shortlisting volunteer, information about how the competition works and how to enter please visit the Coram Voice website.

Telford & Wrekin Family Hubs Relational Practice Conference: Monday 4 December 2023

The Telford & Wrekin Family Hubs Relational Practice Conference will be held on Monday 4 December 2023, 9am-4pm, at the Mercure Hotel, Telford Centre.

This conference offers a great opportunity to hear some knowledgeable and inspirational speakers talking about some key topics.

A copy of the programme for the event is available to download.

Please note there are LIMITED places for this conference. If you wish to attend the conference you MUST book your place by contacting the Family Hubs Team by sending an email to Telfordfamilyhubs@telford.gov.uk.

If you have been forwarded a calendar invite from a colleague, it does NOT necessarily mean that you have a place. If you turn up on the day without booking, you unfortunately risk being turned away.

Webinar Reminder: 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.

Ventilation this winter

Ventilation is the process of introducing fresh air into indoor spaces while removing stale air. Letting fresh air into indoor spaces can help remove air that contains virus particles and prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) and other respiratory infections such as flu. Good ventilation has also been linked to health benefits such as better sleep and concentration, and fewer sick days off from work or school. Keeping educational spaces well-ventilated can reduce disease transmission and improve pupils’ alertness and concentration.

CO₂ monitors provide a way of identifying the level of CO₂ in a space, which informs us how much of the air we are breathing in has been breathed out by others. These monitors should be used regularly to help you identify when to take steps to improve ventilation and provide reassurance that existing ventilation measures are working.

Knowing when ventilation measures should be increased or can be decreased can also help keep classrooms warm and conserve energy. For more information please read the following guidance: How to’ Use CO₂ monitors in education and care settings

There is a very short video available, which explains why monitoring CO2 is important for health and learning outcomes. It also provides practical guidance on how to use and interpret the CO2 monitor. Why are we monitoring CO2?

If you have any questions, please contact the Health Protection Hub via email to HealthProtectionHub@telford.gov.uk.

Ponds and environmental areas: Risks associated with outdoor water safety

As a Council we have been reviewing the risks associated with outdoor water safety in the Borough and we are aware of a number of schools that have ponds or may wish to have one in the future.

For this reason we recommend that you implement a pond policy, which has been taken from the CLEAPSS website and will need adapting to your individual school.

We are also providing some guidance for what to consider when planning, building, maintaining and the safety of ponds, these can be found using the links in the document or by visiting the CLEAPSS website.

Introduction

The use of the outdoor environment can play an important part in the educational process. A number of establishments/settings have, or propose to create, an environmental study areas incorporating a pond in their grounds to help with the delivery of this aspect of the curriculum.

The use of ponds and indeed other areas of water, present risks which must be assessed and adequately controlled to ensure the health and safety of all site users and achieving this can be helped by considering the location, design and management of the pond.

Scope

This guidance is for all managers/heads of establishments with ponds and environmental areas.

Managers Responsibilities

A suitable and sufficient risk assessments must be undertaken for all activities involving the pond area and the outcomes and the control measures required to reduce risk to an acceptably low level must be advised to all those involved in the activity, whether adult or pupil, taking into account any persons individual needs.

Those using the pond and surrounding area must be supervised at all times and the number of supervising adults will be determined on the basis of the risk assessment.

Adequate instructions and information must be given to all those involved in activities in the pond area and this should include instructions as to the risks of water, ponds, pond and other wild life, together with the hygiene implications and needs of working safely outdoors.

Design Considerations

Location
What the pond will be used for
Depth
Surrounds
Electrical

Environmental Considerations

Fencing
Signage
Maintenance

What emergency procedures are in place?

There must be an action plan developed and tested in order to adequately deal with any emergency incident which may occur in the pond or pond area. This will include provision to rescue anyone who may have fallen in, for resuscitation and first aid if necessary, how to summon adult/paramedic assistance and what to do to ensure the safety and well-being of others involved in the incident.

Applicable Legislation

Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

Occupiers Liability Acts 1957 and 1984

For further support please use the CLEAPSS website, links to specific areas are as follows:

Pond Safety in Primary Schools

Building a Pond

Maintaining and Restoring a Pond

Planning a Pond

Christmas pay date 2023

Education staff are normally paid on the last day of term in December but as the term ends on Friday 22 December 2023, pay day has been brought forward to Wednesday 20 December 2023. This will allow payroll additional days to correct any unforeseen issues before the Christmas shut down.

Any queries or issues can be sent via email to EmploymentServices-PayrollSchools@telford.gov.uk.

Healing Classrooms: Free staff training on how to support refugee pupils

The International Rescue Committee is providing a free 3-part training programme: the Healing Classrooms Approach. This course is suitable for any school that works to support students who are refugees or seeking asylum. The course provides a trauma-informed lens to working with forcibly displaced students and can be adapted to fit the specific needs of your context. The Healing Classrooms model focuses on preparing safe spaces, building a community and fostering academic success to support young people as they rebuilt their lives in the UK.

This online training consists of three 1hr 15min sessions that provide school staff with the basics of the Healing Classrooms Approach. Sessions feature case studies, discussions and good practice-sharing activities on how to best support refugee students in schools across the UK.

In this training, staff will:

Learn about the key psychological impacts of conflict, forced displacement and resettlement on children’s brain development, behaviour and learning.
Develop your understanding about trauma within the context of refugee communities.
Explore psychosocial support strategies that schools can adopt to create healing spaces for students seeking sanctuary.
Receive a printed copy of the Healing Classrooms Basics Training Handbook.

Sessions start at 4pm and run during term time.

More information can be found online at the Healing Classrooms website, by downloading their flyer or by contacting the Multi-cultural Development Team via email to Multicultural.Development@telford.gov.uk.

Details of 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.

Annual Early Years Conference (EY 015)	Friday 10 November 10 2023	10am to 4pm
Understanding School Finance (GO 508)	Tuesday 14 November 2023	9.15am to 12noon
CSE Termly Briefing for 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 20233	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)	TThursday 23 November 2023	9am to 4.30pm
Healthy Happy Holidays	Thursday 23 November 2023
School Attendance Surgery (AST 005)	Friday 24 November 2023	9.15am to 12noon
Let's Talk PANTS Insight session - KS1-2 and SEND (moved from 7/11)	Tuesday 28 November 2023	10am to 11.30am
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	TTuesday 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

Farmington Scholarships 2024/25 are now open

Applications for the 2024/25 Farmington Scholarships are now open, with a closing date of Sunday 28 January 2024.

Scholarships are available to teachers of Religious Education, and associated subjects, in UK secondary, primary, and special needs schools. Headteachers who wish to undertake research into either religious education or values education are also eligible to apply.

For more information please download the information sheet or visit the Farmington website.

An application form can be obtained by sending an email to institute@farmington@ac.uk.

Any enquiries about the Farmington Institute, or its Scholarships, should be addressed to:

Kay Webb, Administrator
The Farmington Institute
Harris Manchester College
Mansfield Road
Oxford OX1 3TD
Telephone: 01865 271985
Email: institute@farmington@ac.uk

Anti-bullying week: 13-17 November 2023

Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA) are the official organisers of Anti-Bullying Week and Odd Socks Day in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Anti-Bullying Week 2023 will take place from Monday 13 - Friday 17 November 2023. The theme this year is Make “A Noise About Bullying”. This is because, often, we are silent when we see bullying take place, silent about the hurt bullying causes, and silent when we hear bullying dismissed as ‘just banter’.

Odd Socks Day marks the start of Anti-Bullying Week and takes place on Monday 13th November and is supported by cBeebies presenter & ABA patron Andy Day and his band 'Andy and the Odd Socks'.

Odd socks day is a great way to celebrate what makes us all unique and it is designed to be fun, and it’s an opportunity to encourage people to express themselves and celebrate their individuality, by wearing odd socks, this is what makes us all unique. Support this great course by wearing Odd Socks!

Research shows that:

30% of children have been bullied in the last year.
17% of children have been bullied online.
93% of young people think that Anti-Bullying week helps raise awareness of bullying.

Free anti-bullying resources are avalable online for schools:

Official anti- bullying resources

Kidscape

Twinkl

Let’s raise the flag for Disability History Month: 16 November to 16 December 2023

Disability History Month takes place 16 November - 16 December 2023.

This year’s theme is Disability, Children and Youth.

As part of this, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Employee Disability Group are inviting you to meet them outside Southwater One on 16 November 2023 at 11am to raise the flag and mark the opening of the month.

There will be stands with information and materials from both internal and external services and there will also be a chance to hear professionals and those with lived experiences. This event provides an opportunity to raise awareness and show solidarity with your employees and local residents with disabilities.

The group look forward to seeing you there.

Respond to consultation - Creating a smokefree generation and tackling youth vaping

This is an update from the Department for Education

The Department of Health and Social Care consultation Creating a smokefree generation and tackling youth vaping is live.

It gathers views on:

The proposal to bring forward legislation to make it an offence to sell tobacco products to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009.

A range of proposals to reduce the appeal and availability of vapes to children while ensuring they remain available to smokers as a quit aid.

The proposal to introduce new powers for local authorities to issue on the spot fines to enforce age of sale legislation for tobacco and vapes.

The consultation is UK-wide and closes on 6 December 2023. We want to gather a broad range of responses so that we can take forward the best possible measures for smoking and vaping – please respond to the consultation with your views.

Sign up to deliver subsidised educational programmes tested by the Education Endowment Foundation

This is an update from the Department for Education

The EEF invites schools and early years settings to sign up to deliver subsidised educational programmes that have shown positive impacts on pupil attainment in rigorous trials.

Funded through the DfE’s Accelerator Fund, these programmes are available nationally at little or no cost and you can register your interest using the links below.

Early-Years Settings: Maths Champions programme by 10 May 2024. Developed by the National Day Nurseries Association, to improve maths attainment of children in nurseries by training Maths Champions in key mathematical concepts, increasing staff confidence.

Primary Schools: Mathematics Mastery programme by 31 July 2024. Developed by Ark Curriculum Plus, providing a whole-school approach to primary maths teaching.

Secondary Schools: Embedding Formative Assessment programme by 12 July 2024. Based on Dylan Wiliam’s research, this programme supports secondary schools to use formative assessment effectively to boost pupil engagement and attainment.

Use the free financial education teaching resources and training on fraud for teachers and school leaders

This is an update from the Department for Education

In collaboration with the Home Office and the National Crime Agency, the Association for Citizenship Teaching (ACT) has produced a series of resources to educate young people on the risks of fraud and how to protect themselves and others.

The materials address National Curriculum teaching requirements for Citizenship in relation to the law, crime and the consequences of crime for individuals, communities and society.

The lessons are freely available from the ACT website and are a valuable resource when teaching young people the risks of fraud and how to avoid being targeted.

ACT is hosting a series of free online workshops between December 2023 and March 2024, to introduce attendees to the materials, with the aim of understanding what fraud is, how it fits into the curriculum, as well as understanding the pedagogy and why these approaches are used.

Take part in research to help influence and improve DfE services for schools

This is an update from the Department for Education

As we build and improve DfE and Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) services, we need to understand what you need from them, and how you will use them.

To do this, we continually conduct research with heads, school business professionals, governors and others working in schools and trusts. We need to hear the views of people from all areas, and with all levels of responsibility.

Sign up for future research by telling us a little about yourself and your role. We’ll match you to upcoming research, tell you what the research is, how long it will take and when it will be carried out. You can always decide whether to take part in any research invite.

Our research includes short surveys, face-to-face or remote interviews, testing new online services, and focus groups and workshops. Your views will always be kept confidential and anonymous.

Outreach support for education settings by the national Homicide Service

This is an update from the Department for Education

The Ministry of Justice is pleased to announce that the Homicide Service now offers short-term outreach support to children and young people in the community in the immediate aftermath of a homicide or major criminal incident involving a fatality.

Group and one-to-one emotional and practical support are available free of charge. If the children in your school or setting need support following the homicide of a fellow pupil or a teacher, contact Homicide Service - Victim Support.

New Childline website now live

This is an update from the Department for Education

Childline is the UK’s free 24-hour service for children and young people. Run by the NSPCC, Childline gives children and young people up to the age of 19 confidential support with whatever is worrying them. Since the service began in 1986, it has carried out over 5.9 million counselling sessions with young people. Childline supports more than 200,00 children and young people each year.

Find out about Childline’s unique offer on NSPCC Learning.

Educate Against Hate blog - how to speak about the news, ongoing conflicts and difficult topics with students

This is an update from the Department for Education

The terrorist attack by Hamas in Israel has caused grave concern around the world. Talking to young people about what’s going on in the news can be challenging, particularly when it involves conflict.

Educate Against Hate have pulled together some advice about how you can discuss and approach difficult issues, like ongoing conflicts, with your learners. The blog also signposts resources for teaching students about misinformation, disinformation and media literacy.

Young carers in the school census – January 2024

This is an update from the Department for Education

Young carers’ responsibilities at home can often impact their education and so we are asking schools to ensure they are identified and supported. All schools (except nursery) are asked to record their young carers in the Spring 2024 census. From 2024, this includes independent schools in the school-level annual school census.

The Spring 2024 census and school-level annual school census both open on 18 January 2024.

Information to support schools can be found on the Young Carers in Schools website.

New Mathematics module for Early Years Child Development training

This is an update from the Department for Education

DfE has added a new Mathematics module to its Early years child development training.

This free online training has been developed with early years experts and provides a greater understanding of child development, giving practical advice for supporting children in early years settings.

The flexible training can be accessed in any order and paused and restarted at any time. A certificate of achievement is awarded on completion of each module.

Grow your career with STEP

Shropshire and Telford Education Partnership(STEP) is your local Teaching School Hub, who provide Initial Teacher Training, Appropriate Body Services, Early Career Framework and the full suite of the National Professional Qualifications(NPQs).

The partners are Severn Training and Schools Alliance, Salop Teaching Partnership, Shropshire Primary Partnership and Alliance of Leading Learning.

You are invited to join them to meet all your career needs, following the golden thread from your initial teacher training to headship and executive headship and all that comes in between.

Why choose STEP?

STEP works in partnership with our local schools to ensure the right expertise exists to enhance a self-improving system and impact learners, leaders and schools to drive continuous improvement.

You will have confidence that experienced, local experts are delivering a ONE STOP service for your school within our Shropshire and Telford context.

In 2023-2024 we have worked with 186 local schools, across all phases and trained 83 new teachers, 156 leaders on our National Professional Qualifications, supported 210 ECTs and 149 mentors with the Early Career Framework and up skilled 98 Mental Health Leads through the DfE funded training and 124 delegates who attended Future in Mind and the NASENCO Award.

For more information please visit the STEP website, send an email to Sian.deane1@taw.org.uk or call 01952 3872437.

SHaW Maths hub: Primary update – 6 November 2023

Curriculum Continuity from Primary

If you wish to work with linked Primary Schools (possibly as well as other secondary schools in your MAT) our popular Years 5-8 Continuity Work Groups are taking place in Hereford and Shrewsbury this year.
The eight recommendations from EEFs Improving Mathematics in Key Stages Two and Three report provide the development focus and cross-phase enlightenment to support continuity in learning for children.

Starts soon - Curriculum Coherence or Mathematical Thinking (or both)?

Most secondary schools are eligible to join our Sustaining Mastery - Curriculum Coherence / Mathematical Thinking Work Group - choose one or the other, or have two participants to engage with both development aspects. You can check if your school is eligible to participate from the table in the listing.

Secondary Subject Leaders

Our Subject Leaders Work Group will include opportunities for linked or MAT schools to be able to meet and work together.

Secondary ECTs

If you have any teachers in their first two years of teaching, we recommend that they join this ECTs Work Group.

Specialist Knowledge for Non-specialists

We can still accommodate a couple more participants for our non-specialists Work Group, which has moved to the online phase.

Post-16 Work Groups

We are taking bookings for A Level Pedagogy and Developing Core Maths Pedagogy. Both of these Work Groups will take place online, as this was the preference from the post-16 survey responses.

Cross Phase – Supporting Low Attainers to Achieve a L2 Qualification in Mathematics is also available.
We can accept new bookings from participants that missed the first workshop.

Strengthening Partnerships with ITT Providers

If you are a Maths ITT mentor in school, this online Work Group will give you the chance to work collaboratively with other primary and secondary maths ITT mentors.

Opportunities from AMSP

Exploring Statistics at A-level, and using technology to enhance understanding

Useful Links:

SHaW Maths hub: Secondary update – 6 November 2023

Curriculum Continuity from Primary

If you wish to work with linked Primary Schools (possibly as well as other secondary schools in your MAT) our popular Years 5-8 Continuity Work Groups are taking place in Hereford and Shrewsbury this year.
The eight recommendations from EEFs Improving Mathematics in Key Stages Two and Three report provide the development focus and cross-phase enlightenment to support continuity in learning for children.

Starts soon - Curriculum Coherence or Mathematical Thinking (or both)?

Secondary Subject Leaders

Our Subject Leaders Work Group will include opportunities for linked or MAT schools to be able to meet and work together.

Secondary ECTs

If you have any teachers in their first two years of teaching, we recommend that they join this ECTs Work Group.

Specialist Knowledge for Non-specialists

We can still accommodate a couple more participants for our non-specialists Work Group, which has moved to the online phase.

Post-16 Work Groups

We are taking bookings for A Level Pedagogy and Developing Core Maths Pedagogy. Both of these Work Groups will take place online, as this was the preference from the post-16 survey responses.

Cross Phase – Supporting Low Attainers to Achieve a L2 Qualification in Mathematics is also available.
We can accept new bookings from participants that missed the first workshop.

Useful Links:

Educational Psychologists will be taking industrial action this winter. Why?

Every year, tens of thousands of children and young people and their families are helped by an educational psychologist (EP).

EPs work with education professionals in nurseries, schools and other settings and with colleagues in youth justice and social care to help children overcome mental health issues like self-harm and anxiety and barriers to learning such as attention difficulties and dyslexia.

EPs also work with children and young people directly, offering therapeutic support for those who can’t find help through CAMHS and specialist support for care experienced children and their carers.

EPs provide critical incident support when there has been a traumatic event in the community – it was EPs who were there after the Manchester Arena bombing and the Grenfell Tower fire.

EPs support young people up to the age of 25 to manage college, work experience, even independent or supported living.

And EPs help thousands of families with parenting advice and training as well as providing statutory assessments for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) to unlock support for children in school.

Despite the vital services and support provided by EPs, local authorities in England and Wales are not investing in the profession and are now facing widespread recruitment and retention problems.
Over the past 13 years, EPs’ pay has fallen by 17% compared to where pay should have been, had it kept up with inflation. To afford their bills, EPs are moving to the private sector or leaving the profession altogether – leaving nearly 9 in 10 (88%) local authorities struggling to recruit EPs.

Nearly every (96%) local authority says the shortages are affecting children and young people.

Rocketing EP workload means children and young people are waiting far too long to be seen by a professional – or worse, do not get to see an EP at all.

Department for Education (DfE) figures from June 2023 show almost half of EHCPs in England are issued late – lengthening children and young people’s distress and leading to an increased need for a plan.

Our profession is in crisis. EPs are trained over three years to doctoral level and are qualified to take on high levels of responsibility, but they’re working unacceptable hours to help children, young people and their families to not only survive but thrive in the education system. They are burning out.

Many EPs will be taking industrial action in 135 local authorities in England and Wales – to protect their colleagues, their services and, most importantly, to protect your children. In the short term, the industrial action may mean further delays in seeing an EP. But EPs are taking action with a view to the long term – to make sure those waits become a thing of the past so that in the future your children will have access to the specialist support that EPs offer, when they need it.

This entry was posted by Claire on Wednesday, 08 November 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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New Mathematics module for Early Years Child Development training

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