Teachers' Resource - Autumn 2017 by DC Publishing

Resource www.teachersresource.co.uk

AUTUMN 2017

Teachers’

IN THE CLASSROOM • PROFESSIONAL LEARNING • PUPIL SUPPORT • AFTER HOURS

A SOLUTION FOR THE FUTURE What’s going on in Scotland’s schools to get pupils into STEM

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Become an examiner with Cambridge Cambridge International Examinations is growing and over 10000 schools in more than 160 countries are now part of our Cambridge learning community. To support our continued growth worldwide, we are inviting teachers to develop their professional experience by becoming Cambridge examiners. We are welcoming new examiners for our Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge O Level, Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses. Requirements are: • applicants should have teaching experience and be educated to degree level • successful applicants will require a PC and broadband to allow them to access Cambridge on-screen marking systems. We offer: • a powerful insight into the teaching and assessment of Cambridge qualifications • support in developing your own professional practice • the highest standards of training and support • freelance opportunities, based on contracts for services for each examination series, which fit around your existing commitments.

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Editor’s Letter Autumn 2017

Hello and welcome to the autumn issue of Teachers’ Resource! PUBLISHER

Denise Connelly denise@dcpublishing.co.uk

EDITOR

Lindsay Cochrane lindsay.cochrane@dcpublishing.co.uk

STAFF WRITER

Lorne Gillies lorne.gillies@dcpublishing.co.uk

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION

Lucy Baillie lucy.baillie@dcpublishing.co.uk

PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

Lisa McCabe lisa.mccabe@dcpublishing.co.uk

SALES

Karen MacKenzie karen.mackenzie@dcpublishing.co.uk

www.teachersresource.co.uk @ResourceMagScot DC Publishing Ltd 198 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4HG Tel: 0844 249 9007 ©DC Publishing Ltd 2017. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any way without prior written permission from the publisher. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of DC Publishing Ltd. The publisher takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers within the publication. Every effort has been made to ensure that information is accurate; while dates and prices are correct at time of going to print, DC Publishing Ltd takes no responsibility for omissions and errors.

The holidays are now a distant memory, but a brand new term full of potential is almost enough to make up for those endless days of summer – and there’s plenty in this issue of Resource to get you inspired for the weeks ahead. Kicking things off, we’ve got a special focus on STEM, and what’s going on to help schools ignite some enthusiasm in science, technology, engineering and maths amongst pupils – it’s an ever-growing industry, so definitely worth their time! We’ve also been taking a glimpse at how some of the world’s leading education systems work, and a Scots teacher who’s taken her career to Mexico has been sharing how her job differs on page 25. We’ve also been exploring school trips overseas, with one sixth year pupil sharing her experience from a trip to New York and Washington DC with her school. Also this issue, we’ve been discovering how teachers can help pupils struggling with their mental health, and how to make mental health a part of discussion for the whole school – check it out on page 15. It’s not all work, though – we’ve got a roundup of some of the best discounts for teachers this issue (no more over-priced flights in the school holidays!), Bake Off star Nadiya Hussain has been sharing a recipe from her latest book, and we’ve got a fantastic giveaway – you could be off to Fairmont St Andrews on page 29. So off you go – get stuck in! As ever, if there’s anything you’d like more of, or if you have a story to share, just get in touch using the details on the left. We’d love to hear from you.

GET SOCIAL

Until next time,

Lindsay Cochrane, Editor

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Teachers’ Resource // Summer Autumn2017 2017

21/08/2017 09:27

What’s Inside PUPIL SUPPORT

AFTER HOURS

15 WHAT’S ON YOUR MIND?

Autumn 2017 6

26 THE BEST TEACHER DISCOUNTS

There’s no denying that mental health is becoming a bigger issue for young people today thanks to extra pressure in their lives – so how can schools support their pupils, and help fight the stigma still attached to issues like depression and anxiety? We caught up with charity See Me to find out.

Teachers often pay a premium on lots of services due to the school holidays – but did you know you could be eligible for a few different discounts to help your wages go further? We round up some of the best.

20 LET’S TALK ABOUT SEXTS

Sexting has the potential to be very dangerous for young people – so how can schools tackle it? We found out more from the NSPCC.

30 THE RESOURCE RECIPE

This issue, GBBO star Nadiya Hussain shares a finger-lickin’ good recipe from her latest collection.

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING

9 SCOTTISH LEARNING FESTIVAL 2017

We offer five very good reasons to check out this year’s Scottish Learning Festival at the SEC in Glasgow.

10 TEACHING WORLDWIDE

Finland and China often top the league tables when it comes to education – so what are they doing to help their pupils excel? We offer a glimpse of their different approaches to education.

6 INSPIRING STEM LEARNERS

Scotland is famous for its innovation in science, technology, engineering and maths – but with interest waning amongst today’s young learners, what can you do to boost their enthusiasm? We got some insight from the experts.

12 LEARNING ON TOUR

We found out about educational opportunities overseas, with one current sixth year pupil reflecting on the impact of her school trip to New York and Washington DC in the summer.

22 SPOTLIGHT ON THEATRE

How can your local theatre boost your pupils’ educational – and personal – experiences? We caught up with three leading Scottish theatres to find out.

Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017

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25 TEACHING ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD

PIC: ©CHRIS TERRY, 2017

IN THE CLASSROOM

One Scots teacher shares her professional experience since moving to Mexico.

WIN

The school year may have only just started, but you deserve a treat. Turn to page 29 to be in with a chance of winning a break at Fairmont St Andrews.

OVER TO YOU…

Teachers’ Resource is nothing without its readers – so we want to know what’s going on in your school. Whether you’ve got a teacher displaying innovative practice, you’ve taken pupils on an exciting excursion or you’re embracing the curriculum in new and exciting ways, we want to hear about it. This is a great opportunity to shout about what makes your school great – and to inspire educators across the country. So get in touch now – email editor@teachersresource.co.uk with the details and a member of the team will be in touch.

www.teachersresource.co.uk

21/08/2017 09:32

IN THE CLASSROOM

IN ASSOCIATION WITH FOOD STANDARDS SCOTLAND

Boost your health and wellbeing lessons with these new resources from Food Standards Scotland

Food Standards Scotland introduces new teaching resources

MORE INFORMATION

which describe 134 different foods in terms of healthy eating, food safety, food shopping and cooking. Other food safety activities are based around digital interactives and some have downloadable resources as a basis for the learning. Within each activity teachers can find information about CfE experiences and outcomes, learning intentions/success criteria, resources required, assessment opportunities, crosscurricular links and ideas for differentiation - where additional support or challenge may be needed. The activities can easily be incorporated into teaching plans, and the Homelink activity for each stage can be used to encourage pupils to share their learning with their parents/carers. FSS will be at the Scottish Learning Festival, 20th-21st September at the Glasgow SECC. At stand F35, representatives will be on hand to talk through all the resources and support they have for teachers.

Activities for S1 to S3 Storage Solutions

Explore correct conditions for safe and hygienic food storage using our new interactive storage resource.

Allergen Action

Learn about different food allergens and how to recognise them on food labels. Includes an allergen fact sheet.

Bacteria Busters

Find out how and where bacteria grow in the kitchen and reduce the risk of this happening using our new kitchen interactive resource.

Market it!

Research the role of brands and how they are used to market food.

Sugar Detectives

Learn about how sugar affects your health and the levels in different drinks using our information sheet on sugar levels in drinks.

Four Seasons

Explore the seasonality of foods and plan, prepare and cook a healthy meal using food currently in season.

Adapt it

Increase awareness of the Scottish Dietary Goals link with the Eatwell Guide, which includes a Scottish Dietary Goals hand-out explaining the reasons behind the Goals and an activity on the FSS situation report - The Scottish Diet: It needs to change.

✃

ood Standards Scotland is pleased to introduce a new range of online educational resources which are now available on their website. Developed in partnership with teachers, the resources assist with teaching healthy eating and food safety for pupils up to S3. These progressive, activitybased resources include crosscurricular ideas, making them relevant to many other subject areas, and support the Health and Wellbeing area of the Curriculum for Excellence to deliver motivated learning. Activities can be selected by stage and topic or CfE Experiences and Outcomes. There are ideas for support and extension within each activity so they can be adapted for different levels where more support or challenge may be required. Each topic area is linked to teachers’ background notes on making healthier choices, food safety, food allergies and food labelling. Some activities use food cards

To find out more and to access all our online resources visit foodstandards.gov.scot/teachers.

www.teachersresource.co.uk

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Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017

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INSPIRING STEM LEARNERS Scotland has always had a solid reputation in science, technology, engineering and maths – but as pupils write off STEM as ‘boring’, what can teachers do to re-engage youngsters with the subjects that keep the country moving? We asked the experts

Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017

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IN THE CLASSROOM

cotland is the country that gave the world the television, penicillin, and even Dolly the sheep. STEM innovation runs through our veins – yet teachers are struggling to get young Scots to take an interest in STEM subjects, in high school and beyond. For years, teachers of STEM subjects have had a hard time engaging learners, even starting at primary level. Many teens believe that science, technology, engineering and maths are too hard, too boring, too dull, too uncool – that they just don’t apply to them. After all, when are you going to need to find out the area of a triangle in real life? “At one time, STEM was very much focused at high school, and the thing about high school is that by then you’ve already decided what’s cool, what’s not, what’s hard, what’s easy,” explains Jenni Doonan, founder of Young Engineers and Science Clubs Scotland. “The other thing is that we’re very good at making the engineering side seem incredibly difficult, and only A-grade students go do it. A slightly less confident child might make a pre-judgement that they’re not smart enough or it’s not for them.”

PUSH

What young learners don’t realise, however, is that STEM is everywhere – and there’s a real push to get more young people embracing it. The Scottish government’s STEM Strategy, which was published last November, seeks to improve levels of STEM enthusiasm, skills and knowledge across the country in order to raise attainment and aspirations in learning, life and work, as well as encouraging uptake of more specialist STEM skills required to gain employment. The Strategy encourages schools to form links between schools and industry, encourage young people to get into areas experiencing a skills shortage, to work to close the gender gap and deprivation gap, and overall boost the profile of STEM – getting more young people studying STEM subjects. With STEM jobs twice as likely to go unfilled, and a UK-wide shortage of 1.8 million engineers, there’s a real need for young people with an interest in STEM to build on that and get into the workplace.

INSPIRED

One organisation stepping up to support teachers is STEM Ambassadors. The UK-wide organisation, funded by the UK government, has a bank of volunteers working in STEM who are all ready and www.teachersresource.co.uk

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“When it’s someone that’s not their teacher, it’s someone that’s living and breathing it, they can relate that to what it is they’re doing and their day-to-day job” willing to go into schools and talk about their jobs, help with particular teaching points, and – above all – get our young people inspired and excited about STEM. “The STEM Ambassadors programme is there to help inspire young people in STEM subjects,” explains Kevin McKeevar of STEM East, the organisation which oversees the programme in the east of Scotland. “STEM Ambassadors cross all ages and backgrounds. As well as trying to inspire young people to get into science, technology engineering and maths, the programme exists to try and support teachers in the classroom as well. That might be by explaining current applications of STEM in industry or in research.” STEM East currently have 1,500 volunteers – all of whom are background checked – signed up to help out. They range from Modern Apprentices to people studying PhDs, individuals with decades of experience in scientific research to newly qualified electrical engineers. They can help deliver lessons, give talks on their job, help out at ‘speed dating’-style careers events – the opportunities are endless. There are also branches operating in the west and north, so the whole country is covered.

REAL LIFE

Jenni, who herself has a master’s in space engineering and spent 15 years building satellites, says that children and young people really benefit from seeing real industry experts bringing what can often be quite dry material to life. Young Engineers work primarily with primary school-age pupils, running workshops where Lego and K’Nex are used to build different devices – and link it back to real-life examples. “We also provide what’s called ‘skills for learning, life and work’,” she explains. “We try and emulate a corporate environment on a simple scale. We talk about teamwork and project management and scheduling and time management and all the kinds of things that a young person would ultimately see when they go into the workplace. We’re able to bring that practical element into school – it’s not just

a case of ‘let’s learn maths’, or ‘let’s learn physics’. It shows how it applies in the real world.”

SUCCESS

Of course, STEM success isn’t just about putting experts in front of pupils. STEM Ambassadors also help schools to set up lunchtime and after-school STEM clubs, from coding groups to young engineer clubs. These cover different areas and practical experiments that maybe aren’t a part of the syllabus for what they’re doing in class – but give more insight into the practical application of STEM. And it’s seen huge success. “It was just a few years ago that Woodmill High School in Dunfermline – a quite hard-to-reach school – had national success which was recognised down at the House of Lords at the STEMNET Awards,” Kevin says. “The club has really gone from strength to strength. They actually have a waiting list now.” With teacher workloads only increasing, and careers services in schools being hit by budget cuts, both Kevin and Jenni agree that calling in the experts is a great move for teachers keen to boost STEM’s profile – and it helps you keep your lessons up-to-date and in-line with what’s going on in industry too. “I think that’s one of the most important things, that real-life context,” Kevin says. “Why is it I’m learning that in the classroom? What relevance does that have to me? When it’s someone that’s not their teacher, it’s someone that’s living and breathing it, they can relate that to what it is they’re doing and their day-to-day job. It opens up a world of possibilities for young people.”

FIND OUT MORE STEM East www.stemeast.org.uk STEM Ambassadors www.stem.org.uk/stem-ambassadors Young Engineers and Science Clubs Scotland www.yecscotland.co.uk

Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017

17/08/2017 15:18

IN THE CLASSROOM

IN ASSOCIATION WITH ENGINEERING IN MOTION

INSPIRING STUDENTS WITH INNOVATION AND APPLICATION Looking for new and exciting ways to get your pupils thinking about STEM? Engineering in Motion have got some fantastic programmes on offer to get your students thinking outside the box when it come to science, technology, engineering and maths

ngaging students in STEM subjects is tricky. Thankfully, Engineering in Motion has it covered in the form of two initiatives: the Land Rover 4x4 in Schools Technology Challenge and F1 in Schools STEM Challenge. The challenges are both split into three classes: Entry (free to enter), Development and Professional (both just £75 to enter). It sounds simple, but the breadth of science and engineering employed along the way is where the challenge lies…

4x4 in Schools kick starts engineering passion

Inspiring the next generation of engineers with the practical challenge of designing and building their own remote-control all-terrain vehicles, this captures the imagination of students, while providing teachers with the opportunity to run a real-life automotive design competition. Teams navigate their vehicle around a bespoke Land Rover track replicating the capabilities of a full scale 4x4 vehicle. The course includes challenging road surfaces including water dips, rope and pipe bridges, rocks and steep inclines.

F1 in Schools – taking careers up a gear

This Challenge uses the high-profile, glamorous and high-tech world of fast cars and Formula 1 to engage with students, introducing them to engineering in a compelling and unique educational programme. Researching, designing, making and racing an F1 car of the future is at its core. Teams then race each other head-to-head on the F1 in Schools 20-metre race track, where reaction times are just as important as the speed of your car, a real spectacle in itself! 8

Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017

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Keen to get involved? Read our EIM Challenge FAQs How can I enter?

The challenges are open to young people between S1-3 in schools, and 11-19 year olds in any out-of-school initiative, e.g. STEM clubs, Scouts, Cadets, Guides and youth clubs. Teams can register via the competition websites and enter their team into a regional final to compete for a place at a national final. National champions from all round the world are then invited to the world finals.

teachers the opportunity to develop key skills such as communication, presenting and team work, while forming the foundation for any career path students choose to follow. They can be delivered as stand-alone projects in schools and clubs, or embedded into the curriculum as a full Level 2 qualification using teaching materials mapped to SQA qualifications.

If you have students with a passion for engineering, teamwork, marketing, design, presenting, business, science or Why does it work in school? The challenges can be used as an education mathematics, why not put them to the test and take on an Engineering in Motion tool or hook to engage students in STEM STEM challenge? subjects. This gives both students and

FIND OUT MORE For further information on these challenges visit www.4X4inschools.co.uk and www.f1inschools.co.uk

www.teachersresource.co.uk

18/08/2017 17:03

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING

SCOTTISH LEARNING FESTIVAL 2017

The professional learning event of the year The Scottish Learning Festival is making its way to the SEC Glasgow this September, offering teachers a chance to engage, learn and share knowledge. Here’s what’s worth checking out

The conference programme 1

One of the biggest draws of the festival, which is organised by Education Scotland, is its seminar programme. Over the two days, lots of fantastic seminars and talks will be on offer, covering everything from the National Improvement Framework to inclusion and equality. You’ll hear from fellow teachers, council education chiefs, education experts, charity staff and much more. Head online and register to book your place at any conference slots that take your interest.

The exhibition hall

In the main exhibition hall, you’ll find over 200 organisations and charities who are ready and willing to tell you about their work and how they can help you in your role as a teacher, including the SQA, the British Red Cross, Pupil Tracking and Young Scot. This year, the exhibition will also have a History, Heritage and Archaeology area, Creative Village, the Local Authority Village, Exhibition Seminar Theatre and the Education Scotland Stand.

Networking opportunities 3

SLF is also a great way to meet like-minded professionals – or people who can get you thinking about your role in a different way. From chatting with fellow teachers in a seminar to engaging with experts in the exhibition hall, you’ll come away with lots of ideas and new contacts who will enrich your lessons and plans for the term ahead. www.teachersresource.co.uk

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Incredible guest speakers 4

The festival is always packed with inspirational keynote speakers, guaranteed to get you thinking outside the box. This year, the event will be opened with a keynote address from Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills John Swinney, and over the two days, you’ll also have the chance to hear from Josh Littlejohn (the co-founder of Social Bite) and educationalist Steve Munby.

“Each year, 4,500 delegates attend the Scottish Learning Festival across two days”

Your CLPL

A day at the Scottish Learning Festival counts towards your career-long professional learning requirements – meaning that not only do you get lots ticked off early on in the school year, but you really boost your capabilities as a professional too. You might find something that sparks your interest and could lead to further learning or opportunities for your students – so it’s really worthwhile making the trip to Glasgow on at least one of the days.

FIND OUT MORE This year’s Scottish Learning Festival takes place from 20 to 21 September at the SEC, Glasgow. To check out the full programme for this year’s Scottish Learning Festival and to register for your free tickets, head to the website, www.slfexhibition.com.

Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017

18/08/2017 10:43

PUPIL SUPPORT LEARNING PROFESSIONAL

TEACHING

WORLDWIDE

With countries like Finland and China continuing to dominate the world of education, their alternative teaching methods could easily be translated into Scottish schools for student success

10 Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017

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very teacher has their own unique methods, traditions and quirks when it comes to teaching a class – no matter where you are in the world. There is also no denying that some schools further afield are doing something slightly different to top leader boards.

NORDIC INFLUENCE

One of the countries seen as a pioneer in the field of education is Finland. Nordic – and Scandinavian – countries continually tick all the boxes when it comes to a fulfilled life. This wasn’t always the case; Finland has made significant changes over the years. In the 1970s, Finnish schools were struggling until the government decided to give education a much-needed face-lift. Finland works on the belief that every single child is entitled to an education – regardless of family income and location. Focusing on cooperation instead of competition, there are few tests, simply assessments at the end of a course created by the teacher, before an endof-year final exam. Celebrate a reduction in marking – there is also very little homework. Pupils usually only work on an hour of homework per day as it is the belief that the classroom is for learning and outside is for spending time on hobbies, friends and family. Playtime actually isn’t just for after school – Finnish pupils get a 15-minute break after every class, and over 70

minutes of playtime – where do we sign up? Similarly in Sweden, individual work is seen as very important to build confidence and independence in a seemingly informal environment. It’s not uncommon for students and teachers to call each other by their first names, and speaking out or asking questions is welcomed and encouraged – something discouraged at times in UK classes.

GOING EAST

Breaking the mould further when it comes to education is China. Shanghai to be more specific, who, like Finland, have shaken up their education system and reaped the rewards. It’s no secret that Asian countries place a lot of emphasis on education, placing fact-based knowledge in high esteem. In 1985, Shanghai stepped away from their strict education regime to start testing pupils on real-life skills and abolishing multiplechoice exams. Further changes saw pupils choose their own courses, featured within eight curricular learning domains, including language and literature, physical exercise, arts, technology, and mathematics. Granted, all teachers and schools have their own methods that work, but ensuring children receive an education is an aim all teachers hold dear. Noting how different countries work to educate pupils is an effective way to stay ahead of the game and make classes entertaining, whilst developing knowledge.

www.teachersresource.co.uk

17/08/2017 15:33

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18/08/2017 17:17

Admit it – for all they can be a pain to arrange, school trips are a lot of fun, and they can even inspire students. From history to language and everything in between, there’s a trip for every subject – there’s even a country for every subject. Here’s how you can go about bringing your lessons to life in a different part of the world

Learning ON TOUR

e’re not going to pretend that school trips are not an organisational migraine, with deposits, permission slips and, well, 20-plus rowdy teenagers to manage. However, there is a world of possibilities out there for pupils and teachers. Taking your class on a trip abroad should definitely be added to the to-do list.

BRANCHING OUT

The benefits of school trips overseas are endless, and are guaranteed to fill students with a new-found enthusiasm for their chosen subject. Students can become immersed in the language of their destination, bask in the culture of another country, build peer relationships and confidence, alongside learning in a brand new environment. Regardless of your subject field, there will be a city, near or far, that caters to the educational needs of your students – and ties in with the curriculum. Worldrenowned travel company STA Travel 12 Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017

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(www.statravel.com) have over 30 years of experience taking students out of the classroom and into the wider world. The STA website is home to a world of educational adventure, from Paris and Amsterdam to Cairo and Israel, over a weekend or longer – half the battle will be deciding where to go. Providing subjectspecific trips, specialised packages for cooking (home economics teachers rejoice – finally a school trip you can get involved with!) and even volunteering opportunities, STA Travel have the whole package. Learn the language of love and drink in the sights of Paris, or appreciate the art of Gaudi during an excursion to Barcelona – a school trip abroad will bring the pages of textbooks to life.

DEDICATED TOURS

Some subjects can luck out when it comes to destinations and dedicated tours. History students can get the full effects of World War II with a trip to Poland to see the chilling refugee camp

of Auschwitz. The Holocaust Educational Trust (www.het.org.uk) have brought history to life in their Lessons from Auschwitz Project, which has had over 30,000 teacher and student participants since 1999. Running on the premise that ‘hearing is not like seeing’, each class will be taken on a four-part course, which includes a talk from a Holocaust survivor. This is arguably one of the most thoughtprovoking trips to take a class on. Or why not go further afield and experience the relics of Egypt? Admire the Sphinx and bring the tale of Moses to life with Halsbury Travel (www.halsbury. com). Religious studies and history students will revel in the glory of the Great Pyramid of Giza to gather a plethora of knowledge and world experience to bring back to the classroom.

AMERICAN DREAM

‘But does it work?’ we hear you cry. Yes it does – just ask Ellie Henderson, www.teachersresource.co.uk

18/08/2017 10:41

IN THE CLASSROOM

“Our later visits to the Holocaust Memorial Museum and 9/11 Memorial and Museum were profoundly moving and thought-provoking experiences, which I found left a lasting impression on me”

Ellie Henderson, Greenfaulds High School

a sixth year pupil at Greenfaulds High School in Cumbernaud. After a whirlwind week-long excursion in New York and Washington DC, Ellie is still enthusing about the experience. She says: “As a self-confessed politics geek, our visits to Congress, the National Archive Museum, and the UN proved to be not only exciting and informative, but also immensely eye-opening – especially during such an interesting time for American politics. “Our later visits to the Holocaust Memorial Museum and 9/11 Memorial and Museum were profoundly moving and thought-provoking experiences, which I found left a lasting impression on me.” As much as school trips abroad have to be educational, there has to be an element of fun to it too – you are dealing with teenagers after all. Entertainment is key to getting your pupils to be themselves, outside the school grounds, where new bonds of www.teachersresource.co.uk

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friendships can be formed and a better teacher-student relationship can unfold. Understanding how your students learn is one thing – understanding how they function as young adults is another, which can ultimately help learning back in the classroom. Ellie reckons her school trip to America was well executed, giving the best of both worlds. She says: “The trip perfectly balanced education and entertainment, as we also attended a baseball game and a Broadway show, took enthralling tours of both cities, and explored some of the most famous locations in the world.”

NEW BEGINNINGS

Back in the classroom, the benefits of a school trip abroad are not easily forgotten. “Months on, I still feel hugely lucky to have had such an experience – one that has not only educated and inspired me, but enriched my life,” adds

Ellie. “It was a week packed with fun and unforgettable experiences, which opened my eyes to the culture and history of the States.” Which is the exact reason why school trips abroad are so beneficial. The thrill of going on a brand new adventure with your friends, seeing sights that would otherwise not be available apart from on pages in books or Google Images, changing attitudes whilst seeing the world – that is what a school trip abroad is all about. “I’m tremendously thankful to the teachers who made our trip possible – their time, patience, and organisation made for what truly was the trip of a lifetime,” Ellie concludes. And what a trip it was! Now the hard work really begins – where to take your adventurous class? With many travel agents on board to help with educational trips, the world is now your oyster. Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017 13

17/08/2017 15:39

Face Equality in Schools We offer free workshops for pupils and staff to help schools to be confident in welcoming and including those who have a condition, injury or illness that affects their appearance. Our workshops provide practical advice on creating a positive learning environment, dealing with appearance-related bullying and promoting face equality in the classroom. Visit changingfaces.scot, call 0345 450 0640 or email scotland@changingfaces.org.uk Changing Faces is a registered charity in Scotland no SC039725 Cover photograph: Marcus and friends, photographed by Christopher Thomond for The Guardian.

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18/08/2017 11:21

PUPIL SUPPORT

What’s on your

Mind?

High school is an obstacle course of selfies, relationships, gossip and exam stress – young people rarely switch off. As pressure bubbles over, Lorne Gillies discovers how teachers can promote positive mental health in the classroom

veryone has mental health. That’s a fact. Not everyone will experience negative thoughts or episodes of poor mental health. Also a fact. And educating young adults about their mental health and how to manage it is crucial, definitely – but how can it be taught in school?

IT’S OK

As Scotland’s leading programme dedicated to tackling mental health stigma and discrimination, See Me are now working to ensure all young people know ‘it’s OK not to not feel OK.’ One of the main steps within the initiative is to provide teachers with relevant educational packs to help better inform students on positive mental health in the classroom and beyond. Teachers have a duty of care to ensure young people are safe and get the best education possible. Outside the classroom walls, students can be experiencing difficulties but are unsure of where to turn for assistance. As a teacher, do you know how to support a pupil struggling with depression or anxiety? Launched in November 2016, See Me’s It’s Okay campaign is made up of coping methods for pupils alongside teaching materials. “The main message of the campaign is we want young people to know that ‘it’s OK not to be OK’, giving them knowledge and confidence to talk more openly about mental health,” says Nick Jedrzejewski, communications manager for See Me. “We made it more around the feelings and emotions young people might feel rather than mental health specifically, because if you think about what’s really important, it’s for people to speak about how they’re feeling,” continues Nick. “If there’s something worrying [students], they can speak about it early and they don’t internalise that worry about speaking out – this is how the problem can get worse.” www.teachersresource.co.uk

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“The most important thing is to take a young person seriously and ask them if they’re OK, show them you care” 15

18/08/2017 10:38

PUPIL SUPPORT

GET TALKING

Having lived experience of how internalising a problem can affect an individual’s actions, Paul Scates, a mental health professional, feels it is important for schools to educate pupils about mental health as early as possible. “[Mental health problems] might not show up fully until [a student is] in their secondary years. Actually, we need to be working with them now. If children don’t have mental health issues then how wonderful would it be to give them resilience training?” says Paul. At the age of 16, Paul attempted to take his own life after experiencing psychosis since the age of nine, having been the victim of several years of abuse. Now Paul, alongside his father, is touring the UK to share information on mental health education for teachers and parents. “When a child is really struggling, they may just want you to sit there. They may not want you to say anything; they may want you to say something,” explains Paul. Through discussions and educational resources, there is hope that open discussions on mental health will be encouraged in schools.

WHAT’S ON YOUR MIND?

See Me have recently launched their What’s On Your Mind? pack, filled with useful resources and teaching plans to bring mental health into the classroom. Having already been well received by six pilot schools, it looks like the pack is set to revolutionise the way Scottish schools talk about mental health. Initial research discovered that many adults don’t have the appropriate skills, or training, to discuss mental health, and only 37% of young people would reveal if they were struggling – compared to 78% who would disclose feeling physically ill. “There’s a big issue – we need to help adults to try and understand mental health and be a good person to talk to, and for young people to know they can trust them,” explains Nick. Through improved education and mental health awareness, it will ensure teachers are comfortable in situations that may arise. The What’s On Your Mind? pack has already received a positive response from teachers, who now feel more comfortable when assisting young people around their mental health – and future plans are already in place. Nick adds: “We want to train adults in mental health first aid to give them good foundations as individuals to feel more confident speaking about mental health.” 16 Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017

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Talking about mental health

www.seemescotland.org Download your free What’s On Your Mind? educational pack through the See Me website

UNDERSTANDING MENTAL HEALTH

As teachers and other members of school staff advance their knowledge of mental health, one key positive is that students will know they have someone to talk to. “The most important thing is to take a young person seriously and ask them if they’re OK, show them you care; to show that you’ll listen and that they can speak to you about it – that’s a really, really important thing,” concludes Nick. Paul adds: “I think it comes down to education, because that’s the only way you will remove fear, and that’s what drives stigma.” Bringing mental health into the classroom, educating teachers and students, and normalising mental health issues is the first step towards better understanding, acceptance and care. Openly discussing mental health within the classroom is a simple, yet crucial step towards supporting your pupils. Young people today rarely switch off, engulfed in various social media platforms, constantly engaged – and mental health in teenagers has never been more important. Spreading knowledge is one of the main reasons to become a teacher, educating your students with the skills and know-how to get them through life – why should teaching young people about mental health be any different?

YOUR VIEW

What are your thoughts? Do you think more could be done in your school to support young people’s mental health? Let us know on Twitter, @ResourceMagScot

www.teachersresource.co.uk

18/08/2017 10:38

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18/08/2017 17:19

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING

IN ASSOCIATION WITH BÒRD NA GÀIDHLIG

Gaelic

MOVING FORWARD THROUGHOUT SCOTLAND

Bòrd na Gàidhlig fill us in on what’s going on to boost the growth of Gaelic across Scotland

he Gaelic language is fortunate to have many different people and organisations working throughout Scotland for the promotion and development of the language and culture of the Gael. This is particularly true in education, where Gaelic medium education (GME) continues to appeal to parents who welcome the chance to have their children educated through the medium of Gaelic with all the benefits that this can bring to children. The success of Gaelic medium education is evident, with the likes of Glasgow City Council currently holding a public consultation on their plans for a third Gaelic school in the city. Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, with support from Bòrd na Gàidhlig and Scottish Government launched e-sgoil in 2016 which can connect schools throughout the Highlands and Islands by harnessing the use of learning through technology. In Portree on the Isle of Skye, Highland Council will see a new Gaelic Primary School opening in January 2018. Stòrlann (www.storlann.co.uk) continue to co-ordinate the production and distribution of curriculum resources for Gaelic education and which are distributed free of charge to 18 Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017

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nurseries, schools and learning groups every year. LearnGaelic (www.learngaelic.scot) is a fantastic online resource for Gaelic learners and also for those keen on upgrading their language skills. It includes information on courses run throughout Scotland and further afield, a dictionary and thesaurus, as well as clips from BBC ALBA programmes. LearnGaelic is supported by a number of partners including Bòrd na Gàidhlig, MG ALBA (The Gaelic Media Service) and Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, the renowned Gaelic college situated in Sleat in the south end of Skye. The Go!Gaelic App (www.go-gaelic.scot) has been developed by The Learning Centre, North Lanarkshire Council (www. thelearningcentre.org) and complements the Gaelic Language Learning programme. Wherever you are in Scotland, Bòrd na Gàidhlig, with the support of the Scottish Government, parents, teachers, communities, Gaelic promotion and development organisations and local authorities, strive to make sure that Gaelic in Scottish Education is alive and prospering. Foghlam tron Ghàidhlig… Siuthad! Feuch e! Gaelic Education… Go on! Give it a go!

Adhartas a thaobh na Gàidhlig air feadh Alba Tha a’ Ghàidhlig fortanach gu bheil diofar dhaoine agus buidhnean a’ strì ann an coimhearsnachdan beaga agus mòra air feadh Alba airson maith na Gàidhlig agus cultar nan Gàidheal a chur air adhart. Tha seo gu sònraichte fìor ann an roinn an Fhoghlaim far a bheil co-obrachadh ann am measg bhuidhnean phàrant, Ùghdarrasan Ionadail mar Chomhairle Baile Ghlaschu agus Comhairle Baile Dhùn Èideann, buidhnean mar Stòrlann agus goireasan mar LearnGaelic.scot. Tha cuideachd co-obrachadh fìor mhath ann eadar Bòrd na Gàidhlig, Riaghaltas na h-Alba, Foghlam Alba is eile airson fàs a thoirt air Foghlam tron Ghàidhlig.

www.teachersresource.co.uk

17/08/2017 15:42

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18/08/2017 07/10/2016 10:5010:11

PUPIL SUPPORT

LET’S TALK ABOUT

SEXTS

We take a look at what schools can do to tackle the latest form of bullying, abuse and harassment that’s sweeping smartphones

elationships are changing. The way we as adults meet partners and interact has gone digital – and the exact same is happening for teens too. The smartphone is king – and for young people starting to look at their classmates in a different light, it often plays a vital role in the world of flirting and dating. But sometimes seemingly innocent banter can go too far. “Sexting is when you send sexualised images via text or a messaging app,” explains Emily Cherry of the NSPCC. “It could be a naked selfie, a video or a sexually explicit message.” Every day, Childline receive at least four calls relating to sexting. They’ve sent a picture to a boyfriend or girlfriend that’s found its way around school – and maybe even onto Instagram. Someone has sent them a photo, a message or a request that they’re not comfortable with. They’ve been pressured into sharing more than they’re comfortable with via text.

REPUTATION

A sext can spread like wildfire, even ending up online – damaging the young person’s reputation now and potentially in the future. Messages and pictures, sent and received, can also be used as a form of blackmail or bullying. Teens often don’t understand how quickly a cheeky photo to the person they fancy can turn into a huge problem. Or even a legal issue – they are, technically, distributing child pornography.

And this is where schools can come in. The NSPCC are calling on teachers to tackle the issue of sexting in sexual health and relationship education – because it’s rapidly becoming the norm in the world of love and lust, and it’s something we need to talk about. “Young people don’t understand how serious this is,” Emily says. “I met with a group of young people recently and asked what they’d like to see teachers do about sexting, and they said that they just want teachers to speak openly and honestly about it – not to be embarrassed.”

SAYING NO

Go on – 1 pic won’t hurt

I don’t know…

…

For many, it’s about joining in, boosting their self-esteem, getting attention – or they simply don’t know how to say no. Childline’s Zipit app is free to download, and offers a selection of funny ‘memes’ that can be used to respond to a request for a picture – it makes light of the subject, and stops the conversation. By talking about sexting, and what the consequences can mean, young people will be more knowledgable and able to make decisions. It will also encourage pupils to come forward and talk to you

if they have found themselves in an unwanted situation – and the school can deal with it accordingly. Emily would encourage schools to come up with a fixed policy on how to tackle this – as you would with bullying or abuse of any nature – and stick to it. She says that you shouldn’t be afraid to get the authorities involved either for pupils who have found a picture being distributed or used as blackmail. “We would encourage schools to get the police involved,” she says. “Make it clear that it won’t be tolerated – and that it is serious.”

MORE INFORMATION For more information on sexting, what you can do to support pupils and how to address it in school, head to www.nspcc.org.uk 20 Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017

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www.teachersresource.co.uk

17/08/2017 16:46

IT’S YOUR CALL BUT DON’T BE A CRASH MAGNET Road Safety Learning within Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) Despite the good progress made over the years, the road environment still represents one of the highest causes of accidental death to Scotland’s young people. It is important, therefore, to maintain the excellent road safety support that already exists in schools and communities.

Road Safety Scotland have developed two free road safety learning resources specifically for secondary school pupils, and linked to CfE. Both online resources aim to engage young people in developing road skills to promote good peer influence, and provide strategies to help them to look after themselves and others in the road environment.

YOUR CALL (S1-S3)

CRASH MAGNETS (S4-S6)

Your Call targets that ‘at risk’ age group with a range of interactive activities which explore risk-taking, decision making, personal safety, pre-driver attitudes and peer pressure.

Crash Magnets is aimed to help shape young people’s opinions and attitudes to issues such as speeding, drink driving, driver distraction, drug driving and in-car safety. The online activities are combined with DVD clips of other young people sharing experiences, with the aim being to encourage students to feel confident about expressing themselves in class about their own opinions and experiences. It seeks to engage them in the importance of positive attitudes and behaviours before they get behind the wheel of a car. The resource acknowledges that, at their age, driving a car has great benefits in developing independence and for some, defines them as an adult. However, this must be balanced with an understanding of the dangers of behaving irresponsibly at the wheel. Although activities are geared towards certain year groups, they are not prescriptive and allow for flexibility.

It embraces a learning style that is fundamental to CfE and provides teachers with flexible lesson plans that support the experiences and outcomes. Pupils are actively encouraged to discuss and share experiences, reflect and challenge their own behaviour, with a view to taking responsibility for their own safety and that of others. The resource focuses on relevant issues for the 11-14 age group, including two feature films which explore the impact a road accident can have on young lives – one from a pedestrian perspective for younger pupils and, for older pupils, with a passenger theme. It has mobile compatibility and can be used by both teachers and students using a tablet or mobile phone. Find out more at

www.itsyourcall.org.uk

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For more information go to

www.crashmagnets.com

18/08/2017 11:13

Spotlight on

Theatre Education F

or many children across Scotland, their only experience of the magic of theatre comes at Christmas, courtesy of their local pantomime. Some have never set foot inside a theatre at all. And there’s so much that they’re missing out on. Theatre has lots to offer audience members, potential performers and even those more comfortable behind the scenes, building confidence, teaching teamwork and even helping young people explore emotions, feelings and topics they might not have felt brave enough to address before. From colourful musicals to Shakespearean tragedies, modern dramas to comedy troupes, theatre has something for all tastes. And plenty to fit in with the curriculum. Whether you teach drama, English, design, art or history, theatres nationwide could have something to tap into your lessons – and open up your pupils’ eyes to the wonder of the theatre.

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ABERDEEN PERFORMING ARTS www.aberdeenperformingarts.com Aberdeen Performing Arts’ trio of venues in the north – His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen Music Hall and The Lemon Tree – all have plenty to offer schools. Just over a year ago, the organisation launched a teachers’ network, where school teachers are invited into one of the group’s venues to discuss certain topics and offer feedback on education resources – in exchange for a ticket to one of their shows. “That’s growing, and it gives us access to teachers who we didn’t have access to before,” says Lisa Mathieson, Creative Learning manager at Aberdeen Performing Arts. “It’s for primary or secondary, or ASN schools. Over the past couple of years, when we’ve had shows in or workshops that are relevant for teachers or students, trying to make

that initial contact with schools has been very difficult.” The network is opening up schools to the many opportunities on their doorstep. The group is also offering CPD sessions for school staff, in drama, music or performing arts more generally. There are performances throughout the year which make for great class trips and learning opportunities, often coupled with question and answer sessions. The group also offers tours of His Majesty’s Theatre to explore different elements of theatre. “They have a workshop directly before or after, whatever works best,” Lisa says. “If the young people are working on a certain element of theatre or a certain era, it can be focused around that. So if they’re doing Shakespeare or Victorian, it can be linked to that.”

www.teachersresource.co.uk

17/08/2017 15:46

FESTIVAL AND KING’S THEATRES, EDINBURGH www.edtheatres.com

In the capital, the Festival Theatre and King’s Theatre put on a vast array of fascinating performances annually, as well as running a series of interesting projects for schools. Before the summer holidays, the theatres did their first Shakedown event, exploring the work of William Shakespeare. “We’ve been working with five secondary schools in Edinburgh to put on, on one of our main stages at the King’s, an excellent performance of a slightly adapted version of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” says Cerin Richardson, learning and participation manager at the Festival and King’s Theatres. “From the teachers’ perspective, that’s been an amazing experience – working with professional creatives in a professional theatre, with a lighting designer, a sound designer, all that kind of thing. But also in that it’s been building the pupils’ performance skills, their confidence, their literacy skills.”

The theatres also produce the Awfey Huge Variety Show each year, working with ASN schools. They work with an artist in their own school for 10 weeks, before contributing to a variety show at the Festival Theatre. The theatres also open up a different element of the stage for young people with Dance Fest. “This is an annual youth dance showcase on our stages,” says Cerin. “They come and see live performances, they’re inspired by other people’s work, but they also get an opportunity to perform.” This year, there’s a range of fantastic performances taking to the stages too which would be of interest for schools, from Miss Saigon to War Horse. “So much goes into making a good piece of theatre or dance or a musical, that everybody will take something from it,” Cerin says. “We do see young people sometimes who aren’t watching the stage – they’re looking right up into the ceiling to see how the electronics are working. There’s a whole range of different things they’re getting out of it.”

KING’S AND THEATRE ROYAL, GLASGOW www.atgtickets.com/glasgow

On the west coast, The King’s and Theatre Royal in Glasgow have a brilliant creative learning programme, offering lots of activity round the many productions that visit annually. This autumn, the Theatre Royal will be hosting Tennessee Williams’ classic A Streetcar Named Desire, which has workshops and talks attached to it.

www.teachersresource.co.uk

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IN THEPUPIL CLASSROOM SUPPORT

So much goes into making a good piece of theatre that everyone will take something from it

“There’s a pre-show talk on 6 September, and a post-show Q&A,” explains Alison Cowan, Creative Learning manager at the King’s and Theatre Royal. “There are two slightly different focuses. And they’ve got the workshops coming up as well.” The Creative Learning team don’t just take inspiration from productions. There are lots of other ways in which they work with schools to embrace the arts. “We have a whole programme of bespoke ideas that we can tailor to schools. We do quite a lot of our workshops in schools that aren’t linked to productions at all. We do theatrical makeup, special effects makeup,” explains Alison. “But very often we are tailoring to fit in with the ideas that the schools might have for a particular activity, such as an expressive arts week.” The theatres are also amongst the few in Scotland to offer work experience for school-age pupils keen to break into the world of theatre. The team very much encourage pupils themselves to take the lead on this – but you can definitely let them know that the opportunity exists. Alison adds: “We hear, time and time again, when pupils come along and take part, even in workshops, that it can open a door or tap into something that perhaps in normal school life doesn’t quite happen.”

Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017 23

17/08/2017 15:46

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18/08/2017 11:19

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING

TEACHING ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD We find out what it’s like to teach in another country from a Scot currently working in Mexico City

lison Campbell was 23 when she arrived in Mexico City to further her teaching career. Since 2011, she’s been teaching at The Edron Academy, one of the leading British international schools in Latin America. “I hadn’t planned to stay for [this long], but I’m staying for numerous reasons and have no plans to leave,” she says. “I’ve been with my boyfriend for four years, which is a big part of why I’m still here, and I also have a dog!” Alison found the post through TIC Recruitment, a leading agency matching teachers with exciting opportunities all around the world. Since 2005, they’ve been placing teachers in jobs in international schools around the globe – in Africa, Asia, Europe and beyond. The best news? The service is completely free – you just need to register, upload your CV and get searching for jobs.

ADVENTURE

Teaching abroad is a huge step – and a real adventure. In a competitive Scottish job market, schools overseas can offer a great way to build on your experience and expand your CV. For Alison, adapting to life in an international school has been a steep learning curve – but one she’s totally thrown herself into, and which she feels has made her a better teacher. www.teachersresource.co.uk

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“I love it,” she says. “It’s not for everyone; it can be hard at the start, especially working with a completely different curriculum. But I would 100% recommend it. It’s interesting and eyeopening teaching children from many different places.” At Edron Academy, all of Alison’s lessons are taught in English, but she has picked up some new skills along the way – and she’s nearly fluent in Spanish. She finds the Mexican lifestyle exciting too.

TRAVEL

“I go away for the weekend around ten times a year, sometimes more,” she says. “I’ve been to most of the beaches in Mexico, visited Belize, Guatemala, Cuba and the USA. I usually come back to the UK for the whole summer, and when I do go back to Scotland in the holidays, I wonder how I’m going to fill my time!” While Mexico City does carry a reputation as being unsafe, Alison says that it’s not as bad as people think – it just takes a bit of common sense. “You have to be sensible,” she says. “The only people I know who have had problems have been doing stupid things, like getting into cars that aren’t taxis. The only thing that annoys me about Mexico City is that, because I’m young and female, men stare. But that’s the only day-to-day problem that I have.”

“It’s interesting and eye-opening teaching children from many different places”

FIND OUT MORE To find out more about teaching abroad, contact TIC Recruitment today. Head to the website, www.ticrecruitment.com or call 02920 212 083.

Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017 25

18/08/2017 10:36

With the new term under way and the holidays a distant memory, you might be questioning your decision to teach for a living – but there are a few perks to the job! One being access to discounts that non-teachers miss out on. Here’s our roundup of what’s on offer

The best

TEACHER

Discounts BAG A BARGAIN!

UNION BENEFITS Joining a union comes with perks beyond support in your day job – some of the big teaching unions have some added extras to help your pay go further! The Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS) offer members access to the Countdown Card. This discount card can secure you discounts from over 400 leading stores on the high street and online, as well as in restaurant and leisure facilities. You can also get access to over 16,000 local offers too, such as takeaways, hairdressers and drycleaners, make savings on holidays, get access to discounted gift cards and even get money off in supermarkets. The Countdown Card also lets you earn cash back while you shop – and you can save as much as 90% on bigname brands in the world of jewellery, cosmetics and household goods. Find out more about Countdown at www.countdowncard.com/eis, or head to the EIS site at www.eis.org.uk.

26 Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017

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Elsewhere, members of NASUWT can also access special offers and services, ranging from motoring to insurance, finance to lifestyle. Through the NASUWT Benefits and Services platform, you can get yourself cheap airport parking, affordable car hire, discounted AA driving lessons, holiday offers, entertainment discounts, activity day offers, bargain deals when eating out, as well as discounted spa days and theatre tickets. There are plenty of practical offers too, which can really make a difference. You can get access to a free will writing service from Thompsons Solicitors, free debt advice and support from Payplan, and financial advice on issues such as investments, mortgages, loans and pensions from Wesleyan.

You’ll probably already be aware of this one, but by logging into Glow, you can get your hands on some decent deals too. One of the most popular is free access to Office 365 – saving you £79.99. You can download it and use it on your home computer free of charge – really handy for those nights where you’re doing some extra work at home. You can also get free cloudbased storage through One Drive. You’ll get 1TB of space to back up important work files and photos, which would normally cost you in the region of £8 a month from providers like Google Drive or Dropbox.

You can find out more from the NASUWT site at www.nasuwt.org.uk, or existing members can check out the Benefits and Services site at www.nasuwtbenefits.co.uk.

www.teachersresource.co.uk

17/08/2017 15:58

AFTER HOURS

TEACHER TRAVEL

The only downside to the 13 weeks of holiday time that teachers get throughout the year is the fact that prices for a week in the sunshine tend to go through the roof as soon as the schools break up. While you have all those holidays to enjoy, you’re generally paying a premium for the pleasure. As well as helping students see the world, the Student Travel Association (STA) can offer discounted flights for

teachers – and, thankfully, you don’t even need to be leading a school trip to take advantage. Using your ITIC card (see below), you could be jetting off to destinations like Sydney, Bangkok, Lima, Los Angeles, Paris and beyond! You can secure cheaper flights with leading airlines like Virgin Atlantic, Air New Zealand, Emirates and more – so always check out STA Travel before booking your next holiday.

LOCAL AUTHORITY PERKS

Some local authorities in Scotland have great benefit schemes for their staff, which can include discounts. If you’re working in a state school, this can apply to you too. You might also apply for discounted rates of membership at local authority leisure facilities. City of Glasgow staff, for instance, get a corporate rate at Glasgow Club gyms, as well as discounts in high street shops, restaurants, cinemas, and money off car hire. Highland Council have the Wider Wallet platform which brings together discounts at lots of major retailers, entertainment outlets and restaurants – you just need to log in and see what’s on offer. Fife Council offer staff up to 15% off in shops like Asda, Boots, Marks & Spencer and Topshop, as well as up to 30% off cinema tickets. Wherever you’re working, check out the employee benefits on offer in your area now, and find out how you can get involved.

Go International With the International Teacher Identity Card (ITIC) on your side, you can make lots of savings all around the world. This internationally-recognised ID card is designed for full-time teaching professionals of any age. It’s just £12 to sign up, and you can purchase yours from www.statravel.co.uk. You’ll need to provide an official letter printed on your school’s stationery confirming that you are an employee at a recognised educational establishment for a minimum of 18 hours a week for a minimum of one academic year. You’ll also need to provide proof of your date of birth, such as a copy of your birth certificate or passport. www.teachersresource.co.uk

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This fantastic card gives you access to discounts from lots of different businesses around the world, including retail stores, theatres, theme parks, restaurants, museums, hotels, festivals, car rental firms, public transport, air travel and more. It’s accepted in selected outlets in over 100 countries, from Australia to South Africa. You’ll get discounts in the likes of the Hard Rock Café, Europcar, Hostelworld hostels, tourist hot spots like Buckingham Palace and London Zoo – the list goes on! Search www.statravel. co.uk/isic-discounts.htm, and look out for the orange ITIC logo to see where you could use yours on your travels. Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017 27

21/08/2017 16:24

‘SSERC is a much-respected organisation which provides excellent science CPD services within Scotland’. STEMEC Report 2016

Scotwest in Scho o ls Teaching yo ung people financial skills

Scotwest Credit Union works with pupils and teachers to help set up and run their own Scotwest School Credit Union Branch.

SSERC provides advice, resources and CLPL that promote exciting and safe practical science and technology activities for schools. All local authority schools and most independents are members. Our professional learning aims to improve subject knowledge and skills of student teachers, primary and secondary teachers, curriculum leaders and technical support staff.

For further information visit: www.sserc.scot or email: sts@sserc.scot

· Save with the Scotwest MoneyWise Account · Branches can be set up by nurseries, primary and secondary schools · Run by pupils with the help of an adult Find out more at

www.scotwest.co.uk/scotwest-in-schools

Scotwest Credit Union is a member-owned Financial Cooperative offering fair and ethical financial services to anyone living, working or attending school in the West of Scotland.

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Credit Union

Scotwest Credit Union is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (FRN 213616)

Interested in Whisky?

Why not get in touch and take advantage of our expert knowledge and our 175 years experience. As Scotland’s oldest independent bottler we cherry pick the best casks for bottling and offer fun and informative tastings. Email us to receive our stock list or bring this advert into the shop for a quick lesson (with dram). 172 Canongate, Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH8 8DF Tel: 0131 556 5864 Email: chws@wmcadenhead.com

www.wmcadenhead.com

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18/08/2017 11:24

AFTER HOURS

WIN A BREAK AT

FAIRMONT ST ANDREWS There’s no denying that teachers work really hard – so you deserve some time to relax. With this issue’s great giveaway, you could be off for an overnight stay at the luxury Fairmont St Andrews

t Andrews may be the home of golf and the birthplace of a royal romance, but it’s also where you’ll find one of the nation’s most stunning resort hotels – Fairmont St Andrews. Set on a 520-acre estate on the coast, Fairmont St Andrews is an elegant, welcoming resort perfect for stressed-out teachers looking to relax and unwind. Home to top-class restaurants, an incredible spa and two world-renowned golf courses, the Fairmont is the ideal spot for some time away from your everyday life. Whether you’re opting for the Savoy Afternoon Tea experience, mountain bike hire for the kids at the KidZone, an afternoon unwinding in the sauna, steam room or Jacuzzi in the resort’s beautiful spa, or going for a round on The Torrance or The Kittocks golf courses, there really is something for everyone at Fairmont St Andrews. Book your break at www.fairmont.com/ StAndrews – or enter our competition...

THE PRIZE This issue, you could win:

■ An overnight stay for two in a Fairmont View Guestroom ■ Full Scottish breakfast per person in the Squire Restaurant ■ Access to the Fairmont Spa & Fitness club ■ Savoy Afternoon Tea for two in the Atrium Lounge

HOW TO ENTER To be in with a chance of winning this luxurious prize, answer this question:

How many golf courses are there at Fairmont St Andrews? a. One b. Two c. Three Send your answer along with your name, daytime telephone number, address, email address and the name of your school to: Fairmont Competition, Teachers’ Resource Magazine, DC Publishing Ltd, 198 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4HG Alternatively, send your details to competitions@dcpublishing.co.uk with ‘Fairmont’ in the subject line. All entries must be received by 15 November. Good luck!

TERMS AND CONDITIONS All entries must be received by 15 November 2017. Prize is subject to terms and conditions, and would be based on two people sharing, excluding Saturday nights. There is no cash or other alternative. Transport to and from the hotel is not included. Prize is subject to availability. One entry per household. The publisher’s decision is final.

www.teachersresource.co.uk

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RESOURCE RECIPE

Nadiya Hussain’s

CRISPY CHICKEN

WITH SWEET POTATO FRIES AND BARBECUE BEANS Bake Off winner Nadiya Hussain shares a recipe from her latest collection, Nadiya’s British Food Adventure

he first chicken and chip shop that ever opened in Luton is the same place where I still get my chicken and chips. I know it’s my home and I am biased, but they are a force to be reckoned with! When I can’t make it there, I like to create my own variations of my favourites at home. This crispy chicken has a hidden layer of spice and a crisp exterior, and is accompanied by baked sweet potato fries and warm barbecue beans.

FOR THE CHICKEN 4 large pieces of chicken thigh (about 150g each), skin on and bone still in 200ml sweet chilli sauce 150g plain flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon salt 150ml vegetable oil, for frying FOR THE SWEET POTATO FRIES 2 large sweet potatoes (approx. 800g), cut into wedges 2 teaspoons garlic powder 1½ teaspoons paprika a large pinch of salt 2 tablespoons olive oil FOR THE BARBECUE BEANS 2 x 400g tins of baked beans 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 2 tablespoons brown sauce 30 Teachers’ Resource // Autumn 2017

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2 3 4 5

Put a large pan of water on the stove, add a large pinch of salt and bring to the boil. Add the chicken and boil for 15 minutes. Once boiled, place on kitchen paper and drain off the excess water. Put the chicken in a bowl with the sweet chilli sauce. Set aside. Put the flour, baking powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder and salt on a plate and mix together. Dip each piece of chicken into the dry spice mix and set aside on another plate. Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan. Add the pieces of chicken and fry for 3 minutes on either side, until golden brown. Place on a baking tray.

6 Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4. 7 Combine the garlic powder, paprika and salt in a small bowl. 8 Put the sweet potato wedges on a large baking tray, then cover them with the garlic mix and drizzle with the oil. 9 Place the trays of chicken and sweet potatoes in the oven, with the sweet potatoes at the top, and bake for 25-30 minutes. 10 Meanwhile, mix together the beans, smoked paprika and brown sauce and gently heat them up. 11 Serve everything together, and dig in.

Nadiya’s British Food Adventure is out now, published by Michael Joseph (RRP £20)

SERVES 4 PREP - 30 MINUTES COOK - 1 HOUR

www.teachersresource.co.uk

17/08/2017 15:50

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For pupils with additional support needs, understanding how assistive technology can enhance their learning is the key to providing an inclusive learning environment.

Supporting dyslexia in the classroom Through the latest assistive technology training. Positive dyslexia outcomes Concept Northern create positive outcomes for individuals with dyslexia through specialist training and support at all levels of education. For secondary school pupils, our comprehensive learning package helps those in S1 to S6 discover an exciting, new approach to challenge their literacy barriers. For older pupils in S4 and above, we offer our unique SQA Customised Award called “Assistive Technology Associate”. The aim of the Award is to give pupils the skills and knowledge to improve their literacy, time management and communication potential through assistive technology.

Real world applications Software such as Texthelp Read&Write and MatchWare MindView can materially improve a pupil’s ability to read, write and organise. The Award shows learners how to use these applications to perform key tasks like sending emails, writing reports, managing coursework and presenting information.

Using materials specially written for individuals with dyslexia, and highlyinteractive teaching resources, the Award is hosted entirely online and can be accessed at any time for full learning flexibility. It’s also rated at Level 5 on the SCQF framework and worth 14 credit points.

Full training support To supplement the delivery of the Award, we offer evolving levels of assistance for pupils and teaching staff alike. Schools can choose a minimum level of external support or a more comprehensive package. This includes training for staff on assistive technology and the Award itself, or extra support for pupils who may require additional help. Also included is specialist dyslexia awareness training, both trainer-led and via online e-learning, in addition to internal verification and candidate administration services. For younger pupils in S1 to S3, our approach focuses on introducing the basic skills required to use assistive software successfully. Our pocket

Read&Write and MindView courses have been specially developed for young learners with an emphasis on interaction and visual learning. These short one-hour modules offer highly accessible, guided experiences which encourage the development of core skills. They’re also a great introduction to some of the more complex learning to be found in our Award.

Skills for the future Concept Northern offer tailored support to people of all ages and in all walks of life - from school pupils, to students in higher education and to employees in the workplace. We know that incorporating assistive technology into learning at an early stage leads to significant increases in confidence, proficiency and key-skill development. As an Access to Work supplier engaging with a range of employers we are able to continue the support we provide into the workplace or into higher education, laying the foundations for a more successful future.

CONTACT CONCEPT NORTHERN TODAY For more information on dyslexia support for schools contact Alan Taylor - alant@conceptnorthern.co.uk or call 01355 459 184

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18/08/2017 10:53