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Included in this Edition of Education Noticeboard

Directors update

New Primary School

New Community Space in the Lantern Academy

New Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Calendar

Anti-Vaping Workshops

EHE Policy Update

Update Prevent National Form

IDT Questionnaire

Early Years staff recruitment and DfE incentive briefing

Developing the Role of EAL Coordinator

CPD Autumn Term

Primary, Secondary and Post-16 Maths – Funded Opportunities

National Youth Work Week

The Big Winter Coat and Shoes Scheme Returns

Christmas Smile

 

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Directors Update

Dear colleagues

I hope you all had a good break and have returned feeling refreshed for the second half of the Autumn Term.

This week I am sharing some exciting news about the new Thomas Telford Primary School which will be offering school places for students starting September 2025. Also included is information about the completion of the new bungalow extension at Lantern Academy offering a vibrant place for the community to utilise.

We have included several important updates this week from our Safeguarding team, Training opportunities from our Early years and Multicultural teams plus a comprehensive listing of CPD training courses that are available to the end of the Autumn term.

This week we have also seen the launch of several initiatives these are the Christmas Smile and the Big Winter Coat and shoe scheme. 

Have a good rest of the week everyone.

Best wishes

Simon

Simon Wellman
Director: Education & Skills

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News

New primary school opening in 2025

A new school will be offering places for primary school-aged children in the Priorslee area starting from September 2025.

Thomas Telford Primary School is set to commence operations in temporary accommodation for the next academic year. This new initiative represents a significant investment of £4.75 million, aimed at establishing a 420-place primary school within the expanding Priorslee area.

Under the stewardship of the Thomas Telford Trust, the school is poised to provide needed local school placements for families in an area.

Cllr Shirley Reynolds, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Education, Employment & Skills, said: "The collaboration and commitment we see today are the foundation for a brighter future. As we open the doors to this new school, we open doors to countless opportunities for our children.

“Education is the cornerstone of a vibrant community. By investing in our schools, we are investing in our future.”

The school will initially offer 30 places in Reception, Year 1, Year 2, and Year 3, along with 15 places in Years 4 and 5. This structured opening phase ensures a balanced and inclusive learning environment that caters to the varied educational needs of our community.

Chief Executive to the Thomas Telford Multi Academy Trust, Sir Kevin Satchwell, commented: “The Primary Free School that we intend to build and bring into the Thomas Telford Multi Academy Trust (TTMAT), is planned to open in September 2025.

“In time, it will provide a great opportunity for just over 400 children to join the School.

“We already have Redhill Primary School in TTMAT and this will be our second primary school in Priorslee.

“This will create opportunities for the two schools to work collaboratively under the guidance of Claire Whiting, the current Head at Redhill Primary Academy, an already popular school with parents and children.”

Claire Whiting, Executive Head Teacher of Redhill Primary Academy, added: “The new Free Primary School will provide the same high-quality start to the educational journey for the children that join the School, in a ‘state of the art’ learning environment.

“There are exciting times ahead for the new school and we eagerly await the outcome of the planning application.”

For parents looking to secure a Reception place for their child, applications are open until Wednesday 15 January 2025 where they can select the new school as one of their choices.

Additionally, those seeking in-year placements for Years 1 through 5 may apply by following the in-year admissions process.

We encourage all interested parties to visit Telford & Wrekin Council’s admissions website or reach out to our dedicated admissions team at admissions@telford.gov.uk for any queries.

Telford & Wrekin Council celebrates new community space at the Lantern Academy

In a showcase of community spirit and dedication to educational advancement, Telford & Wrekin Council is delighted to announce the completion of the new bungalow extension at Lantern Academy.

This initiative has been supported by Councillor’s Pride Funds to create a vibrant community space that welcomes residents of all ages and fosters a culture of learning and engagement.

The newly refurbished bungalow offers an inviting environment for various activities, particularly catering to our youngest residents. From offering health clinics to coffee mornings, free books for children to mental health and cookery classes, residents of all ages have the opportunity to get involved and expand their holistic learning beyond the classroom.

Cllr Shirley Reynolds, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Education, Employment & Skills, said: “The commitment shown by the community in supporting educational growth and ensuring resource availability for every child is something to be immensely proud of.

“It’s great to see the range of activities available to young people to support them as they grow. From activities like 10 by 10 and Urban Games, we strongly believe that children across the borough should have equal access to life-enhancing activities. This community space is another great edition to opening up opportunities to our youngest residents.

"Children in Telford and Wrekin really are cared for and cared about. Together, we are creating a brighter future, one step at a time."

Michelle Skidmore, Head Teacher at Lantern Academy, commented: "From the very first step to the last finishing touch, this space was designed to be a hub of opportunity and growth.

“We are especially thrilled about hosting the Happy Healthy Active Holidays events here, where children can explore the joys of healthy eating, staying active, and nurturing their emotional well-being.

"Empowering our young residents with the ability to communicate their feelings and embrace healthy habits is crucial. Such skills not only benefit them now but will continue to serve them as they mature within our borough.”

To find out more about the range of opportunities available to children and young people in Telford and Wrekin, head to https://www.telford.gov.uk/whatsonintelford.

Council Launches New Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Calendar

Telford & Wrekin Council is proud to announce the launch of its new Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Community Calendar, a tool designed to foster community engagement and showcase events happening across the borough.

The Community Calendar is an online platform that highlights a wide range of campaigns and events throughout the year, celebrating the diverse cultural, social, and community-oriented activities within Telford and Wrekin. From cultural festivals and religious observances to national wellbeing events and inclusive recreational activities, the calendar aims to bring people together, promote mutual understanding, and build a more cohesive community.

Key Features of the Community Calendar:

• Comprehensive Event Listings: A centralized resource for all EDI-related events, making it easier for residents to find and participate in activities that interest them.
• Inclusive Participation: Encourages all community members to get involved, regardless of background, age, or ability.
• User-Friendly Interface: An easy-to-navigate platform that allows users to search for events by date, category, or theme and more.
• Community Contributions: Offers local organisations and groups the opportunity to submit their events for inclusion, ensuring a diverse and up-to-date event list.

The calendar comes as a result of the Council’s EDI Strategy, an annually reviewed document to outline the Council's vision and commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion across all aspects of community life. The EDI Strategy for 2024-25 was approved by Cabinet on Thursday 19 September 2024 where it was emphasised that the council will continue to create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and can contribute to the community's success.

Councillor Raj Mehta (Lab), Cabinet Member for Cabinet Member for Inclusion, Engagement, Equalities & Civic Pride, said: "The launch of the Community Calendar is a significant step forward in our commitment to fostering an inclusive and vibrant community.

“This tool not only highlights the wonderful diversity within Telford and Wrekin but also strengthens our connections by encouraging participation and engagement from all residents.

“Alongside the calendar, our wider EDI Strategy and future plans were approved by Cabinet, and we will continue to strengthen and diversify the work we do as a council, and the opportunities available to residents too.”

Residents, community groups, and organisations are encouraged to visit the new Community Calendar and explore the diverse range of events taking place across the borough. For more information or to submit an event, please visit https://communitycalendar.telford.gov.uk/home.

This work is part of Telford & Wrekin Council’s ‘20 pledges in 20 weeks’ campaign which will see the local authority deliver 20 actions on the things that matter most to local people during the first 20 weeks following Cllr Lee’s Carter’s appointment as Leader on 18 July. The pledges reinforce the council’s ongoing commitment to protect, care and invest to create a better borough. 

You can track the council’s progress on its 20 pledges at https://www.telford.gov.uk/20pledge

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Anti-Vaping Workshops

In October 2024, over 800 Year 6 and Year 7 children across the Central Cluster, took part in anti-vaping drama workshops run by the London Bus Theatre

The pupils listened, joined in with discussions and took part in role play to help them understand the risks to health from vaping.

We are so pleased that we could work together as a group of primary and secondary schools to support our pupils to understand the health risks of vaping.

Thank you to Mrs. Watson, from Holmer Lake Primary, for organising this and to the following schools for taking part:

Aqueduct Primary

Hollinswood Primary

Old Park Primary

Randley Primary

Grange Park Primary

Windmill Primary

Captain Webb Primary

Lightmoor Primary

Dawley Primary

Ladygrove Primary

Telford Langley

Holmer Lake Primary School

Thank you to Councillor Nathan England for supporting with this and visiting one of the sessions!

See attached link for further information on the London Bus company London Bus Theatre Company – Coolest Theatre Company In The UK

The workshops were also covered by BBC Radio Shropshire

See attached link for further information on the arcile by BBC news  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c3rlrl83x2go

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Safeguarding

EHE policy 2024-2025 available for all schools and MAM form.

The EHE Policy has been updated to reflect changes in Keeping Children Safe in Education 2024, along with a new Appendix 4 which details the workflow for unsuitable education for those children with an EHCP who are home educated.

It is important to note that a deregistration letter is not needed to arrange a meeting with the EHE team and parent.  Schools and leaders are encouraged to contact the EHE Team for advice and support before a deregistration letter is received.  

As a reminder, the appendices within the policy includes work flow diagrams to support schools and leaders with the EHE process and should be referred to in the event of any EHE enquiries.

Please ensure that all staff who have responsibility for pastoral, attendance and safeguarding within schools are aware of the updated policy.

Please note that copies of the old policy and MAM form should be deleted and only the new policy and documents should be used.

All EHE Enquiries should be sent to the team email address: EHE@Telford.gov.uk

Download EHE MAM Form

Download EHE Policy

 

Update Prevent National Referral Form

Further to the roll out of the updated national referral form (NRF) earlier this year, there has been some compatibility issues with the form. Please see link for an updated version.

The link to October 2024 version has greater compatibility with a wider range of software. It is compatible with all versions of Adobe.

Designers have recommended that, for the optimal user experience, it is best to use  Adobe Reader to complete the form, which is a free software. While the form works with all versions of Adobe Reader, it is recommended to always use the latest version. This is because software is often updated to fix bugs and improve security.

Some users had issues with the form allowing text to continue although not visible in the text boxes. This has now been corrected. Please note that in some software versions, there could still be issues if text is copied and pasted. We therefore advise people not to copy and paste into the form.

The Prevent Local Delivery and Communities Team are still unable to provide a Microsoft Word version at this time due to compatibility and consistency issues. They are aware that some referrers have converted the PDF into a Microsoft Word document on their own systems. We strongly recommend that you do not do this as it may cause technical issues and information may not be visible to the receiver.

The form will be updated to ensure the Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy link takes you to correct version of the referral form.

We would like to apologise for any inconvenience this update may cause and thank you for your understanding. The updated national referral form is a key part of assessing referrals, managing risk and ensuring we can offer support to people who may be at risk of radicalisation. All specified authorities should use the NRF when making referrals.

Download Safeguarding Prevent National Referral Form

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IDT 

IDT Questionnaire 2024

This is around the services that we offer and any improvements you believe could be made

Tell us how we're doing - Your chance to win an Amazon Gift Voucher worth £50.
IDT are issuing this questionnaire which will allow you to provide your comments and feedback.  This is around the services that we offer and any improvements you believe could be made.  To be in with a chance of winning an Amazon gift voucher worth £50 please complete the questionnaire by 30th November 2024. The winner will be selected at random on Monday 2nd December 2024.   We look forward to your responses and wish you luck in the draw. 

Please complete the survey below

https://forms.office.com/e/hUABNwdkab

 

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Early Years

Early Years staff recruitment and DfE incentive briefing

Save the date!

Face to face – 18th November

4:00pm to 5:00pm or 6.30pm to 7.30pm

Venue to be confirmed.

Virtual - 19th November

6:30pm to 7:30pm via teams

Booking forms and venue details will be sent out shortly

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Multicultural Development Team

Developing the Role of the EAL Coordinator

This course provides new EAL coordinators an overview of best practice in EAL provision and subject management within the school. It develops new EAL coordinators’ abilities so as to take a leading role in the development of EAL provision across their school

As the proportion of EAL pupils in schools grows, the role of overseeing EAL is becoming an area of specialist responsibility in increasing numbers of schools. This course will cover the role of the EAL Coordinator in developing systems and maintaining appropriate provision for EAL pupils across the school, including best practice in:

     • appropriate induction of new arrivals

     • assessment and monitoring systems

     • recording and sharing information

     • developing an EAL policy

     • planning support and intervention programmes

     • processes to improve communication with parents / carers

It will also signpost delegates to sources of further information, training and support.

Wednesday, 13th November 2024   1.15pm to 3.30pm online via Microsoft Teams

MDT support for individual schools to deliver quality bespoke CPD is available upon request

If you would like to attend or express an interest in the training, please contact the MDT team.

To book a place on the training course please click here

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CPD courses to the end of the Autumn Term 2024

Further details of these and all other courses are available in the 2024-25 CPD booklet on the Telford Education Services website and on the Ollie website

As always, courses can be booked by completing and returning a CPD booking form to cpdschoolimprovement@telford.gov.uk (unless denoted differently)

 

Literacy Pathway - part 2	Monday, November 11, 2024	9.15am to 12.30pm
Youth Mental Health First Aid - Part 1 (PSS 001)	Monday, November 11, 2024	9.15am to 4pm
Youth Mental Health First Aid - Part 2 (PSS 001)	Tuesday, November 12, 2024	9.15am to 4pm
Safeguarding Induction Training for Governors - part 2 (SG 103)	Tuesday, November 12, 2024	5.30pm to 7.30pm
Behaviour Support Intervention Training - Non-accredited (BSAT 301)	Wednesday, November 13, 2024	10am to 2pm
Developing the Role of the EAL Coordinator (CPD 616)	Wednesday, November 13, 2024	1.15pm to 3.30pm
Designated Teachers & Governors for Children in Care Network (compulsory school age) (GO 503)	Wednesday, November 13, 2024	3.45pm to 5.15pm
Governors' Responsibilities for SEND (LSAT 212)	Wednesday, November 13, 2024	5pm to 6.30pm
Meeting the OFSTED Requirements for Equality and Diversity for Governors (CPD 717)	Monday, November 18, 2024	6pm to 8.30pm
Assessment - termly update (CPD 502)	Tuesday, November 19, 2024	9.15am to 10.45am
SEND and AP Change Programme Learning Lunch	Tuesday, November 19, 2024	12.30pm to 1pm
Listen with Lucy (EY 023)	Wednesday, November 20, 2024	1.15pm to 4pm
Safer Recruitment Administration (HR course)	Wednesday, November 20, 2024	3pm to 5pm
Understanding Islamist extremist narratives (free online course)	Wednesday, November 20, 2024	3.30pm to 5pm
Bright Ideas and Inspiration - for your breakfast, holiday and out of school provision (EY 303)	Thursday, November 21, 2024	9.15am to 12noon
Improving Oracy for EAL Learners (CPD 731) *Postponed to 3 February 2024	Thursday, November 21, 2024 (*)	1.15pm to 4pm
Supporting Emotional Needs of Learners (PSS 022)	Monday, November 25, 2024	9.15am to 12noon
Supporting Behaviour and Learning - Children with ADHD / Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) & Conduct Disorder (CD) (PSS 104)	Tuesday, November 26, 2024	4pm to 5.30pm
Induction Training for New Governors (GO 502)	Wednesday, November 27, 2024	9.30am to 3.30pm
Raising Awareness of Prevent (SG 101)	Wednesday, November 27, 2024	9.30am to 11am
Managing English as an Additional Language in Early Years Settings (CPD 710)	Thursday, November 28, 2024	1.15pm to 3.30pm
Early Years Coordinators – Termly Update (EY 007)	Thursday, November 28, 2024	4pm to 5.30pm
The Role of the Key Person in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EY 106)	Thursday, November 28, 2024	1.15pm to 4pm
School Attendance Surgery (AST 005)	Friday, November 29, 2024	10am to 12noon
Literacy Pathway - part 3	Monday, December 02, 2024	9.15am to 12.30pm
Webinar session: Ensuring the quality of safeguarding records (SG 110)	Monday, December 02, 2024	3.30pm to 5pm
Supporting pupils with down syndrome and behaviour challenges (PSS 023)	Tuesday, December 03, 2024	9.15am to 12noon
School Attendance Briefing Updates - additional date re DfE Guidance (AST 004)	Wednesday, December 04, 2024	4pm to 5.30pm
EAL & Maths (CPD 603)	Wednesday, December 04, 2024	1.15pm to 3.30pm
Accredited Safer Recruitment Training (HR course)	Thursday, December 05, 2024	9am to 4.30pm
Governors' Responsibilities for Exclusions (SG 104)	Thursday, December 05, 2024	5pm to 7pm
Behaviour as Communication (PSS 013)	Friday, December 06, 2024	1pm to 4pm
PROTECT Professional Campaign Launch	Monday, December 09, 2024	9.30am to 1pm
SEND and AP Change Programme Learning Lunch	Tuesday, December 17, 2024	12.30pm to 1pm

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Information and Resources

 

The Big Winter Coat and Shoes Scheme Returns

This year’s Big Winter Coat and Shoes scheme opened on 28 October 2024 and is led by Telford Crisis Support, supported with funding from Telford & Wrekin Council

Telford Crisis Support are once again helping our children to keep warm and dry over the winter. The scheme is now open to referrals and will run until 28 February 2025.

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

When will the scheme run from

28 October 2024 to 28 February 2025

Who can apply

Professionals working in schools and other professionals working with families. 

How can I apply?

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

All applications are made online via a password protected webform. This form is only for professionals please do not share the form or password publicly.

Link to webform:

https://telfordcrisissupport.org.uk/?page_id=2633

Winter Coats & Shoes – Telford Crisis Support

Form Access Password:  W!nt£r24?

What next?

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

IMPORTANT

• Please do not share publicly the link or password, this service is restricted to a professional referral only, and is not to be shared with members of the public under any circumstances
• One application is required per child.
• The submission is automated, once submitted there is no need to check it has been received for processing.
• We will contact you on the given number or email address to confirm items have been delivered to specified location(s).
• For more information on support services offered by TCS please visit our website

For further information or questions relating to the referral process:

Debbie Hughes – Snr Clothing Co-Ordinator

Jaden Osbourne – Clothing Co-ordinator

Email clothing@telfordcrisissupport.org.uk

Call/text 07878 296958 (10 am - 3 pm Monday - Friday)

1C, Radford House Stafford Park 7 TF3 3BQ

 

Christmas Smile

Christmas Smile collects and distributes donated gifts to some of the most vulnerable children and adults across the Telford & Wrekin community each year.

If you would like to make a donation there are collection points at Darby House (ground floor near to the lifts) SW1 (2nd floor) and Granville House where you can drop off any gifts you would like to donate.

You can also access the Christmas Smile website to view public donation points across Telford if they are more convenient.

Christmas Smile is very grateful for all the donations they receive.  Here are a few gift suggestions:

Adults and senior citizens: Bath/shower sets, aftershave, books, gloves, scarf, puzzle books and colouring pencils, hand-warmers, bed socks, nail varnish, chocolates, biscuits

Children 0-2:  Cuddly toys, baby clothes, puzzles, soft balls, baby books, bath toys, rattles baby lotions/bubble bath/shampoo etc

Children 3-6:  Colouring books and pencils, books, hats, gloves, scarves, early board games, toy cars, dolls, arts & crafts, bath toys

Children 7-10:  Footballs, sports items, hats, gloves, scarves, pencil cases, jewellery, craft kits, books, puzzles

Teens 11-16:  Sports items, hats, gloves, scarves, toiletry sets, jewellery, makeup, nail varnish, purses, wallets, bags

Generic - Board Games, Selection boxes, biscuits, chocolates, sweet treats

Donations need to be in by Wednesday 4 December please!

Christmas Smile is very grateful for all the donations they receive.  Their website provides further information including other donations points across Telford http://www.christmassmile.org.uk/

Be kind this Christmas and give someone a Christmas Smile!

Thank you