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n actionetwork issue 79

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Have yourself an Ethical Christmas actionetwork: winter 1 2009 issue 79

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'With such a diverse community we seek to employ teachers who are as diverse as the children and young people they will teach.'

With a population of over a third of a million people Croydon is the largest London Borough. It is a place with a real buzz and an exciting place in which to live relax and work. It is also an inclusive borough with residents from a wide range of ethnic origins using 191 different languages.

The Borough is currently experiencing one of the most dynamic regeneration and growth periods ever seen by any city in the UK. Currently some £3.6bn has been committed, with much more in the development pipeline.

Croydon also boasts one of the largest retail centres in the south east outside central London. With 2.5 million sq.ft of shopping space and an estimated catchment population of 1.5 million, Croydon is one of the country’s top shopping centres.

East Croydon is one of the busiest stations in the UK with fast and frequent rail services to London, Gatwick and the South Coast, and in May 2000 Croydon became the first London borough to reintroduce trams. The £200m, environmentally- friendly light rail system Tramlink has been an outstanding solution to traffic congestion, and regularly carries more than 50,000 passengers a day. An extension to the system is scheduled for 2012/17, and Croydon looks set to benefit from the New Cross Gate link of the proposed East London line scheduled post 2012.

The Borough has long since recognised that its future economic growth will require more than good transport links and serviced plots of land to attract inward investors. Croydon understands and appreciates the need to provide good quality environments that will attract and retain highly skilled workers.

It has become the most important location for financial services in London outside the City, already attracts over 140,000 workers and has a GDP of some £2.5bn.

Despite the economic down-turn the signs are good and steps have been taken to secure the future economic prosperity of the Borough, so vital to attract inward investment and create an environment that offers good quality housing, education, shopping, leisure and cultural opportunities.

The Council recognises that a new city is built on strong communities, excellent education standards, and opportunities for young people to grow, learn, engage and enjoy growing up.

Ambitious plans for developing integrated education and children’s services have been produced which recognise that the young people of Croydon are the ones who will build a great city

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and maintain it as a fantastic place to live. More than 52,000 pupils attend 120 state schools in Croydon - more than any other London borough and standards compare favourably with national and London averages.

Investment Substantial funds are being invested in education but the investment is not just in buildings, but young peoples’ futures.

The Council intends that every school will be better served in future and is investing in people and support systems that will ensure that all children succeed. In schools, there is a clear focus on developing leadership skills at all levels and improving the quality of learning and teaching. Centrally there is a targeted drive to recruit high calibre professionals who have the determination to turn Europe’s largest town into a new city.

EXPERIENCED OR TRAINEE TEACHERS The Teacher Recruitment Team would like to hear from you if you are looking for a teaching appointment within the borough for both our Primary and Secondary schools. Most Croydon schools are able to offer their teachers: Access to subsidised accommodation through Government housing initiatives.

Special deals and discounts at a range of local and national companies. Excellent professional development opportunities.

Good starting salaries. A rewarding and exciting career where every day is different.

To learn more about school vacancies within Croydon, please visit our website: www.croydon.gov.uk or contact teacher recruitment on 020 8726 7381, email address teacher.recruitment@croydon.gov.uk 'We particularly welcome applicants from groups under represented within teaching, notably black and minority ethnic candidates'.

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actionetwork issue 79

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Have yourself an Ethical Christmas actionetwork: winter 1 2009 issue 79

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LADIES WHO LAUNCH

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Contents

Their contents may have been pilfered millennia ago, but the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos, Cyprus are still an impressive monument to the islands rich and turbulent past. Malcolm Lee discovers an archaeological feast amongst a famine of information.

RACISM IN THE CLASSROOM

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Telephone: 029 2089 4888 Fax: 029 2089 4889 actionadcopy@aol.com www.actionmag.org

TOMB RAIDERS

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I S S U E

Racism in schools has been of concern for quite some time now, but is generally seen as pupil specific. Dea Parkin discovers that the same problem is becoming an issue for an increasing number of teachers.

Currently, mothers, running their own businesses from home contribute around ÂŁ4.4 billion to the UK economy.

But is there enough back up for these entrepreneurial matriarchs? The SouthEast England Development Agency (SEEDA) thinks not and aims to redress the balance.

STRICTLY COME RANTING All talent shows these days apparently must have an element of good cop bad cop on their celebrity judging panels and Strictly Come Dancing is no different. But here Julie Richards-Williams discovers that there is more to Strictly's Mr Nasty Craig Revel Horwood than meets the eye.

ROLE MODELS NEEDED Despite more and more men becoming actively involved in the care of their own children, the number of men actually working with the under fives is as low 2%. looks at the lack of male input within the Early Years sector.

THE RIGHT TRACK The role of the modern engineer whether in manufacturing or construction has never been more important and getting that first step on the ladder has never been easier. Nigel Graber previews The National Engineering and Construction Exhibition which takes place at the Birmingham's NEC from the 27th to the 28th November.

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS Annual subscriptions are available for ÂŁ40 (9 issues) by writing to:-

n Subscriptions Dept., Hog Fever Ltd., Action Network, 2 Alexandra Gate, Ffordd Pengam, Cardiff CF24 2SA

Please make cheques payable to: Hog Fever Ltd

actionetwork: 2009 issue 79

Published on behalf of Hog Fever Ltd., Alexandra Gate Business Centre, 2 Alexandra Gate, Ffordd Pengam, Cardiff CF24 2SA. Design and typesetting by Nataliss.

Printed by S & G Print Group.

All material in Action Network magazine is strictly copyright and all rights are reserved.

Reproduction without permission is forbidden without written permission from the publisher.

Every care is taken in compiling the contents of this magazine, but we assume no responsibility in the effects arising therefrom. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. Action Network nor its agents accept any liability for loss or damage of colour transparencies or photographs submitted to the magazine.

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The Gift of Giving By Nigel Graber

C

hristmas is a time for giving, so what could be better than an ethical gift? So, what will it be: a goat for Africa or a bike for an African midwife?

Christmas shopping all done yet? Turkey ordered? Kids’ presents safely on their way to Santa? Grandad’s socks all nicely wrapped? Goat booked and ready to go?

Sorry? Yes, in the last few weeks, it’s almost certain that a charity catalogue or two has hit your doormat. These brightly coloured glossies decorated with festive images seem to contain the answers to the world’s every ethical problem. Donate a goat to Africa and you’ll not only keep the villagers in meat and milk for months to come, but you’ll also raise a smile from Aunty Edna, they tell you.

But it doesn’t stop at goats. There are ethical gifts for every occasion. Chickens for India. Beehives for Uganda. Bikes for African midwives. Mosquito nets. You can sponsor a VSO region. Pay for a medical operation. Even donate a bull’s semen to a farmer.

Good Gifts Behind it all are the major charities like Oxfam, VSO and Christian Aid, as well as newer concerns like Good Gifts. According to their website, over the last four years, over 100,000 gifts have done good all over the world, with recipients apparently saying that a Good Gift stays far longer in the memory than a conventional one.

Good Gifts says that 30,000 people have benefited from a gift of beehives, over 150 villages now have fresh water where there was none before, over 4,000 children in developing countries now have the gift of sight, more than 50,000 goats have passed through their goat bank and around 150,000 orphans have been helped, through orphans’ dowries.

And, for those who believe that charity begins at home, presents from Good Gifts have helped replenish Britain’s trees and wild flowers, apparently transforming whole areas of the country.

Some of the more remarkable Good Gifts presents include weapons decommissioning. For around £30, your Kalashnikov will be recycled into tools for farmers. But if even this doesn’t quite carry the wow factor that you need, how about buying a tank for a mere grand? This can help five blacksmiths craft farming tools for a whole year.

Not everyone has welcomed the animal-based ideas with open arms, however. Some, from the a-little-knowledge-is-a-dangerousthing school, have warned that handing over goats and cows to impoverished Third World communities could do more harm than good, among other reasons because the animals tend to drink rather a lot, not such a good idea in drought-hit areas.

The World Land Trust is one such organisation. Director John Burton says: “The goat campaign may be a pleasing gift and a short-term fix for milk and meat for a few individuals. But in the long-term the quality of life for these people will slowly be reduced with devastating effect.

“I was prepared to put this down to ignorance of the issues last

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year, but now it seems utterly cynical,” he added. “They seem to be doing this just to make money at Christmas. It's a gimmick.”

The Animal Aid charity weighed in to the argument too, suggesting that buying six chickens for an impoverished area can heighten the disease risk, and that buying goats can help cause desertification and reduce the amount of farmland available. And that a cow drinks up to 90 litres of the villagers' water every day.

Of course, there are two sides to every story, and charities naturally hit back. A Christian Aid spokesman said: “We work with local organisations on the ground who know the needs of the community better than anyone else. We don't just distribute hundreds of cows. We work with communities where there is enough water for the cows to drink. It is about what is most appropriate in each country at that time.”

Whatever the issues, charity giving is not going to go away in a hurry – certainly not before this Christmas. So what will the ethical pound get you this season?

Blue Cross Blue Cross, the animal charity, is offering an attractive calendar – from responsibly managed forests, naturally – for just £4.99. The charity also has a range of dog and cat stockings for just £3.99 ideal for your pet – a bundle of bunnies for just a tenner or pony sponsorship for only £15. You can even 'fix a fracture' for £100. An extensive Christmas catalogue is available from their website at www.bluecross.org.uk.

The more adventurous might want to consider giving a polar bear, rhino, tiger or a whale to someone special this Christmas. Through the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), you can give a tiger, dolphin, panda, orang-utan, rhino or elephant to someone for adoption. The recipient will get a certificate, a print of the animal, an information sheet and quarterly updates throughout the year.

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Making a charitable donation has never been easier.

Adopting an animal, the WWF says, can help safeguard the future of the species and help the charity find long-term sustainable solutions.

Not meaningful enough for you yet? How about sponsoring a guide-dog puppy on someone else's behalf? Your lucky loved one will get the chance to support a puppy through its early training, and therefore help someone lead a more independent life. A sponsorship gift pack includes a cuddly toy, sponsorship certificate, sponsorship card, background details of the puppy, and information on the work of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

Tax relief Whatever your charitable intentions this Christmas, donating just got a little bit less painful for anyone doing so by phone. It's now easier than ever to claim Gift Aid – which is tax relief on money donated to UK charities - when donating by telephone. In summary, there’s no longer a need for charities to confirm to each donor individually in writing that Gift Aid has been claimed.

Taxpayers can claim Gift Aid on any donation made to a registered charity. You just need to offer a declaration that confirms you pay tax and gives your name and address.

Your chosen charity will be able to claim basic-rate tax relief – so each pound you pledge is worth £1.28. Those paying the higher rate of tax can claim the difference between the basic and higher rates – 18% – on their tax return. This means that the higher-rate taxpayer who donates £100 pays only £77 after tax relief.

Tax-efficient giving is also possible when giving shares to charities. You can claim tax relief on the full value of the gift. A higherrate taxpayer will pay £600 when giving shares worth £1,000 and a basic-rate taxpayer will pay £780.

So, enjoy Christmas. And remember, it’s all about giving. So why not give yourself a clear conscience this year?

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This consists of: • An initial consultation • An online performance assessment for your entire board • A practical feedback session • Full anonymous, qualitative and quantitative reports • A benchmark document to compare your results with other voluntary organisations

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Contact Us For more information, please contact Orli Gorenski on 0845 130 1627 or email orli.gorenski@acevo.org.uk www.acevo.org.uk

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By Malcolm Lee

ince Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus in 1974 an uneasy peace has held between the north and south of the island. But even though these events are relatively recent in historic terms, they are indicative of the island’s turbulent ancient history.

With signs of habitation dating back to 10000 BC, Cyprus even had its very own species of dwarf hippo and elephant which unfortunately, disappeared forever shortly after the island was settled. Its geographical location however, has over millennia proven irresistible as a seat of extended power or military staging post, lying as it does in the eastern Mediterranean and a stepping stone between Europe and the Middle East.

Mycenaean Greeks were the first to hold a serious presence on the island, who later gave way to a new wave of Doric Greek settlers gaining prominence. By the 8th Century BC, those avid seafarers the Phoenicians had established several colonies on the island, with further invasions by the Assyrians and Persians adding to the cultural mix.

It took someone with the political and military clout of Alexandra the Great to finally exert total Greek control over Cyprus, which after his death was claimed by the rulers of Egypt. A natural succession and one that would see Alexandra’s Hellenic influence continue, as the ruler of Egypt was none other than Ptolemy I, one of Alexandra’s seven legendary generals.

All of which brings us nicely to the Tombs of the Kings, an immense ancient burial site situated on the southern coast of Cyprus approximately 2 kilometres west of the port of Paphos. Now as grand as its name is and as important as the island was, it should be said it has never had any such royalty laid to rest there. This however, does not deter

from the importance of the site.

Ptolemaic rulers, which included an entire dynasty of Cleopatras, were far too important to be buried at the site. However, lesser members of the royal family as well as local aristocracy and governors dating back to the 3rd Century BC were interred here in over 100 tombs. The

site was later used by the local Roman governors and overlords before the early Greek Cypriot hierarchy made use of it.

Early Christian burials were also sited here with one of the tombs being turned into a chapel, whilst medieval potters converted one of the catacombs into a workshop. Apparently, the Tombs of the Kings gets its flamboyant name from the sheer scale of the site and the elaborate decoration and architecture of the mausoleums, quite literally ‘tombs fit for a king’ But whilst no evidence supports any royal patronage, there is no doubt as to the site’s grandeur. Overlooking a natural bay of azure sea and covering an area that runs into acres, the tomb complex appears to consist of several individual tombs and chambers surrounding huge rectangular mausoleums.

All of which have used either the natural contours of the rock outcrops to carve into, or have been excavated from the bedrock to a depth of several metres. The rock appears to be sandstone like and being completely open to the wind and sea, has weathered into wonderful shapes.

World Heritage Site

▲ The Tombs are thought to have been the burial sites of Paphitic aristocrats.

Photo by Malcolm Lee.

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A few stubby examples of Doric columns remain, littered around the floor, with 2 in particular carved into the rockface, whist I could find only one poor example of frescoed coving. And that I’m afraid is it, apart from a sign at the entrance which declares it to be a World Heritage Site and an arial photo which looks distinctly like an antique itself.

The tombs are not numbered, which is probably just as well as there are no explanatory notices anywhere to be seen and the visitor once relieved of his 1.70 Euro is let loose in the huge enclosure to wander at will amongst the sand dunes.

It is possible to see different architectural styles where consecutive generations and indeed civilisations have added to it over the years. But with no-one to ask and no points of reference you either need to buy a guidebook (not available at the entrance) or swat up on the net.

Obviously, tomb raiding came into existence mere moments after the first tomb was occupied and sealed and this site has been pillaged since time immemorial. However, serious archaeological excavation only really got under way in the late 1970’s and did apparently (and according to the www) uncover at least 2 tombs that had been unmolested due to landslide. The treasures of which may or may not be in a local museum.

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The Tombs were first systematically excavated in the late 1970s and 1980s.

Petra tou Romiou (“The rock of the Greek”), Aphrodite’s legendary birthplace in Paphos, Cyprus.

The University of Edinburgh

GeoSciences Masters Programmes

GeoSciences offer Masters Programmes studying Earth’s natural environment, from perspectives of ecology, technology, resource management and human society.

Our flexible, inter-disciplinary programmes offer high-quality training for a wide range of careers, such as GIS, research, or environmental consultancy.

Taught Masters Programmes • Carbon Capture & Storage • Carbon Management • Ecological Economics • Environment, Culture and Society • Environment and Development • Environment, Protection and Management • Environment, Sustainability • Exploration Geophysics • Geographical Information Science (GIS)

• Geoscience for Subsurface Exploration, Appraisal and development (Petroleum, Hydrocarbons) • Integrated Resource Management

Research Masters Programmes • Geographical Information Science (GIS) • Geographical Information Science & Society • GeoSciences (individual project) • Global Environmental Change • Human Geography (ESRC & AHRC recognised)

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This may seem like a somewhat laboured point, but 2 paragraphs at the entrance to condense 2500 years of incredible history is quite frankly pathetic. What this site does provide however, is an almost unparalleled opportunity to actually get right down inside the tombs and niches unhindered by fenced off areas and tutting custodians to feel the weather smoothed stones and dust of millennia and run a finger down the still sharp edges of ancient door columns. Climbing down sandal scoured steps reveal cool, dark interiors that feel unearthly still, the sunlight flooding in from above throwing atmospheric shadows over the richly coloured stone.

It takes no imagination whatsoever to envisage an ancient funeral procession with all its exotic pomp and splendour lying to rest some local potentate in this city of the dead amongst the sand dunes. This is, after all the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite and has seen some of history’s most famous names claim sovereignty over it. For such a large open site it’s even thankfully free of litter, but if its information you want you may have to retire to the Tombs of the Kings café bar over the road and start a discussion group.

www.geos.ed.ac.uk/masters The University of Edinburgh is a charitable body, registered in Scotland, with registration number SC005336.

▲ Tombs are cut into the native rock. Photo by Malcolm Lee.

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10/28/09

4:07 PM

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By Julie Richards-Williams

I

f ever a story about one man’s best friend deserved to be brought to the screen it’s that of wonder dog Endal, the medal-winning former assistance dog to disabled war veteran Allen Parton.

Endal, a handsome yellow Labrador was a real four legged hero, winner of countless awards, including a Gold Blue Peter Badge – one of only two ever awarded to a dog.

A companion extraordinaire to his owner, he was a ‘natural’, who taught himself to be a super carer. He helped the former Naval Officer rebuild his life and regain his speech and independence after suffering crippling injuries during the first Gulf War in 1991.

The story of their remarkable 12-year partnership was featured in the spring issue of .

Now however, an exciting new development has taken place which will surely see Endal, who was the most famous dog in the world and an ambassador for service dog charity work, join the ranks of canine immortals of the silver screen such as Lassie and Rin Tin Tin. For thanks to well-known film producer Simon Brooks, the heart- warming saga of the bond between the gallant dog and his wheelchair-bound owner is all set to be made into a £5m movie.

This is truly the stuff Oscar winning films are made of!

World prominence Endal, who throughout his life suffered from OCD, the debilitating joint condition osteochondrosis in both front legs, came to world prominence through the book ‘Endal; How one Extraordinary Dog brought a Family back from the Brink.’

Co-authored by Allen and Sandra Parton, it was published early this year by Harper True and rapidly became a bestseller.

A television documentary followed, which was repeated shortly after Endal’s death last March at the age of 13.

Producer Simon Brooks, who was executive producer on the 2005 movie ‘White Noise’ starring Michael Keaton, acquired the rights to the Parton family’s story after watching the last few minutes of the documentary about them.

The documentary told how Chief Petty Officer Parton, a weapons electronics officer, after suffering serious head injuries in the Gulf War, was assigned a Canine Partners charity-trained puppy to help him.

Endal, however, was a dog in a million and literally taught himself to assist Alan with everyday tasks and adjust to life in a wheelchair, saving his marriage and very possibly his life.

For when Allen of Clanfield in Hampshire was hit by a car in 2001, the resourceful young animal put him into the recovery position, covered him with a blanket and ran for help.

This remarkable feat earned Endal a gold award from the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), its equivalent of the Victoria Cross.

SILVER SCREEN TRIBUTE TO

WONDER DOG

Endal was truly a one-off, able to use a cash point, more recently chip and pin machines, as well as fetch items from supermarket shelves and load and empty a washing machine.

Simon Brooks, who is himself a dog owner, says: “The more I looked into the story, the more moved I became and I thought, “ this is a movie.” Allen and Sandra’s story is simply extraordinary.

I can’t comprehend how they have made it through.”

Now he has commissioned a feature film script based on the book from Juliette Towhidl, who wrote the highly successful film ‘Calendar Girls’.

Filming of the Canyon Creek Films production is scheduled to

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start late next summer. It will be a full-length film for worldwide release.

Simon has two other features currently in pre-production, both written by Cecella Ahem and published by HarperCollins: ‘Where Rainbows End’ in partnership with Optimum Releasing, which is also being written by Endal screenwriter Juliette Towhidl and ‘If You Could See Me Now’, a co-production with Gold Cirlce Films.

On the announcement of the acquisition of film rights to the Endal story Simon Brooks said: “I was immediately attracted to this inspirational and uplifting story of a man and his family who had been dragged through hell and back before an extraordinary

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Have you left anyone out of your Will?

Endal will join the ranks of canine immortals of the silver screen. dog called Endal ‘adopted’ them and changed their lives for ever.’

‘This is a story that needs to be told and I am thrilled to be working with Juliette Towhidl again on such a worthwhile project.’

‘The film will be a true-to-life account, warts and all, not a Disney type movie. We are going to be showing the dark side of Allen’s life - we have to do that so that we can show the light that was Endal.’

Co-authors Allen and Sandra Parton said: ‘The book was an international best-seller - it touched so many people.’

‘We are absolutely delighted and still slightly amazed that it is now going to be made into a film.’

‘Endal was with us for far too short a time, but it’s a sad fact that dogs don’t live as long as us. This film really will be a very fitting and lasting tribute to a very special dog who had an amazing effect on everyone who he came into contact with.’

‘Carole Tonkinson, Publisher Harper Non-Fiction, who commissioned the best-selling book, ‘Endal’, said: ‘Allen, Sandra and Endal’s adventure is one of the most uplifting stories I have ever Continued on page 10

Send to: Catherine Wallis, The Blue Cross, Freepost OF224, Room L384, Shilton Road, Burford, Oxon OX18 4BR

www.bluecross.org.uk Registered charity no: 224392

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Continued from page 9

Allen and Endal enjoyed a remarkable partnership.

encountered. As a story of courage and friendship and canine loyalty, I can’t think of a more powerful memoir. It should translate into an incredibly moving feature film.’

Melanie Beer, HarperCollins’ Head of Licensing and Content Development, who brokered the deal added: ‘I’m confident Simon Brooks’ excitement and enthusiasm, coupled with his strong production values, will ensure a sympathetic transition from book to screen.’

Finding the ideal actor and actress to play to key roles of Allan and Sandra Parton certainly won’t be easy. Simon Brooks said that in his mind he had an idea of the actors that he would be approaching, but at this stage it was to early to speculate.

‘Nor do I know yet which route we intend to take regarding Endal himself.’

Perhaps the answer may lie in Endal’s young successor EJ (Endal Junior) who Allen and Sandra found two years ago when they were looking for a replacement assistance dog to take over when the senior canine retired.

EJ Their search eventually led them to EJ, also a yellow Labrador, who, mentored by Endal before his death, is growing up beautifully, still slightly mischievous but intuitive, intelligent and by a twist of fate, turning out to be the spitting image of Endal.

‘It’s ironic that the two are virtually identical, perhaps he has a little of Endal in him,’ mused Allen.

He is dedicated to helping raise awareness of the 900,000 injured servicemen and women in this country and supports many service charities through guest appearances at fund raising and charity events.

Recently, with EJ faithfully at his side picking up where Endal left off, he attended a reunion at HMS Collingwood aimed at drawing attention to this year’s Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal and its

need for more collectors to help in the two week event.

Allen said that the existing RBL collectors desperately need more people to ‘Stand by them’ this year, adding that the welfare needs of so many injured servicemen and women and also of their families are not diminishing with time.

Although young EJ is now his constant companion, Endal will always be with Allen in spirit and recently he was delighted to receive an honorary PDSA Pet Tribute Tag in remembrance of the wonder dog, which will remain on permanent display in the PDSA ‘Paws Forever’ pet tribute garden in Ilford, Essex.

The forthcoming film will be the perfect tribute to an incredible partnership.

The man who lost his life in Iraq, now lives in Birmingham.

Wars such as Iraq, Afghanistan, Kosovo, The Gulf and Falklands have resulted in many victims. For some their battle scars are invisible psychological illnesses.

©

Men and women in the Royal Marines and Royal Navy serve their country, Men and women in the Royal Marines and Royal Navy serve their country, often at times of danger: the RNBT serves them and their families, at times of often at times of danger: the RNBT serves them and their families, at times of need, throughout their lives. Your donations and legacies help us to help them. need, throughout their lives. Your donations and legacies help us to help them.

These casualties have experienced things few of us would want to imagine even in our worst nightmares and they carry the mental scars around with them, often adversely affecting their employment, family and friends.

Many become tragic victims of alcohol and drug abuse, homelessness, and some even become

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If you are reading this as an ex-Service man or woman and you think, ‘this sounds like me’ or you know someone ex-Service who is suffering, please contact us on:

01372 841 680 or email us: contactus@combatstress.org.uk

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Castaway House, 311 Twyford Avenue, Portsmouth PO2 8RN Castaway House, 311 Twyford Avenue, Portsmouth PO2 8RN t 023 9269 0112 f 023 9266 0852 e rnbt@rnbt.org.uk w www.rnbt.org.uk t 023 9269 0112 f 023 9266 0852 e rnbt@rnbt.org.uk w www.rnbt.org.uk

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100 Amazing Young People Respond To

GLOBAL CHANGE Growing up in an interdependent world is a given for most young people in this country. But how many of them are seriously engaging with the fact that success and innovation are no longer confined to national and regional boundaries and the consequences for their future?

Having identified an opportunity to nurture talent and enterprise among young people in England, the Department for Children, Schools and Families and The British Council work with enthusiastic self-starters to highlight the social, economic and environmental issues posed by rapid global change.

Every summer for six weeks, 100 amazing young people from a diverse range of backgrounds and from schools, colleges and youth groups all over the country spend six weeks in the tiger economies of Brazil, China and India learning from and communicating with their peers, families, teachers and business people. Participants follow a structured programme while overseas, including two weeks intensive language tuition, two weeks living with a host family and attending a local school and two weeks as the guest of a global business, including such household names as Tata, HSBC, Cadbury and KPMG. The demands of a busy schedule and such a wide variety of new people to meet and talk to is a challenge for the young people involved, but one which every single Fellow is capable of meeting. After all, participants are chosen for their get up and go, their interest in the world around them and their commitment to engaging all stakeholders in community relations to learn from each other and forge ahead towards a more positive and prosperous future for all.

I was blissfully unaware. I was indifferent to global affairs. I was safe in my own life.

Now I am awake. I am listening.

I want to be part of the world I saw.

PRIME MINISTER’S GLOBAL FELLOW

There is no doubt that The Prime Minister’s Global Fellowship demands a lot from the young people it works with - but it gives a lot in return. The scheme prides itself on being more than a cultural or study trip, a work attachment or an opportunity to engage with the development agenda. It is a holistic experience, a journey of discovery and a new conversation. Young people are given the opportunity to discover a fast changing world, new societies whose influence will grow and develop to unknown levels in the next century. It is up to them to create new spaces for dialogue with whomever they can about the need to respond to both the opportunities and challenges posed by the global economy.

Alumni The British Council maintains a strong relationship with Fellows long after they have returned from their overseas visit. Working alongside the Global Fellowship Alumni Committee it identifies and capitalises on the energy and enthusiasm generated by their experiences and continues to promote their key message to a wide audience, with a particular focus on the school and college community; how can young people ready themselves for a changing world? Alongside the very valuable work done on a local level, in schools and colleges, youth and community groups, Fellows have also been given highprofile national platforms on which to tell their story including speaking at the QCA National Conference, being part of a panel discussion at the National Conference for International Education Week as well as delivering their message to the Prime Minister at Downing Street.

Globalisation is not going away and the problems we are facing – economic slowdown, the inequality between rich and poor, climate change – will all have to involve global solutions. The fact that these issues are so complex and interwoven means that their solution will require a level of concerted global effort on an unprecedented scale.

Do you know a young person who is up to the task?

Where is the talent in your class?

Who do you know who is ... ‡ 18 or 19 years old ‡ a talented self-starter ‡ open-minded and up for a challenge next summer?

The Prime Minister’s Global Fellowship nurtures talent among young people in England and gives them the H[SHULHQFH VNLOOV DQG FRQÀGHQFH WR VXFFHHG LQ WKH VW century global economy. :H VHQG DPD]LQJ \RXQJ SHRSOH RI DOO EDFNJURXQGV WR %UD]LO &KLQD DQG ,QGLD IRU D OLIH FKDQJLQJ VL[ ZHHNV *LYLQJ WKHP WKH RSSRUWXQLW\ WR ZRUN ZLWK DQG OHDUQ IURP WKHLU SHHUV WHDFKHUV DQG business people, we aim to start new conversations about the social, economic and environmental issues posed by rapid global change.

To ÀQG RXW PRUH www.global-fellowship.org H PDLO info@global-fellowship.org or call 020 7389 4826/4465 $SSOLFDWLRQV DUH RSHQ IURP 14 September - 18 December 2009

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acial harassment of teachers is an area of ongoing concern to those in education and the wider community. Back in 2003, a report presented to the National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT) highlighted this as an underlying yet little studied problem, which was found to have serious impact on the recruitment, retention and progression of BME teachers. Unfortunately, this problem remains.

The Race Relations (Amendment) Act, or RRAA of 2000 placed a positive duty on schools, Local Education Authorities and other public bodies to promote race equality among employees. Yet the aforementioned 2003 Racial Harassment of Teachers Research Report, created by the University of Leicester Centre for Citizenship Studies in Education, found little evidence of even the monitoring of any racial harassment among teachers across the three LEAs it studied in detail. In two out of the three LEAs, BME teachers formed 9% or more of the teaching staff.

None of the three LEA case studies had data available at the time about monitoring the racial harassment of teachers. Pupils, yes. Adults, no. Yet this can’t be explained by such problems not existing.

A report called Safe to Teach, published five years later in 2008 and detailing findings of the Advancing Health and Safety Survey, showed that 67% (947) of the 1,413 NASUWT members responding had been bullied or harassed within the last two years, and of this 6% was racial harassment. While at first glance this might not sound a significant percentage, 6% of the 947 is still 57 teachers. Extrapolate this calculation across all teachers working in the UK today, around 500,000*, and the rather more alarming number of 20,100 racially harassed teachers emerges.

The 2003 report ended by making various recommendations to government, to local authorities and to teachers’ unions.

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12 actionetwork

Recommendations for teacher unions ●

●

Work in co-operation with other public sector unions represented in schools to raise awareness among members about race equality in employment, and specifically ways of challenging racial harassment.

Commission research on teachers’ experiences of racial harassment with the aim of developing effective strategies to combat it.

NASUWT say both of these have been implemented.

Recommendations made to Government ●

●

Review DfES (now DCFS) Code of Practice on LEA - School Relations to ensure that it enables the effective collection of data required to enable schools and LEAs to carry out their duty to promote race equality (as service providers and employers) under the RRAA. Require OFSTED to report routinely on matters of race equality in school inspections and for HMCI to report on OFSTED’s record in this area on the Annual Report, drawing on good practice from other inspectorates.

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By Dea Parkin

Why we need more education: The Racial Harassment of Teachers ●

Ensure that training on the RRAA and specifically on challenging racial harassment is an explicit aspect of school leadership training. ● Consider ring fencing funds to enable LEAs to improve their strategic capacity to meet their statutory duties as employers under the RRAA. NASUWT are able to comment on three of these recommendations. They say the fourth recommendation hasn’t happened and that the first isn’t universally implemented. The second recommendation though, regarding OFSTED, has been carried out.

Recommendations to schools and LEAs ●

LEAs and schools to co-operate to provide a strong evidence base in respect of the ethnic profile of workforce... ● Record, monitor and analyse all complaints from teachers by ethnic background, including formal complaints under grievance procedures, and other complaints of bullying, harassment or discrimination. ● Provide training on race equality and diversity, including an understanding of racial harassment and ways of challenging it for all staff in schools. ● Take steps to urgently address the continuing under-representation of ethnic minorities in the teaching workforce. ● Examine barriers to career progression for ethnic minority teachers…

NASUWT say that today, while there might be a general willingness to implement the first four recommendations, there is disparity across Local Authorities, and between what is actually being achieved and what the report aimed for.

On the fifth point, NASUWT says there is still a dearth of information. More research is being carried out - more on this subject later.

Given this apparent incomplete acceptance of recommendations, it’s not surprising that the situation hasn’t improved. But what form exactly does the racial harassment of teachers take?

Michelle Codrington-Rogers, of NASUWT’s BME Teachers Advisory Committee, says racial harassment comes in many shapes and forms, both covert and overt. It can be as basic as pupils in the classroom using verbal abuse, laughing perhaps at the accent of a teacher who was trained overseas, or as subtle as BME teachers being sidelined or obstructed in their chosen career path.

As with any discrimination, it is sometimes the form that is engaged in by people who aren’t aware they are doing it which can be most damaging, especially if this is endemic within the system. Michelle points particularly to the accepted wisdom that BME teachers are better at enforcing discipline among BME pupils, where they can be seen as role models and generate better results. London mayor Boris Johnson made a comment earlier this year which highlights this way of thinking when he argued that more black teachers are needed in schools to help combat bad behaviour and boost results. While this is undoubtedly true, such an approach can prove restrictive to BME staff who might want to pursue a different career path, or work in a school with a very low ethnic minority. It is the idea of restricted career

progression, which Ms Codrington-Rogers says racial harassment or discrimination can lead to, which evinces special concern - just as it was back in 2003 when University of Leicester’s report to NASUWT upheld that racial harassment was causing difficulty in the recruitment, retention and progression of BME teachers.

However, where things are changing, according to Ms Codrington-Rogers, is that BME teachers are recognising they have a voice and that the unions are giving them a way to make it heard.

For example, the NASUWT’s annual consultative conference for BME teacher members has been taking place for around five years now. The first attracted only around 20 delegates; for the conference this December over 150 are expected. “Teachers who once thought ‘no one’s telling our story’ are now recognising they have that opportunity,” says Ms Codrington-Rogers. “More and more BME teachers are realising that they have a voice and, through the union, can do something about their concerns.”

The NASUWT conference - to be held at the Birmingham Hilton Metropole Hotel on December 5th – will comprise career workshops, highlighting ways in which BME teachers can advance in the way they want. The conference will also impart information about teachers’ rights, and how unions can help teachers to both know and enforce these.

NASUWT is also commissioning new research. Carried out by the National College for School Leadership and Children’s Services, it will examine how to tackle barriers to career progression for BME teachers, using in part information gained from previous BME conferences. This undertakes the fifth recommendation to schools and LEAs in the 2003 report – and the good news is, it’s not the only one.

In January this year, two reports were commissioned by the Training and Development Agency (TDA) and the London Borough of Hackney, focusing on Diversity and Succession Planning and the key barriers and enablers to career progression for BME teachers and school leavers.

Shortage The reports, conducted by BME and education specialists Integrity Coaching, concluded that local authorities are not doing enough to support the career progression of BME teachers, resulting in a shortage of people from BME backgrounds in leadership positions. Currently fewer than 3% of head teachers are from BME backgrounds.

While it’s impossible to conclude that racial harassment alone is causing the ongoing problems with BME teacher progression, it certainly seems the situation hasn’t much improved since the publication of the report to the NASUWT in 2003.

Surely it’s time for effective action? *At the latest census taken on 31st March this year 551,855 teachers were registered with the General Teaching Council. Only 89% of these were teaching regularly at the time, reducing the figure to 491,150. Yet there are teachers working in independent schools who aren’t required to register with the GTC, so an approximate number of 500,000 teachers seems reasonable and is likely an under-estimate.

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AN INDEPENDENT CHOICE FOR PARENTS

By Rob Buckley

A child's education is a huge responsibility for any parent.

With more and more parents concerned about the quality of education in the state sector – or at least in the state sector in their area – independent schools are increasingly being considered as the best way for children to get the start in life they need.

Finding the right school can be difficult. That made the Independent Schools' Show, held in Battersea Park, London, between the 30th and 31st of October, a valuable opportunity. It gave parents the chance to talk face-to-face to representatives from more than 120 schools from the UK and the rest of the world in just one place.

It also gave them the opportunity to meet with other organisations that can provide independent advice, tutoring and other activities for children. In addition to this they were also able to attend talks giving advice on important topics such as whether to pick a day school or a boarding school and whether to go for a single sex or co-ed school.

Popular Speaking prior to the event Camilla Smith, the event's manager said, the show was even more popular than it was last year. "We had 2,500 families across the two days, but we've already had 3,500 sign up through our web site this year." She claims the increase is down to more targeted marketing, with organisers Next Step Exhibitions, giving away copies of the show magazine through multititle publishers Archant Life.

The show saw at least the same number of schools and other organisations exhibiting as last year. "We have letters from schools delighted to have signed up with the show," continued Smith. "85% rebooked which can only be a good thing in these times."

Exhibiting schools included such well-known institutions as Cheltenham College, Wellington College, Marlborough, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Harrow. There was a also a mix of co-educational, single sex, day and boarding schools, as well as sixth-form colleges.

Exhibiting organisations also included schools from as far afield as Sydney and India as well as tutoring organisations. "We're seeing an increase in the number of tutoring agencies," she added. "It's an area that's really growing."

"We noticed the same thing," says David Spencer, director of Tutors International, exhibitors at the show. "What jumped out this year was the number of other tutoring companies exhibiting." As well as Tutors International, Bonas Macfarlane, Enjoy Education and Fleet Tutors all had stands.

Tutoring agencies can both supplement and be an alternative to schools, and are primarily becoming popular because of the everincreasing competitiveness for places at top universities and for top-notch exam results. Most agencies offer hourly tutoring after school or at weekends, but Tutors International, offers full-time

placements of tutors. "Tutoring is often needed when things go wrong or when people are between schools," explains Spencer.

"Some kids get bullied, some get suspended or expelled. What happens when you move to Dubai and discover all the good schools are already taken for example?"

Spencer cites the example of some parents who needed a married pair of tutors, who could speak Japanese, and who were prepared to go on a yacht cruise for a year – his company was able to successfully recruit tutors for the job.

With so many schools exhibiting, however, it could have been difficult for parents to filter through all the information available to make a decision. A number of independent organisations were available to offer advice however, including consultancy Gabbitas Education, the Independent Schools Council Information and Advice Service, The Parents Directories and the Boarding Schools' Association.

Helen Moriarty, national director of the Boarding Schools' Association who spoke during one of the education talks, said the association was there to explain the modern face of boarding.

"Some parents wanted to know if it's different from when they boarded. Some just wanted to know what it's like." Moriarty found that many parents were unaware of the possibility of weekly boarding or that children who boarded would be allowed to stay in contact with their parents. And many had different motivations for sending their children to boarding school other than the perception of wanting to get the children 'out of their hair'.

Even with full-time boarding, many schools are situated around the SE and London so that parents can visit frequently. Schools further afield will often advertise themselves as 'only a two hour train ride away'.

Preference While Moriarty won't express preferences about particular schools, she did offer visitors information on whether schools have particular facilities that suit those parents' needs. "All schools are my members," says Moriarty, "but if I think I have an answer because I visited one recently, I'll let parents know." Certain schools are well known for having particular expertise, for example, with Reed's School in Surrey having a tennis academy and St Felix School getting ready to field four swimmers in the 2012 Olympics.

She also points out that the show offered a chance for parents to ask about bursaries and scholarships, which, in this cash-strapped time, should help almost any parent with the biggest obstacle associated with private education: the fees. "Schools try to be helpful, so it's always worth talking to them," she advises. "I spoke to one school recently and they said, 'We have bursaries available but no one applied.'" It would seem that as well as information, there were opportunities to save considerable money at the Schools Show.

The Knowl Hill School

Knowl Hill School is an independent, co-educational day school for up to 60 children between the ages of 7 and 16 years. It was founded in 1984 to teach children with Specific Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia) and is situated in the delightful village of Pirbright.

We aim to nurture the extraordinary talents and creativity that dyslexic children often possess to enable them to experience success, develop their skills and potential, in a safe and supportive learning environment.

There are fully equipped areas for Science, Occupational Therapy, Speech & Language Therapy, ICT, Art, 3D Studies, Design Technology (for Woodwork and Textiles), Drama and Photography.

We offer an integrated, whole-school approach with specialist teaching with specially trained staff.

Pupils have structured, multi-sensory and individualized learning programmes and therapies.

Classes have a maximum of 8 pupils. Attention is given to organisational and study skills. A range of sporting and extra-curricular activities is available.

School Lane, Pirbright, Surrey GU24 0JN Tel: 01483 797032 Fax: 01483 797641 email: info@knowlhill.org.uk website: www.knowlhill.org.uk Knowl Hill Foundation Company No. 2274166. Registered Charity No. 299690 Reg. Address: School Lane, Pitbright, Surrey GU24 0JN

14 actionetwork

Experience the joy of local wildlife on our coastal cruises with almost daily sightings of bottlenose dolphins, porpoise and a myriad of sea bird colonies along the rugged Ceredigion Marine Heritage Coast.

Dolphin research is carried out on board by the Sea Watch Foundation

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You can BETT on an inspiring experience!

By Julie Richards-Williams Leading the way forward in exciting ICT developments, the BETT Show 2010 returns to London Olympia in January with more content than ever – utterly unmissable for anyone involved in the education sector!

Now proudly celebrating its 26th anniversary in 2010, BETT has evolved into the world’s largest technology in education event, showcasing the best in UK and international educational technology products, resources and best practices.

As ICT becomes ever more important in today’s fast changing world, BETT (British Education and Training Technology) has maintained its incredible success through constant innovation and development.

Today, it is recognised as the definitive event of its kind, last year attracting more than 30,000 visitors and some 700 educational exhibitors from all over the UK and around the world.

Organised by Emap Connect, the UK’s No.1 business to business event specialist with brands in education that include BETT, the BETT Awards, The Education Show and the Scottish Learning Festival, the show is sponsored by BESA (British Educational Suppliers Association) in association with the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF).

Roy Baker, director of BESA says the role of technology in education today is becoming increasingly clear. “Now, more than ever, the Government is realising the potential for harnessing technology to provide greater creativity, more personalisation and achieve better outcomes in the classroom,” he continues.

Stanborough School Stanborough School was founded in 1919. It originally catered primarily to the children of overseas missionaries. The school is one of over 6000 educational institutions run by Seventh-day Adventist Church. Over the years, the school began to cater for a wider range of students. As the school grew, the Primary section moved to a new facility in 1974 and an attractive Early Learning Unit was added in 1990. The construction of a beautiful new complex for secondary and boarding students was completed in 1991. Stanborough school is set in over 40 acres of parkland.

“New advances in technology and the development of tailored resources are helping educators to deliver the curriculum effectively and exceed standards in learning.”

“BETT provides the ultimate location for educators and Government staff to meet, discuss and share best practice ideas in relation to technology in education.”

Free to attend, the 2010 show takes place from Wednesday January 13 to Saturday 16 at Olympia, London and undoubtedly will be as relevant and up to the minute as ever.

The event brings together the learning and global teaching community, including teachers, decision makers, local authorities, key Government representatives. Industry and anyone else with an interest in the future of learning for four exciting days of innovation, inspiration and imagination that puts ICT at the very vanguard of education!

The key message for 2010 is learning together through technology.

BETT seeks to balance the here and now with schools of the future, once again ready to address all the issues that are currently affecting those at the forefront of education.

Insight Visitors are provided with the opportunity to widen their knowledge and gain valuable new insight into the latest advances in technology.

As well as the vast array of products and resources on display, it is the specialist feature areas and seminar zones that make this a unique exhibition, enabling visitors to gain valuable insight into the practical application of many of the changes that currently affect education, whilst looking to the future of ICT. In 2010 these inventive areas continue to develop and evolve both in line with new Government initiative in education and importantly, to keep the show as fresh and meaningful as ever.

Introduced in 2010 is an event within BETT called Future Learning Spaces. Within this space, organisations involved in Building Schools for the Future and the Primary Capital programme are running info-pods and seminars and visitors will be able to see some of the latest designs for the learning spaces of the future.

You can also find the Local Authority Lounge, developed by show producers Emap in collaboration with Partnerships for Schools.

After much visitor demand, another new lounge area entitled the Continued on page 16

As an Independent School, Stanborough operates free of most regulations and constraints imposed on the majority of state schools. With such barriers and restrictions removed, Stanborough can enjoy a greater flexibility in responding to the needs of pupils, and maintain its innovations in operating efficiency. At Stanborough we will raise academic standards, empower educators, involve parents and boost accountability.

Stanborough has a diverse cultural mix. Pupils experience early exposure to the communities of the world, thus empowering them to serve as a catalyst for a new generation in education. Pupils at Stanborough learn to appreciate the different nationalities and religions of the world, thus providing them with insight into the communities that they will serve.

Stanborough Secondary School, Watford WD25 9JT, England Phone: +44(0)1923 673268 www.spsch.org

▲ See, touch and test at BETT 2010.

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Continued from page 15 Network Manager Lounge will also be located within this zone.

Survey after survey suggests that our UK schoolchildren may be some of the least happy in Europe! Secondary age children mourn the loss of play from their primary years and yet play is something that ICT has brought into learning from the very beginning!

ICT in learning holds the potential to bring back playfulness and engagement and in 2010 the good news is that finally it is doing just that. So now let the games begin!

Prof. Stephen Heppell and his team, who developed the hugely successful popular Learning Elsewhere feature last year, are for BETT 2010 introducing the exciting central area feature called ‘Playful Learning.’

This illustrates the fact that games can lead children down a positive path, encouraging engagement and ingenuity and visitors have the chance to immerse themselves in educational gaming at its best.

Visitors can hear from Prof Heppell himself about how games can have

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issues

across

a positive impact on learning, interact with pupils on games consoles and the latest equipment from educational suppliers.

Keith Clifford, marketing manager at Emap Connect, says: “As teaching methods evolve, teaching must evolve with it. We want to celebrate how far technology in education and gaming has come and its effect on students’ motivation and ability to learn.”

“We are confident that our central feature area for 2010, Playful Learning, will effectively demonstrate this and we hope visitors to the website www.bettshow.com/bettgame/index.htm, get as much fun out of the BETT 2010 games as we have had creating it!”

For learners of all ages, Next Generation Learning is something we all want to see made a reality! Whether at school, home or work, the vision for the future is learning enabled and enhanced through technology.

Working together in support of this are Becta, DCSF, the National College for Leadership of Schools and Children’s Services, the National Education Network, Qualification and Curriculum Development Agency, the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust, Training and Development Agency for Schools.

Visit the new Supporting Next Generation Learning area to find out how the effective use of technology is a core component of the aspirations of each organisation.

Here visitors can access advice, guidance and support from each organisation, to ensure Next Generation Learning really does happen.

Exhibitors in the Training Zone will provide valuable insight into the latest training solutions.

A must-see area for visitors is the dedicated Special Needs Zone, run by nasen, which continues to be the largest, most comprehensive gathering of educational ICT providers for special needs in the UK. Committed to helping every child achieve their full potential, the zone focuses on new techniques, new information and new resources for SEN pupils.

The zone is also home to the SEN Seminar Theatre where expert speakers and practitioners will discuss a wide range of issues. Sessions designed to inspire and inform include a look at new innovations in assistive technology and show the full potential of ICT in inclusive teaching.

the

The ever-popular Software Zone displays the latest educational software solutions for the classroom and the whole school, with the Software Presentation Theatre showcasing the latest resources for practitioners.

In the Policy in Practice Zone visitors can keep up to date with the latest Government policy changes in education and other policy-related issues as well as attending free Policy in Practice presentations.

On hand to answer any questions will be key government agencies, including the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF); Becta, QCA, TDA, NCSL, The National Education Network and The Specialist Schools and Academies Trust (SSAT).

Making a welcome return will be the Subject Association Advice Centre, which is the main focal point of information for those keen to see how ICT can be used in a range of specific curriculum areas.

Located at the heart of the Grand Hall is the BESA Information Point, where friendly BESA staff are available to help visitors maximise their visit to the show. Visitors will find information on seminars, free product training

• delivers effective CPD training programmes many geared specifically towards assistant and deputy headteachers;

Continued on page 18

• ensures the interests of assistant and deputies headteachers are represented by a specific committee as part of our ruling Council.

To request an application form call the Membership Recruitment Team on 01444 472 414 (quoting ANPolicy) or email joinus@naht.org.uk adding ANPolicy in the subject line. ▲ Something for learners of all ages.

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Learning together through technology can put the ‘fun’ back into the classroom.

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Continued from page 16 sessions, CPD workshops and special exhibition areas.

The TEEM Software Information Point is a great place to find independent advice on the latest digital solutions and the EduGeek Technical Help Point will assist you in finding the solutions to all of your technical problems.

The Leadership Lounge returns, offering leaders the opportunity to network and share ideas.

A highlight of the BETT show has always been its exceptional free seminar and CPD programme on offer to all educators this year it certainly will exceed expectations.

After the huge success at BETT 2009, with a 30% increase in seminar bookings, the programme has been refreshed and developed further to make it truly outstanding.

That, however, is only part of the story, for a number of new seminar theatres will be introduced this year, including the Keynote Theatre, previously known as the Apex Theatre.

This is where issue-based presentations are being held, including BESA’s keynote seminar, chaired by renowned education journalist Merlin John.

He will be joined by Prof. Stephen Heppell, Prof.

Angela McFarlane, award-winning teacher Tim Rylands and RM CEO, Terry Sweeney. Visitors will be invited to air their views in what promises to be a controversial but ultimately constructive debate.

Another introduction for 2010 is the Innovation Theatre, which is the home of future thinking, discussing newly released technologies and those in development.

The Policy Theatre is a Government and association-led seminar programme, including many of the Policy in Practice exhibitors.

Finally Finally, there is the Solutions Theatre, established by practitioners for practitioners. Here can be found the best practise solutions to all your classroom problems.

Some of the UK’s leading names in education and popular best practice will be taking part in the wide-ranging seminar programme that showcase the very best in innovative and creative teaching practice.

Subjects include; Next Generation Learning; Making 14-19 partnerships successful; How ICT is transforming BSF schools; Building Special Schools for the Future; A laptop for every child? Impact on teaching and learning; Creative Computing with Open Source.

This year over 700 exhibitors will be at the show, providing a superb selection of resources for visitors to experience. Here are some of the newcomers that look certain to catch the eye.

ZULOGIC LTD provides a host of IT related solutions, from PC repairs and upgrades to business networking, broadband and web design.

PEBBLE specialises in smart applications that help schools manage their voluntary funds and easily find those important grant and funding opportunities.

STRIPEY DESIGN is passionate about creativity, both in the work that they do and in the users of the things they create. They design and develop innovative software solutions, specialising in children’s creativity tools.

FROG works in partnership with schools across the country to create their own digital learning resources and content. The Frog system enables schools to complement their physical teaching surroundings with an interactive online Platform for Learning allowing students, teachers, parents etc to access information, teaching and learning materials both within school and also safely from home.

EDI is an accredited Awarding Body and leading international education company, with a wide range of products and services, including vocational and professional qualifications.

This year the prestigious 12th annual BETT awards by partners Emap Connect, Becta and BESA will be presented.

Stringently judged, the winners are seen to have excelled in supporting ICT and ICT provision for nurseries, schools, colleges and special schools.

With the continued success of the use of technology in education, this year there are more award categories than ever – a total of 14, incorporating both products and companies themselves.

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▲ A high attendance is anticipated for 2010.

The winners will be announced at a prestigious gala evening event at the London Hilton on January 13, the opening day of the show.

Every year international visitors to BETT continue to rise, with more than ever expected in 2010.

They certainly won’t be disappointed, for the show provides an exciting seminar programme, a superb array of cutting-edge new products, plus the chance to meet leading experts in the education sector – all of which adds up to an inspirational experience!

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Online teacher education –

THE WAY FORWARD A brief overview of iTeach – an innovative, national, online PGCE programme

iTeach is an online PGCE programme for the key shortage subjects of Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics developed by Canterbury Christ Church University and Hibernia College, Dublin.

The programme, which started in April 2007, is fully supported by the TDA, and has grown from taking 35 students in its first cohort to over 200. It is well placed to expand even further in the future and aims to recruit 750 trainee teachers per year to address the shortage of quality professionals in these subjects.

The unique nature of the iTeach programme enables students to structure their lessons and study around their current commitments. On-demand study sessions are released on a weekly basis for study at any time so students can study when it suits them best and do not need to log in at any specific times. This enables learners to engage with the programme without disrupting their domestic, economic, geographic or occupational circumstances.

Tutorials iTeach students are not isolated – live online tutorials are scheduled for the week after the on-demand content is released so students can share and consolidate their learning and tutors can give ongoing feedback and assessment.

The TDA has supported the expansion of iTeach into a national programme. There are University providers right across England – Birmingham, Canterbury, Manchester, Middlesex and Plymouth – supporting iTeach students wherever they are located.

The growth of the programme has been due to excellent recruitment of students, especially career changers, who value the more flexible and adaptable path to becoming a fully qualified teacher that iTeach offers. iTeach has proven particularly popular with those currently working in industry who wish to change careers as iTeach provides a route into teaching for trainees who may not be able to access conventional PGCE routes.

Students participating in the iTeach programme come from a wide variety of employment backgrounds ranging from the armed services, medical and biological research, civil, mechanical and electrical engineering, to the world of banking and finance. This has had the added benefit of attracting people into teaching with an understanding of the real life application of

their subject area. There is a strong representation from ethnic minority groups.

The course lasts 20 months, and comprises online lectures, interactive tutorials and regular assessments. These are supplemented by three school placements of 7-10 weeks duration, and a daily fee is paid to schools for the support they offer students.

Students are supported by personal tutors and school based mentors throughout their studies. In short, iTeach offers student teachers an integrated programme in which the online training course and the school-based experience complement each other effectively.

Aim A fundamental aim of the programme is to produce highly qualified and well-trained teachers who meet and exceed the Professional Standards for Teachers. Working with iTeach will enable schools to meet the demands of training the workforce for the 21st Century.

The growth in new roles in schools means training and development is a critical component in improving practice for all those with teaching and learning responsibilities.

Partnership with iTeach will contribute to and enhance the effectiveness of the school in many ways by providing significant opportunities for personal and professional development of all school personnel. In addition, partnership will give the school access to

leading academic research, university based colleagues and departments and provide support for the development of specific school based research.

Having iTeach students facilitates an ongoing dialogue and exchange of information about best practice in teaching and learning and addresses the notion that teachers’ commitment to the development of their pupils should be matched by commitment to their own and others’ development as part of their professional identity.

Finally, an excellent, online mentor training will result in an improved quality of mentoring throughout the school and the opportunity to develop, pilot and access high quality training materials.

If you are interested in joining the programme as a student or you represent a school that would like to benefit from being part of a unique and high quality training programme and would like more information about iTeach, please visit www.iteach.ac.uk or contact Michelle Cavendish, iTeach National Programme Director on Michelle.Cavendish@iteach.ac.uk. actionetwork 19

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11/5/09

12:50 PM

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A COUNTRY C

By Dan Owen

e may not be a household name just yet, but 35-year-old chef Matt Tebbutt is certainly growing in popularity thanks to his many television appearances, regular contributions to food magazines, and the popularity of his debut cookery book ‘Cooks Country’.

Born in High Wycombe in 1973, Matt moved to Newport when he was only six months old, meaning he now classes himself as an honourary Welshman. Family holidays in France and Italy exposed the young Tebbutt to great food from an early age, but he initially pursued an entirely different career. At Oxford Brookes University he studied geography, then intended to become a pilot in the RAF after joining the University Air Squadron.

Ultimately, Matt decided against joining the RAF on a 12-year contract for fear of being stuck behind a desk for the majority of the time, so instead took a diploma course at Leith’s School of Food & Wine in London to indulge his skills in the kitchen.

“I used to go to London quite a lot and in particular Soho. I loved the whole thing about restaurants, the theatre of it. There’s a buzz about a restaurant being run properly, with the waiters sliding in and out. You can sit back and watch the flow of it all and that’s quite inspiring.”

H

Inspiration He followed this with a traineeship at The Oak Room and The Criterion under the tutelage of renowned chef Marco Pierre White.

After that unforgettable experience, Matt went on to work at the famous Chez Bruce with Chef Bruce Poole (a master of classic French food) for a while. Later spending some time at Sally Clarke’s Kensington restaurant (where he learned the art of bread-making), and worked alongside Alastair Little in his Lancaster Road and Soho restaurants – a personal hero of Matt’s who inspired him to specialise in rustic cooking with seasonal, organic ingredients.

“The whole pleasure of food for me was brought about by working with Alastair, where it was one man and two other guys tearing around like headless chickens, making simple things taste great.

Alastair has a very laid-back attitude and he was one of the only chefs who seemed to be enjoying what he does. Everything he did had soul and heart in it. The food wasn’t all towers and [just] pretty, and the ingredients and thought behind his dishes were spot on.”

Tebbutt’s first-hand experiences over eight years in London prepared him to return to Wales in 2001 and revive the Foxhunter pub in the beautiful Welsh village of Nantyderry near Usk, with the help and support of his wife Lisa. The couple quickly turned the old Victorian-built stationmaster’s house into a thriving new business, by refurbishing the grade-II listed building to reflect a comfortable and contemporary feel, while still keeping many of its original features.

The extensive refit has transformed the building into a relaxed gastro pub with eye-catching features like log-burning stoves, Welsh flagstone floors, and handmade furniture. Quickly, The Foxhunter started earning itself a reputation for fine freshly produced British cuisine on a menu that changes daily.

“At The Foxhunter, I can do whatever I like with the menu. I like to change it twice a day to make the most of the freshest, local ingredients. Sourcing the best produce I can lay my hands on is a great part of the job.”

Two years after they opened for business, the Tebbutt’s hard work began to pay off critically, too. The Foxhunter won the Dining Out Gold Award (2005), and the Daily Telegraph’s Perfect Pubs Best Food Award (2007), topped off with appearances in the AA Notable Wine List (2008 & 9). Clearly, a great many people were impressed

20 actionetwork

with Matt’s Italian-inspired creations, combined with locally produced ingredients like smoked mussels, Welsh ribeye steak and Jerusalem artichokes. A common compliment is how refreshingly simple everything is, leaving the delicious tastes to speak for themselves.

“The point of being in the sticks is to cook local food. It cracks down on food miles, everything is much fresher, you’re supporting the local economy. It’s the only way you should cook in the country, by cooking the things around you.”

Foraging One unique aspect to The Foxhunter experience is its foraging trips with ‘wild man’ Raoul Van Den Broucke. This is a supplemental activity the more adventurous diners can participate in for an additional fee (£130 per couple, then £40 for each additional member of a group.) For their outlay, patrons are taken out into the Welsh countryside to forage for naturally growing food. While outside, they’ll learn to identify edible plant life and vegetation while walking through beautiful, scenic countryside. It’s certainly a wonderful way to work up an appetite, before you take your gathered goods back to The Foxhunter kitchen and watch everything being cooked. It all serves to give customers a memorable experience and a greater appreciation of what goes into their meals.

Like countless chefs before him, Matt has recently written a book on the passion closest to his heart. Published in 2008, ‘Cooks Country’ details 150 of his favourite recipes; delicious, accessible food based on his rustic menu at The Foxhunter, broken down into monthly dishes that reflected the changing seasons of Britain. Inside you’ll find information on how to prepare cauliflower soup with black pudding, roast chicken with bay leaves and preserved lemon,

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11/5/09

12:51 PM

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COOK

FIRED BY THE PROFESSIONALS

FIREWORK SKY SHOW at Cyfartha Park on THURSDAY 5TH NOVEMBER 2009 Gates open 6pm for 7.15pm display •ENTERTAINMENT BEFORE AND AFTER DISPLAY •RED DRAGON RADIO ROADSHOW •DANTER’S FUNFAIR •CYFARTHFA CASTLE MUSEUM •PLENTY TO EAT AND DRINK •NO PARKING AT EVENT – FREE RETURN SHUTTLE TICKETS Prior to Event: Family (4 persons) £6.00 Available from Civic Centre, Cyfarthfa Park Museum and Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Centre On the Night: All Classes £2.00 For further information tel: The Events & Marketing Officer on 01685 725227

Image courtesy of Fayrefield Foods ©

DEPARTMENT OF SPORT AND PHYSICAL RECREATION The sports facilities offer Swansea students and staff a state of the art training environment for all abilities, from healthy lifestyle to sporting excellence. The extensive facilities are a short walk from the main campus and include, a first class fitness gym, multi-sports hall, two water based Astroturf pitches, tennis courts, indoor athletics centre, outdoor athletics track, and playing fields. The 50m Wales National Pool is also on site.

Community groups, sports clubs, schools and organisations may book facilities, as and when available.

Outstanding talented students may be eligible for an Undergraduate Sporting Entrance Scholarship.

The University offers a BSc Sports Science programme.

Contact 01792 543563 for further information. www.swan.ac.uk/sport

nantgwrtheyrn.org canolfan iaith a threftadaeth cymru welsh language and heritage centre

spiced lentils with crème fraiche, or mascarpone ice cream! But for the not so gastronomically adventurous there are more traditional dishes available, too.

In the interim, Matt was quickly becoming a familiar face on television, particularly to afternoon viewers of UKTV’s Market Kitchen (where he appears alongside Rachel Allan, Amanda Lamb, Tom Parker-Bowles and Matthew Fort), as well as BBC2’s Castle In The Country, the second series of the Great British Menu, ITV1’s Food For All Seasons, and for his regular appearances on BBC1’s Saturday Kitchen.

More recently, Matt was appointed to the committee of The Mutton Renaissance campaign, presided over by HRH Prince Charles, and has become a keen, vocal proponent of British sheep farmers trying to sell older livestock.

• Neuadd i hyd at 300 • Lle i 80 erbyn Pasg 2010

• Function Room for up to 300 • 80 Beds by Easter 2010

Cysylltwch â ni am fwy o wybodaeth ynglŷn â:

Contact us for further information on:

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Welsh Improver Courses Weddings Conferences Events Café Accommodation Heritage Centre Welsh Courses for Learners – re-start 12 February 2010

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One interesting side dish to Tebbutt’s blossoming career has been his endorsement of the delicious Collier’s Welsh Cheddar: “…[it has] a unique and distinctive taste which makes it perfect for cooking with. Its long, deep, powerful taste makes it very versatile, with a fine balance of savoury and sweet, with tantalising ‘crunchy bits’ which are evidence of the cheese’s high quality.”

All said, things appear to be going very well for Matt and his wife Lisa, with two young children, a flourishing restaurant winning top awards, and a developing television career that’s stimulating his business. Perhaps most satisfying of all, Matt Tebbutt achieved it on his own terms and stuck to his principles; providing local, nourishing, seasonal meals for a clientele that aren’t geographically fortunate enough to live in the culinary hotspot of London.

© Alix Morgan

Endorsement

01758 750334 post@nantgwrtheyrn.org Llithfaen Pwllheli Gwynedd LL53 6PA

actionetwork 21

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10/26/09

5:29 PM

Page 1

Y BLAS LLEOL CYMREIG

Y lliwiau neon llachar, y gerddoriaeth pop rythmig, hyd yn oed y leggings â'r padiau ysgwydd, does dim gwadu'r peth – mae'r 80au yn ôl.

Ond os yw'r gwisgoedd pwer gyda ni unwaith eto, un peth sy'n sicr, ni ddaw diet yr 80au yn ei ôl ar frys.

Bum mlynedd ar hugain yn ôl, bwyd wedi'i goginio mewn micro-don neu wedi'i weini lai na dau funud ar ôl ei archebu oedd yn mynd â bryd pobl. Bwyd nad oedd modd olrhain ei darddiad, neu fwyd yr oedd hi'n ddoethach peidio holi ynglyn â'i darddiad.

Mae'n dda dweud fod ein chwaeth wedi aeddfedu erbyn heddiw. Cynnyrch lleol a thymhorol yw popeth y dyddiau yma. Cynnyrch y gallwch ei olrhain yn ôl i fferm neu ardal benodol. Mewn marchnad sy'n gynyddol gystadleuol, mae angen i fusnesau roi stamp unigryw ar gynnyrch er mwyn profi eu dilysrwydd lleol.

Hunaniaeth Gymreig Un cwmni sy'n gwneud hyn yn arbennig o dda yw Really Welsh. Yn ogystal â’r enw, mae popeth am ddelwedd ac egwyddorion y cwmni'n gyfan gwbl Gymreig. O'r lliwiau coch, gwyn a gwyrdd, y cennin pedr a'r cennin, mae'r cwmni hwn wedi'i wreiddio'n ddwfn yn nhir Cymru. Dyma gwmni a welodd fwlch yn y farchnad o ran gwerthu bwyd traddodiadol a lleol, ac sy'n gwbl hyderus ynglyn â’i hunaniaeth Gymreig.

Peth cwbl naturiol, felly, oedd i Really Welsh gysylltu â Bwrdd yr Iaith Gymraeg i lunio polisi iaith gwirfoddol y llynedd. Trwy lunio'r polisi iaith, roedd Really Welsh yn ymrwymo i becynnu eu cynnyrch yn ddwyieithog, ffordd wych o sicrhau dilysrwydd lleol.

Nid Really Welsh yw'r unig gwmni sy'n rhoi lle blaengar i'r Gymraeg wrth becynnu cynnyrch. Mae cwmniau fel Hufenfa De Arfon, caws Calon Wen, Halen Môn, dwr Ty Nant a wisgi Penderyn i gyd wedi profi'r fantais fasnachol sydd i'w gael o ddefnyddio'r Gymraeg.

Mae enw da'r cwmniau hyn, yn ogystal â phecynnu strategol, wedi gosod safon cynnyrch Cymreig ben ac ysgwydd yn uwch na chynnyrch tebyg na ellir olrhain ei darddiad mor rhwydd. Mae

▲ Bwydlen ddwyieithog yn Doc, Caernarfon.

defnyddio'r Gymraeg yn arwydd o'r ansawdd gorau posibl.

Pan benderfynodd John Lewis eu bod am agor siop yng Nghaerdydd, ni fu'r cwmni'n hir cyn cysylltu â swyddogion Tîm Sector Preifat a Busnes Bwrdd yr Iaith Gymraeg. Erbyn i ddrysau'r siop agor am y tro cyntaf ym mis Medi eleni, roedd holl arwyddion y siop a'r caffi yn ddwyieithog. Dyma ffordd John Lewis o ddangos i'w cwsmeriaid yng Nghaerdydd eu bod yn falch o fod wedi agor siop yng Nghymru a'u bod yn ymroddedig i'r ardal leol.

Yn y sector lletygarwch, mae darparu gwasanaeth trwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg yn dod yn gynyddol boblogaidd. Hyd yn oed i ymwelwyr, nad ydynt yn medru siarad yr iaith, mae cyfarchiad Cymraeg yn cael effaith gadarnhaol iawn. Mae'r iaith Gymraeg yn rhywbeth unigryw, ac yn rhoi ymdeimlad o le i ymwelwyr, gan gyfoethogi eu hymweliad â Chymru.

Llinell Gyswllt

▲ Pecynnu dwyieithog Hufenfa De Arfon.

22 actionetwork

Mae bwydlenni sydd wedi cael eu hysgrifennu'n dda yn cyfoethogi'r profiad o fwyta allan. Mae yna gelfyddyd i ddewis y geiriau ac i ddisgrifio bwyd mewn ffordd gryno sy'n mynd i godi archwaeth ar y darllenydd. Mae bwydlenni yn aml yn dweud o le daw'r cig neu'r llysiau neu'r caws, ac mae hynny'n ychwanegu at ansawdd uchel y bwyd. Trwy gynhyrchu bwydlenni dwyieithog, bydd y neges hon yn cael ei hatgyfnerthu. Mae'r Llinell Gyswllt yn cynnig gwasanaeth cyfieithu bwydlenni i safon uchel yn rhad ac am ddim. Os ydych chi am gynyddu'r teimlad lleol hwn, boed hynny mewn bwyty neu yng nghaffeteria eich gweithle, manteisiwch ar y gwasanaeth unigryw yma. I ddysgu mwy ewch i www.byigwlb.org.uk/cyswllt.

Felly, waeth beth fyddwch chi'n ei wisgo neu pa fath o gerddoriaeth y byddwch chi'n gwrando arno'r dyddiau hyn, gwnewch yn siwr eich bod yn dilyn y ffasiwn o ran darparu a defnyddio'r cynnyrch a'r gwasanaeth gorau posibl, un sy'n gyfoethog o flas lleol a Chymreig.

Am wybodaeth bellach, cysylltwch â Bwrdd yr Iaith Gymraeg ar 029 2087 8000, post@byig-wlb.org.uk neu ewch draw i'r wefan www.byig-wlb.org.uk.

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10/23/09

5:14 PM

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THE UNIQUE TASTE OF WELSH Bright neon, pop music, even leggings and shoulder pads... yes the 80s are indeed back.

But even if the power dressing has made a reappearance, one thing is for certain, the 80s diet won't be revisited any time soon.

Twenty five years ago our idea of good food comprised of something served piping hot straight out of the microwave or served within two minutes of being ordered. It was impossible to trace food back to its source, or perhaps it was just wiser not to ask where it came from.

It's good to say that the palette has matured a bit since then.

Today good food means locally sourced and in-season produce, which you can trace back to a specific farm or region. In an ever competing market, businesses must think creatively about how to brand their produce to prove and to underline local authenticity.

Welsh identity One company who has done this extremely well is Really Welsh.

Everything about this company's image and principles is undoubtedly really Welsh. From the red, white and green colours, the daffodils and leeks, Really Welsh is rooted deeply in Welsh soil. They saw a gap in the market for providing traditional and locally sourced food. They are confident and proud of their Welsh identity.

It was only natural, therefore, for Really Welsh to contact the Welsh Language Board last year to produce a voluntary Welsh language policy. By producing a language policy, Really Welsh committed themselves to package their produce bilingually, an excellent way of proving local authenticity.

Really Welsh is not the only company who uses Welsh on their packaging. Companies such as South Caernarfon Creameries, Ty Nant water, Calon Lân cheese and Penderyn whisky have all experienced the commercial advantages of using the Welsh language in their branding.

The reputation of these companies, as well as their strategic approach to packaging, has placed Welsh produce at the premium end of the market. Using the Welsh language is a sign of the best quality possible.

When John Lewis decided to open a store in Cardiff, it wasn't long before managers contacted the Welsh Language Board's Private Sector and Business Team. By the time shop doors opened for the

▲ Welsh Language Board Chair, Meri Huws, and Heritage Minister, Alun Ffred Jones launch Really Welsh’s language policy at the Assembly.

▲ Bilingual signs at John Lewis store, Cardiff

first time in September this year, all signs throughout the store and café were bilingual. This was John Lewis' way of showing customers in Cardiff that they are proud that they have opened a branch in Wales and that they're committed to the local area.

In the hospitality sector, providing services through the medium of Welsh is becoming increasingly popular. Even for tourists who don't speak the language, a greeting in Welsh can have a very positive affect. The Welsh language is unique and gives a sense of place, enriching the experience of visiting Wales.

Well written Well written menus can make the experience of eating out extra special. There is an art to writing menus, and carefully choosing words to describe food in a way that raises the appetite. Menus often tell us where the meat, vegetables or dairy comes from, adding to the high quality of the food. By producing a bilingual menu, this message will be reinforced. The Linkline to Welsh provides a menu translation service, free of charge. If you want to increase the local theme or feel in your restaurant, or even in your work cafeteria, take advantage of this unique service. Visit www.byig-wlb. org.uk/linkline for more information.

Never mind what you're wearing or what kind of music you're listening to, just make sure that you're bang on trend by providing and buying the best possible produce, rich with the true taste of Wales.

For more information please contact the Welsh Language Board on 029 2087 8000, post@byig-wlb.org.uk or visit the website www.byig-wlb.org.uk

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11/6/09

3:37 PM

Page 1

By Dan Owen

SOWING THE SEEDS OF WOMEN’S ENTERPRISE

Helping women to start and grow successful businesses is a major priority in the South East. While improvements continue to be made in areas like business support, accessing finance and raising awareness, women are still massively under-represented among the region’s business owners.

The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) is a regional agency established by the government in 1999 to promote economic and social development in the region. Specifically aimed at helping women in that region set- up and sustain their own business ventures and as part of their many ongoing schemes and initiatives, SEEDA have also developed the South East Women’s Enterprise Network.

Amazingly, in the South East which encompasses Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, East Sussex, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Kent, Oxfordshire, Surrey and West Sussex only 27% of self-employed people are women and a mere 15% of businesses are majority-owned by women. The Women’s Enterprise Network aims to redress this imbal-

ance, particularly as mothers running businesses from home are proven to contribute £4.4 billion annually to the British economy. Indeed, it’s surprising to learn that the South East is actually the world’s 22nd biggest economy, financially more successful than countries such as Denmark, Austria, Sweden and South Africa!

SEEDA’s new initiative aims to encourage more women into the business world, and successful entrepreneurs Katie Mayne and Liz Jackson have been drafted in to become advocates of the enterprise.

Guildford-based Katie Mayne is the driving force behind Tiny Talk, a business that teaches blind children sign language. Whilst on maternity leave, the former primary school teacher read several studies that proved babies are at their most receptive the younger they are, which she says, gave her the inspiration to launch the company. From its humble beginnings in 2002 the company started to gain momentum after publicity in the Surrey Advertiser and Bella magazine. Later leading to an appearance on This Morning with Phillip Schofield and Fern Britton.

in a recession means we have to ‘sellSucceeding harder too. There is more talent available

Franchise

and because of an improved work ethic, it’s a much more rewarding place to work.

Challenges make business better, not worse.

’

LIZ JACKSON

JANE AUSTEN’S HOUSE MUSEUM

In July 2009 Jane Austen’s House Museum entered a new phase of its life and is bigger and better than ever before Visit the home of one of the most popular and important novelists England has ever produced.

This 17th century house tells the story of Jane Austen and her family and is where she spent the last eight years of her life.

Here she wrote and revised her 6 novels, including Pride and Prejudice and Emma Enquiries regarding Jane Austen’s House: Louise West T: 01420 83262 E: enquiries@jahmusm.org.uk JANE AUSTEN’S HOUSE MUSEUM Chawton, Alton, Hampshire GU34 1SD

www.jane-austens-house-museum.org.uk 24 actionetwork

In May 2003, Katie’s hard work in creating a sustainable business model paid-off when she held her first franchise training day in Guildford. “Before starting the first baby signing classes, I created a syllabus comprising singing and signing for the first half of the class, followed by coffee for the mums and playtime for the little ones in the second half,” says Katie. “It was really important to me that we were Continued on page 26

Recommended Reading for All ‘The inspiring true story of one mother’s fight to give her autistic children the quality of life they deserve’ Anna Kennedy’s best seller book, ‘Not Stupid’, is a detailed account that doesn’t hide the pain of being the mother of two autistic children.

The book vividly and emotively tells the story of the Kennedy family’s struggles to give their children a decent education!

Anna’s story, and that of her ever-improving sons, is a beacon of inspiration for parents of special needs children all over the country.

A recommended reading for all, this is an inspiring tale full of relevant information for those people affected by autism, carers, teaching assistants and for those that want a real life insight.

www.annakennedyonline.com

COPPICE LODGE Home for people who have Learning Disabilities and Challenging Behaviours All single rooms, ordinary life principles, one vacancy (m/f), very high staff ratio, highly trained carers, individual care packages, small home (eight), housing estate location, all amenities nearby, fees dependent on care requirements, and sound professional links.

Care Manager: Faith Burgess NNEB RNMS Tel: Kidderminster (01562) 637665 Fax: (01562) 861162

PAGE 24 25 26

11/6/09

3:39 PM

Page 2

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▲ Katie Mayne is a successful businesswoman and mother of two.

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11/6/09

3:57 PM

Page 3

Continued from page 24 offering value for money and exceeding expectations and because of this, we grew quickly through word of mouth recommendation.”

Her expanding and flourishing business quickly won silver trophies at the Practical Pre-School and ‘What’s On For Little Ones’ awards.

Katie was a finalist at the ‘Inspirational Business Mum of the Year 2007’ awards and went on to receive a ‘Highly Commended Special Award’, Mother & Baby magazine even named her as ‘Mumtrepreneur of the Month’. Now some six years since its birth, Tiny Talk has 120 franchises across the UK, Republic of Ireland and Australia, and has grown to become a truly global success story.

In a similar tale of entrepreneurial achievement, Basingstoke-based Liz Jackson, a former telemarketing sales manager, used a £4,000 grant and £1,000 loan from the Prince’s Trust to create her own telemarketing company. “Having been offered employment in several large corporations, I went to work in one for the day to see if I liked it. But having enjoyed a great deal of autonomy in my previous role, it just felt so stifling in comparison,” says Liz. “It was then that I decided to start Great Guns Marketing so that I could continue to push the boundaries and see how far I could take the business. And I still love it today!”

Great Guns Marketing was established in 1998 when Liz was just 25, and her fledgling business saw yearly growth of 45% to cultivate a current annual turnover of £3 million. Her telemarketing company, based in Chineham, has grown from a converted garage to nine bespoke branches across the UK, employing 130 people and boasts a client base in excess of 500 companies; including British Telecom, Wella and Johnson & Johnson.

Remarkable What makes Liz’s success even more remarkable is the fact she’s blind, a disability that has never held her back. “Telemarketing depends on your ears and your mouth, so being blind hasn’t affected my role’’ she says confidently. ‘’There have been much harder things to overcome. Not having much cash from the outset was really hard but it makes you more creative when you haven’t got a lot of resources.”

Now an award-winning businesswoman and motivational speaker,

her company was once voted Britain’s top female-run business by TMobile and the Sunday Express. Liz herself has received an MBE and an honorary fellowship from Winchester University for her industrious success, and written Start Up! , a book with practical advice for people who want to follow in her footsteps. She even starred in an episode of Channel 4’s ‘The Secret Millionaire’, the popular television show where a millionaire covertly spends time with impoverished members of a local community, before revealing their true identity and donating some of their own money to worthy recipients.

Clearly, both Katie and Liz are fantastic role models for other women, who would love to start their own business from home, but don’t know how, or just lack the confidence to make their dreams a profitable reality. One unexpected positive side to the credit crunch and the recession however, is how so-called “home-working” has becoming increasingly popular with some companies who now realise they can lower costly overheads by entrusting staff to work from home.

Research This recent change in business attitude apparently works particularly well for women who invariably require more flexibility with their careers and now find it easier to balance their work and family commitments. In 2007, research carried out by Enterprise Nation found that 60% of new British businesses actually started from home, and home-based businesses account for 28% of UK employment, contributing a colossal £364 billion to the national economy.

It’s never been a better time to hone your entrepreneurial skills, particularly with Global Entrepreneurship Week (16th - 22nd November) just around the corner; a week where 25,000 plus events take place across 85 countries, attended by 3.06 million people (644,000 from the UK alone). Starting out as an UK-only enterprise in 2004, the idea went global four years later and aims to give people the confidence and skills to follow a career path where they’re their own boss. Incidentally, National Women’s Enterprise Day is a significant part of the week’s activities on 18th November, where it specifically aims to encourage women to “turn their passions into profit”, as Liz Jackson and Katie Mayne have done with great success.

Royal School for the Deaf Derby Ashbourne Road, Derby DE22 3BH Primary and Secondary Education for Day and Residential Deaf children.

Tel: 01332 362512 (Voice/Text) ▲ Liz Jackson is a remarkable woman.

26 actionetwork

www.rsd-derby.org.uk

PAGE 27

11/6/09

4:32 PM

Page 1

In Preparation for Performance In September 2007 Rachel Crouch and Louise Glarvey discovered a huge gap in the further education performing arts training sector for students after GCSE’s.

Feedback from colleges and top universities indicated that students on BTEC Performing Arts and A level courses just weren’t receiving enough vocational training or audition preparation to gain places at the countries top colleges.

With this in mind, the enterprising duo opened the Performance Preparation Academy (PPA) in September 2008 in The

Ebbisham Centre, Epsom, Surrey. Louise and Rachel the joint Principals were delighted that the college filled all its places within 3 months and is now going from strength to strength.

In a comparatively short time, the academy’s reputation for its strident training ethos was rewarded when in April last year they were approached by Peter Barlow, Director of GSA (Guildford School of Acting) to move the academy into the GSA’s state of the art new building on the campus of Surrey University.

Stating as their prime objectives, Rachel and Louise not only wanted to offer students at PPA the tools and training needed for a successful and productive career, but just as importantly they wanted them to gain academic qualifications.

With this in mind, students who join PPA after completing their GCSE’s are then trained for a further 2 years with an option of going on to top degree courses at 18+.

During their time at the academy, students can gain the equivalent of 3 A levels and the Trinity Guildhall ATCL

We are delighted to announce... ...that we are now based at the prestigious Guildford School of Acting!

Diploma (worth up to 300 UCAS points) with all of the exams QCA accredited through London College of Music, LAMDA and Trinity Guildhall.

The course is equally divided into singing, dance and drama and students are required to work hard in preparation for places at the best colleges and universities in the country for performing arts. This ‘hard work’ ethic also increases their chances of gaining DADA or HEFCE award funding.

‘Over the past year we have secured excellent links with colleges like GSA, Mountview, Arts Educational Schools London, London Studio Centre and Middlesex University where our students have received bursaries and Easter School scholarships,’ says Rachel.

‘Also added Louise, ‘due to PPA’s very high standards these colleges have offered us their tutors for audition workshops, to give our students the best possible chance of gaining a much sought after place.’

Currently, PPA is the only college of its kind in the country to solely concentrate on the training of students between GCSE and Degree level. Seen as a crucial time to prepare students for the rigours of professional training at degree level, the academy also offers teaching qualifications in Dance, Theatre Arts and Drama and Speech which students take in their second year.

Intensive

If you are 16+ we have the Full Time Musical Theatre Vocational Training Courses for you!

PPA is a young, dynamic and focused academy.The students are being well prepared for auditions for full time vocational musical theatre training.

I look forward to developing closer links with PPA. Chris Hocking Director of Musical Theatre, Arts Educational Schools, London

01372 728 588 enquiries@ppacademy.co.uk www.ppacademy.co.uk

Two year Musical Theatre Preparation Course A two year course from 16-19 years equal to 3 A levels and a level 4 Diploma This course is an alternative to the A levels and BTEC Performing Arts courses. The course offers exceptional vocational training and the academic qualifications.

Students are also treated to exclusive workshops and audition technique classes with all the colleges through our outreach programme giving them the best possible chance of gaining a sort after place of their BA Hons courses with full funding.

OneYear Fulltime Intensive Course This course is exclusively structured for students who

wish to gain a place next year at one of our linking colleges or drama schools.

Students will be trained as a triple threat performer and will be treated to exclusive workshops and audition technique workshops by the colleges giving them the best possible chance of gaining a place and also DADA’s and scholarships.

Teaching Qualifications through Trinity Guildhall.

Outreach Programmes with many top accredited theatre schools.

ns tio ca i l p 0 ap 201 ing ber k a t em w t No Sep r fo

LL !

CAOW N

In September this year PPA launched a much needed one year intensive course for those students who were unsuccessful in gaining a place at one of the linking colleges last year. The course focus is entirely on training students in all three disciplines and preparing students fully for auditions. ‘Choosing the correct audition songs and drama pieces is key and many students don’t get this much needed help and support’.

In only two short years, PPA appear to have achieved so much, not only receiving excellent exam results but together with Danica Pickett of theatrical agents, Williamson and Holmes their students can be seen in Walkers Crisps adverts, The Bill, A touch of Frost and Disney to name but a few!

PPA are now recruiting for the September 2010 intake and with it the chance for successful talented candidates to gain further academic qualifications which could lead to placement in one of the UK’s top accredited colleges.

Auditions are being held on Sunday 22nd November at Guildford School of acting. Visit www.ppacademy.co.uk for more details of courses or call 01372 728588 for an application form and prospectus.

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10/28/09

5:22 PM

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Craig Revel Horwood – ith his outspoken comments and cutting put-downs, it’s no wonder that Craig Revel Horwood is the man ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ viewers love to hate!

Appearances however, can be deceptive. Behind that on-screen sneer is a complex, highly creative individual, passionately dedicated to dance and musical theatre.

His ‘Strictly’ facade masks a witty, refreshingly straightforward man, who does not suffer fools gladly and believes in telling the truth at all costs.

Although he’s probably best known for being the ‘Mr Nasty’ judge on BBC television’s prime time dancing spectacular, in fact, Revel Horwood has been in showbiz for nearly 25 years and has a wealth of experience behind him.

He is an accomplished all round performer, theatre director and leading choreographer with numerous successes to his name both here and abroad.

Revel Horwood is held in high esteem and during his amazing showbiz career has worked with such stars as Tina Turner, Julie Andrews, Olivia Newton John, Judi Dench and John Barrowman.

For his choreography on the highly successful West End musical ‘Spend Spend Spend’, in 2002 he received an Olivier Award nomination.

The show featured the true rags-to-riches story of 1961 pools winner Viv Nicholson, whose life was turned upside down when she won today’s equivalent of £5million.

The following year he was again nominated for an ‘Olivier’ – this time for Best Theatre Choreographer of 2002 for the musical ‘My One and Only’.

In the summer of 2008 he directed a radical new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘Sunset Boulevard’ at London’s Comedy Theatre, which ran until April 18th of this year.

W

Small cast He re-staged the famous musical in a very simple fashion to pare down the piece to its core tale. Opulence was out and he used only a small cast of actor/musicians, who as well as singing, dancing and acting, simultaneously provided the show’s orchestra.

It’s the third time Revel Horwood has worked in this particular way, having previously utilised the actor/musician option with his productions of ‘Martin Guerre’ and ‘The Hot Mikado’.

Whenever possible Revel Horwood returns to his roots in musical theatre.

Now to support young people in training, he has become an honorary patron of the well-known Read Dance & Theatre College and will contribute to the college as and when his time allows.

The London based college runs an intensive one-year foundation course to help young people who have the talent to achieve funded/ scholarship places at top dance and drama colleges across the UK, with former students now appearing in many high-profile London shows.

“Training young performers is the key to their future success,” declared Revel Horwood.

“If you’re going to get a place at a top dance or drama college then you need an edge over the competition right from the start. That’s why the course at Read is so important.”

Jamie Read, Director of Theatre at the college, has long admired Revel Horwood’s imaginative choreography and is delighted that he has agreed to

THE DOROTHY STEVENS BALLET AND THEATRE SCHOOL Established over 50 years PRINCIPAL: MISS DOROTHY STEVENS M.B.E. A.R.A.D. (Adv.) A.I.S.T.D. (MOD) Hon. M.A.

Fully Qualified Caring Staff Junior Daily Students Courses Children Taken From The Age Of 3 • Classical Ballet - RAD, ISTD • Contemporary / Jazz • Modern and Tap - ISTD • G.C.S.E. Dance • Yoga • Pilates • ISTD Approved Dance Centre • Modern / Tap The Chimes, Holme Mews’, Wakefield Road, Lightcliffe, Halifax HX3 8TY

By Julie Richards-Williams

www.dorothystevens.co.uk

Tel: 01422 201 630 Fax: 01422 204 310 28 actionetwork

10/28/09

5:27 PM

Page 2

become patron of the Musical Theatre course.

“His work is really something that our students can aspire to and be inspired by,” declared Jamie Read.

Constantly in demand, Revel Horwood’s hectic professional life takes him all over the world – a situation he thoroughly enjoys, as he is happiest when working.

Currently, the 44-year-old Australian is again being regularly booed by the nation as he is appearing in the 7th series of ‘Strictly’, which began on September 18 and runs until Christmas, The show follows a similar format to previous series and this time 16 couples are taking part.

No doubt they will come in for some pretty outspoken criticism from straight talking Revel Horwood, who has earned a fearsome reputation for never mincing his words, however much they might hurt!

Although Bruno Tonioli and Len Goodman again join Craig Revel Horwood at the judges table, dance expert Arlene Phillips, 66, has been axed in favour of the much younger pop singer Alesha Dixon, who won Series 5 in 2007.

The BBC’s action has been severely criticised and Revel Horwood confessed that he would miss Arlene.

“But I’m also looking forward actually to working with Alesha because she has won it, so she’s come up through the ranks and knows exactly what she’s doing,” he said.

“Alesha’s a natural gifted performer, so she’ll add those sorts of elements to her role from the performance side.” Revel Horwood added.

These days his commitments as a judge on ‘Strictly ‘ as well as television appearances associated with the show and other programmes on the box are keeping him extremely busy.

However, he believes variety is the spice of life and this Christmas at the same time as fulfilling his judging duties, he is also tackling an exciting new challenge that will show him in a very different light to theatregoers.

The multi-talented artiste is to make his pantomime debut in North Wales as the glamorous but deliciously evil Wicked Queen in the Odos production of ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ at Llandudno’s Venue Cymru. The production opens on December 14 and runs to the New Year.

In true panto tradition, audiences will have the opportunity to hiss and boo Revel Horwood as he takes to the stage in an array of sensational costumes, wigs and make-up to play one of the ultimate pantomime villains!

There’s a treat in store, for the song and dance man will be dancing the tango with Prince Charming and singing ‘I’m your Venus’. What a performance that will be!

Pantomime “I am really excited to appear in my very first pantomime in the lovely town of Llandudno,” Revel Horwood said at the recent press launch.

“It’s a wonderfully talented cast and the show will be a fabulous and magical Christmas treat. My Wicked Queen costumes are worth the price of a ticket alone!”

The son of an alcoholic, abusive father, ever since he was a youngster growing up in the old gold mining city of Ballarat in Victoria, Australia, Revel Horwood dreamed of working in musical theatre.

Now the true story of how he achieved fame and fortune is revealed in his sensational autobiography entitled ‘All Balls and Glitter’, which was published last year. A paperback edition with extra chapters currently is doing extremely well in the bookshops.

“What’s great about this book is that I get the chance to be honest as I am on the telly,” declared Revel Horwood He turns the spotlight on himself, frankly revealing that he is bisexual and after a straight marriage, is now living happily in London with his partner Grant.

Continued on page 30

CELEBRATING 90 YEARS

ARTS EDUCATIONAL SCHOOLS LONDON

PAGE 28 29 30

Training The Award Winners Of The Future

WWW.ARTSED.CO.UK actionetwork 29

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11/2/09

12:22 PM

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Continued from page 29 Revel Horwood tells how at the age of 15, he left home to embark on a career as a song and dance man.

His early experiences were certainly tough and he was forced to appear as a drag queen in bars and clubs and also worked as a ‘male escort’ in order to survive.

Thankfully, fortunes changed for the better when he moved to Melbourne and he appeared in numerous major productions, including ‘West Side Story’; the Australian and New Zealand tour of ‘The Danny La Rue Show’, ‘La Cage Aux Folles’, ‘Me and My Girl’, ‘Sugar Babies’ and many more.

A natural on the small screen, his star was on the ascent and he appeared in TV specials and also featured in numerous commercials Down Under – notably being the face of the very first Kentucky Nugget advertisements for KFC.

Moulin Rouge On arriving in Europe he joined the famous company at the Lido Du Paris as a dancer in ‘Panache’ and then as principal singer in ‘Formidable’ at the Moulin Rouge.

A year later he found himself in the UK tour of ‘Cats’ and also appeared in the original concert version of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’.

By now he was well established as an artiste and in the West End again performed in ‘Cats’, playing the part of Munkastrap at the New London Theatre; ‘Miss Saigon’ at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. He was an original cast member of ‘Crazy for You’ at the Prince Edward Theatre.

This took him to New York, Baltimore, then to Berlin’s Schiller Theatre. He then went on to re-create the show for Susan Stroman in South Africa - it was a major turning point in his career.

With numerous appearances in concert, recording and television, Revel Horwood literally never stopped working. Since the end of 1994, however, he has concentrated on theatre direction and choreography with notable successes.

He also choreographed the recent hit BBCTV shows ‘How Do You Solve a Problem like Maria? and ‘Just the Two of Us’.

Recently he staged the dances for the play ‘Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks’ at the Theatre Royal Haymarket starring celebrated actress

â–˛ A really wicked Craig Revel Horwood!

Claire Bloom.

A well known television personality, as well as appearing as a judge on ‘Strictly’, ‘Strictly Come Dancing Special’ and ‘Dancing with the Stars’ in New Zealand, he has been seen on ‘Comic Relief Does Fame Academy’. ‘Strictly Ice Dancing,’ ‘Strictly African Dancing’ and he also has a regular weekly slot on BBC2’s ‘It Takes Two’ with Claudia Winkleman.

Revel Horwood is an enthusiastic cook and was a grand finalist on the hit cooking show ‘Celebrity MasterChef’ and participated in and won ‘Ready Steady Cook’.

Other TV appearances include ‘The Royal Variety Show 2008’, ‘Blue Peter’, ‘The Paul O’Grady Show’, ‘Richard and Judy’, ‘Loose Women’, ‘Hider in the House’, ‘The Alan Titchmarsh Show’ and ‘Celebrity Weakest Link’.

He has also been a regular panellist on ‘The Wright Stuff’ on Channel 5.

Like many celebrities he supports charities an in his case The Osteoporosis Society, which is close to his heart as his mother unfortunately suffers from rheumatoid arthritis and is the reason he became involved with the society.

Teach First, another scheme he holds dear, aims to help create inspirational teachers.

Childhood

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GSQI ERH WII YW EX WXERH 30 actionetwork

This harks back to his own childhood when a music teacher took a special interest in him and his abilities and set him on his chosen path.

An accomplished artist, Revel Horwood has had many successful exhibitions in London and Paris, working in 3D design, acrylic on paper.

Somehow he has also made time in his busy life to write a definitive book on dance entitled ‘Teach Yourself Ballroom Dancing’.

Now his autobiography ‘All Balls and Glitter’, sheds new light on this charismatic but controversial character and is a compelling read from start to finish.

After more than 25 years in the business his enthusiasm for dance and musical theatre is as strong as ever and he always has a variety of projects in the pipeline. The only problem he says is finding the time in which to do them.

Returning as a judge on the seventh series of the immensely popular ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ and with his pantomime debut just around the corner, Craig Revel Horwood’s career has entered a new phase.

Love him or loathe him, he is a man you simply cannot ignore!

PAGE 31

11/9/09

10:55 AM

Page 1

Go Kids Go!

Hi, I’m Ade Adepitan, MBE, TV presenter and former Paralympian. As a WHHQDJHU , EHQHÀ WWHG IURP AWC’s life-changing wheelchair skills training and now I’m extremely proud to be their patron.

Reg Charity No: 1057894

After nearly 20 years of working with young wheelchair-users and their families, the Association of Wheelchair Children (Charity Registration Number: 1057094) is changing its trading name to 'Go Kids Go!' This is to reflect their core values of fostering independence and a sense of adventure in young wheelchair-users.

They are also hoping that with this new name will come wider recognition for, what some have called, "the best kept secret in children's charities".

The charity originated in Newham in the 80's, at which time it was a small local group called 'The Newham Rollers' which enabled young wheelchair-users to access sporting opportunities and other fun activities as well as learning essential wheelchair mobility skills.

As time passed, word spread about the achievements of the group and in 1990 the Association of Wheelchair Children was born in order to make this vital training available to all young wheelchair-using children throughout the UK.

Ade Adepitan Probably the charity's most famous success story is Ade Adepitan MBE, the well known TV presenter and former Paralympian, who the founders of the charity spotted being pushed about in a shopping trolley by his friends. Ade had contracted Polio as a child but hated using the callipers he had been issued with because, as well being very uncomfortable, they reportedly made him "walk like C3PO [from Star Wars] after a night on the town".

The charity's founders had recognised that walking with such aids was not always the best way to encourage independent movement for young people with mobility issues and had therefore devised a programme of wheelchair training to equip them with the fundamental skills to achieve this goal. Ade was invited to a session with the Newham Rollers and the rest is history.

Today, 'Go Kids Go!' runs both manual and powered wheelchair skills courses across the length and breadth of the UK as well as seeking to raise awareness of disability issues, particularly in schools, and also trains professionals working in the field.

The charity remains a small and friendly organisation but is always looking to increase the number of young wheelchair-users and their families it is able to help.

Feedback from the families who have attended their courses confirms that it is a quite literally life-changing experience as well as simply great fun.

Please see the advertisement on this page for ways in which you can help either by donating money, spreading the word or by putting on an event to support 'Go Kids Go!'

From our origins as the Newham Rollers in the 1980’s, we have now expanded to run our courses all across the UK. We equip young wheelchair-users with the skills to become independently mobile thus helping them to achieve their dreams, whatever they may be. We are very proud that three 2012 Paralympic hopefuls - Dan /XFNHU 7RP %URZQ DQG -DFN 6SHQFHU KDYH EHQH¿ WWHG from our training.

Dan Lucker’s Story “I first met the AWC team about 9 years ago. I was only 7 and even at that age was fed up of being pushed around in my wheelchair by my parents. I went along to one of their training courses and by the end of the first day I was amazed at how much I could do myself. I’m 16 now and really believe that their courses really helped me gain the confidence I have today. When you want something in life you really have to go and get it and never let anything hold you back‌.especially your mobility. I started wheelchair racing when I was 12 and am now the under 18 junior world champion in the 100m, 200m, 1500m and 5,000m as well as holding the course record in the Adidas Mini London Marathon. The London 2012 Paralympics is my goal now!! I highly recommend going on one of these courses – if you get half as much out of it as I did, I guarantee you’ll be smiling at the end.â€?

Wee hhe ellp p yyo ou un ng g w wh W he ee ellc chhaai irr--uusseer rss gain inde i liiltt y ep pe ennd deennccee tthhrroouugghh m moobb 'RQDWH WR XV OLQN WR XV RU Âż QG RXW PRUH DERXW RXU FRXUVHV E\ YLVLWLQJ ZZZ ZKHHOFKDLUFKLOGUHQ RUJ XN RU E\ FDOOLQJ

Go Kids Go!

ALL terraiN wheelchairS To go where few have gone before‌ For a free assessment / demonstration or a brochure on any of our products please

Telephone: 01952 504623 Email: info@allterrainwheelchairs.co.uk

www.allterrainwheelchairs.co.uk actionetwork 31

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11/5/09

10:50 AM

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LEST WE FORGET The beginning of the 20th century held great hope for the world. Huge advancements in science and technology meant that the early 1900’s were almost a golden age for inventions and discoveries.

The first transatlantic radio communication, the zip, the aeroplane and even the gasmask – originally intended for mine rescue work – all revealed to an astonished public. But this was still a time of empires and old world Imperial dynasties that still claimed sovereignty over lands and countries far beyond their European borders.

On the 28th of June 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne was on an official visit to Sarajevo with his wife Sophie, when they were both shot and killed by Gavrilo Princip. Although the start of WWI is for the most part attributed to this assassination, the complex wrangling and political alliances that had preceded it meant that some form of armed conflict on a grand scale between the European powers was inevitable.

The Austro-Hungarian Empire was vast in size, stretching from Austria right through to the Balkans and even included a small part of China, however its far eastern European borders butted precariously up to an old adversary, Russia. In order to safeguard their position, a reciprocal alliance with Germany was formed that would come into effect should Russia ever attack either country.

A not dissimilar treaty had also been agreed between Great Britain and France should a hostile power (namely Germany) seek war with either of them. Meanwhile, Britain had promised to go to Belgium’s aid should their neutrality ever be threatened.

As bullish as this appeared, the theory behind this coalition of powers was to actually offset the threat of war, as the immense resources of each side would prevent another from hostilities.

Even though Franz Ferdinand was not particularly popular

IN FL ANDEMcRCrSaeFIELD

by John

ppies blow In Flanders fields the po on row, Between the crosses, row d in the sky That mark our place; an ging, fly The larks, still bravely sin ns below.

Scarce heard amid the gu ys ago We are the Dead. Short da sunset glow, We lived, felt dawn, saw d now we lie Loved and were loved, an In Flanders fields. the foe: Take up our quarrel with s we throw To you from failing hand ld it high.

The torch; be yours to ho who die If ye break faith with us h poppies grow We shall not sleep, thoug

32 actionetwork

at home, his assignation was seized upon, citing that their national pride only assuaged by the invasion and annexing of Serbia as retaliation. A move they hoped would look entirely justified in the eyes of the world and would effectively increase the size of their empire still further.

A catastrophic domino effect followed that plunged the world into the chaos of war as the whole of Europe chose sides and dug in. Within months of its start, the effects of the conflict would be felt worldwide when Great Britain called upon every corner of the British Empire to send troops.

Canada, South Africa, Australia, Bermuda and New Zealand all found themselves caught up in a conflict that would eventually end four years later with the deaths of over twenty million people and the world changed for ever.

The catastrophic effects of WW1 would have repercussions long after it ended, but on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, the war officially came to an end. Believing that such death and destruction would never blight the world again, it became known as the ‘war to end all wars.’ A dreadful irony as some historians believe that it was the way in which the vanquished Germans were treated by the allies and especially the USA that ultimately led to Hitler’s rise in power and the start of WWII.

Armistice Day To mark the official cessation of hostilities on the Western Front, a special day was created know as Armistice Day which commemorates the signing of the armistice between the Allied Forces and Germany. Signed in a train carriage at Rethondes, France the event recognises the official cease-fire in Europe, although hostilities continued for some time in Russia and the Ottoman Empire.

In many countries the event is marked by a national holiday and also goes by several different names such as Veterans Day in the United States and Remembrance Day in many of the former Commonwealth countries. In Great Britain, Armistice Day is marked on the 11th of November with the observance of a 2 minutes silence. However, the main services of remembrance are held on the following Sunday when ceremonies are held at churches and cenotaphs throughout the country.

As is customary, the Queen, together with leading politicians will head a special ceremony at the Cenotaph in Whitehall, London, whilst a Remembrance Day service from Brecon Cathedral will be aired by BBC Radio Wales.

At these events, special wreaths of poppies are offered in remembrance of the men and women of the armed forces that laid down their life for the defence of their country and are invariably organised by the Royal British Legion.

Seen as the official emblem and linked throughout the world with the event, the significance of the poppy has its origins in the very depths of WWI.

BRECON CATHEDRAL 1093 - 1537 - 1923 Founded as a Benedictine Priory in 1093, becoming Brecon’s Parish Church at the dissolution of the monasteries in 1537, raised to Cathedral status in 1923, this is one of the hidden gems of Wales. Open all day every day, here you can see a Celtic font, the flag rescued from the Zulu War in 1879 and William Strutt’s “Peace” painting.

In the beautiful Cathedral Close you will find the excellent Pilgrims Restaurant and a fascinating Heritage Centre.

For further details please contact the Cathedral Office on

01874 623857 or visit our website www.breconcathedral.org.uk

PAGE 32 33

11/5/09

10:51 AM

Page 2

By Malcolm Lee

Journeys of Remembrance since 1927

Poppy Travel is the official travel division of The Royal British Legion. We offer a unique programme of Remembrance and Battlefield Tours which span 250 years of British and Commonwealth history.

Prices start from just £179 per person for 3 days.

For more information or to request a FREE brochure, call 01622 716 729 or email info@poppytravel.org.uk Or visit www.poppytravel.org.uk

Registered Charity No. 219279

Asked to speak at the funeral of a friend, killed by a German artillery shell on the 2nd of May 1915 during the second battle of Ypres, Major John McCrae, a Canadian military doctor was moved to write the harrowing and poignant poem ‘On Flanders Fields.’

The poem opens by mentioning the bright red flowers that grew profusely on the battlefields of Western Europe which symbolised the blood shed by those that gave their life in the Great War. The adoption of the poppy as a symbol of remembrance however is largely due to two women. Moina Michael, a university lecturer from Georgia was so moved by McCrae’s poem that she pledged to ‘keep the faith’ by wearing a red poppy to honour the fallen of The Great War. Not only did she succeed in getting America to officially adopt the poppy, but she also spent the rest of her life helping returning WWI veterans.

The symbolism of the simple red flower had a similar effect on Anna Guerin, a French charity worker who arranged for millions of paper poppies to be made and sold to raise funds for American and French children’s charities. In 1921, she sent her poppy sellers to England where the idea was adopted by Field Marshall Haig, who together with Mr T F Lister was instrumental in founding the Royal British Legion.

British Legion Today, the Royal British Legion is one of the UK’s largest organisations with over 380,000 members. Known as the nation’s custodians of remembrance, the charity raises money for ex service personnel and their dependants as well as fighting for the rights of serving and ex-military personnel.

Although organising fund raising events throughout the year, their annual poppy appeal is without a doubt the most recognised charitable event in the country and runs from late autumn to Remembrance Sunday.

Last year the Royal British Legion raised a staggering £30 million, an unequivocal show of support from a public that still knows the value of their armed forces and appreciates the sacrifice of all those that have given their lives in the defence of their country.

Stand with me!

Do your bit to support the brave Service men and women serving today and those who fought for our freedom.

Please volunteer to help your local 2010 Poppy Appeal.

We can organise times and locations to suit you and you’ll meet lots of other interesting Poppy People!

A heartfelt ‘thank you’ to all our volunteers for the hours you selflessly gave to collect for this year’s Poppy Appeal.

Please call 0800 085 5924 or visit www.poppy.org.uk For o Arme past prese

For our Armed Forces, past and present.

Registered Charity No. 219279

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11/5/09

5:53 PM

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A job for the boys

Working with the under fives is not often considered a job for the boys. But times have changed. The Children’s Workforce Development Council is working to ensure that nurseries and children’s centres across the country are a reflection of our society showing diversity in age, ethnicity and gender.

However, we are still left with a vast gender imbalance of those working with the under fives. According to the latest figures from the DCSF’s Childcare and Early Years Providers Survey; only two per cent of people working with children under the age of five are men. Men are getting more and more involved in the care of their own children but the people working professionally in the early years sector are almost all women – and it’s time the situation changed.

Interaction The first five years of a child’s life are widely recognised as being the most important. These are the years when they will start to learn about the world around them. A large part of this learning process happens when interacting with others. The nation’s youngest children will only have the best possible learning and development opportunities if nurseries and children’s centres reflect our whole society.

This view is supported by parents across the country. National research commissioned by the Children’s Workforce Development Council among parents of nursery-aged chil-

create brighter futures Early Years Professional Status

the early years professional Early Years Professionals (EYPs) are graduates who lead practice within early years settings and will be key in raising the quality of early years provision. The Government aims to have an EYP in every full day care setting by 2015 and one in every Children’s Centre by 2010.

Tribal offers EYPS training at a growing number of locations throughout Greater London, the East and South East regions, with our next intakes for all training Pathways in January and April 2010.

2XU FRXUVHV DUH KLJKO\ ÜH[LEOH DQG FXVWRPLVDEOH DQG FDQ be delivered either at one of our partnership colleges/ institutions or through supported distance and on-line learning Visit our website for more information and to download an application form, or email sarah.dewar@tribalgroup.co.uk

call 0117 983 8800 visit www.eypsattribal.co.uk Please quote ref: AN1009

34 actionetwork

dren shows that fifty-five per cent are keen to have more men caring for their children.

Women, particularly those who are lone parents, are especially keen to provide their child with opportunities to interact with both genders. Sixty-six per cent said that they would like a man to be involved in the care and development of their child.

Over a third of children who are brought up by a female single parent have fewer than six hours of contact time with a man each week - which equates to less than one hour a day. And a further 17 per cent have less than two hours contact per week. Having such little interaction with men can have a significant impact on the development of young children, how they view gender roles and how they interact with the sexes. For these families, nurseries and children’s centres can prove to be an invaluable source of male support and guidance.

Recognising what men can bring to childcare is incredibly important. The majority of parents (57 per cent) believe that men and women have different qualities to offer young children. A significant proportion - 37 per cent say that providing someone for boys to look up to will set a good example and a quarter think that boys will behave better with a man.

Men account for almost half of the population and more than half of parents think that nurseries should better reflect this gender mix. Armed with all these facts and figures, the

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A male influence at an early age is of paramount importance.

case for having more male childcare workers is compelling.

So the question is – what’s keeping them out of nurseries?

Put simply, working in early years has not been considered by men as a typical career option. However, men bring a whole variety of different skills sets and interact with children differently, which can benefit the nation’s youngest.

The Children’s Workforce Development Council is working hard to attract more men into early years work and is making it clear that there are a number of skills early years workers need to possess including patience, creativity and dedication. In turn, early years workers will find major rewards, working in a challenging, stimulating environment with like-minded professionals. At the same time they can bring real benefits to young children, families and the communities that they work with.

Role models Men working in childcare don’t have to be fathers themselves to make a difference to those in their care. What matters is that men are more visible in services for children and in shaping their development. What matters is that there are important role models, both male and female for children at such a crucial stage of their lives.

There are wide ranging roles and responsibilities within the early years sector including childminding and playworking. There is also a new role for early years workers – early years professionals – for those who have achieved Early Years Professional Status, a graduate professional Status for those responsible for leading the learning and development of the under-fives.

For details on Early Years Professional Status log onto www.cwdcouncil.org.uk/eyps

Men into Early Years Settings Are you a male who is interested in becoming an Early Years Practitioner?

Are you still at school and thinking that you might possibly like to be an Early Years Practitioner in the future?

Are you about to graduate or thinking of a career change?

Do • • •

you wish to know more about: becoming an Early Years Practitioner and its rewards and benefits? what it is like to be a male working in an Early Years setting? how to apply and the selection criteria?

For further information please contact Bernice Rawlings on: T: 01707 285713 E: b.rawlings@herts.ac.uk The University encourages applications from under-represented groups.

Early years professional status (EYPS) opens the door to working with young children and their families, improving the quality of day care and helping children achieve their potential. There’s no cost to you as the course is fully funded by the CWDC and the full-time route offers a bursary of £5,000.

‘To any men considering EYPS – don’t be put off by the fact that there are more females. If it’s something you really want to do, there is a lot of support available’.

David Yates, Full training pathway, 12 months.

Men into Early Years Education, February 2010 Two days of fun and food for thought about your future career plans.

Visit

www.shu.ac.uk/eyps for further details and booking information.

www.shu.ac.uk/ad/radiotherapy actionetwork 35

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It’s not hard to see what makes GSK such an attractive prospect to graduates. Our pipeline is widely regarded as the strongest in the industry. We’ve made an unprecedented investment in global manufacturing and development. Our consumer product portfolio is charted for continued expansion. We’ve established successful collaborations with some of the most prestigious academic institutions in the world. And to top it all, every year we screen about 65 million compounds, make over 4 billion packs of medicines and healthcare products and supply one quarter of the world’s vaccines.

It doesn’t matter what your career goals may be. So long as you’re capable, have personal drive and intellectual curiosity, we’ll support your continued learning and development, giving you every

36 actionetwork

opportunity to enable personal and professional success. We recruit across a wide range of our businesses from Global Manufacturing & Supply, Consumer Healthcare R&D and Pharmaceutical R&D for graduates with a degree in: • Life Sciences • Chemistry • Maths and Statistics • Engineering: Chemical, Mechanical, Automation, Electrical Join us in our mission to help people around the world live longer, happier and healthier lives.

Imagine just how satisfying success can be when your academic preparation is paired with a passion to improve the lives of millions.To learn more about opportunities at GSK please visit www.gsk.com/uk-students

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Growing the Life Sciences Sector in Scotland – BUT WHAT WILL IT TAKE? The impact of the Scottish Life Science Advisory Board (LiSAB), and success stories from across the sector have been highlighted at October's Life Sciences Forum and Dinner in Edinburgh.

The work of LiSAB was showcased to date, along with aspirations for future delivery of the Life Sciences Scotland Strategy, providing another opportunity for industry to engage and input to this process. ABPI SCOTLAND, BIA SCOTLAND and Scottish Enterprise hosted the event, with an audience of CEOs and other senior management.

Highlights of the Life Sciences Forum included a panel discussion with the LiSAB Workstream Champions, and presentations from a range of companies on their successes and opportunities in this changing life sciences environment. The workstream Champions (experts developing LiSAB policies) who took part in the panel discussion were for Capital, Collaboration, People, Infrastructure and Technology. A Reception and Dinner followed the Forum at Edinburgh Castle, where Joe Fitzpatrick MSP of the Scottish Parliament Cross Party for Life Sciences was the keynote speaker.

The importance of collaboration in the sector was further highlighted by the recent announcement of the launch of Life Sciences Scotland Connections, which provided a co-ordinated view of

the country's life sciences communications, achievements and activities. Its members were drawn from industry, academia, the health service and wider public sector, and it promoted the exchange of information and good practice as part of the Scottish Life Sciences Strategy.

Nicola Sturgeon MSP, Scotland's Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing, and Deputy First Minister, welcomed continued collaboration within the sector. She said: "Scotland's life sciences industry employs more than 30,000 people, contributes £3billion to our economy, and is a key area of future growth. It is based on our world famous scientific heritage and more medical research is carried out per head of population in Scotland than anywhere else in Europe. The Scottish Government is determined to further enhance this enviable reputation for excellence.

Life Sciences Scotland Connections is an innovative project which will ensure all those working in the life sciences sector will be able to share information and network more easily. This will help to attract further investment in this dynamic sector which, through the research it supports, brings direct benefits to patients in Scotland and the wider world."

ABPI Scotland Director, Andy Powrie-Smith, noted that the recent joint event is another demonstration of the shared vision for a thriv-

ing life sciences sector in Scotland: "To make the most of Scotland's potential we need to ensure that ours is a country that champions innovation within life sciences and the NHS. One of Scotland's key strengths is the work being done by people coming together across our own sector and alongside policymakers. Getting these collaborations right is vital to the long-term health and wealth of our sector – and the people we serve."

Wealth Sarah Goulding, Acting Director of BIA Scotland noted: "There is a wealth of life sciences expertise in Scotland, giving the industry a strong commercial footing for continued growth. The Life Sciences Forum and Dinner enables us to highlight success in the sector and to discuss future strategy and we welcome the launch of Life Sciences Scotland Connections as part of this."

Rhona Allison, Senior Director, Life Sciences, Scottish Enterprise, added: "The implementation of the industry-led Life Sciences Scotland strategy is delivering many success stories for Scotland.

The Life Sciences Forum and Dinner provides a great opportunity to highlight and discuss progress to date and to build on recent developments, such as the launch of Life Sciences Scotland Connections."

College of Life Sciences and Medicine GRADUATE SCHOOL

50 FULLY-FUNDED PHD STUDENTSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR OCTOBER 2010 The Graduate School at Aberdeen has a strong research culture in which students experience innovation and challenge with some of the world's finest scientists. We offer a dynamic postgraduate opportunity within a supportive environment which includes excellence in transferable skills training.

Aberdeen performed outstandingly in the UK's most recent Research Assessment Exercise (RAE2008) with 89% of research activity assessed as international quality and 55% is 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent'. In recognition of this the Scottish Funding Council increased Aberdeen's research grant for 2009/10 by 27%. This is by far the highest percentage increase given to any Scottish research-intensive university.

A number of the studentships are awarded on a competitive basis with the projects designed by students.

We have an extensive network of expertise including: ● molecular and cell biology research in a variety of fields with particular strengths in Bone and Musculoskeletal Biology, Cell and Developmental Biology, Immunology, Microbiology, Neuroscience and Systems Biology; ● health services research including large-scale multicentre randomised trials cohort studies, health economic research, health services research, and health technology assessment in a range of clinical areas e.g. pain, cancer, CHD, drug misuse. ● public health, international health and pharmacy practice ● biological and environmental sciences, including major programmes in integrative physiology, terrestrial and marine ecology, and biological interactions in soils; ● nutritional research to pursue cutting edge science aimed at preventing disease and improving health through good nutrition; ● Cognition, Health and Industrial Psychology, Neuropsychology and Social Cognitive Neuroscience.

Funding for our studentships are at the UK/EU rate.

For further details on all studentships and the application process please contact: http://www.abdn.ac.uk/clsm/graduateschool/prospective/index.php Email: graduateschool-clsm@abdn.ac.uk Tel: +44 (0) 1224 559970

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ENGINEERING a way out of recession Engineering is among the hardest-hit sectors in the current economic downturn. But the Higher Education Funding Council for England has come up with some cash for some vital reskilling.

The jobs pages are getting marginally fatter and businesses have noticed cashflow getting a little more fluid, rather than stuck like glue. The economy might be tentatively on the up. However, for many people, the minor resurgence might be too late. Redundancy notices have been dispatched, desks cleared and stationery cupboards raided by aggrieved ex-employees in almost every sector.

The automotive industry in particular has been adversely affected. This leaves a number of highly skilled engineers high and dry and unable to make the move into other areas of engineering that might have a skills gap.

Luckily, someone is listening. The Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) has this year launched a new fund that should enable higher education to respond quickly to the needs of employers and individuals during the economic downturn. The Economic Challenge Investment Fund (ECIF) is a £50m scheme that is inviting universities and colleges in England to help people through the recession.

Through the ECIF, universities and colleges can provide tailored training, development and professional support to vulnerable groups such as engineers. The fund consists of £25 million provided by HEFCE – whose remit is to distribute public money to higher edu-

cation for teaching and research – with matched funding from institutions.

Said Professor David Eastwood, Chief Executive of HEFCE: "With the support of our employer-engagement programme, HEFCE is already investing £148 million in higher education to increase capacity and capability to deliver workforce development activities for employers over the long term.

"The new initiative is designed to meet urgent and short-term economic challenges facing individuals (whether in work or unemployed), new graduates and businesses. We are looking particularly to help small and medium enterprises.

"Higher education has never been closer to business. The strong links developed over the past few years put universities and colleges in an excellent position to make a flexible response to current economic challenges at a time when it is vital that we continue to invest in enterprise and skills."

So how can the fund help engineers? The main idea is to provide access to internships, training and professional development for those affected by the downturn. Projects began in April 2009 and the scheme has a total life of 18 months. The funding is supporting schemes across the whole of industry, but many projects are specifically geared to the engineering sector.

"Universities and colleges have responded promptly and impressively to the Economic Challenge Investment Fund and are implementing new strands of activity to support individuals and employers across all industrial sectors," said David Sweeney, HEFCE's Director of Research, Innovation and Skills. "The programme of activity is varied and imaginative, and responds to local need across the country."

Funding pledge

Chemring Industrial Secondment Award The Academy provides funding to enable engineering academics to gain hands-on industrial experience at Chemring Defence UK Ltd. • • • • • •

Work on the review and improvement of Powder processing and handling Acquire updated knowledge of current industrial practice in the handling and dispensing of raw material powders and mixed/granulated compositions Improve the quality and industrial relevance of teaching Develop new case studies and course material Create a source for student projects Develop long-term links and collaboration with industry

Contact Dr Imren Markes Manager, Industrial Secondments and Visiting Fellowships Tel: 020 7766 0600 and 020 7766 0615 E-mail: imren.markes@raeng.org.uk http://www.raeng.org.uk/research/univ/secondment/chemring

The Chemring Industrial Secondment award has been made possible through the generosity of Chemring Group Plc.

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A number of universities have pledged their share of the funding to helping the engineering sector. For example, Cranfield University, which received £480,000, is aiming to reskill unemployed STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) qualified people to enter other business sectors. The university is also training workers in troubled industries to help make them more valuable to their employers and keep their jobs. All learning is relevant to the future of the economy and skills are focused on manufacturing management and the water industry.

Until September 2010, the university’s School of Applied Sciences is offering free places on selected reskilling short courses. Cranfield says that attending the short courses should help eligible people secure employment with a new employer, and will help those looking for a career change to find employment in a new sector.

Companies can use the initiative to support the staff redeployment.

Those who are currently unemployed, expect to be made redundant or are on reduced-time working arrangements with their present employer due to the current economic downturn, are invited to apply. The university says that the number of funded places is limited to 140 and two courses per individual. Delegates receive free fee places but are expected to pay for their own accommodation, travel costs and subsistence.

"Cranfield has been awarded a grant of nearly £500,000 to allow individuals who are redundant or at risk of redundancy to access our world-leading Continuing Professional Development programme," said Professor Clifford Friend, Cranfield's Deputy Vice-Chancellor, talking to The Engineer journal.

"These range from reskilling within utility sectors through to management and manufacturing programmes. Our ECIF funding also allows companies under pressure due to the current economic downturn to take advantage of reduced costs for reskilling

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By Nigel Graber their personnel. In particular, we aim to assist SMEs, who the government expects to form the basis of high growth and innovation when the economic upturn occurs. These companies range from small owner-managed businesses to medium-sized companies, mainly based in the South of England."

Cranfield's School of Management has enrolled around a dozen people on the Business Growth Programme for owner-managed SMEs, and the special Fellowship of Manufacturing Management (FMM) programme is catering for two dozen, improving their manufacturing management skills and directing their input into the change and product-development programme of partner companies such as Advance Heating Designs, Eco Sustainable Solutions and Robertet UK.

Threat of redundancy Birmingham City University, meanwhile, received £300,000 for short-course CPD modules and change-management programmes to companies in the steel, manufacturing and engineering design, construction, automotive, aerospace and utilities sectors. The courses aim to build awareness of state-of-the art process-improvement and environmental technologies.

At Brunel University, a £500,000 award is being spent on a programme that focuses on the automotive and manufacturing sectors, in particular research studentships for engineers at Jaguar who are under threat of redundancy, with matched funding from business.

Universities Secretary John Denham said, "Our higher-education sector is well placed to support employers and employees through these challenging economic times and prepare for the upturn when it comes. I'm pleased to see that HEFCE are responding by using their available resources to enable institutions to provide further help to deal with the consequences of the current economic climate and lay the foundations for the future."

You can find out more about HEFCE at www.hefce.ac.uk

Discover

new professional horizons The Faculty of Technology, Engineering and the Environment delivers a wide range of courses that enable students to develop the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in our technology driven society.

School of Engineering, Design and Manufacturing Systems

School of Property, Construction and Planning

Our engineering courses are accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) providing important stepping stones towards Chartered Engineer status.

Our courses are recognised by industry for the quality of their provision; all courses are accredited by at least one of six professional bodies, including the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Association of Building Engineers (ABE).

Subjects available at postgraduate and undergraduate level include: • Logistics • Supply Chain Management • Project Management • Quality Management • Automotive Engineering • Motorsports Technology • Mechanical Engineering

Subjects available at postgraduate and undergraduate level include: • Building Surveying • Quantity Surveying • Estates Management • Property and Construction • Architectural Technology • Construction Quantity Surveying • Planning Development

T: 0121 331 6400 E: enquiries@tee.bcu.ac.uk www.bcu.ac.uk/tee

The Engineering Subject Centre is one of the 24 subject centres that form the subject network of the Higher Education Academy. It provides subject based learning and teaching support for all engineering academics in the UK. Our mission is to work in partnership with the UK engineering community to provide the best possible higher education learning experience for all students and contribute to the long term health of the engineering profession.

This mission is achieved through our strategic aims: ■ Sharing effective practice Facilitating departmental change ■ Informing and influencing policy Promoting engineering and education research ■ Championing teaching ■

■

Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers: The Engineering Education Conference EE2010 at Aston University 6 - 8 July 2010 For details visit www.ee2010.info

For further information visit

www.engsc.ac.uk or telephone 01509 227170 email enquiries@engsc.ac.uk actionetwork 39

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NECR For engineering and construction professionals looking to kick-start their careers or climb the next step on the career ladder, the 2009 National Engineering and Construction Exhibition (NECR) offers a host of excellent opportunities.

Held at the NEC from 27th to 28th November, the NECR offers free entry plus access to the best industry recruiters, job-seeking tools - like free CV and interview clinics – and great careers advice.

Job hunters will be delighted with the array of free presentations throughout both days of the exhibition, with leading UK firms providing excellent careers advice and information on opportunities at the UK's leading engineering and construction companies.

CV clinic Presentations will focus on getting started in that dream job, including perfecting CVs, interview preparation, effective interview skills, selling yourself, and many more. Engineers can find out how the application process works for recruiters, what company cultures are like and how to get their CV to the top of the pile.

With that in mind, there's also a great CV Clinic on site at the NEC that can help job seekers set out their CVs to ensure they get noticed and get that all-important interview. Offering one-on-one CV consultations, The Write Stuff is an independent consultancy that creates professional, individually tailored CVs. The company offers CV guidance and advice to graduates, jobseekers and those changing careers, covering all levels and all industry sectors.

Just the Job for Engineers The Write Stuff can also help with other aspects of the job search, including covering letters and personal statements, application forms, psychometric testing and interview coaching. The company has a friendly, professional, can-do approach, and an unsurpassed success rate. For anyone signing up to The Write Stuff's services at the CV Clinic at NECR, a healthy 25% discount is available on current published fees.

To further boost the job hunting, there's also a Careers Advice and Interview Clinic. The clinic is organised into half-hour group sessions and comprises practical advice on interview techniques and how to put across the qualities that recruiters are looking for.

Places are limited and these sessions are sure to be popular, so the advice is to book early.

But for most people, the main draw of the NECR is the opportunity to meet the country's top construction and engineering employers that come to the event to recruit new staff.

These include Rolls-Royce, a global business providing power systems for use on land, at sea and in the air. The group offers excellent opportunities in the civil and defence aerospace, marine and energy markets. Engineers are vital to Rolls-Royce in every phase of the company's projects, from initial business specification and design right through to product development, manufacturing and in-service support.

Engineers ensure delivery of products and projects are to time, budget and to customer expectations. With over 7,000 of them in 18 sites, in eight countries, in 21 engineering disciplines, the company has plenty of opportunities, from highly-specialised positions to more broad-based engineering roles.

Jaguar Land Rover will also be recruiting. The company, which produces vehicles that are among the best in the world, says that it is looking for the best people: those who can become future leaders in an organisation that leads the way. The company has graduate opportunities in Product Development and Manufacturing Engineering, Finance, IT, Marketing Sales and Service, HR and Purchasing.

BAE Systems

▲ Presentation is everything if you are to attract that dream job.

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Another major presence at NECR is BAE Systems Submarine Solutions, based in the North West, South East and South West of England. The company is looking for engineers to design, manufacture and commission nuclear submarines, an undertaking it describes as being 'like no other' – with competing demands for high performance and a long service life in the deep ocean.

The Royal Navy will also have a stand, showcasing vacancies for engineer officers. These are the people who operate and develop equipment for warships, submarines and aircraft. As well as an attractive lifestyle, a career with the RN also promises accredited training and professional status. Salaries reach £34,000 after two years, and graduate engineers could be in line for a Golden Hello of £12,000.

A great feature of the event is the regular University Challenge competition. Here, teams from different universities compete against each other for the chance to win £750. They will be asked to design, build and test an invention that will test their engineering minds to the limit.

Taking part in University Challenge is an excellent way to show off teamworking skills and technical knowledge to leading recruiters. It's also a fantastic feature to add to a CV, especially as a winner, which offers a head start in the competitive job market.

The University Challenge is just one way to get the most out of the NECR, and organisers offer a few simple guidelines on other ways to do just that. With so much to do and so many free opportunities, job hunters are advised to plan their time before arrival

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By Nigel Graber and to sign up for EngineerMail, an e-mail service offering up-tothe-minute information on the event.

Other tips include dressing to impress, making sure conversations at the NECR are relevant, reading up and researching potential employers, and being proactive and keen. Job hunters are also advised to ask questions, to sell themselves, create the right impression and to be the 'perfect candidate' by finding out what exhibitors are looking for and tailoring responses appropriately.

The NECR is supported by The Daily Telegraph and The Sunday Telegraph, which are the leading national commentators on the engineering and construction industry, providing the ideal media to promote the exhibition.

Pre-show guide The newspapers advertise the event in the two months before each show, and offer a dedicated four-page pre-show guide containing the profiles of all the exhibitors involved, plus editorial and advertising. This enables visitors to research and prepare before meeting potential recruiters at the event.

Jason Miller, Project Manager of the NECR, is upbeat about the role of the NECR. Speaking at the NECR's Spring exhibition this year, he said: "There is tremendous buoyancy and confidence in the industry, not gloom. With so many successful and prominent organisations recruiting, there is every reason to be optimistic. This exhibition provides an indispensable opportunity for those planning or researching their next career move.

"The range of advice and services available mean that a visit to NECR will be one of the most valuable and productive days of the year, and one that could see attendees successfully taking the next step in their career."

You can find out more about the National Engineering and Construction Exhibition from the website at www.engineerjobs.co.uk.

Postgraduate Taught Courses at Cardiff School of Engineering Commencing September 2010 • • • • • • • • • •

MSc in Civil Engineering

• MSc in Civil Engineering MSc in Geoenvironmental Engineering • MSc in Geoenvironmental Engineering MSc in Structural Engineering • MSc in Structural Engineering MSc in Environmental Water Engineering • MSc in Water Engineering in Magnetics • MScMSc in Data and Information Fusion MSc in Electrical Energy Systems • MSc in Electronic Engineering in Communication Engineering and Signal Processing • MScMSc in Clinical Engineering in Clinical Engineering • MScMSc in Orthopaedic Engineering (surgeons only) MSc in Orthopaedic Engineering (surgeons only) • MSc in Sustainable Energy and Environment MSc in Sustainable Energy and Environment

The above MSc programmes are available in either full-time or part-time modes of study (1 year full-time, 2 or 3 years part-time).

They are ideal for engineers or those in engineering related professions wishing to upgrade their qualifications to postgraduate level. All programmes involve two semesters of lectures and coursework followed by a dedicated period for a project and dissertation. The entry requirements are generally an upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) from a British or recognised university. Applicants with relevant professional experience will also be considered.

For further information on all courses please either email: SummersC@cardiff.ac.uk or visit our website at: www.cardiff.ac.uk/engineering.

CALLING ALL OF NATURE’S GREAT PERFORMERS.

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A FLAGSHIP EVENT FOR BIOSCIENCE BioWales is the flagship event for a life sciences industry that involves over 220 companies, employs over 15,000 people and contributes over £1.3bn to the Welsh economy. The event is back in 2010 with a conference, brokerage event and exhibition that showcases the bioscience sector in Wales to an international, commercial and academic audience of over 400 delegates.

BioWales 2010 to be held at the Vale Hotel, Golf and Spa Resort near Cardiff on March 17 and 18 is in its eighth year, growing from a stand-alone conference to an international event. Comprising of a major exhibition and a biopartnering section, which has been expanded to allow even more than the 325 one-to-one meetings that took place this year.

The venue, Vale Hotel, is a world-class resort with luxurious four-star accommodation boasting two championship golf courses, Wales’s largest health spa and exceptional sporting facilities. In short, it’s one of the UK’s most desirable leisure, conference and team-building

FIVE MAIN THEMES: THE 2010 CONFERENCE HASfor drug development ation Stem cells industrialis y rap and the re diagnostics research ● Point of ca ● Translational tics ● Futurewatch ● Cancer Gene

●

destinations, and one of the few that can do justice to such a prestigious event.

Event project manager Dr. Sharon Thomas said: "We've assembled a high quality programme of speakers from some major companies and academic institutions. BioWales 2010 will also feature a vibrant trade fair and purposeful brokerage event. The BioPartnering event at BioWales has a proven track record in bringing people together in technical match ups to do business. It creates a real buzz of networking and deal making, resulting in direct business, and that has to be good news for this sector in Wales."

Sector The Welsh life sciences sector involves over 320 companies located throughout Wales, employing over 15,000 people and contributing over £1.3bn to the Welsh economy. Big sector names include 3M, Siemens, Dow Corning and GE. The sector covers everything from medical technology to agri-environmental and food, and from medical and industrial biotechnology to drug discovery.

Opening BioWales 2009, Welsh Assembly Government First Minister Rhodri Morgan AM said: "Bioscience will be a key strategic industry for the future of Wales and is already an increasingly important part of the Welsh economy. Wales is in an ideal position to exploit the growing need for research and development into life sciences. The Assembly Government is determined not only to highlight the excellent work already being carried out here, but also encourage more companies to establish their bases in Wales."

IBP

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Find out if you are at risk. We can help.

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Ffoniwch ni ar / Call us on 0845 988 1188* neu ewch i www.asiantaeth-amgylchedd.gov.uk/floodline *mae galwadau BT yn costio hyd at 2c/funud plws 6c o ffi sefydlu o’ch cartref.

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y? tr is m e h C r o s ic ys h P s, th a M Interested in teaching

Looking for a programme that is flexible and convenient?

One you can do anytime, anyplace, anywhere?

You’re looking for iTeach, the national, online, interactive PGCE programme (leading to QTS) that enables students to train as Maths, Physics or Chemistry teachers anywhere in England. Two start dates each year – April and October and bursaries of £13,800 are available. ✓ iTeach replicates a face-to-face learning experience and provides a route into teaching for those who may not be able to access conventional PGCE routes. ✓ iTeach is an integrated programme so the online training course and the school based experience complement each other effectively. ✓ iTeach allows flexibility and independence in study and enables learners to engage with the programme regardless of their domestic, economic, geographic or occupational circumstances.

Want to know more?

For further information and an application form, visit our website: www.iteach.ac.uk

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