Education Noticeboard

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

Included in this update:

Director Update

Dear colleagues

I hope you are all having a great term so far, this new academic year seems to be speeding past.

The big news to share is that Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet have approved the 2023-2028 SEND and Alternative provision Strategy. This will provide reinforcement to the existing commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people across the borough.

A reminder of the upcoming Telford & Wrekin Education Strategic Board Leadership Conference. Taking place on Thursday 12 October, and is a collaboration between education leaders and the Local Authority. There has already been a fantastic response, but bookings are still being taken. The event promises to be both informative and engaging, with some brilliant key note speakers (read more about them below). It really would be good to see a diverse representation from across the borough.

There are several house-keeping bits this week. These include a reminder to keep encouraging children to take part in 10 by 10, updates from the School Organisation and Safeguarding teams and upcoming CPD opportunities.

Have a great week everyone.

Simon

Simon Wellman
Director: Education & Skills

Council puts the voices of children, young people and their families first with the SEND and Alternative Provision strategy

Today (21 September 2023), Telford & Wrekin’s cabinet approved the 2023-2028 “SEND and Alternative Provision” strategy, which re-enforces the council’s commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for children and young people in the borough with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and those accessing Alternative Provision (AP).

The council, NHS and PODS (Parents Opening Doors) charity have developed the “SEND and Alternative Provision” strategy by working closely with children and young people with SEND and those accessing alternative provision*, their families and carers.

The strategy outlines key areas across education, health and social care for achieving better outcomes over the next five years for children and young people with SEND and those requiring Alternative Provision. These include delivering the right support to meet the needs of children and young people earlier, supporting young people to be successful in mainstream schools, to feel welcome and to live well in their communities.

Councillor Eileen Callear (Lab), Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, Employment and Visitor Economy said: “We are extremely proud of the existing support available for our children and young people with SEND in Telford and Wrekin. The recent Ofsted and Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection report highlights that children and young people in our borough with SEND are visible, valued and included in the Telford and Wrekin community and that this council and other local organisations are actively taking action where improvements are needed.

“We understand the importance of communication, listening to the voices of parents, carers and children, and working together with them to make our services the best they can be. Telford & Wrekin Council has also been recently selected by the Department for Education (DfE) to lead a new SEND and Alternative Provision pilot programme for the West Midlands - which demonstrates the strength of our Children’s Service, and the confidence government has in them.”

“While we absolutely value all of these achievements, we want to reassure our residents that we are not complacent. Over the next five years, we are committed to continuing to provide better experiences and outcomes for our children and young people with SEND.

“We recognise that many young people, who access Alternative Provision, also have SEND - that’s why we have unified our approach in a borough-wide, “SEND and Alternative Provision” strategy. This strategy sets out our ambitions over the next five years to continue to develop our services and make improvements where it matters most, by closely involving our children, young people and their families.

“By working together with the local NHS and PODS, we will provide even better opportunities and improved services for families, by making services more inclusive, easier to access, closer to home and more adaptable for individual needs.”

Jayne Stevens, Strategic Co-ordinator PODS (Parents Opening Doors) Parent Carer Forum, said: "We welcome the development of the SEND and Alternative Provision Strategy. It's important to our families that they are heard and that the services meet the needs of their children and young people in education and Alternative Provisions.

“The strategy values our families’ feedback so far and we will continue to provide experiences to ensure they access the right support, in the right place, at the right time. We continue to work with our parent carers and wider family community and our partners across education, health and social care. We are pleased that the “Working Together Charter” is embedded within the strategy and links with the priorities and outcomes, building on key messages and strengthening trust".

Gareth Robinson, Executive Director of Delivery and Transformation for NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, said: “I welcome the “SEND and Alternative Provision” Strategy which has been driven by the passion and commitment of local partners and families in Telford and Wrekin. We will continue to work together to put this strategy into practice and to support children and young people with special needs and those in Alternative Provision to lead healthy and fulfilling lives, by enhancing the health, education and social care services they receive.”

To download the Working Together for better SEND and Alternative Provision (AP) outcomes in Telford and Wrekin strategy, visit Telford & Wrekin Council’s SEND Offer website.

Please continue to get involved in 10 by 10

The council-run 10 by 10 programme, launched last academic year, continues this year across all borough primary schools, to encourage children to explore and get better at ten important life skills.

From learning to swim and ride a bike, to stepping back in time at a local museum, taking part in debating and in performing arts, 10 by 10 is an inclusive package of activities that help children to build their confidence, to discover new talents and opportunities before the age of ten.

Since its launch last year, the 10 by 10 website has recorded over 1,900 registered accounts, with parents and carers using it to get information on the ten activities, local offers and to follow their child's adventures.

Every primary school in the borough is involved with 10 by 10 - with swimming lessons, library usage, bike riding and many other activities as part of their curriculum or extracurricular offer, including accessible activities for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. At the start of this academic year, children in all primary year groups are receiving 10 by 10 adventure cards, so they can track their progress as they try each of the 10 activities.

Council Leader Shaun Davies said: “We are the first council in the UK to run 10 by 10 and this makes us immensely proud. Seeing children across the borough discovering and enjoying a wide range of life-enriching activities, especially those who might not have had this opportunity otherwise, is truly amazing.

“As a dad of a 7 year old just participating in 10 by 10, I thoroughly enjoy it together with my family! I encourage all families in our borough with primary school-aged children to join 10 by 10, as many of the activities are affordable or free to do.”

Councillor Shirley Reynolds (Lab), Telford & Wrekin Council's cabinet member for Early Years, Children and Young People, said: “A happy and fulfilling childhood gives the best start in life - this is what we want for every child in our borough. Over the past academic year, by working together with schools and local partners, we have achieved so much with 10 by 10. Families have enjoyed free swimming lessons, discounted entry to Attingham Park, bike rides, green space visits and many other activities.

“Over the summer, a natural history museum has been launched at Exotic Zoo, to spark children’s interest in museums while the Summer Reading Challenge helped children to enter the captivating world of books.

"The first year of “10 by 10” has been truly great and we are thrilled to extend this programme into the second year. We will be adding new offers and activities to 10 by 10, accessible for children of all abilities. Whether through school or by finding local offers on the website, we hope borough children and families will enjoy as many 10 by 10 activities as possible.”

DOWNLOAD: 10 BY 10 letter to parents

DOWNLOAD: 10 by 10 Adventure Card

For the full story please visit the Telford & Wrekin Newsroom.

Leadership Conference for Head teachers and CEO's: Thursday 12 October 2023

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

Thursday 12 October 2023, 9am-1pm

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

Key note speakers:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Autumn 2023 School census guidance notes – 5 October 2023

Guidance notes for the Autumn 2023 (October) School Census for Headteachers/School Business Managers/School Administrators are available to download@

DOWNLOAD: Guidance notes for the Autumn 2023 School Census

Updated Independent Schools Inspection Framework from 12 September 2023

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspects schools that are independent of government and exercise their independence in the choices proprietors and leaders make to educate their pupils. However, all independent schools must also meet the Independent School Standards Regulations (ISSR) and, where applicable, the National Minimum Standards for boarding schools (NMS for boarding schools) and Early Years Foundation Stage requirements. Collectively, these, and any other standards that may be applicable to the schools inspected by ISI, are referred to as ‘the Standards’.

The revised Framework for the inspection of association independent schools, including residential (boarding) schools and registered early years settings, came into force on 12th September 2023. At the end of the framework a log of all the changes from the previous framework has been included:

Revised Inspection Framework

The Independent Schools Inspectorate website has a wealth of information including FAQ’s and webinar recordings to support proprietors and Leaders in understanding and meeting the ISI standards:

Independent Schools Inspectorate

The Department for Education (DfE) has also published updated guidance for non-association independent schools:

Independent Schools Inspection Handbook

The main changes in the DFE guidance are as follows:

Changes to the safeguarding section including new sections on conduct during inspections and concurrent inspections of schools with the same proprietor.
New subsections on attendance, behaviour and capacity to improve.
More information about the inspection process, including: the frequency of inspection.
When it is appropriate for education and social care inspectors to share evidence in inspections of boarding and residential special schools, and schools registered as children’s homes.
Information about staff members expressing their views freely to inspectors.
What inspectors will focus on in evaluating personal development.
Clarification that the lead inspector will follow up any discrepancies about the proprietor’s identity that arose during their telephone calls.
Some revisions to the guidance on ‘separation by sex, temporary part-time timetables, unlawful suspensions, and off-rolling.
Any guidance in part 4 (Inspecting against the independent school standards and other requirements), has been removed which is already replicated in the DfE’s guidance about the independent school standards.
A new subsection on schools raising concerns.
Further Information on the inspection framework for independent schools can be found online.
Farrer & Co have published useful guidance for Independent Schools on how to demonstrate the required standards. Their guidance can be found online.

Queries can be sent to Joanne Hanslip, Education Safeguarding Officer, via email to Educationsafeguarding@telford.gov.uk or Joanne.hanslip@telford.gov.uk.

Prevent information for education settings

Following a recent review of the local ‘Prevent’ duty situational risk assessment it is timely to share some key reminders. Education settings should review their own risk assessment in line with the Prevent duty. Local guidance can be found through the following link:

Terrorism - Telford & Wrekin Council

The updated Prevent Duty statutory guidance for England and Wales, was issued on 7 September 2023 under Section 29 of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015. Subject to Parliamentary approval, it comes into force on 31 December 2023. The updated Prevent Duty guidance can be found through the following link:

Prevent Duty Guidance

Where education settings have a concern that a child / young person may be showing signs of supporting any extremist ideology, DSLs should consider if a Prevent referral is required. DSLs can request an initial consultation from our Local Prevent Officers to discuss any concerns prior to submitting a Prevent referral.

If we feel children are being abused through extremism or being radicalised, we will consult directly with the local police Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU). This is done with a Prevent referral form, following the Prevent flowchart, as set out on page 31 in the Telford & Wrekin template child protection and safeguarding policy. The referral will be sent directly to the police. As with all referrals, this referral will be dealt with appropriately by the professionals involved. If it is deemed from the Prevent team that the intervention is not criminal and does not warrant a Channel Panel, but needs local support, we will work with those professional leads for Telford & Wrekin Council.

Presently that is Jas Bedesha: jas.bedesha@telford.gov.uk.
The education lead for Telford & Wrekin Council is Joanne Hanslip: joanne.hanslip@telford.gov.uk.
CTU officer contact is Alison Potts: a.potts@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk
Holly Aungiers from West Mercia Police can provide advice on making Prevent referrals: holly.aungiers@westmercia.police.uk.

Where necessary, the DSL (or deputy) will consult with the Telford and Wrekin professional lead, education lead or CTU officers.

New NHS West Midlands Gambling Harms service

Key information about the new NHS West Midlands Gambling Harms service.

The new NHS West Midlands Gambling Harms Service is being delivered by Inclusion (part of MPFT).
The service is open to anyone over the age of 18 who is experiencing problems with gambling and are registered with a GP in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, Telford and Wrekin, Shropshire, Birmingham, Solihull, Black Country, Coventry, Warwickshire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
Access to the service is through self or professional referral.
Referrals can be made online or via telephone.
The clinic is based in Stoke-on-Trent but provision is mostly online- the typical offer is a tailored 10-week programme with continued follow-up.

Further information can be found at their website: About Us - Gambling Harms.

Domestic Abuse Training Opportunities

Drive Implementation: Workforce Development Frontline Professional

This event is designed to provide an overview of the Drive Model, the Perpetrator Panel and the local referral pathways. There is information about how Drive will map with the existing multi-agency domestic abuse response in the area and information sharing. The event also explores our understanding of individuals who perpetrate abuse, which includes content on typologies and psychology. There will be case examples shared to demonstrate how Drive works in practice.

Training will be delivered via Microsoft Teams, The available dates and times are as follows:

4 October 2023, 1am-12noon
30 October 2023, 10am-12noon

Training is booked via the link below:

Booking link

Drive Implementation: Workforce Development Panel Representative Training

This event will provide a brief overview of the Drive model and local referral pathways (there is an expectation that attendees will already have attended the Workforce Development for Frontline Professionals). The focus of this event is to explore in more detail the Perpetrator Panel and the roles and responsibilities of the professionals attending. There will be a detailed look at how cases are considered for suitability for Drive and how the Disrupt element of the model works in practice.

Training will be delivered via Microsoft Teams, The available dates and times are as follows:

10 October 2023, 12noon-2pm
30 October 2023, 11am-1pm
20 November 2023, 10am-12noon
13 December 2023, 1-3pm

Training is booked via the link below:

Booking link

Any queries can be sent via email to Educationsafeguarding@telford.gov.uk.

Shropshire BEAM Drop-in sessions

Shropshire BEAM have updated their drop-in session information. Sessions are now as follows:

When?	Where?	Time?
Mondays	Sundorne Youth Centre 218 Sundorne Road Shrewsbury SY1 4RG	12pm-4pm (last sessions held @ 3pm)
Tuesdays	Shropshire Beam 9 Market Square Wellington TF1 1BP	10am-6pm (last sessions held @5pm)
Thursdays	Shropshire Beam 9 Market Square Wellington TF1 1BP	10am-6pm (last sessions held @5pm)
Saturdays	Shropshire Beam 9 Market Square Wellington TF1 1BP	10am-2pm (last sessions held @1pm)

How BEAM works:

There is no booking required to use our services. However, you must be registered with us. You can register with Beam through our website or register with us when you arrive.
You must also be registered with a GP in Shropshire or Telford & Wrekin.
You only have to register with us once. If you have already registered with us online, or have registered with us when using our service before, you do not need to re-register.

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a friendly member of our team who will sign you in. Then, a practitioner will see you as soon as soon as they are available.

Please note: Young people age 14+ can register and use our service independently.
Young people age 13 or under will need a parent/carer to register on their behalf and to use our service.

For more information visit the Shropshire BEAM website and Instagram (@shropshirebeam) or email shropshirebeam@childrenssociety.org.uk

Children and young people with epilepsy: 7 minute briefing

Advice for safeguarding practitioners supporting children and their families is available to download.

DOWNLOAD: 7 Minute briefing

The briefing includes a background to epilepsy, how we ensure a multi-agency response to keep the child safe, safety advice, information sharing with parents and professionals and further sources of information.

Education training offer for parents and carers of Previously Looked After Children

Telford & Wrekin, Staffordshire, Shropshire and Stoke Virtual Schools are delighted to be able to offer bespoke training to our parents and carers of a previously looked after child who reside and/or attend a school in the above areas. There are over 19 courses on offer covering a wide range of topics including:

Supporting Reading.
Post 16 options.
Therapeutic Play.
Supporting Phonics.

Please download the additional information for full details of the courses, dates and times etc for the Autumn Term.

There is no cost to attend. All sessions are virtual and delivered via Microsoft Teams.
To book your place please email your name, course title and date, email address and local authority area to: Children.families.training@staffordshire.gov.uk

Please could schools share this information with parents and carers of Previously Looked After Children.

For more information please contact Rebecca Best, Zoe Laughlin and Suzy Rogers, Education Advisors for the Virtual School, via email to virtualschool@telford.gov.uk.

DfE Survey on assessment in the early Years Foundation stage

The Department for Education has launched a short survey to seek the views of early years practitioners, teachers and school and setting leaders on assessment in the EYFS. The survey includes questions on, assessment of children with special education needs and disabilities, the early learning goals and the EYFS Profile. Feedback from the sector will help shape future policy development in this area.

The survey is available online and will remain open until Tuesday 3 October 2023.

Telford Music Partnership Newsletter Autumn 2023

Congratulations

Congratulations to Short Wood Primary School on achieving a bronze award for their music provision! These awards are not easy to get...Staff and children have worked really hard to make it happen. Well done!

School leaders: If you would like to see the level your school is currently working at, book a music provision audit with us through the usual contact channels.

Music for Wellbeing

We are now able to offer Therapeutic Music* sessions, in partnership with Dr Carolyn Landau, for small groups or individual children. These sessions are designed to support pupils’ wellbeing, promote self-esteem and encourage creativity, rather than focussing on musical progress. They could be used as part of a package to support vulnerable children, those with SEND or those who have suffered trauma. They are co-created, with no pre-conceived outcome in mind.

*This is different to Music Therapy, which is a clinical intervention. We can offer music therapy via our partners at Music Therapy Works.

Music Therapy

We're delighted to be able to signpost schools, parents and young people to Music Therapy delivered by the fantastic charity Music Therapy Works. Music Therapy is a proven clinical intervention for children and adults with a wide range of additional needs. Parents/carers and schools can contact us for more information or contact MTW directly.

Assemblies

It’s been a great start to the term with some of our fantastic tutors busy delivering our music assemblies, giving so many children the opportunity to enjoy live music!

If you would like to book an assembly for your school, please get in touch.

The latest Telford Music Partnership Newsletter is available to download.

Telford & Wrekin Council education visits policy and guidance – updated for 2023-4

Telford & Wrekin Council maintained schools and establishments receive the Educational Visits Service Level Agreement (SLA) free of charge as it includes statutory employer’s guidance and the necessary support for its implementation. Other establishments may purchase the SLA and access the comprehensive package.

The Educational Visits Policy and Guidance has been updated for 2023-24 and is uploaded into the Evisits Library.

Any foundation or voluntary aided schools choosing not to follow the Telford & Wrekin Guidance must (as employers) have other guidelines in place for educational visits and journeys, which the Local Authority will expect to be at least as comprehensive as its own guidelines.

The learning experience for young people in schools and settings should be so much more than simply lessons in classrooms. We aim to support all of the children in Telford and Wrekin to develop into adults who are not only vital members of their community but also appreciate a wider understanding of the society and environment they live in.

Learning outside of the classroom offers unique opportunities to enrich learning, enhance personal and social development, gain greater awareness of different environments and adopt healthy lifestyles.

Learning outside of the classroom can contribute not only to the development of the young people, but also to the expectations of the school from Ofsted.

This guidance is essential for all those who have responsibility for the approval, planning and/or execution of any educational visit or Outdoor Learning including adventurous activities on site. The status of this document is mandatory for all Telford & Wrekin maintained schools.

Any foundation or voluntary aided schools choosing not to follow the Telford & Wrekin Guidance must (as employers) have other guidelines in place for educational visits and journeys, which the LA will expect to be at least as comprehensive as its own guidelines.

Schools/establishments, school staff and course providers have a duty of care to their children and young people, any accompanying adults, each other and themselves to ensure that they are kept safe and well and, that, in the event of any incident, they are able to respond appropriately in order to minimise the risk of harm.

This guidance sets out Telford & Wrekin Council’s (TWC) expectations of how Educational Visits, Outdoor Learning (including on site adventurous activities) and any associated journeys will be managed by its Employees and those that have adopted this Employer Guidance.

Telford & Wrekin Council has adopted the Outdoor Education Adviser’s Panel (OEAP) National Guidance to make sure Educational Visits and Outdoor Learning are properly planned, managed and run by competent staff and to maximise their many benefits.

This Educational Visits SLA is for schools and establishments who have responsibility for the approval, planning and/or execution of any educational visit or Outdoor Learning including on site adventurous activities.

It is provided free of charge to T&WC maintained schools and establishments and is automatically renewed. The SLA may be purchased by other schools and establishments, and renewed either on the financial or academic year.

Service Level Agreement April 2023 – March 2024

This Service Level Agreement applies to situations where adults acting in the course of their employment have responsibility for children and young people taking part in;

On-site outdoor activities.
Off-site activities and visits.
The associated journey and travel arrangements.
Residential visits.
Visits that involve travelling outside England, Scotland and Wales.
Outdoor adventurous activities which include Multi activities (from list), Abseiling, Airborne: all types, Archery, Assault course, Bell boating, Bushcraft, Camping in wild country, Camping on campsites, Caving, Clay pigeon shooting, Climbing: indoor & outdoor, Coasteering, Cycling on tracks & roads, Dog sledging, Dragon boating, Field studies: natural environment, Forest School, Free running, Go karting, Gorge walking, Ghyll scrambling, Hang gliding, Horse/pony riding, Hovercraft, Improvised rafting, Jet skiing, Kayaking, Kite surfing, Mine exploration, Motorised sports (all), Mountain biking, Mountain boarding, Open canoeing, Orienteering, Paintballing, Pot-holing, Powered boats including safety boats, Ropes Courses, Rowing, Sailing, Scuba diving: indoor pools, Scuba diving: lake & sea, Segway, Shooting, Skateboarding, Skiing & snowboarding, Snorkelling, Surfing/body boarding, Swimming: not lifeguarded, Trampolining out of PE, Walking: Hill & Moorland, Walking: Lowland, Walking: Mountain, Water skiing, White-water rafting, Wind surfing/sailboarding. [Not included are split site working, work experience and PE]

What’s included?

An OEAP accredited Outdoor Education Advisor.
Telford and Wrekin Local Authority Policy and Guidance for Educational Visits and Journeys which adopts the Outdoor Education Advisor Panel’s National Guidance..
The Evisits software system (induction and training provided)..
Initial and re-validation training for Educational Visits Coordinators (compulsory role for all schools).
Termly network meetings for Educational Visits Coordinators.
Email and telephone support with response time within 5 working days (term time only).
Monitoring of visits.
Approval of higher risk visits including outdoor adventurous activities both on/off site, residential visits and visits overseas.
Webpage: Educational Visits - Guidance, Training, Events and Resources.

The annual fee for this SLA is: £0.99 per child/pupil on roll (Minimum of £259.60 per School/College).

For T&W Council Maintained Schools there is no additional charge for this service as it is Statutory Employer’s Guidance.

For more information or any queries please contact the team via email: EdVists@telford.gov.uk.

Two day Outdoor First Aid Training delivered by Arthog Outreach – 12 & 13 October 2023

The two day Outdoor First Aid Training, delivered by Arthog Outreach, is a triple certificated first aid course suitable for all settings, outdoors, in work and with young people.

The course will take place on 12 and 13 October 2023.

Over the two days we will look at:

Being Safe – best practice and prevention of cross-infection.
Vital Signs – temperature, colour, pulse, breathing, level of response.
Incident Handling – a systematic approach to decision making.
Unconsciousness – causes and safe airway.
CPR and choking – dealing with the non-breathing casualty.
Bleeding – external and internal bleeding and shock.
Major Injuries – treating head, spine, chest, abdomen, pelvis, leg & arm injuries.
Soft Tissue Injuries - to muscles and joints including dislocations.
Monitoring – Casualty cards and monitoring & effective hand overs.
Remote Issues – improvisation when you have nothing else available.
Cold and Heat – dealing with hypothermia, hyperthermia, and burns.
Medical Emergencies – angina, heart attack, stroke, asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, bites, stings and anaphylaxis.
First Aid Regulations – an overview and first aid kit.

The course certification is through Rescue & Emergency Care (REC) and you will receive the following certificates on successful completion of the course:

REC – Emergency Outdoor First Aid
REC – Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW)
REC – 12 hour Paediatric First Aid

The price for this course is £140
For more information please contact Angela Meakin by calling 01952 387376 or via email to Angela.meakin@telford.gov.uk.

Armed Forces Families Fund Early Years Programme

On behalf of the Ministry of Defence’s Armed Forces Families Fund Early Years Programme, the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, is offering grants of between £5,000 and £80,000 for projects lasting up to two years which help enhance early childhood education and childcare settings of young people from Service families.

Projects must clearly benefit Armed Forces families with a child under the age of 5 years by enhancing their access to high quality childcare. This could be done by increasing the capacity in provision to meet an already known, or anticipated increase in demand, or to fund additional training and resources that will provide a clear benefit to children from Armed Forces families, who are aged 0-5 and not yet in school.

There are two funding rounds. The deadlines for applications are 5pm on 11 October 2023 and 12 January 2024. Full details are available online. If you require assistance with the application or wish to discuss the grant process in more detail, please contact Cindy Mason-Morris, Armed Forces Covenant Co-ordinator at Telford & Wrekin Council, via email: armedforcescovenant@telford.gov.uk.

International School Libraries Month: October 2023

October is International School Library Month. This is an annual celebration within school libraries around the world. This year’s theme for International School Libraries month is “The School Library is “My Happy Place where Creativity and Imagination flourish”.

For centuries, libraries have been an essential source for learning and children's development. They are spaces which house and maintain a huge number of books, archives and other educational resources. In more recent years libraries have stocked books in digital formats to include audio books ensuring the facilities are available to all.

School libraries open the doors to adventure and magical places for children.They make friends with books, learn about different cultures and form lifelong bonds.

Besides providing children with a cheerful environment, libraries also nurture them at a young age, from exploring to discovering new worlds, from imagination to creativity, until they become avid readers and thinkers. Libraries do not just educate young readers but also foster their ideas and creativity. Reading is a key way to improve children's vocabulary, spelling, punctuation and grammar (SPaG) and triggers their imagination

Tell us about your school library and how you will be celebrating International School Library Month by emailing education.noticeboard@telford.gov.uk or hashtag us in your school twitter postings at @TelfordWrekin

Listed below are some free resources to help you celebrate this great event:

Ways to celebrate school libraries

Twinkl

CPD courses to October half-term 2023

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

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

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

Managing Employee Performance Management HR course	Monday, September 25, 2023	2.30pm to 5pm
St Giles' Trust SOS+ Training (SG 207)	Tuesday, September 26, 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
EAL Network Meeting (CPD 526)	Tuesday, September 26, 2023	3.30pm to 5pm
School Attendance Briefing Update (AST 004)	Wednesday, September 27, 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
ELSA Training - Part 3 (EPS 004)	Wednesday, September 27, 2023	9am to 3pm
Newly Appointed Designated Safeguarding Leads' Training (2 days) - part 1 (SG 102)	Wednesday, September 27, 2023	9.15am to 4pm
An Introduction to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EY 001)	Wednesday, September 27, 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
The Hearing Impaired Child in your Class (SIS 002)	Thursday, September 28, 2023	8.30am to 4pm
Newly Appointed Designated Safeguarding Leads' Training (2 days) - part 2 (SG 102)	Thursday, September 28, 2023	9.15am to 4pm
Red Book Training for Accessing Legal Interventions – in line with ‘Working Together to Improve School Attendance’ (AST 006)	Friday, September 29, 2023	Full day
Talk Boost KS1	Monday, October 02, 2023	9am to 3pm
Pay and Conditions of Employment (HR course)	Monday, October 02, 2023	2.30pm to 5pm
Schemas in the EYFS (EY 340)	Tuesday, October 03, 2023	1.15pm to 4pm
Restorative Justice (PSS 003)	Tuesday, October 03, 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
The Visually Impaired Child in Your Class (SIS 001)	Tuesday, October 03, 2023	9am to 4pm
Assessing and Monitoring of Progress in EAL (CPD 701)	Wednesday, October 04, 2023	1.15pm to 3.30pm
ELSA Training - Part 4	Wednesday, October 04, 2023	9am to 3pm
Supporting Pupil Premium Link Governors (GO 602)	Wednesday, October 04, 2023	5pm to 7pm
Accredited Safer Recruitment Training (HR course)	Thursday, October 05, 2023	9am to 4.30pm
Understanding Nurture (PSS 101)	Thursday, October 05, 2023	9.15am to 12noon
Raising Awareness of Child Protection (SG 108)	Thursday, October 05, 2023	9.30am to 11am
ELSA Training - Part 5	Wednesday, October 11, 2023	9am to 3pm
Designated Teacher for Children in Care Network Meeting (Post 16 )	Wednesday, October 11, 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
Designated Safeguarding Leads Refresher (SG 107)	Wednesday, October 11, 2023	9.15am to 4pm
Leadership Conference	Thursday, October 12, 2023	9am to 1pm
Best practice in your breakfast, after-school and holiday provision (EY 104)	Friday, October 13, 2023	9.15am to 12noon
Absence Management of Employees (HR course)	Monday, October 16, 2023	2.30pm to 5pm
Literacy Pathway	Monday, October 16, 2023	Full day
ELSA Training - Part 6	Wednesday, October 18, 2023	9am to 3pm
Messy Mathematics in an Outdoor Learning Environment (EY 341)	Wednesday, October 18, 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
Raising Awareness of Prevent (SG 101)	Wednesday, October 18, 2023	3.30pm to 5pm
Behaviour Support Intervention Refresher Training - Non-accredited (302)	Thursday, October 19, 2023	8.45pm to 12.30pm
Meeting the Statutory Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements of the EYFS (EY 009)	Thursday, October 19, 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
Exploring & Creating Resources to Enhance Vocabulary during Story and Song Time in the EYFS (EY 342)	Tuesday, October 24, 2023	1.15pm to 4pm
Designated Teachers & Governors for Children in Care Network (compulsory school age) (GO 503)	Tuesday, October 24, 2023	4pm to 5.30pm
Literacy Pathway	Tuesday, October 24, 2023	Full day
Managing Absence (AST 002)	Wednesday, October 25, 2023	9.30am to 11.30am
The Role of the Early Years Practitioner in Supporting and Enhancing Play (EY 008)	Wednesday, October 25, 2023	1.15pm to 4pm
Safeguarding Induction Training for Governors - part 1 (SG 103)	Wednesday, October 25, 2023	5.30pm to 7.30pm
Effective Circle Times in the EYFS (EY 302)	Thursday, October 26, 2023	1.15pm to 4pm

Shropshire CPD@UCS Conference – Friday 20 October 2023

Shropshire CPD@UCS is really excited to be able to share details of their forthcoming conference with schools in Telford & Wrekin:

CPD@UCS ‘An Inclusive Curriculum for the 21st Century’ Conference
20 October 2023 at STFC

The conference will feature keynote speaker Mary Myatt. Mary is an education adviser, writer and speaker, and a former local authority adviser and inspector, who originally trained as an RE teacher.

Mary engages with pupils, teachers and leaders about learning, leadership and the curriculum. She is the author of a number of books and articles focusing on the curriculum, including ‘The Curriculum: Gallimaufry to Coherence’.

The morning will also include a session from a Shropshire primary school judged to be outstanding in 2022/3, which will explore their curriculum journey and how it supported them to achieve outstanding.

Please download the flyer for more information, including details of how to book.

Secondary CPD Subject Networks

Termly subject networks are delivered by associates who are experts in their area. Delegates are updated on national and local developments that are new and emerging. The networks provide an opportunity to develop subject knowledge and share best practice, resources, and ideas. Visiting speakers are often invited to present at the meetings:

4 October 2023 - 3.30 to 5pm - Via Microsoft Teams
Secondary Design and Technology Network
£75 per person

12 October 2023 - 1.30 to 3pm -Via Microsoft Teams
Secondary Art Network
£75 per person

24 October 2023 - 1.30 to 3pm - Via Microsoft Teams
Secondary Physical Education Network
£75 per person

6 November 2023 - 9.30 to 11am -Via Microsoft Teams
Secondary Geography Network
£75 per person

8 November 2023 - 9.30am to 12noon - University Centre Shrewsbury (Face to Face)
Secondary English Network
£105 per person

8 November 2023 - 2 to 4.30pm - University Centre Shrewsbury (Face to Face)
Secondary Science Network
£105 per person

9 November 2023 - 9.30am to 12noon -University Centre Shrewsbury (Face to Face)
Secondary Drama Network
£105 per person

14 November 2023 - 9.30am to 12noon - University Centre Shrewsbury (Face to Face)
Secondary Mathematics Network
£105 per person

15 November 2023 - 9.30 to 11am - Via Microsoft Teams
Secondary PSHE/RSHE Network
£75 per person

21 November 2023 - 9.30 to 11am -Via Microsoft Teams
Secondary ICT Network
£105 per person

22 November 2023 - 9.30 to 11am - Via Microsoft Teams
Secondary Modern Languages Network
£75 per person

28 November 2023 - 3.30 to 5pm - Via Microsoft Teams
Secondary History Network
£75 per person

To book onto a network meeting or for further information, please visit the University Centre Shrewsbury website.

For enquiries please contact:

Lucy Adams l.adams@chester.ac.uk (01743 297596)
Pam Welsh cpd@chester.ac.uk (01743 297168)

Submit your year-end statement for the National Tutoring Programme

This is an update from the Department for Education

Schools and local authorities (including virtual school heads) that received the 2022/23 NTP grant have until 2pm on Friday 29 September to submit the year-end statement.

You must report all tutoring delivered in the 2022/23 academic year (from 1 September 2022 to 31 August 2023). Failure to submit the form will result in your full funding allocation being recovered by the ESFA.

Schools that converted to an academy after 1 August 2023, should select their old establishment and URN when completing the form, rather than the new one.

We have published guidance on how to submit your year-end statement, which includes a short video for schools.

If you experience any technical issues with the form, contact the ESFA Help Centre.

For any other tutoring queries, email the NTP support desk.

Review and publish your provider access arrangements

This is an update from the Department for Education

Your school must comply with the provider access legislation, introduced in January 2023. By meeting this statutory requirement, you will help your pupils to understand apprenticeships and wider technical options and to make informed decisions about their next step.

The law requires all state funded secondary schools to ensure that all pupils during school years 8-13 have at least 6 opportunities to meet a range of providers of approved technical education qualifications and apprenticeships. 2023/24 is the first full academic year that this strengthened legislation has been in force.

You are reminded that a provider access policy statement must be published on your school’s website explaining how the school intends to comply with the legal requirements.

Read more in DfE’s careers statutory guidance and to access further support and guidance visit The Careers & Enterprise Company website. 

Action short of strike action by NASUWT

This is an update from the Department for Education

NASUWT has issued instructions to members to begin action short of strike action (ASOSA) from 18 September in schools where they secured a mandate in their July ballot. This will affect some schools in England.

Schools should consider mitigations to reduce the likelihood of any disruption, for example reviewing timetabling or moving meetings. Leaders can ask their staff if they are taking part in ASOSA, to support contingency planning, although staff do not have to confirm this. Employers should expect all staff to fulfil their contractual obligations.

Whether ASOSA amounts to a breach of contract will depend on exactly what the action is and the terms of the employee’s contract. If there is any doubt about whether an employee is in breach, the employer should seek legal advice on the individual case.

Leading behaviour and culture national professional qualification

This is an update from the Department for Education

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

Who this course is for:

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

This course is also suitable for other specialised roles including:

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

Overview:

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

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

This course will:

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

For full details visit the GOV.UK website.

This entry was posted by Claire on Wednesday, 20 September 2023.

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

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