Educate january 2018 by Educate Magazine

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Januar Januaryy - April 2018 Sixth Form Open Evening Thursday 25 January www.abblanch.com/sixth_form

A focus on creativity The importance of the arts in schools

Helpful or harmful?

Mobile phones in the classroom

Open for entries

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UNIVERSITY S CENTRE C ST S HELENS S

With ith h llower ttuition iti ffees, smaller ll class l sizes i and da Â£500 Study Enhancement Gift, choose to study for your degree at University Centre St Helens. Apply now for September 2018. uc.s uc.sthelens.ac.uk thelens.ac.uk //UniCentreSH UniCentreSH

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Inspiring excellence personal and academic

Welcoming students from all areas of Liverpool & beyond Bellerive is a very popular choice for girls from across Liverpool. Contact us for a guided tour and ďŹ nd out why we are such a unique, ambitious school.

Bellerive FCJ Catholic College 1, Aigburth Drive, Sefton Park, Liverpool L17 3AA Tel: 0151 727 2064 www.bellerivefcj.org Specialisms in Sciences, Applied Learning and Maths & Computing

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Educate Contents 60

Welcome... Welcome to the January edition of Educate

A new year and already there has been a major change at the head of The Department for Education (DfE) with the resignation of Justine Greening and the appointment of Damian Hinds as the new secretary of state for education. No sooner had the news broke we caught up with three of the region’s headteachers to ask them about their thoughts on another change at the top and what they would like to see for education from the new education secretary. Read Viewpoint on p78.

104

Features

7-9

Viewpoint New secretary of state for education

Mobile classroom The use of mobile phones and other devices in schools

80-81 Eco News Wargrave Primary School bags first prize

41-61 Reflecting on victory Educate Awards 2017

83-87 Educate 16+ Education, training and employment

64-65 Meet the headteacher Emma Hartley, headteacher at Our Lady and St Swithin’s Catholic Primary School

107

66-69

108-109

The art of educating Are we overlooking the arts?

Best foot forward Kick-start 2018 with the lastest trends for girls and boys trainers

Book review This season’s must reads

70-71 Meet the headteacher James Kerfoot, headteacher at Childwall Sports and Science Academy

112-113 Where can we go? Our pick of what’s happening out & about in the region

76-77 Thoughts worth sharing Bitesize thinking

114 My school days Keziah Joseph, actress

Published by Mersey Mirror, 36 Henry Street, Liverpool L1 5BS. Tel: 0151 709 7567 Fax: 0151 707 1678 Email: post@merseymirror.com Executive Editor Kim O’Brien Advertising Sales Tel: 0151 709 7567 Photography Liam Deveney Editorial Alan Birkett, Christine Toner, Hannah Fowler Design & Production Mersey Mirror, 36 Henry Street, Liverpool L1 5BS. Tel: 0151 706 7411 Email: post@merseymirror.com Distribution Barbara Troughton Tel: 0151 733 5492. Printed by PCP. Educate magazine is published by Mersey Mirror. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and nothing may be reprinted or reproduced without permission. Disclaimer The information contained within Educate we believe to be correct at the time of printing, no responsibility can be accepted for errors or omissions. © Copyright Mersey Mirror 2009.

At the end of last year the glittering red carpet Educate Awards 2017 ceremony took place at Liverpool Cathedral. The awards, in partnership with Copyrite Systems and Ricoh, is the biggest celebration of education in the North West and with 600 guests present 21 awards were handed out to schools in the Liverpool City Region (LCR), Lancashire and Cheshire. All the winners, runners-up and shortlisted schools, along with the event’s partners Copyrite Systems and Ricoh, as well as all the amazing category sponsors, are featured in a special 20 page photo event gallery on p41. This issue we officially launch the Educate Awards 2018, and once again we are delighted to announce the event will be in partnership with Copyrite Systems and Ricoh, who have signed up for a third year, along with category sponsors, LJMU, All About STEM, The Foundry Agency, Liverpool School Sports Partnership, Bishop of Liverpool, David M Robinson Jewellery and Watches, School Improvement Liverpool, Liverpool Learning Partnership, Progress Schools and CER all returning. In addition Winstanley College have joined the line up as sponsor of Most Inspirational Secondary School as well as BMD Law sponsoring the Spirit of Enterprise Award. To find out more please visit www.educateawards.com

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Mobile Classroom

MOBILE CLASSROOM By Christine Toner

A useful educational tool or an unnecessary distraction? Educate takes a look at the use of mobile phones in the classroom Last month the French government implemented a new rule across its education system. Following through on a promise made by President Macron during his election campaign, it was billed as a ‘public health message’ and a way of ‘protecting pupils’. So what are we talking about? An increase in health education classes? A plan to cut out junk food? No - the French education minister Jean-Michel Blanquer has imposed a blanket ban on mobile phones in schools. While pupils will be allowed to bring the devices to school they will not be permitted to take them out of their bags even during break time.

It’s a topic that has caused much discussion in politics. Last summer the Scottish Conservative party called for mobile phones to be banned from all primary schools and severely restricted in secondaries. The party claimed such a move could improve test scores and reduce educational inequality. It’s certainly not the ﬁrst time the correlation between a pupil’s performance and behaviour in school and their use of a mobile phone has been made.

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Mobile Classroom

Back in 2015 it was announced that a government investigation into how to train teachers to tackle poor pupil behaviour was to be expanded to cover wider issues such as the use of mobile phones and other devices in schools. And it seems the view that the use of mobiles could be detrimental to a pupil’s learning is one shared in Merseyside schools. “From September 2017, Rainford High banned mobile phones from being on in the building between 8.45 and 3.15”, says Ian Young, principal of Rainford High. “Teachers can still give permission for students to use smart phones when appropriate for completing learning activities in lessons. Ian says the school changed its policy due to the misuse of mobile phones and social media around the school. “The ban has now reduced the number of issues we deal with as a school that are driven by social media,” he says. “It is frustrating that all the technology in a smartphone is not used more responsibly by the young people so that it can support learning. “We do ﬁnd that certain apps are useful for revision and supporting some learning but on the whole the technology does not impact effectively on student learning.” Ian says anyone who has a smartphone knows they are addictive to use. “There is a lot of research that smartphones are affecting young people in a negative fashion by limiting their face-to-face communication skills and damaging self-esteem when linked to the negative impact of social media when it is used in a thoughtless manner.

“Like everything there are also many positives to how technology can affect young people and some apps are helpful, supportive and benefit young people’s development. However, as a school we feel that banning smartphones has been a positive step and has reduced incidents of social media abuse and distraction around the school.” Gateacre School takes a similar approach. “As part of the Gateacre Way and Ready To Learn line at the front of the building we are quite strict regarding mobile phone use, simply they should not be seen or heard throughout the day,” says headteacher Jason Roberts. “In all the schools I have worked in (five in 15 years) each school has had similar if not the same policy.” Jason says Smartphones do have some use but “this has to be closely monitored.” “Tools such as GCSEPod are very useful to help Year 11 pupils revise and learn away from the classroom,” he says. “Some subject areas such as media or art and design might bring in specific aspects of mobile phones as part of an investigation or design brief.” “However, reports into the use of phones and their impact on mental wellbeing,” says Jason, “cannot be ignored.” “Looking outwards at research available and reports in other media outlets unfettered social media use can according to reports I have read be quite detrimental,” he says. “Children can become obsessed with what is happening in the online world and not have much time for what really matters at this age which is enjoying their childhood and getting a good education.

“We do find that certain apps are useful for revision and supporting some learning but on the whole the technology does not impact effectively on student learning.” “Ultimately, good parenting helps safeguard children from social media which is why at Gateacre we have regular safeguarding updates via our Newsflash and website to keep parents and carers aware of what is going in the social media world.” It’s easy to see why there is so much concern around the use of Smartphones. A 2016 survey by Opinium found that on average children now own their first mobile phone by the age of seven. The survey of 1,500 parents by Opinium found that on average, UK children had an iPad by age eight, and a smartphone by age ten. It also found most children can use a television aged just four years old – before they can tie their own shoelaces, swim without help or ride a bicycle without stabilizers - and can browse the internet as early as age five. Of course one of the biggest concerns linked to smartphones and the internet is the social media phenomenon. From Facebook to Twitter and Instagram to Snapchat, social media platforms present a myriad of issues.

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Mobile Classroom

According to the Education Policy Institute these risks include: - concerns about excessive time spent online; - sharing too much information; - being cyber-bullied; - the inﬂuence of social media on body image; and - sourcing of harmful content or advice, such as websites or social networks enabling the promotion of self-harm

Meanwhile the Office for National Statistics has found a “clear association” between longer time spent on social media and mental health problems. But one professor has spoke out against a ban on mobile phones in schools. According to Professor Paul Howard-Jones, banning phones and other technology from schools is moving in the ‘wrong direction’. The academic says teachers and parents should instead look at how pupils are interacting with the technology. Stephen Brierley, principal of St Margaret’s Academy agrees educatiing students on the best ways to utilise and interact with technology is key. “Whilst it’s an invaluable aid to learning, talk to any secondary school pastoral leader nowadays and they’ll tell you there’s a significant downside too,” he says. “And therein lies the heart of the problem. Every new technology humanity develops is operated, ultimately, by a human being. And that human being has a choice to use it for good or for ill. Some will use new technology for the benefit of themselves or their peers. But history teaches us that others will use it for much less noble purposes.” Stephen says when he considers he had to walk 20 minutes to the local library to check something out in a reference book, he can only look on “with envy” at pupils’ technological resources today.

“The amount of information young people now have access to is utterly unparalleled,” he says. “The range of content they can access – to help with revision, to give them extra practice with something they’ve found hard – is jaw-dropping. But it comes at a price. Anyone can put ‘stuff’ out there – and so we see the rise of ‘fake news’, of echo chambers where prejudices are reinforced ever more deeply, of misinformation becoming as prevalent – and as valued – as information.” Stephen says social media, which enables young people to stay in touch 24/7, also comes at a price. “Sleep deprivation is becoming more and more common,” he says. “Some young people report that cyber-bullying (even the term was unheard of when I ﬁrst started in teaching) is widespread and pernicious. And both of these are taking a stronger and stronger toll on our young people’s mental health. “As ever, education should be the answer. If we can educate our young people about the correct use of mobile technology – about how it can be our servant, not our master – then surely enough young people will make the right choices. That means that as leaders, we need to stay ahead of the curve, as much as we can. Our policies need to be revisited and revised on a regular basis. We need to keep abreast of the latest social media platforms, and what risks they pose to those in our care. We need to promote the positive use of mobile technology, to show how it can make our world a better place. All of that will help.” “More importantly,” says Stephen, “we need to equip our young people with the character, the attitudes and the values that will enable them to make the right choices whatever new technology comes along. “If we succeed in that, our world will become a better place,” he adds. “And ultimately, that’s why I came into education.”

Education Policy Policy Institute: Key Key facts - Over a third third (37.3%) of UK 15 year olds are are ‘extreme ‘extreme internet internet users’ (defined by the OECD as a student who uses the internet internet for more more than six hours outside of school on a typical weekend day). This is substantially higher than the OECD average. The country only OECD countr y with higher extreme internet levels of extr eme inter net use than the UK was Chile. third - Nearly a thir d (27.6%) of young were people in the UK wer e six years old or younger when they internet. first used the inter net. This is younger than the OECD average. Young are the UK ar e - Y o oung people in th extensive users of social Facebook, media sites, such as F acebook, a Instagram and Snapchat. 94.8% of 15 year olds in the UK used before after social media befor e or af ftter school in 2015. - 11% of UK 10 to 15 year old girls and 5% of boys spent over three thr ee hours on social media on a normal nor mal school day in 2012-13. - This online activity is increasingly incr easingly private, with internet young people using the inter net bedrooms in their bedr ooms or on a smartphone. smar tphone. In 2014, over half (56%) of UK 9 to 16 year olds smart-phone used smar t-phone on a daily basis . The rise in popularity of instant messaging means are that online discussions ar e now often groups, oups, of ften t held in private privat gr profiles. ofiles. rather than on public pr - The changing pace of technology,, such as the rrecent ecent technology livestreaming, eaming, development of livestr means that the way young people interact with social media is continuing to change.

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Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

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Primary News

Inspirational leadership Liverpool primary school removed from special measures A Liverpool primary school is celebrating after Government inspectors concluded it is no longer failing - and praised the headteacher for her “inspirational leadership”. St Clare’s Catholic Primary School in Wavertree is now classed as “requires improvement” rather than “inadequate”. Ofsted made the decision to take it out of special measures after finding it had “worked tirelessly to tackle the areas for improvement” and was ready to be regraded sooner than they had expected. Inspectors describe headteacher Kate Peaston as having “brought about a new energy among leaders and staff” since her appointment in 2016, noting she has “reignited a passion and determination in leaders, staff and governors”. Leadership and teaching of new pupils in early years is described as “good” and the progress of pupils overall is improving. Also praised is the behaviour and attendance of pupils, and Ofsted also found that parents were “overwhelmingly positive” about the school and the improvements made. Headteacher Kate Peaston said: “We’ve got a long way to go yet and we are not complacent, but I am really pleased that the inspectors have recognised the determination of everyone at St Clare’s to drive up standards and make sure our pupils get the best possible education.

Headteacher Kate Peaston with St Clare’s pupils

“This is a fantastic school in a great area, we’ve got wonderful staff, pupils and parents and as a team we’re all striving to tackle the remaining issues and achieve greater things in the future.” Councillor Nick Small, assistant Mayor and cabinet member for schools, said:

“It’s great to see the turnaround at St Clare’s reflected in the latest Ofsted report. Congratulations to everyone for their incredibly hard work, it is a real team effort across the whole school from the head downwards and in partnership with parents.

Great news for Knowsley primary school More great news for education in Knowsley as Cronton Primary School has been ranked sixth in the top schools in Merseyside! The rankings, based on information released by the Department for Education, measure how many 11-year-olds are achieving the expected standards in reading, writing and maths at the end of key stage 2 before they go on to secondary school. SATs tests are taken by Year 6 pupils in their final year of primary school and measure children’s reading, writing and maths skills. Cronton Primary School is performing above the national average of pupils meeting the expected standard of results, which is 61%. Performance recorded for Cronton Primary School pupils was 87%. Sylvia Thomson, headteacher at Cronton Primary School, said: “This is a fantastic testament to the hard work of our staff, governors and most importantly our pupils. We provide high quality education to help our pupils to achieve their potential. “I’m extremely proud that the school has been recognised in this way. Well done!”

Sylvia Thomson, headteacher, with pupils at Cronton Primary School Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

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Primary News

Shhh! Primary opens new library

Chloe’s sweet raffle raises £220!

Greenbank Councillors Laura Robertson-Collins and James Roberts officiated proceedings along with Andy Jones, who designed the library

Greenbank Primary School, based in Mossley Hill, officially opened its new library. The dedicated facility will offer the school’s Early Years and Key Stage 1 pupils the opportunity to develop their abilities and passion for reading in a tranquil space. Andy Jones, programme lead for graphic art at Hugh Baird University Centre, who designed the library, was keen for the pupils to have ownership of the space and every child was included in the design consultation. Andy said: “We have used muted tones throughout so that the surroundings don’t distract the children when they are learning to read. The only pops of colour are from the books which aren’t in racks and are clearly displayed on shelves or in baskets – this allows pupils to easily identify them. “There are no table and chairs as we didn’t want to just replicate a classroom, so the children can use the bean bags or sit comfortably on the floor.” The children’s involvement didn’t just stop at the design, as pupils and their families have been encouraged to donate and share their favourite story books suitable for Early Years and Key Stage 1. Six-year-old Lucas Hampton said: “Now that I am older, I have given the new library some of my books that I used to read. I’m happy that others can now enjoy 12

them.” The library will also be used by volunteers, made up of former teachers and members of the church, who regularly help the children with their reading. Sylvia Joynson worked at the school for 33 years as a lollypop lady until she retired 12 months ago; unable to keep away, she now comes in two afternoons a week to assist the pupils. Debra Wrigley, headteacher at Greenbank Primary School, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to open our new library for Early Years and Key Stage 1 groups. It was important that we took on-board all the pupils’ suggestions made at the design consultation – although we had to draw the line at the Costa Coffee idea! “We actively encourage the children at Greenbank School to read for pleasure and our aim is to instil a love of reading so that our pupils become readers for life. In 2016, we were awarded the Liverpool Gold Reading Quality Mark in recognition of our hard work to promote reading for pleasure. “The teaching team receive regular training so that they can inspire the classes, but it doesn’t just stop at staff, 20 of our Year 5 and 6 pupils have received extensive training from the Reader Organisation.”

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

Chloe Jones, a pupil at St Paul's Catholic Junior School in West Derby, visited Woodlands recently to present them with the money that she had raised following a sweet raffle at her school. The raffle monies were raised in memory of her grandmother Susan who had been cared for at Woodlands Hospice. Chloe had been so inspired by her wonderful grandmother Susan that she not only wanted to fund raise for the Hospice that cared for her, but also wanted to continue the wonderful storytelling tradition that grandmother Susan had started with her. Chloe so loved the stories that she used to listen to that she has now started to write her own stories about a mouse called Simon! She hopes that in the not-too-distant future her lovely stories will be published for other children to enjoy for many years to come. Christine Peach, corporate and community fundraising manager, was extremely impressed with Chloe's efforts and said: “Chloe is an incredible young lady. She has taken it on herself to raise a fabulous amount of money and, what's more, she is also a very talented budding author. “She is a credit to her parents and her school and we are very grateful for all the effort she put into her fundraising. We also wish her luck in her writing career!”

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Primary News

Wellbeing at the heart of school A primary school in Croxteth is reaping the rewards of its introduction of wellbeing sessions. Our Lady and St Swithin’s Primary School has seen its Ofsted rating move out of special measures which it received in 2013 to good. The change was brought about by the introduction of their present headteacher, Emma Hartley. Emma said: “When I was first appointed at the school one of the first things I wanted to do was to look at the environment at the school and to make sure it was conducive for the children, and whether the children felt happy and relaxed. “We then looked at the curriculum and the after school clubs to see what was available and to whether we had the right balance for all children. “We introduced forest school sessions. These sessions take place on site in our small quad. During forest school sessions the children will have the opportunity to investigate and explore nature and the natural environment. “Our next focus was the breakfast club, missing breakfast can have negative impact in the classroom, we

Pupils enjoy a spot of yoga during lunch break

therefore aim to ensure every child has the best start to their day with a healthy breakfast which will boost concentration, improve behaviour and enhance their academic performance. “The club started with just seven pupils but we have seen this grow to an average of 52 pupils. “Our main impact has been the introduction of mindfulness and wellbeing sessions. “The sessions are rolled out across the whole school so all children can feel the

benefit. Sessions include peer massage, yoga and relaxation. We also encourage children to include random acts of kindness in their day. These are written down and then shared amongst each other. “We have seen such an improvement in the children, we live in such a fast life and at times it can be overwhelming for the children, we find that through our wellbeing classes they can relax and focus and at the same time improve their health”.

Mysterious landing at Millbrook Primary School Pupils at Millbrook Primary School, Kirkby arrived to see a mysterious object on their school field. The police were already in attendance and Millbrook Mini Police were assisting the police in guarding the area. The object appeared to be a UFO landing. It had landed with force as it was lodged in the grass. Several metal objects were lying around it. The area was cordoned off with tape. The children at Millbrook all assisted the police with their enquiries. Year 6 pupils wrote reports about the event to help draw together the evidence. Year 1 children painted aliens as they decided some might have escaped from the UFO. Each classroom has a space area for children to continue to look for evidence to solve this mystery. Merseyside Police put the following statement on their twitter account: “Millbrook Mini Police guarding the scene after the mysterious UFO landing at Millbrook Primary School in Kirkby”.

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

Hands-on with seafood Pupils at Florence Melly Primary School have been schooled on seafood as part of national Seafood Week. Pupils got the chance to touch, taste and prepare seafood and learn about its importance as part of a healthy diet. The Year 3 children made prawn cocktails from scratch with school food advisor Michaela Wright. Michaela said: “The whole idea is to educate about food and eat more fish, something which many of the pupils may not have had the chance to do at home. “Some of the pupils tasted prawns for the very first time; which is a really brave thing to do when you’ve never eaten anything like that. Most of the children have only eaten fish from their local chippy without knowing what species it is. “They got the chance to hold a whole rainbow trout and learn about the good things that happen to their bodies when they eat fish. “Even the teachers enjoyed themselves. Mr Mullin and Mrs Slade went above and beyond to make the day happen and the headteacher Mr Ken Heaton even paid for the food for the students”.

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£500 WEBSITE GRANTS FORLS O

MERSEYSIDE AND CHESHIRE SCHO

Media and Digital (MaD) are of the U.K.’s most respected school marketing companies. They are on a mission to rid our region of mediocre school websites forever. Many school websites fail to communicate a positive impression to parents and pupils - often with poor branding, confusing navigation and pixelated imagery. Critically, some fail to comply with mandatory school information regulations inspected by OFSTED or are not optimised for mobile and tablet devices which now represent the largest segment accessing the internet. Established in 1991, MaD help local schools to drive admissions, celebrate success, unify branding and communicate more effectively with parents and the wider community.

“Schools tell us that they know they need to improve their websites and branding but don’t know where to start. They hear about how expensive web development is and worry they’ll get ripped off. It is our mission to help schools to project themselves professionally and to make the whole process really easy and rewarding. We even hold co-design sessions in our MaDLAB where teachers and governors can get involved in the design process in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere”

Stuart Atherton, Managing Director of MaD.

To show their support, MaD are offering qualifying schools who sign up for a no-obligation consultation a £500 grant towards the cost of a new website. They are so conﬁdent that their websites will make a huge difference that they are even offering the option to pay for websites over four monthly instalments. Championing great school marketing is at the heart of MaD's ethos. To qualify your school must be based in Merseyside or Cheshire. MaD are offering a free one-hour no obligation marketing consultation during January.

To book call Stuart on 0151 420 0700 or email stuart@mad.uk.com

Experts in school marketing 146 London Road, Stockton Heath, Warrington, Cheshire WA4 6LE. 0800 542 0700 mad.uk.com

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Primary News

Colours galore Wavertree pupils help brighten up the lives of others

Local pupils have raised over £300 to help overseas communities living in poverty to grow enough food. Christ the King Catholic Primary school in Wavertree recently held a series of events across the school, including a colourful fun run, to ‘brighten up’ the lives of young people around the world as part of development charity CAFOD’s ‘Brighten Up Harvest’ fundraising campaign. The whole school came together to replace items of their uniform with

Staff and pupils from Christ the King Primary enjoy their colour fun run

something bright and silly, and headed down to the field for a ‘welly walk’, whilst reception classes sang songs. The day culminated with the muchanticipated colour fun run, an event where staff and pupils alike brightened up by throwing powder paint. Lorna Douglas, a reception teacher and part of the RE team at Christ the King, said: “It was lovely to see the whole school getting involved, including the staff - especially in the colour run!

The day was brilliant, and even the rain couldn’t put us off. “We really enjoyed raising money for CAFOD, and we also held a collection for the South Liverpool Foodbank to end our harvest celebrations.” CAFOD’s representative in Wavertree, Ged Edwards, said: “This event has shown the abundance of compassion in Christ the King primary school, whose kindness will help communities in El Salvador and around the world.

For never was a story of more woe than this Pupils from 10 schools in Knowsley joined nearly 30,000 pupils in nearly 1,000 schools across the country to celebrate Shakespeare and perform some of his most loved pieces of work. The students, the latest cohort of a record 280,000 young people to have participated in the festival since it

began, got the chance to perform abridged Shakespeare plays in one of 136 professional theatres nationwide. Joining the festival were pupils from Stockbridge Village Primary School who performed at Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park. Alex Borrill, director of performance at Stockbridge Village Primary, said:

Pupils from Stockbridge Village Primary enjoy their Shakespearian experience at a special performance at Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

“This was our second opportunity to take part in the festival. We grabbed the opportunity to perform in a real fully operational working theatre. “While initially daunted looking at the complexity of the script, watching the children learn lines from Romeo and Juliet was an amazing experience. “The enthusiasm and passion from the children to understand the script, relate to characters and watch their confidence grow, felt wonderful and to see their hard work pay off with an ambitious performance made every sleepless night worthwhile. “We embarked on a journey that showed them to be successful visionary and proud. “This opportunity gave our children lifelong memories and achievements that they will hold with them all their lives and an understanding of language and Shakespeare they will always be able to dip into. “It has been a long road as we embarked on our journey in July”. As a result of the Festival, 97% of teachers say their students work better together as a team and that their students’ confidence increases. 100% of special school teachers say that their students exceed expectations.

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Little Sunshine

Mindfulness and Yoga The government document ‘Mindful Initiative’ (2015) state that all schools and workplaces should be practicing mindfulness in their daily routine to support well-being, resilience and cognitive development. ‘Li le Sunshine Mindfulness and Yoga’ provide children’s mindfulness sessions and ‘a er school’ yoga clubs to schools across Liverpool and Knowsley. We understand the pressure that teaching staff and children are under in the school environment o en finding it hard to find the time in their busy day to stop and clear the mind. However, it is so important that children are given the opportunity to quieten the mind as there are many benefits for children’s cognitive development, relationships with others, resilience, performance, self-esteem, concentration, determination and how to deal with their emotions. ‘Li le Sunshine Mindfulness and Yoga’ provide fun and engaging mindful techniques such as breathing exercises and massage for children and teachers to use in the classroom using a range of resources such as bubbles, shells, instruments, stories, colours and much more. This enables children to focus their mind on the present moment. During yoga sessions we focus on the breath and yoga poses developing children’s strength, balance, flexibility, co-ordination, concentration, determination and focus therefore reducing stress and anxiety. We also provide mindfulness for teacher staff developing staff wellbeing and personal development. During these sessions we discuss and provide strategies for staff to use on a daily basis improving emotional intelligence, self-awareness, resilience, gratitude, compassion for others and meditation techniques which improve staff morale and develop a whole school mindful approach. For more information, reviews or contact details please visit our website www.li lesunshineyoga.co.uk or telephone Katie on 07715 532463

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Primary News

Early present Christmas came early for outstanding Bleak Hill Primary Bleak Hill Primary School in Windle celebrated after receiving the best possible early Christmas gift – another outstanding Ofsted report. The Hamilton Road school, which has 468 pupils, welcomed education watchdog Ofsted, 11 years since their last inspection in 2006 which also resulted in an outstanding grade. Key findings from the report found teaching of all groups of pupils in key stages 1 and 2, including disadvantaged pupils, to be “consistently highly effective” – while it was noted that reception classes receive “outstanding teaching that enables pupils to make excellent progress.” In addition, the inspector was full of praise for the leadership of the school, stating that senior staff have “a blend of skills that complement each other” – but more importantly how they are “not complacent and recognise that there is always more to do.” Speaking of his pride, headteacher Ian Wellens, who took the reins in 2005, said: “I’m absolutely delighted with this report which I feel is a fair and honest summary of the school’s position. “Our outstanding judgement is the result of an extraordinary amount of hard work and commitment by governors, school leaders, staff, pupils and

Pupils spell out their success

supportive families. “A special mention also deserves to go to St Helens Council for their continued support, especially during these times of extremely challenging budget pressures.” Passing on her congratulations, St Helens Council’s portfolio holder for education, Councillor Jeanette Banks, said: “Bleak Hill’s latest Ofsted report

makes for excellent reading and is a testimony of all of the hard work that goes on behind the scenes. “To maintain such exceptional standards over a long period of time without an inspection in-between is not an easy thing to do, so everyone associated with Bleak Hill should be very proud indeed.”

Parents thank teachers with a donation Teachers and students at a primary school in Bootle have pledged to raise funds for equipment and services set for the new Royal Liverpool University Hospital in a very generous and selfless way. Whilst many teachers in and around Liverpool received Christmas presents on the last day of term, teachers and staff at St Monica’s Catholic Primary School in Bootle asked parents not to buy gifts, but to donate £1 to their chosen charity, ‘R Charity’ as a thank you instead. Headteacher Paul said: “It’s such a pleasure to raise funds for charity in this way. It saves a lot of money at the most expensive time of year, and eases the financial burden that can come with the buying of gifts for teachers. 20

“But more importantly it sends out an excellent and strong message to our children and their families about the power of everyone giving a little to make a lot. “Our children’s families and friends may have to attend or be treated in this facility in the future, so we are really proud to contribute to such a cause. Aimee Clare from the R Charity fundraising team said: “It’s a really simple and lovely request to make to parents; the fundraising team at R Charity think it’s a fabulous idea, and are extremely thankful to Paul, his teachers, staff and parents at St Monica’s Primary School. “Whether you are a teacher or not, it is nice to receive chocolates and flowers at Christmas, so what a kind thing it is to request donations in lieu of such gifts”.

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Headteacher Paul Kinsella and members of St Monica’s student council all pointing to signify lots of £1’s for R Charity

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Primary News

Fairy cakes and wishes Eight-year-old Olivia Lowe from St Thomas C of E Primary School, Lydiate really is a star in the making after she and two friends, Isabella Watkin and Emily Barton, managed to fundraise an incredible £354 for ‘When you wish upon a Star’, a charity that makes sick children’s dreams come true. “Olivia has shown empathy for others from an early age,” said Tracey Lowe, Olivia’s mother and a secondary school teacher. “Always asking questions about news related issues on the TV where other children have been involved.” “This empathy and interest for other’s wellbeing sparked something in Olivia,

something that her parents didn’t realise was serious until she returned home from school one day with the news that she’d asked the school’s headteacher, Mr Ward, about

organising a charity cake sale and he’d agreed.” This started the ball rolling and Olivia and her mother began looking into different charities, finally deciding on

Olivia Lowe and class mates Isabella Watkin and Emily Barton

‘When you wish upon a Star’; the reasons being that a past pupil of Tracey’s had been granted a ‘wish’ from the charity, and Olivia wanted to “put a smile” on the children’s faces. The young entrepreneurs took it upon themselves to organise the event. Olivia contacted Costa Coffee and Morrisons for cake donations while Isabella and Emily designed posters advertising the sale. Mr Ward also chipped in, helping to publicise the event, and Olivia’s father managed to get a price match from Halifax Bank where he works. All of this combined raised a whopping £354 and left Olivia feeling so delighted that “words can’t explain!”

Lest we forget Liverpool primary schools’ act of remembrance Liverpool’s historic St George’s Hall was the setting for a remembrance service led by Father Dominic Risley which involved city-centre primary schools St Nicholas and Pleasant Street. The service took place at the war memorial outside St George’s Hall with Fr Dominic, who is based at the Metropolitan Cathedral, leading prayers with the children who then delivered readings themselves. Fr Dominic is a regular visitor to St Nicholas Catholic Primary, where he acts as a school governor.

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The children listened to the prayers, took part in a respectful two-minute silence and heard the Last Post played twice. Martin Davies, headteacher of St Nicholas, said: “The children laid poppy wreaths at the war memorial that classes had made in school in the days leading up to the war memorial visit. “Assemblies and lessons in both schools that week reflected on the importance of remembrance and what it means for us all today”.

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Secondary News

Light shines bright Alsop connects with Italian teachers During the summer a group of twelve Italian teachers visited Alsop High School to learn more about the schools award winning FAITH 17 initiative. The teachers visited Liverpool to hear about the Liverpool story of ecumenism, social justice and the commitment to build the ‘Common Good’. During the visit Alsop presented the teachers, led by Mrs Franca Gambari, with a “Liverpool Candle of HOPE”, to symbolise the partnership emerging between Italian schools and Alsop. The “Liverpool Candle of HOPE” will now begin to tour Italian schools as a symbol of the partnership emerging between Italian schools, Alsop High School and their partner primary schools. Mrs Gambari said: “The red candle has a group of people holding hands. We now call it the ‘Liverpool Candle’. “We are delighted to tell you that it is now travelling across Italy where schools and teachers are being invited to book a candle stop and share stories of their ‘Common Good’ projects.” The visit touched the hearts of Mrs Gambari and her and colleagues. On returning to their Italian schools they

began sharing the enthusiasm and ideas with fellow teachers. They began looking at ways they could work together to raise awareness of the common good in their schools. During 2018 the teachers hope to move forward with a project entitled “Together 2018: Together in School; In the Family; In Society; In Faith”. The Italians also plan to keep in touch with Liverpool counterparts, as well as extending an invitation to Italian colleagues, local authorities, associations, schools and cultural organisations to build ‘The

Common Good’ together. Mrs Jenny Sinclair, director of Together for the Common Good said: “It is a great delight to hear that this partnership is flourishing and young people are being encouraged to take responsibility, build community and work together across their differences. “The Faith 2017 initiative has successfully demonstrated how a school like Alsop High School, can be a force for the common good, and that the success of the approach used in Liverpool is being applied further afield”.

Members of Alsop High School Faith 2017 initiative

Rainford pupils commemorate World War I Rainford High has collaborated with St Vincent’s School, a specialist school for sensory impairment, and published author, Harrison F Carter, to commemorate World War I (WWI). Over six weeks, a select group of Year 8 pupils from the school along with talented pupils, aged 13-18, from St Vincent’s took part in a creative writing programme called ‘Shenanigans Creative’. It has been devised by Harrison F Carter to guide keen visually impaired storytellers through the stages of story development through to final production. The sessions involved students with visual impairments from St Vincent’s, located in West Derby, Liverpool, writing poems, which remembered those who fought in WWI and honoured the final centenary year. These were then presented to sighted pupils at Rainford High who took inspiration and produced pieces of art which have been published side-by-side as a collective booklet. The programme required Rainford High pupils to explore their own creativity, as well as expanding 24

their learning of WWI and visual impairment issues. Exceptional pieces of work appear on the Shenanigans Creative website – www.shenaniganscreative.com – and will be entered for an international charity competition, called ‘Never Such Innocence’. Author Harrison F Carter said: “I have been so impressed by the students’ interpretation and commitment to this project. The sensitivity, the work ethic and the quality of the art produced by the pupils of St Vincent’s and Rainford High has been wonderful to see - they should all be very proud of themselves. The finished booklet is an important acknowledgement of the pupils’ talent and achievement.” Principal of Rainford High, Ian Young said: “We are committed to ensuring that all future generations understand its

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In Flanders Fields by Sarah Bennett (13)

importance so that the sacrifices made at this time are never forgotten. “This particular programme has certainly increased our pupils’ learning of this historic period and also their awareness towards visual impairment and other needs. The teaching staff and I are delighted by their contributions and conduct throughout the six weeks.”

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Secondary News

Daniel is an inspiration SFX pupil publishes two books A Year 10 pupil at St Francis Xavier’s College has published two books based on his personal experience of having Asperger Syndrome Disorder (ASD). 15-year-old Daniel Hinnigan, from Garston, was diagnosed with Asperger’s - a form of autism - when he was age 11. Daniel has always been very open about his condition and has no problem explaining to other pupils about what it is like and how he feels. Keen to raise further awareness, the aspiring writer penned a short story for the BBC Radio 2 500 Words competition about a boy called Jude who has Asperger Syndrome. Based primarily on Daniel’s life, he talks openly about day-to-day situations and the struggles he often faces. For Daniel, however, 500 words wasn’t enough and he went on to write a complete book called, ‘The Boy Who Was Different’. Daniel said: “My aim is to bring awareness about autism and asperger’s. The message I am trying to get across is that many people suffer with ASD and you might not even be aware. They may be people in your friendship group or even your family. If they have not had a diagnosis from a

Daniel Hinnigan who has written two books on his experience of having Asperger Syndrome

paediatrician it doesn’t mean that they don’t have it. “Altogether this book took me about six months to write. I had to redraft the entire thing a number of times but I’m very pleased with it.” Since then, Daniel has written and published a second instalment titled, ‘The Boy Who Was Different Growing Up’, which is based upon him maturing into a young man. Daniel said: “It is great to see both books available to

buy on Amazon – they each have five-star reviews which I’m very happy about. “The library at school also has hard copies which allows other pupils to read it too in case they are a bit shy about asking questions relating to the condition.” Within school, Daniel also likes to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day and organises fundraising competitions and collections, with proceeds going to the National Autistic Society.

Debating in the ‘House of Lords’

Each year the House of Lords opens its door to citizens from all walks of life, enabling them to engage in a lively debate about important social and political questions. The English Speaking Union (ESU) has partnered with the House of Lords to deliver the debate model and training for the speakers. Archbishop Beck Catholic College was delighted to be invited to take part in training for this event. Students from Year 9 to Year 13 took part in a “Discover your voice” training session at the college. This year’s topic was on Britain’s place in the world and the specific question was: What are the prospects for international relations in the 21st Century? Students from the college travelled to the House of Lords in December to deliver their speeches and take part in the Debate. Speaking after the event Mr Hicks said: “Public speaking training is so important, because it gives our students the confidence, skills and opportunities to develop as articulate members of society. With the ability to say it, mean it and if needed bring about change where and when the opportunity may rise!”

Church’s inspection rates Archbishop Blanch as outstanding The hard work of staff and students at Archbishop Blanch Church of England Secondary School has paid off after Church of England inspectors praised it as outstanding. The school was rated as outstanding in every area following an inspection by SIAMS – the Church’s statutory inspection of Anglican and Methodist schools. Inspectors, who assess all C of E and Methodist schools across the country, praised Archbishop Blanch School for its leadership, Christian values, high standards in religious education and strong links with the wider community. The report, combined with the school’s excellent G.C.S.E and A-level results, prove that high academic standards can be achieved at the same time as delivering an exciting curriculum and looking after the children’s spiritual and social development through a strong Christian ethos. 26

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Secondary News

A welcome visitor College welcomes Mother Yvonne for special visit St John Bosco Arts College in Croxteth welcomed Mother Yvonne Reungoat for a special visit. As the only Salesian Sister school in the UK, St John Bosco was honoured to welcome Yvonne, superior general of the Salesian Sisters during her tour of the GBR Province. Mother Yvonne started her visit in Glasgow and visited all of the sisters’ communities during her week-long stay in the UK. On her arrival, Mother Yvonne was greeted by the school’s samba band before meeting headteacher Darren Gidman. This was followed by a staff welcome, morning prayer and tour of the school with Mr Gidman, Sr Connie Cameron, Provincial of the GBR Province, deputy head girl Annie Edgar and Salesian ambassador Katie Frear. Mother Yvonne spoke to students during lesson time and then gave a speech during two assemblies, while talented St John Bosco students took part in readings and hymns. The school band and choir entertained Mother Yvonne and special guests during the assembly before a special

As the only Salesian Sister school in the UK, St John Bosco was honoured to welcome Mother Yvonne

presentation took place in the afternoon. Headteacher Darren Gidman, said: “It was an honour to welcome Mother Yvonne to St John Bosco and introduce her to our Salesian school community.

“The staff, students and special guests relished the opportunity to meet her and were left feeling inspired after her speech. It was a fantastic experience that the whole school will remember.”

Careers fair inspires students Students from Aigburthbased St Margaret’s Academy (SMA) are feeling ambitious following a dedicated careers fair at the school. Students from Years 10, 11, 12 and 13 had the chance to meet universities, apprenticeship and training providers plus local and national professionals from a range of industries. Taking place in the sports hall, 65 exhibitors from sectors such as sport, teaching, law, accountancy and the army, provided worthwhile advice and information throughout the day. Universities from across the country also offered insight into course subjects and general student life. The event was organised by former pupil Greg McLean who is now careers manager at St Margaret’s. 28

Greg said: “The school prides itself on nurturing students and preparing them for the road to success. ‘The SMA Pathway’ ensures pupils ‘aspire, believe and achieve’. Testament to this unique level of support, St Margaret’s won this year’s career aspiration award at the Educate Awards.

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Year 10 pupil, James Curphey said: “The careers fair has given me the chance to really think about my future and whatever I decide to do, I need to work hard to achieve my goals. Events like these are very useful as it is never too early to starting thinking about college, university or

work.” Greg McLean said: “During my time at St Margaret’s I was extremely thankful for the guidance I received from teachers as they helped me determine what I wanted to do after school, which as it happens is helping youngsters decide their own pathway too. “By holding regular careers fairs it allows the students to meet professionals from different industries as well as higher education providers, who can answer any questions they may have, and enable each individual to make an informed decision when they come to take the next step. “I am very keen to give our young people the best possible advice and direction when it comes to their future, and the feedback from them about the event has been really positive.”

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Secondary News

Classroom hero Teacher recognised at national awards Mrs Christine Williams of Childwall Sports & Science Academy in Liverpool attended the prestigious UK grand finale of the Pearson Teaching Awards in London following her Silver award win earlier in the year. Christine was nominated for the accolade by pupils, parents and colleagues in the Childwall Sports & Science Academy community. The ceremony was hosted by BBC Breakfast presenter Naga Munchetty with Country file’s Sean Fletcher, the awards are an annual event that celebrates the very best of the UK’s teaching profession. Awards were presented across categories such as headteacher of the year in a secondary school, excellence in special needs education and lifetime achievement. Christine was recognised for her exceptional contribution to the teaching profession as one of just 56 silver teaching award winners in the UK, winning her award in the category the award for Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School. Assistant head of sixth form, Natalie Wray said: Christine has been teaching at Childwall Sports & Science Academy since September 2005. She is an outstanding teacher who inspires every child that enters her classroom with creative approaches to teaching and learning and a passionate belief in the potential of every child. “She became an assistant headteacher in 2013 and has become the ‘face of Childwall’; she has totally transformed the transition process from primary to secondary school and improved the school intake numbers. “Students and parents have made Childwall their school of choice due to Christine and her impacts on whole school

teaching and learning and achievement are huge. She is changing children’s lives daily.” The Pearson Teaching Awards is an annual celebration of exceptional teachers and teaching. Founded in 1998 by Lord Puttnam, they recognise the life-changing impact of an inspirational teacher on the lives of the young people they teach.

Alsop inspires Liverpool editor Alsop High School welcomed Mr Alastair Machray, editor of the Liverpool Echo, as their inspirational speaker at their awards evening. Mr Machray told a packed hall that in life young people should aim to ‘make a difference’. He was very complimentary about Alsop, saying that the school inspired him and about Alsop’s staff and pupils having high levels of motivation and genuine ambition.” He also spoke about the phenomenal examination success, saying that is was “an outstanding achievement that 125 students progressed onto university during September 2017.” Mr Machray used the example of Margaret Aspinall and Helen Rowling as his two heroes. He told students both these women faced adversity 30

Special guests Mrs Marilyn Fielding and Mr Alastair Machray

in life and both went on to achieve great things and how they made a difference! Alastair said: “Margaret Aspinall is my hero and the wisest and bravest women I

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know. Margaret speaks from the heart and speaks sense.” The audience listened to some brilliant songs performed by students with exceptional musical ability.

Ms Bruns, deputy headteacher, said: “Each and every prize winner should be exceptionally proud of themselves for their achievements. “Education is more than the sum of academic success, important though it is. The true measure of our educational provision is the young women and men that result from the values and ethos which will make them true contributors to our society.” At the end of the evening Mr Mottram, deputy head thanked parents and staff for their support, hard work that enabled students to achieve excellence. Mrs Ross, associate deputy head, paid tribute to the governing body led by Mrs Marilyn Fielding as flowers were presented to her, as a thank you for her 25 years plus as chair of governors.

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Secondary News

Engaging young people Students meet governor of the Bank of England Pupils from a Crosby school met the most senior figure in UK banking at an event in Liverpool. Students from St Mary’s College were introduced to Mark Carney, Governor of the Bank of England, at a schools economics conference hosted by the bank at St George’s Hall. The event was designed to engage young people with the world of finance, and to put the spotlight on the way economics affects the day-to-day lives of people of all ages. It also aimed to explain the role of the central bank, and what it does for people outside of the City of London ‘Square Mile’, including those on Merseyside. As well as Mr Carney, the conference featured a number of other high-profile speakers from the Bank of England, including two deputy governors. The issues they addressed included the importance of financial and economics matters being more accessible, for example by being discussed in a language that everyone can understand. Speakers also considered how finance and business education can be improved, and what the bank can do to help future generations acquire the skills they need to deal effectively with their own financial affairs. St Mary’s College head of business

Mark Carney is pictured with St Mary’s head of business studies Jo Simpson (centre right), colleague Sian Moran (left) and sixth formers Adam Purcell, Charley Moran and Robert O’Shea.

studies, Jo Simpson, said: “We were delighted to be involved in this event and obviously our students really appreciated the opportunity to meet a well-known national figure like Mark Carney. “Speakers at the event had a very

important message to get across about the gaps in financial knowledge and understanding that need to be bridged to help households and companies make important decisions about investment and debt.”

St Margaret’s recognised as ‘Outstanding’ St Margaret’s Church of England Academy (SMA) has been recognised as ‘outstanding’ after a recent inspection. The Liverpool academy in Aigburth received top marks across all areas in its recent Statutory Inspection of Anglican and Methodist Schools (SIAMS) report. SIAMS is a denominational inspection that is carried out by a trained Church of England or Methodist inspector over two days. In the SIAMS report, inspector Barbara Easton said: “The distinctiveness and effectiveness of St Margaret’s as a Church of England school are outstanding. “St Margaret’s translates its commitment to the love of God for everyone into a strong 32

sense of responsibility for each individual in the school’s care. This is marked by the strength of the pastoral care and the urgency with which the school is responding to any issues of underachievement. “Trust, care and respect define relationships in the school. The sense of belonging within this deeply Christian community means that people of all faiths and none share a sense of St Margaret’s as family which extends beyond the school gates and the school day.” Stephen Brierley, principal, said: “We are thrilled to receive this outstanding SIAMS rating. The inspector recognised everything we are trying to achieve at SMA and was very positive about the

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way in which we care and develop our young people. This recognition reflects our whole school community – students, parents, carers, governors, staff and our diocese – who have all worked together to promote our Christian vision.

“This report, coinciding with our excellent GCSE and A-level results during the summer is a fantastic milestone for the academy. I’m incredibly proud of our school community and look forward to our continued journey”.

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Education News

Future Forum promotion at West Derby School Future Forum is an annual event that aims to bring together a wide range of views in order to discuss the Bank’s role in serving society. This year, the Future Forum was hosted by the city of Liverpool, with many secondary schools hosting talks from key leaders and governors from The Bank of England. As West Derby are in partnership with the UK education charity, Speakers for Schools, they were nominated to host a talk from Sir Jon Cunliffe, the deputy governor of the Bank of England. The visit was a huge success with the students involved getting fully immersed in the activities provided by the visitors. Mr Cunliffe worked particularly close with the schools A-level business students, offering an eye-opening workshop on economy growth and economic development. Students were also given the opportunity to discuss the finances of the UK and ask questions regarding the country’s decision to leave the European Union. Sir Jon Cunliffe said: “I really enjoyed my visit to West Derby School. There was great energy and real interest in what the Bank of England does. Some of the questions were pretty challenging. “Thanks to all the students I met for their enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity and to the staff for their time and looking after us so well.”

Sir Jon Cunliffe, the deputy governor of the Bank of England with students from West Derby School

Bellerive joins the John Paul II Foundation for Sport

Blue Coat ranked 18th nationally The Blue Coat School are celebrating after being ranked 18th nationally and recognised as the North West’s top state school in the The Sunday Times prestigious parent power schools guide. The list, containing the country’s top 2,000 state and independent schools, is compiled using each school’s GCSE and A-level result data. The 2017 exam season culminated with an exceptional set of results, with their students producing the highest ever recorded A-level results at The Blue Coat School. Of all grades awarded 20.6% were A* and 86% were A*- B. 2017 also marked the implementation of a new, more challenging, GCSE syllabus in mathematics and English, and their Year 11 students certainly rose to the challenge. The national ranking, their highest to date, reflects the enormous amount of focus and energy shown by students and inspirational staff, and firmly cements Blue Coat’s position as one of the UK’s leading state schools. Reflecting on the news headteacher Mr Pennington said: “Our students deserve to be recognised amongst the best in the country. With the expert guidance they get from my talented colleagues, there is nothing they can not achieve.” “This fantastic news follows the recent publication of The Department for Education’s Schools Performance Tables, which ranked The Blue Coat School as the top school in Liverpool”. 34

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Bellerive FCJ Catholic College recently had the pleasure of welcoming Monsignor Vladimir Felzmann as he delivered their certificate of membership to the college. Monsignor Vladimir is the national leader of the John Paul II Foundation for Sport which aims to use sport as a vehicle to encourage Catholic virtues within young people. The college is working with the foundation to plan for the delivery of the foundations’s program of activities within a wide range of curriculum experiences. The John Paul II Foundation for Sport (JP2F4S) was launched by Pope Benedict XVI during his visit to Britain in 2010. The charity is inspired by St John Paul II’s vision for sport, which has as its primary focus the building of spiritual character through excellence in sporting skills and fitness. The dream is to free up as many sports facilities as possible, particularly in the evenings and weekends, so that young people can get off the streets and play a sport – from ‘gangs to clubs’. At the moment, Bellerive are one of two Liverpool schools working with the foundation.

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The choir were in fine voice

A SPECTACULAR SUCCESS Concert shows a wealth of talent at school Belvedere’s annual carol concert took place at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. The event, consisting of readings, congregational carols and musical arrangements by their talented orchestra, choir and chamber choir, is always a highlight of the academy calendar but never more so than this year. Over 850 students and staff were present as well as over 200 parents and special guests, including the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Liverpool. The quality of the performances was outstanding with some complex orchestral arrangements and innovative choral pieces. Highlights of the concert included The Belvlings, Belvedere’s Year 7 choir, singing their version of ‘Golden Slumbers’, which all of the girls recognised from a recent advertising campaign and only some as a lesser known work of The Beatles; a small group of students who sang an acoustically stunning acapella version of ‘Mary Did You Know’ from one of the balconies, and of course, The Ukeladies, a group formed and directed by the students themselves, who gave a heartwarming performance with their ‘Rudolph Mash Up’. Particularly poignant and thoughtprovoking was the Christmas message delivered by Reverend Keith Hitchman, friend of the academy and vicar of Christ Church, Toxteth Park, who reminded everyone to open their hearts to those less fortunate during the festive period.

A pupil makes one of the readings

The congregation were entertained by the talented orchestra

The Belvlings, Belvedere’s Year 7 Choir

Pupils enjoyed the festive fun

The Ukeladies

The school celebrated their annual carol concert

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Education News

Set the date The Educate Awards launches for 2018 The Educate Awards is thrilled to announce entries are now open for 2018’s ceremony, in association with Copyrite Systems and Ricoh as title sponsors. The awards, founded by Kim O’Brien in 2012, is the largest education awards in the North West and celebrates every aspect of the school’s curriculum, teaching and staff. From inspiring teachers, superb support staff to innovative projects across the curriculum, the awards recognises the work of schools and colleges which are delivering outstanding education and helping students achieve their full potential. Since launching in Liverpool in 2012, the awards has grown rapidly, recognising schools and colleges right across the Liverpool City Region, Cheshire and Lancashire. The awards are free to enter and open to all government funded and independent private educational establishments, including primary, secondary, further education providers and special needs schools in the Liverpool City Region, Cheshire and Lancashire. And following a record-breaking year

in 2017, this year the awards is expanding in to Greater Manchester and will accept entries from all 10 boroughs (Oldham, Rochdale, Bury, Bolton, Wigan, Salford, Stockport, Manchester, Tameside and Trafford). Founder Kim O’Brien says the expansion is due to unprecedented demand from schools in Greater Manchester to take part and be in with a chance of winning a prestigious award. In total there are 21 award categories, from Teacher of the Year, Career Aspiration, School Support Star of the Year and Outstanding Commitment to Sport. Kim O’Brien said: “The Educate Awards is an important platform to

Exceptional school attendance rewarded Pupils who have never had a day off during either primary or secondary school have been presented with a special award for exceptional attendance at Liverpool Town Hall. A total of 25 pupils who had achieved 100% attendance for a whole phase of their education: five had attended every day for the whole of their primary schooling and 20 for the whole of secondary. One of these pupils has not missed a day of school since she started in reception! The event was organised by Liverpool Learning Partnership, School Improvement Liverpool and the Families Programme. Elaine Rees, CEO of Liverpool Learning Partnership said: “As a city, we are working across a wide partnership to improve school attendance. This event allows us to celebrate those children and young people and indeed their parents and carers who get up every day and get into school. “This year, for the first time, we also awarded 19 young people a certificate and vouchers for their hugely improved attendance”. 38

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

celebrate education and give those working in schools who transform learning, the credit they deserve. “We would love to hear about the teachers, support staff and exciting projects happening in schools right across the Liverpool city region! “We are delighted to launch the call for entries for 2018 and are looking forward to celebrating another year of outstanding education in the North West.” Associate sponsors include Winstanley College, All About STEM, Liverpool John Moores University, CER, Progress Schools, Liverpool Learning Partnership, School Improvement Liverpool, The Foundry Agency, Liverpool School Sports Partnership (LSSP), The Bishop of Liverpool, The Rt Revd Paul Bayes, DMR David M Robinson Jewellery & Watches and BMD Law. The deadline for entries is midnight on Sunday 24 June 2018. The shortlist will be announced prior to the awards ceremony and the winners will be revealed on 16 November at Liverpool Cathedral. For further information including full details of how to enter, please visit www.educateawards.co.uk

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Education News

In My Life Initiative encourages children to share stories and write A number of Liverpool primary schools came together with Liverpool Learning Partnership (LLP) to launch ‘In My Life’, a diary writing initiative which encourages children to share stories and write, enabling them to share thoughts, express feelings and take time to reflect. The event took place at the Discovery Room at Liverpool Central Library, which proved to be a spectacular venue full of character and atmosphere. A number of schools performed in the afternoon with a wide variety of acts, including a signing choir, poems and diary extracts. Children’s author, Frank Cottrell-Boyce was the

keynote speaker for the launch and gave an entertaining speech about writing and read an extract from one of his books. The launch also included Emy Onoura, the author of the book ‘Pitch Black’ – the story of black British footballers. Emy gave an inspiring speech on how important it can be to keep a diary and to write things down and also read extracts from his book. The event concluded with speaker from Liverpool Learning Partnership and School Improvement Liverpool (SIL) detailing how schools can get involved and how to download useful resources. Children and teachers then

Children’s author Frank Cottrell-Boyce signs autographs

had a chance to talk to some of the special guests from around the city and get some inspiration for their diaries! Naomi Rose, marketing manager for SIL said: “The

project In My Life is a fantastic platform for schools to showcase their creativity. “We want as many children and young people as possible to get involved.”

School appoints new head boy and head girl Woolton-based Abbot’s Lea School has appointed a new head boy and head girl as part of its commitment to promoting student leadership. Ryan Griffiths (16) will fulfil the role of head boy and Saoirse Redmond (16) will be head girl. They take over from the last year’s successors: Dan Houghton and Chantelle Nicklin-Harvey. Mrs Ania Hildrey, the school’s headteacher is passionate about developing distributed leadership within the school and introduced the head boy and head girl roles in 2016 as part of wider school developments. Those who wanted to take on the vital positions were asked to apply in writing sharing their leadership values and ideas. Mrs Hildrey then held interviews with possible candidates with each one showcasing their vision for the school and their commitment to playing a role in its future development. Ryan and Saoirse will assist in the outdoor learning project which aims to redesign the school grounds to improve facilities for students of all ages. Ryan said: “I am very pleased to be head boy at Abbot’s Lea. I am keen to represent the voice of many students here at the school and share their ideas with the headteacher and the leadership team.” Saoirse added: “As head girl I am looking forward to working closely with 40

Mrs Hildrey, the staff and members of the school council to ensure Abbot’s Lea is a welcoming and positive environment for all.” Mrs Hildrey said: “It is with great delight that I introduce our new head boy and girl. Following last year’s successful appointments, we had a lot of interest from students and I was incredibly impressed with each of the six candidates’ commitment and confidence. “It is fantastic to know that so many of our senior students are keen to take on

leadership roles and represent the school in this way. “I have been keen to create a distributed leadership model for the staff and the students. This model strengthens shared vision, school developmental planning and creates a culture of mutual accountability. By students becoming an integral part of this approach, they are given not only the voice but also – very crucially - extra responsibilities to prepare them for further education, the world of work and the reality of an adult life.”

Headteacher Mrs Ania Hildrey with Saoirse Redmond and Ryan Griffiths

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

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Reflecting on victory Educate Awards 2017

chools across the region have been honoured at the prestigious Educate Awards 2017 ceremony which took place on Friday 17 November. Nearly 600 guests gathered for the Educate Awards ceremony held at the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral, hosted by broadcaster Simon ‘Rossie’ Ross. The awards, in partnership with Copyrite Systems and Ricoh, is now in its sixth year and is the biggest celebration of education in the North West. On the night, 21 awards were handed out to schools in the Liverpool City Region, Lancashire and Cheshire. The opening act was a 300-strong Super Choir led by musical director Steve Cook from Formby High School. Participating schools included Formby High School; Freshfield Primary School; Redgate Primary School; Saughall All Saints CofE Primary School; St Anne Stanley Primary School and Valewood Primary School. Guests were also treated to music from St John Rigby College students; a special performance of Beauty and the Beast Jr by Archbishop Blanch School; a fashion show by Holly Lodge Girls’ College and a spoken word performance by five students from The Hollins Technology College.

The winners were chosen by an esteemed judging panel which included Michelle Dow, managing director of All About STEM; James Tartt, Merseyside track athlete and architect; Radio City breakfast host Leanne Campbell; Councillor Gary Millar, assistant mayor & mayoral lead for business & international trade; Chris Walker, regional managing editor of Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales; Lesley Martin-Wright, chief executive of Knowsley Chamber; Fiona Barnet, director of The Foundry Agency; Andrew Pimbley of Wirral’s Claremont Farm; Sue Cronin, head of teacher education at Liverpool Hope University and the education team at the respected Everyman and Playhouse Theatres. Held in partnership with Copyrite Systems and Ricoh as title sponsors, other category sponsors included Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU); The Foundry Agency; Wray Brothers; Paul Crowley & Co; The Bishop of Liverpool, The Rt. Revd. Paul Bayes; MILK Education; The Liverpool Learning Partnership (LLP); Shaping Futures; All About STEM; Hi-Impact Consultancy; Liverpool School Sports Partnership (LSSP); Air Products; School Improvement Liverpool; CER Education, DMR David M Robinson Jewellery & Watches, and Progress Schools.

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1. Communication Award sponsored by The Foundry Agency Winner: Gateacre School “We’re absolutely delighted that Gateacre has been recognised for its commitment to communication. Communication is at the heart of everything that we do to keep the community, parents, students and stakeholders informed of all the great work that we do,” Gina Kane, business development and communications manager. Runner-up: Alsop High School 2. Eco School Project of the Year Winner: Calderstones School “We’re in shock. We cannot believe that we have won this award. We feel extremely privileged to even be here tonight. To hear our name read out as the winner was absolutely amazing,” Emma Taylor Johnson, English teacher. Runner-up: St Michael’s CofE High School

Educate Awards 2017

3. Spirit of Enterprise Award Winner: Bebington High School Farm “I’m ecstatic. It’s great to get the recognition for all of the staff, students and volunteers involved,” Peter Fearon, land-based sciences coordinator. Runner-up: St Damian’s RC Science College 4. SEND Provision Award sponsored by Progress Schools Ltd Winner: Finch Woods Academy “It’s been a great journey that we’ve been on as a school and we’re over the moon to have won. I can’t believe it,” Laura Dickinson, headteacher. Runner-up: Clare Mount Specialist Sports College 5. Innovative and Creative Literacy Award Winner: The District CE Primary School “We’re absolutely delighted with this award. We do everything for our children and we accept it on behalf of them and the entire District family,” Heather Wright, English lead. Runner-up: St Damian’s RC Science College 6. STEM Project of the Year sponsored All About STEM Winner: Mosslands School “This award is a fantastic recognition of all the hard work that our staff and students have been doing. We’re just delighted that the boys and the staff have done so well. I’d like to thank the sponsors for nominating us,” Adrian Whiteley, headteacher. Runner-up: The District CE Primary School

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7. Outstanding Arts in a Primary School sponsored by DMR, David M Robinson, Fine Jewellery & Watches Winner: Riverside Primary School “Words fail me. I’m just so proud. I’ve got the best team and the best school. I’m overjoyed – it’s amazing to have won this award,” Christina Lahive, headteacher. Runner-up: St Sebastian’s Catholic Primary School 8. Outstanding Arts in a Secondary School sponsored by Liverpool Learning Partnership (LLP) Winner: Archbishop Blanch School “It feels absolutely incredible to have won this award. I’m so proud of the girls who really deserve this,” Ms Nikki Oztuna, music teacher. Runner-up: Holly Lodge Girls’ College

9. Career Aspiration Award sponsored by Air Products Winner: St Margaret’s CE Academy “It means everything this award. As a former student of the school it means so much to be able to create the opportunities for our young people to go on and further themselves,” Greg McLean, careers and data manager. Runner-up: The Academy of St Francis of Assisi

11. Outstanding Teaching of Life Skills Winner: Netherton Moss Primary School “It’s very exciting to have won this award. The teaching of life skills, giving the children not just the subjects that we teach in the curriculum but creating whole people who can carry themselves forward into the future is a vital thing that schools need to provide. We’re just so proud of all the children that we teach,” David Hird, assistant headteacher. Runner-up: Eldon Primary School

Educate Awards 2017

10. Community Partnership Award sponsored The Bishop of Liverpool, The Rt Revd Paul Bayes Winner: Alsop High School “This award is a fantastic achievement, not just for the school, but for the whole community,” Peter Bull, head of RE. Runner-up: Kilgarth School

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12. Innovation in Education Award sponsored by Hi-impact Consultancy Winner: Evelyn Community Primary School “I’m absolutely thrilled to bits – I’m ecstatic! I’m so proud of all our team…and me!” Maxine Formby, history teaching assistant. Runner-up: The Hollins Technology College

Educate Awards 2017

13. Outstanding Commitment to Sport in Primary School sponsored by LSSP Winner: Plantation Primary School “It feels amazing to have won this award. It’s a great credit to everyone at the school. Everything we’ve done this year, we’ve done for the children and they absolutely love PE. I couldn’t have done it without every single staff member in our school so I really appreciate everything they have done for me. It’s been a great year for the school and I’m made up that the Educate Awards has recognised that,” Kevin Sanders, PE co-ordinator. Runner-up: Booker Avenue Junior School

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14. Outstanding Commitment to Sport in Secondary Winner: Rainford High “I’m elated. We’ve won this award previously so we didn’t really expect win to it again. I’m extremely delighted and honoured,” Gary Makin, curriculum leader for PE. Runner-up: Bebington High School 15. Leadership Team of the Year sponsored by Shaping Futures Winner: Tauheedul Islam Boys’ High School “It’s a great honour to have won this award. I didn’t expect us to win it. It’s a testament to all the hard work of our students, governors, trustees, staff, parents, leadership team and community – it’s a collective effort. I think the award is a recognition of all work which has been put in by those stakeholders. It’s a tremendous accolade,” Mubaaruck Ibrahim, principal and chief executive. Runner-up: Winstanley College

14 16. Teacher of the Year sponsored by CER Education Winner: Ruth Partington, The Academy of St Nicholas “I’m gobsmacked! I didn’t think I was going to win it because all I do is my job. I think the children will be delighted…or will they be? They might just say ‘oh, it’s just Miss!’. I’m absolutely thrilled!” Ruth Partington. Runner-up: Matthew O’Keeffe – The Belvedere Academy

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17. School Support Star sponsored by School Improvement Liverpool Winner: Sara Mitchell – New Park Primary School “I didn’t even know I was nominated! They did it as a surprise and I only found out when I was shortlisted. Everything I do is for the children at New Park and I genuinely think they deserve the best. They say that I support everybody at the school but I couldn’t do it without the support of two people, Karen and Rob – without them I couldn’t do my job,” Sara Mitchell, New Park Primary School. Runner-up: Michelle Goodwin – Hope Academy

19. Most Inspirational 16-18 Education Provider sponsored by Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) Winner: St John Rigby College “It feels fantastic to have won this award. What a privilege to be awarded with the most inspirational 16-18 provider. We do have an inspirational group of staff but it’s nice to collect this on behalf of our students because it’s them who inspire us to be the best that we can be each and every day,” Peter McGhee, principal. Runner-up: Alsop High School 20. Most Inspirational Primary School sponsored by MILK Education Winner: Eldon Primary School “It feels absolutely amazing to have won. We thought we had an outside chance but we’re just thrilled. We’ve had a superb year this year. We’ve just been inspected and we received Outstanding in all areas so this just the cherry on the top,” Azra Butt, headteacher. Joint runner-up: Whitefield Primary School and New Park Primary School

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21. WOW Recognition Award sponsored by Paul Crowley & Co Winner: The Hollins Technology College “I’m absolutely delighted. The project has been ongoing now for 18 months – the boys have been out on tour and they’ve made a huge impression on lots of people working along the lines of the ‘Beyond Labels’ project. This award is a fitting tribute to the hard work of Waqar Ahmed, our extended services coordinator, and the time and effort that all the lads have put in,” Steve Campbell, headteacher. Runner-up: Rudston Primary School

Educate Awards 2017

18. Most Inspirational Secondary School sponsored by Wray Brothers Winner: Formby High School “I’m delighted. I think it’s good recognition for all the great work that goes on at Formby High School. It’s not just the staff – the students are wonderful, they turn up everyday full of beans, they are great kids to teach, they respond really well and it makes it a spot-on place to work,” Dominic Mackenzie, headteacher. Runner-up: Halewood Academy

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Educate Awards 2017

1. Title Sponsors, Andrew Hampson, Tom Doyle (Copyrite Systems) and Owen Macfarland (Ricoh) 2. Archbishop Blanch School 3. St John Rigby College 4. Educate Awards venue 5. Clare Mount Specialist Sports College 6. Orrets Meadow School, headteacher, Mrs Duncan and guest 7. Glamorous guests 8. Educate Awards 2017 Super Choir

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Educate Awards 2017

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9. Greenbank Primary School 10. Educate Awards founder Kim Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien 11. Holly Lodge fashion show 12. Archbishop Blanch 13. Awards host Simon Ross 14. Awards sponsor CER Education 15. Holly Lodge fashion show 16. Tom Doyle, managing director, Copyrite Systems (Title Sponsor) 17. Guests mingle between courses 18. Michelle Dow and Selena Ledgerton, All About STEM

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Educate Awards 2017

19. Dave Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien and awards judge James Tartt 20. Guests arriving 21. Michelle Goodwin, Hope Academy with students 22. Mr and Mrs Hall 23. David M Robinson jewellers 24. Liverpool Learning Partnership (LLP) 25. New Park Primary School 26. Nadine Carroll, headteacher Whitefield Primary School (left) 27. Arrival at the prestigous event 28. Paul Crowley & Co.

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Educate Awards 2017

29. Glitz and glamour 30. Riverside Primary School 31. School Improvement Liverpool 32. Bebington High School Farm 33. Ready to celebrate 34. All Saints Academy Trust 35. Cheers! 36. Alsop High School 37. Sara Mitchell (centre), New Park Primary School 38. Wray Brothers 39. Awards judge Lesley Martin-Wright (R), and John Mason 40. Hi-impact Consultancy 41. Dave Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien and Simon Ross 42. Calderstones School

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Educate Awards 2017

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43. Gina Kane and Lisa Mitchell, Gateacre School 44. Delicious desserts 45. Judge Andrew Pimbley (Claremont Farm) presenting the Eco School Project of the Year award to Calderstones 46. Andrew Hampson (Copyrite Systems) with Bebington High School Farm 47. Andrew Hampson, sales manager, Copyrite Systems 48. The District CE School 49. Finch Woods Academy with James Madine, Progress Schools 50. Jamie McFadden, PR and social media executive at DMR, David M Robinson, Jewellery & Watches 51. Riverside Primary School 52. Riverside Primary School celebrating their award win 53. Elaine Rees, chief executive, Liverpool Learning Partnership (LLP)

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54. St Margaretâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Academy making their way to stage 55. St Margaretâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Academy with Lynn Willacy, Air Products 56. Selfie! 57. Archbishop Blanch collecting their Outstanding Arts Award 58. Alsop High School winning the Community Partnership Award 59. The Bishop of Liverpool, Rt Rev. Paul Bayes 60. The Belvedere Academy 61. Awards Judge Lesley Martin-Wright, chief executive of Knowsley Chamber 62. Netherton Moss celebrate on stage

Educate Awards 2017

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Educate Awards 2017

63. Matthew O’Keeffe, runner up Teacher of the Year, The Belvedere Academy 64. Plantation Primary School 65. Winners celebrate 66. Riverside Primary School on the red carpet 67. The District CE Primary 68. Kim O’Brien (awards founder) with students from The Hollins Technology College 69. Karen Hutchings, headteacher at New Park primary congratulating School Support Star of the Year Sara Mitchell 70. The Hollins Technology College perform on stage 71. Guests capturing the night’s performances 72. Holly Lodge Girls’ College 73. Liverpool School Sports Partnership, LSSP, sponsors of Outstanding Commitment to Sport in Primary School 74. The Hollins Technology College

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75. Catherine Shillito, Schools and Colleges Account Manager, LJMU 76. St John Rigby College celebrate their Most Inspirational 16-18 Education Provider win! 77. The Hollins staff and students celebrate! 78. Mark Wray, director and co-founder of Wray Brothers 79. Formby High headtecher Mr Mackenzie 80. Eldon Primary School make their way to stage 81. Nicola Stewart, education recruitment consultant, Milk Education 82. A high five from Tom Doyle (Copyrite Systems) for The Hollins Technology College 83. (L-R) Andrew Pimbley, James Tartt, Lesley Martin-Wright, Simon Ross, Kim Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien, Sue Cronin, Gary Millar and Chris Walker 85. Awards host Simon Ross 85. St Margaretâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Academy 86. A night of celebration 87. Andrew Pimbley, Claremont Farm and guests

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88. Evelyn CP make their way to stage 89. Adella Dando, South Liverpool partnership manager, LSSP 90. Plantation Primary School celebrate their Outstanding Sport win 91. Plantation Primary School on stage 92. Awards judge James Tartt, elite athlete and graduate architect at Falconer Chester Hall 93. Outstanding Commitment to Sport in Secondary School winners Rainford High with James Tartt 94. Tauheedul Islam Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; High School with John Corish, head of programme, Shaping Futures 95. Tce McCann, regional manager, CER Education 96. Tce McCann (CER Education) with Teacher of the Year Ruth Partington (The Academy of St Nicholas) 97. Malik Killen (School Improvement Liverpool) with School Support Star of the Year Sara Mitchell

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98. Rainford High School 99. Riverside Primary School jumping for joy! 100. John Corish, Shaping Futures 101. Educate Awards 2017 Super Choir, led by Steve Cook, Formby High School 102. Archbishop Blanch perform 103. Teacher of the Year winner Ruth Partington (right) walking the red carpet 104. The Hollins Technology College 105. Gateacre School 106. Paul Crowley & Co present the WOW Recognition Award 107. New Park Primary School

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108. Educate Awards 2017 Super Choir 109. Bebington High School Farm 110. Copyrite Systems with guests 111. The Hollins Technology College 112. Alsop High School, Community Partnership Award winners 113. Hi-impact consultancy

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114. Riverside Primary 115. Performance by The Hollins Technology College of Beyond Labels 116. Guests 117. Michelle Dow, managing director, All About STEM 118. Educate Awards 2017 Super Choir 119. Riverside Primary School 120. Title sponsors Copyrite Systems with guests

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Enter now for the

Educate Awards 2018 Educate Awards 2017

Head to www.educateawards.co.uk Browse the 21 award categories and read the criteria for each. Anyone can make a nomination, including teachers, staff, parents, pupils and community groups. Draft your entry offline in a word document before uploading – nominations should be no more than 750 words. Submit your nomination by Sunday 24 June 2018. 125

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121. Copyrite Systems and Ricoh with guests 122. School Support Star of the Year Sara Mitchell (New Park Primary School) 123. Ania Hildrey (Abbot’s Lea School) and Stephen Hildrey 124. Riverside Primary School 125. Archbishop Blanch’s outstanding performance of Beauty and the Beast 126. Title sponsors Copyrite Systems and Ricoh 127. Simon ‘Rossie’ Ross signs off

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/ P U T YO U R S C H O O L IN THE SPOTLIGHT /

THE BIGGEST CELEBRATION OF EDUCATION IN THE NORTH WEST COVERING LIVERPOOL CITY REGION, LANCASHIRE, CHESHIRE AND THE MANCHESTER CITY REGION.

CALL FOR ENTRIES VISIT WWW.EDUCATEAWARDS.CO.UK D E A D L I N E F O R S U B M I S S I O N S : S U N DAY 2 4 J U N E 2 0 1 8

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BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Archbishop Blanch School raise the roof at awards 70 talented pupils from Archbishop Blanch School in Liverpool came together to perform an exclusive medley of songs from its successful production of Beauty and the Beast Jr. Having gained the licenses from The Walt Disney Studios, an incredible amount of hard work went into the creation of the show which debuted in July and the cast were delighted to bring highlights of the play to the Educate Awards 2017. Headteacher Miss Heather Duggan said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The evening was a huge success in a fabulous venue and our students gave an absolutely phenomenal performance. To say we were proud would be a huge understatement proud beyond belief would be more accurate! The comments from all who had the pleasure of watching them perform was truly amazingâ&#x20AC;?.

Charlotte Dowson as Belle (Year 10)

Year 13 student Alexandra Webster as Lumiere

Year 13 student Adam Scully as the Beast

Zoe Hill (Year 9), Erin Murphy (Year 10), Emily Carvell (Year 10), Abbie Hollis (Year 10), Emma Dunne (Year 10) and Anna Doran (Year 9)

Evie Smith (Year 10) as Lefou

Grace Parker (Year 8) as Chip

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Leah Shepard as Belle (Year 13)

Year 10 student Lucy Balmforth (centre) as Gaston

Beauty and the Beast

Lucy Balmforth as Gaston and Evie Smith (Year 10) as Lefou

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CHILDWALL CAN DO Projects help to build confidence and development Childwall CE Primary School have been working on an exciting new project in collaboration with the Leonard Cheshire Disability’s Can Do project and Childwall Abbey School. Can Do is a volunteering programme for young disabled people, offering support, information and training through bespoke programmes. The school has been working with Can Do to offer community volunteering opportunities to the older pupils of Childwall Abbey whilst they complete a City & Guilds certificate, visiting Childwall CE Primary School each Wednesday. The project took place in three stages, stage one was for the children of Childwall Abbey to build ‘Nurture and Grow’ planters for their allotment area on the field to grow vegetables. Stage two has been the production of three large art pieces being created and installed in the allotment area. Stage three was a ‘hands tree’ where the children of Childwall Abbey painted the hands of all of the children from Childwall CE and placed the impresions on a ‘tree’ to be displayed in school.

The ‘Can Do’ project team with pupils from Childwall CE Primary School

Pupils show off their graffiti art

Students decorate their new planters for pupils to grow vegetables

Pupils finished off the ‘hands tree’ with their reception children

Artist Ian Edmondson

Childwall Valley City & Guilds students

The project finished off with a presentation at an assembly

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Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

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Meet the Headteacher Emma Hartley, headteacher Our Lady and St Swithin’s CP School

Taking on your first headship is no easy feat. Harder still when your school has a turbulent past. But Emma Hartley’s approach proves that success is not the key to happiness; happiness is the key to success. Educate sits down with Emma to find out why happiness matters at Our Lady and St Swithin’s CP School.

The key to happiness by Hannah Fowler Remarkably, it was a game of heads down thumbs up that sparked Emma Hartley’s passion for teaching. “I went to St Teresa’s primary school and it was when I was in Mr Edwards’ class,” says Emma. “He played heads down thumbs up at the end of the day, and I really wanted to be in charge of the game, so I thought that’s it, I’m going to be a teacher.” After studying her A-levels at St John Bosco Arts College, Emma got her teaching degree at John Moores University before landing her first job at Faith Primary School as maternity cover. Soon after, Emma moved to St Gregory’s Primary School in Netherley and was there for 12 years, becoming deputy headteacher in her sixth year. Emma then spotted an advert for a headteacher position at Our Lady and St Swithin’s CP School in Croxteth and having never heard of the school before, paid a visit. “When I walked around I could just feel the potential, I could see the potential,” says Emma. “I wanted to come back and meet the children so I came back and as soon as I met the children that’s when I knew. I knew this was the school for me. Something just clicked in to place and 64

that’s when I said I have got to apply for the job,” she adds. Emma was appointed in March 2017 for a September start, but wasted no time getting to know the school by attending staff and governors’ meetings to ensure there was a smooth transition at the start of term. “The first thing that struck me about the school was that the environment needed a lot of work,” says Emma. So during the summer holidays, while most teachers are enjoying their well-deserved break, Emma and her husband overhauled the entire school. “We painted, we filled three skip loads, I found files from 1989, literally everywhere was just redone. We transformed a meeting room in to a multi-purpose room and children now use it for cookery, art, science, experiments, interventions – it’s absolutely brilliant,” says Emma. Our Lady and St Swithin’s CP School has a complicated history – in 2013 the school was put in special measures and was in real threat of closure, but it pulled through and in 2015 the school achieved the ‘requires improvement’ grade from Ofsted, which was a massive improvement from where it had come from, explains Emma.

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

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My first goal was I wanted the children to be happy, so to get that happiness I knew that they had to feel comfortable and cosy

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The uncertainty and instability the school faced was seen first-hand during Emma’s first assembly as headteacher. While introducing herself as the new head, the children asked ‘how long are you staying miss?’ “It went from one week, a month and the longest anyone said was a term,” says Emma. “So I said no, I am here to stay. It was about that message for the staff as well that they have got one leader now, that I am here to stay and I am so passionate about the school you wouldn’t believe.” With a turbulent past, Emma’s main priority was to create a place of sanctuary for pupils and staff. “My first goal was I wanted the children to be happy, so to get that happiness I knew

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that they had to feel comfortable and cosy,” she says. “I wanted to environment to be really nice for them.” With a focus on happiness, wellbeing classes were quickly introduced with peer massage, yoga, relaxation and mindfulness all now part of the curriculum. Within no time, Emma saw the impact. “The behaviour incidents on the yard reduced, the children are a lot calmer and a lot of them are thinking more about their actions and the choices that they make,” Emma explains. Everyone knows a good brekky can set you up for the day. Recent research found that one in seven children go to school hungry, and it’s an issue affecting Our Lady and St Swithin’s too. “We have a lot of children coming in hungry and that therefore has an impact on their performance,” says Emma. To combat this, the school revitalised its breakfast club by working closely with parents, applying for funding and asking its sport apprentice to run a different sport each morning alongside offering healthy breakfast options. “Breakfast club went from seven children on the first day of term to 50 in the next two weeks and now we are up to 63 children. 63 children having a lovely breakfast which is great,” Emma explains. Attendance was also a key priority, and still is for Emma. During the first week in September attendance was at 92%, well below the 97% target. With a new action plan together which included home visits, within a couple of weeks, attendance was on 97.8%, an incredible impact straight away.

Emma hoped with these initiatives in place, success would follow. And she was right. Just a few weeks in to her headship, Ofsted visited and the school received a Good grade, significant as it is the first in the school’s history. “The inspector was really overwhelmed with the idea of happiness being put back in to the curriculum and it was something that he could really see within the children,” explains Emma. In many ways, Emma sees her role as headteacher as connecting the dots

between all the good practice already in place and simply adding the “finishing touches”. But Emma’s impact can’t be played down, her leadership has transformed the school and at only 35 years old, her career as a headteacher has only just begun. “It’s been a whirlwind,” says Emma, reflecting on her headship to date. “It has been 12 weeks, and 12 weeks of headship feels like 12 years!” “It has been the best 12 weeks of my life, it’s been amazing. I’m so lucky to have found the perfect school for me.”

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The Art of Educating

The Art of Educating The government believes Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects are the secret to the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s success but are we missing a huge opportunity by overlooking the arts? Christine Toner reports.

A year ago Prime Minister Theresa May announced her industrial strategy. The plan, she said, was to boost the effectiveness of UK industries and improve our economy. Her strategy focused on ten key points including more investment in science and research, a greater emphasis on developing skills, improvements to both digital and physical infrastructure and more help for business to grow. And the key to all of this? A focus on science, technology, engineering and maths as well as numeracy and digital skills. What was quite glaringly missing from this strategy was, of course, any sort of spotlight on the arts. STEM subjects were billed as the ones that would lead the way in the British business world. The arts and creative skills that can play a huge part in the economy didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get a look in.

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The Art of Educating

It was an omission that didn’t go unnoticed. Indeed, the Creative Industries Federation (CIF) was quick to respond. Speaking to creative bible Design Week a spokesperson said: “Developing skills – and encouraging the right mix of skills – is critical. We understand the government’s focus on STEM but highlight that creative skills are needed not just by the creative industries but in everything from car manufacturing to engineering.” The CIF went on to say that a greater focus should be placed on creative subjects in education, to help enable young people to take on jobs in areas with skill shortages, such as visual effects and animation. Of course the government’s push on STEM subjects is nothing new. Creative subjects were controversially excluded from the English Baccalaureate (Ebacc) - a performance measure for schools in England. Furthermore in a survey by the National Union of Teachers (NUT) 60% of secondary school staff have seen cuts to subjects not included in EBacc. A poll of 1,200 teachers carried out by the NUT along with the Association of Teachers and Lecturers claims that the EBacc is putting subjects and staff

under threat. The study revealed 61% of respondents reported cuts to teaching posts in non-EBacc subjects, such as drama and music, compared with 38% reporting cuts in teaching posts for ‘core’ academic subjects like maths and science. And industry bodies hit out at the government for failing to properly fund the arts in the UK. The CIF published a report with BOP Consulting which found that the UK government’s spending on the arts is lower than other nations, despite people’s engagement with culture being high. The C. Report grouped information under three headings – the creative industries, public art and creative education. It compares the UK with six nations – France, Germany, Italy, Brazil, Korea and the USA. The research shows that the UK’s creative industries have the highest export rates and the second highest economic value. Engagement with culture is also higher in the UK than any of the countries surveyed with 52% of the adult population having visited a museum or art gallery in the last year.

“...Creative skills are needed not just by the creative industries but in everything from car manufacturing to engineering.”

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The Art of Educating

Yet for all the push of STEM subjects it seems the government has not achieved its desired outcome. Despite this, says the report, the UK falls behind France, Germany, Korea and Italy when it comes to government spending in arts. Furthermore only 9% of the school curriculum for 14-16 year olds is dedicated to arts subjects.

The CLA conducts research into the impact of arts in schools and the importance of creativity.

Speaking of the report Sir John Sorrell, founder of the CIF, said: “The UK has led the way in developing its world-class creative sector but we can’t be complacent. In order to stay at the top, we need to invest in the future – especially in creativity in schools, where the number of pupils taking design and technology has halved in the last decade. That is cutting off the skills pipeline we need for future success.”

1. Participation in structured arts activities can increase cognitive abilities by 17%.

Yet for all the push of STEM subjects it seems the government has not achieved its desired outcome. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) there hasn’t been much improvement in terms of the country’s performance in these subject areas. The OECD’s Programme for International Assessment found there has been little change in maths and science performance among 15 and 16 year olds. So should we now be looking closer at the merits of arts? According to the Cultural Learning Alliance (CLA) we should.

Its key research ﬁndings published last year included:

2. Learning through arts and culture can improve attainment in maths and english. 3. Learning through arts and culture develops skills and behaviour that lead children to do better in school. 4. Students from low-income families who take part in arts activities at school are three times more likely to get a degree. 5. Young offenders who take part in arts activities are 18% less likely to re-offend. 6. Children who take part in arts activities in the home during their early years are ahead in reading and maths at age nine. 7. People who take part in the arts are 38% more likely to report good health.

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The Art of Educating

John Robinson is managing director of David M Robinson (DMR), UK fine jewellery and watch retailer, a business which thrives on creativity and design. He says there is definitely a link between opportunity and creativity. “If we give children the chance to learn from great teachers, with access to the best materials, they will progress academically too” he says. “If you look at LS Lowry, whilst he was famous for his ‘matchstick men and cats and dogs’, he was classically trained. You have to be good before you can be different.” Aside from academic success, creative subjects can have a huge impact on a child’s wellbeing. Alice Demba, Liverpool’s cultural education coordinator who is working with the Liverpool Learning Partnership to set up a Liverpool Cultural Education Partnership, highlights the CLA’s findings: “Theatre and drama improve young people’s social skills and emotional wellbeing,” she says. “We also know that engaging in the arts increases young people’s resilience – a key component of good mental health.” Alice says music and art can have an empowering affect on young people. “As the report from the CLA shows specific art forms can have specific benefits,” she says. Singing can help with language learning (Ludke et al, 2014). Music increases IQ and dance and drama social skills (Schellenberg, 2004). Hong Kong research shows particular improvements in creativity and communication through studying visual arts (Hui, He and Sam Ye, 2015). German research has shown a causal relationship between music and educational attainment (Yang, 2015).”

John agrees. “As a creative business, we understand the importance of the arts and their influence on empowering individuals,” he says. “Founded in a Liverpool workshop almost 50 years ago, our roots lie firmly in the creativity of our goldsmiths and in the designs that evolve here.” And while the government’s strategy to boost the UK’s economic performance may be centred largely on STEM subjects both Alice and John believe creative subjects can significantly benefit the economy going forward. “Employability of students who study arts subjects is higher and they are more likely to stay in employment”, says Alice. “Students from low-income families who engage in the arts at school are twice as likely to volunteer, students from low-income families who engage in the arts at school are 20% more likely to vote as young adults.” John says to businesses such as David M Robinson, whilst academic progress is valuable, it is the skill and personality of the individual that captures both the management and the clients. “With evidence proving that creativity is an important method of expression, it assists in the development of strong, confident characters, who prove to be fantastic asset to businesses like DMR.”

“Employability of students who study arts subjects is higher and they are more likely to stay in employment”

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Meet the Headteacher James Kerfoot, headteacher Childwall Sports and Science Academy

When James Kerfoot joined Childwall Sports and Science Academy, he embarked on a journey to show how Childwall is changing. Five years later, he tells Educate how Childwall has changed through its learning without limits philosophy.

Push your limits by Hannah Fowler Growing up as a farmer’s son from North Wales, a career in teaching wasn’t on James Kerfoot’s radar, until an injury dashed his dreams of becoming a footballer. “I was playing at a reasonable standard and then I damaged my knee quite badly,” he says. “I missed the chance to change from History to Law in university because I was having surgery, so due to my weak left knee I then drifted through, finished my degree and thought if I can’t play professional or even semi-professional football for very long, then I want to teach some P.E.” After studying at Nottingham University, James applied for teacher training at Manchester Metropolitan and from there, his teaching career began. Although, James says all of this wouldn’t have been possible if his dad hadn’t sent him away to a boys’ grammar school. “I got an expectation culture that I wouldn’t have got from my local schools and I think that changed my entire life,” explains James. It is this expectation culture which James has tried to instil at Childwall Sports and Science Academy. Before joining Childwall, James was head of history and politics at a comprehensive in Oldham and then assistant head at New Heys Comprehensive School (now 70

known as The Academy of St Nicholas). After a couple of years as deputy, James took the reins at Childwall in September 2013. Entering his fifth year, James is reflective on his time at Childwall and what the team has achieved to date. “(When I joined) I came out with this mantra of Childwall is changing to try and change the way the school was going to operate and to get a message out to the community that there was a new head with a slightly different vision,” explains James. “So now I’m about looking at Childwall has changed, and what have been the impacts of what we’ve seen over the past four or five years.” So how has Childwall changed? Passionate about leadership, one of James’ main tasks has been rebuilding the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and creating school leaders across all levels. “We have made really large improvements and the last Ofsted report certainly talked about the leadership and management judgement being good,” says James. “It was strong because it’s not about me, it’s about the team, it’s about how the SLT are developing and growing.” “The faculty leaders are the engine leaders of the school, they are stronger now and they are running their areas

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and showing their vision which is great,” he adds. James likens the headteacher role to “football manager culture”, one bad season and you could be gone, he says. And with so many accountability measures, which should schools prioritise? For James, his priorities are clear. “I’ve got three core aspects of my role, number one I have got to keep your child safe every day, number two I’ve got to make them enjoy school and love coming, and number three great exam results,” he says. “And I think they are in that order, and I’m not going to apologise, exam results come last. If you focus on the results culture you get quite a slow experience for children, it’s not a fun experience.” So what Childwall did four years ago is reset the school vision, introduce a mission statement of ‘learning without limits’ and launch ASPIRE values (Aim high, Succeed together, Persevere, Inspire, Respect our school and Enjoy learning). “We really are focusing on putting the children in the middle of it all and not trying to be an Ofsted driven, outcome driven school but trying to focus on spiritual, moral, social and cultural development (SMSC),” says James.

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“

The faculty leaders are the engine leaders of the school, they are stronger now and they are running their areas and showing their vision which is great

”

“What we have seen over the last four years is there has been a nearly 5% improvement in our attendance in the whole school – which is massive. A 1% attendance improvement is huge, to go up 5% over four years is dramatic. We’ve seen our Progress 8 score hugely improve over the last two years, teaching and learning is stronger, attitudes to learning are stronger,” adds James.

Intake numbers are flourishing too, when James took over, his Year 7 cohort had just 80 children, now the school is full with 180 Year 7s and is projecting a waiting list for next year. “What I’m hearing from parents which is really interesting is they are not choosing us based on Ofsted, they are not choosing us based on exam results, albeit they are better, they are choosing us based on the fact they think we can care for their child and for me that is brilliant,” James explains. But there are still a number of challenges for James, with 850 children under his care, ensuring every child meets their potential is a priority. “How do you challenge every learner when you are a fully comprehensive school with children in a room who can’t read too well? How do you take their limits away?” he says. “How do you challenge those Russell Group aspirants who want to go to University? And it’s a personal passion of mine, how do you challenge

those children who are high ability on entry but disadvantaged from home?” While there are no easy answers to James’ questions, Childwall try to embed the ‘learning without limits’ mantra from day one. “In the first week of Year 7, we make every single Year 7 and their pastoral team walk up a mountain,” explains James. “We pass them the message that learning is hard, it is a challenge. So over the next few years if they are telling me that they can’t do their maths homework I say well you got up a mountain, so get on with it. No excuses.” Five years down the line, James is still as passionate as ever and ready to face the challenges ahead. “The biggest learning curve for me has been to let go, trust your staff, trust your students, watch what is happening within the school and capture it and celebrate it,” he says. “I have learnt absolutely loads but I have a lot more to learn.”

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WITH A LITTLE HELP Exhibition aims to encourage young artists For the second year, Edsential held the annual ‘Young Artists in Tuscany’ exhibition at the prestigious Williamson Art Gallery & Museum in Birkenhead. Entitled ‘Young Artists in Tuscany’, it proved to be a highly successful sixthform project with coverage in the past on both Italian and English television and exhibitions of the work in London, Florence and Montreal. Many students have used this experience to gain places at prestigious art colleges across the country and this year’s ‘Young Artists in Tuscany’ promised to build on these achievements. Students go through an interview process and successful candidates receive the unique opportunity to study and work in Tuscany, Italy, practical work runs alongside organized visits to see the works of the Italian Renaissance. Debbie Cottam, Edsential’s head of visual and performing arts, said: “It has been a privilege to work with such talented, motivated and dedicated students. The standard of the work has been exceptionally high throughout the various stages of the project and I’m always in awe of what is produced!”

A parent admiring work

Laura McMullen (Hilbre High School)

Isabella Maria Grazia Cecere (The Catholic High School, Chester)

Sculpture piece by various students

Work by Sophia Heywood (Sir John Deanes Sixth Form College) A selection of work-books completed by students

Sophia Heywood (Sir John Deanes Sixth Form College)

An artist admiring work

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Education News

All smiles Smiley Bus to help get children out and about

Children at Clare Mount Specialist Sports College will now be able to get out and about in a shiny new 17seater Smiley Bus, provided by the Steve Morgan Foundation. The children have complex needs and follow a curriculum that includes lots of sports and activities outside of school to help them develop social and practical skills. The Smiley Bus will be used daily to take them on these trips. In addition to the funding from the Steve Morgan Foundation, a substantial contribution from local philanthropists, Mandy Molby and Trudi Brooks, via Radio City Cash for Kids, made the purchase possible. There were smiles all round when the mini bus was formally handed over to the school by Steve Morgan Foundation administrator Jane Harris. Kim Webster, headteacher at Clare Mount said: “Words cannot fully express how grateful we are to the Steve Morgan

Foundation, together with Cash for Kids, for funding this minibus. It will provide our students with so many opportunities to access sporting and cultural events and activities beyond the school gates, to broaden their knowledge and skills and provide them with experiences they can take forward in life. “Furthermore, the generosity of the Steve Morgan Foundation and Cash for Kids means we can assist other groups in the community to also participate in a range of opportunities previously unavailable to them.” Steve Morgan Foundation administrator, Jane Harris said: “We have previously funded the college’s multi-use games area and so the trustees know what a good job the school is doing. “Having a reliable mini-bus makes a huge difference to the children and the opportunities the school can provide for them.”

Students tread the boards with War Horse promo video

SAE Liverpool second year students Emily May Turner and Lucy Ledger’s promotional video for the recent production of War Horse at the Liverpool Empire theatre has sparked a real social media buzz. The theatre used the video as part of their promotional campaign on Facebook and it reached over 50,000 views, drumming up huge amounts of enthusiasm for the five star rated show. The pair were recommended to do the video by SAE Liverpool’s student recruitment officer Graham Lysaght, due to their already impressive portfolio of work including video advertisements and live lounges. Emily May said: “My biggest inspiration for the video was War Horse itself, as it’s a show I have always wanted to see on stage. Being given the opportunity to not only watch it but produce the video for it was really exciting and I couldn’t wait to make it”. Despite being a tight turnaround, the students managed to use their time successfully. Only able to film during the interval and after the show, they still managed to capture some beautiful shots and even cordoned off an area outside in order to interview people coming out of the show.

Creative agency unveils new website for 2018 Educate Awards sponsor The Foundry Agency has unveiled its brand new website for 2018. The Foundry Agency specialises in creating bespoke marketing solutions including website, design, public relations and events within the education sector. Designed by the agency’s in house web developer Liam Holding, the new site offers quick and easy access to The Foundry Agency’s core services and also features a blog and new portfolio area 74

showcasing a selection of the team’s latest projects. The agency has also refreshed its logo to modernise its brand and to reflect its redefined services offer of design, PR and digital. The Liverpool agency has created websites for the likes of Sky Music Hub and Abbot’s Lea School, while other retained clients include Rainford High, All Saints Multi Academy Trust and St John Bosco Arts College. Fiona Barnet, director at The Foundry

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Agency, said: “The creative industry is constantly evolving so we wanted our new site to stay ahead of the curve and showcase what The Foundry Agency has to offer. “We designed our new website to centre on our three core services: design, PR and digital, and to reflect who we are as an integrated agency. “We are excited to start 2018 with a new website which gives visitors a full understanding of what we offer as a creative agency.”

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First class School celebrates being first in country to win eco award A Southport primary school has celebrated being the first school in the country to receive the CAFOD livesimply award by holding a day of eco-friendly events. Staff and pupils at Our Lady of Lourdes Primary in Birkdale invited MPs, governors and local clergy to come and see their new accolade – awarded for the school’s efforts in living simply, sustainably and in solidarity with people in poverty – during a special open day. Pupils and attendees enjoyed a Fairtrade tuckshop as well as an assembly led by the children. One student from each class across the school who had shown outstanding commitment to the project received their own certificate. Our Lady of Lourdes Primary’s ecofriendly exploits began when it won a £50,000 grant to spend on installing solar panels and a panel clearly registering energy usage. When the school, a long-term CAFOD supporter, heard about livesimply it seemed a natural progression. Pupils attend a gardening club, growing their own fruit and vegetables, which they make soup out of and share. Annie Swainson, the school’s RE subject leader, said: “It was great so many governors, community members and clergy could come to celebrate our being the first school to receive the

Staff and pupils from Our Lady of Lourdes Primary celebrate their award

award. This isn’t a one-off, it’s a commitment.” Headteacher Maureen Hillsdon said: “To be the first nationally to gain this prestigious award is amazing. We will continue our commitment and put our faith into action going forward”. Every year the children fundraise for CAFOD and learn about global issues,

including the refugee crisis. CAFOD volunteer Paul Kelly, who assessed Our Lady’s, said: “It’s been brilliant seeing the enthusiasm and how committed everyone is to respecting one another, respecting people in need at home or abroad, and respecting the environment. They have really embraced living simply”.

Pupils park planting is tree-riffic! Green fingered children in Liverpool marked National Tree Week by launching a massive tree planting programme in the city’s major parks. Liverpool city council is piloting the project at seven primary schools with the aim of enabling every 10-year-old child in the city to plant a tree within the next three years. The council has teamed up with The Mersey Forest and The One Tree Per Child scheme for the children to plant 10,000 new trees by 2020. More than 50 pupils from Lister Drive Junior School teamed up with The Mersey Forest Team to help plant 500 trees in Newsham Park as part of a wider community planting programme for 2,500 new trees.

A further 50 plus pupils from Our Lady and St Swithin’s and Croxteth Community Primary schools helped plant a further 500 new trees at Alt Meadow, supported by staff from Cass Foundation One Tree Per Child is the international tree planting initiative that was founded by film-star Olivia Newton-John and environmentalist Jon Dee to connect young people with the natural environment and is funded in The Mersey Forest through the Defra Trees for Learning fund. To support the pilot, the council has also awarded Tree Champion status to four other primary schools to act as mentors and has identified four city parks for the planting to take place: Newsham, Walton Hall,

Otterspool and Alt Meadows. The scheme is the first key recommendation to be implemented from the city’s Green Spaces Review which called for children to have greater engagement with the city’s parks. Paul Nolan, Mersey Forest

Director said: “The trees being planted at Newsham Park and Alt Meadows are just the start, with over 10,000 trees planned for planting across Liverpool over this winter, helping to create parts of The Mersey Forest in the most urban of areas.”

Pupils from Lister Infants will help plant 500 trees in Newsham Park with Councillor Nick Small and Paul Nolan, Mersey Forest director Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

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Sixth Form Open Evening Tuesday 20th February at 6.30pm State-of-the-Art, Science, Sport and Sixth Form Facilities We aim for excellence and our commitment to this is reflected in our up to date curriculum based upon traditional values. Our Sixth Form offers the widest range of subjects and remains firmly committed to maintaining our first class reputation with employers and Higher Education institutions.

To find out more please call 0151 288 1000 or email admin@sfx.liverpool.sch.uk St Francis Xavierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College, Woolton Hill Road, Liverpool L25 6EG

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EDUCATE 16+ Education, training and employment

A-levels return Knowsley sees return of A-level provision From September 2018 the provision of A-levels will make a return to the borough of Knowsley with Knowsley Community College announcing the launch of a dedicated A Level Academy. This re-introduction is being cited as just one of several benefits expected to be created by the merger between St Helens College and Knowsley Community College. It forms part of the strategy for the merged college group to be responsive to the needs and demands of the community, enabling residents to have access to a quality, local provider. St Helens College’s own A-level academy has gone from strength to strength in recent years and has a growing A-level offer complemented by a specialist Professional Skills Programme. The A-level provision will be further strengthened by some partnership working with Carmel College. Knowsley Community College will be the home of this new A Level Academy which will offer over 21 subject areas to choose from, including traditional subjects such as English literature, English language and mathematics as well as more specialist subjects including politics, product design and computer science. Dr Jette Burford, CEO of the new college group said: “This move to introduce A-levels back into the borough of Knowsley is a strategic one to ensure that we can equip local students with the opportunities that they require to succeed in their future careers. “Our new college group will see us placed as the biggest education provider in the Liverpool City Region (LCR) so it is one of our key priorities that we are well placed to meet the needs of residents, students and employers. “This new A Level Academy is a place where students will receive focused, individualised support from tutors, smaller class sizes and an

demonstrate to future employers and universities that they have what it takes to succeed in their careers by showcasing their academic ability and self-motivation through the academic A-level study and their knowledge and competency skills provided by the practical nature of the vocational, BTEC qualifications.”

aspirational learning environment in which they can really excel in”. Gill Banks, principal of Knowsley Community College said: “These additional professional skills programmes are a specialist addition to the A Level Academy offer. “It helps to ensure that students can

Carmel College are senior maths challenge regional winners! A-level maths and further maths students at Carmel College have won the ‘Senior Team Maths Challenge’ regional finals against 22 other schools and colleges. The competition involved teams of four students completing a series of challenges over a three-hour period. There were three rounds in total, each testing the group’s ability in different ways. They had to work quickly and precisely as a team to solve extremely challenging mathematical problems. Congratulations to Bethany Anderson, Ben Hesford, David Xu and Dominic Francis. The team will now progress to the national

finals to represent the Liverpool region in February at Westminster in London.

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Driving home dangers Sixth form slant on road safety week Sixth form students at West Derby School spent their enrichment lessons learning about the dangers of blind spots when driving. As part of the link with the logistics themed academy, Bibby Distribution Limited provided the same training session they give to their own drivers. To make it more authentic they brought along one of their articulated vehicles and really captured the interest of the students. One student said: “It was really frightening standing alongside the truck and realising that there was no way the driver could see me.

“This morning has been really interesting and I will certainly pay attention to blind spots when I am learning to drive myself”. David Morley who organised the session said: “Bibby Distribution Ltd has been working with West Derby School as part of the think logistics/career ready programmes for some time. “As an extension of this partnership, Bibby recently delivered hands-on sessions for Year 12 students as part of the Brake Road Safety week – looking at speed reduction and vulnerable road users. The school facilitated these sessions to maximise their impact”.

David Morley from Bibby Distribution Ltd with students from West Derby School

Hugh Baird College and South Sefton College merge Following Sefton Council approval and support, South Sefton College has become part of Hugh Baird College. The decision is based on a strategy and shared desire to offer the very best post-16 education for those living in Sefton and the Liverpool City Region. The move for Hugh Baird College to take ownership of South Sefton College helps to provide a broad curriculum offer for school leavers in the area and, importantly, safeguards the provision of high quality A-level education for the South Sefton area. In addition, the new arrangement will ensure that all school leavers in South Sefton and the surrounding area can be guaranteed a place in a specialist centre, on a course that is suitable for them and their future career ambitions. Both Colleges will keep their respective sites. However, South Sefton College will be renamed as Hugh Baird College’s South Sefton Campus and it will be home to the College’s dedicated sixth form centre and will house its A-level provision. Yana Williams, Hugh Baird College principal and chief executive, said “It is clear that the move is a step forward for the colleges and for post-16 education in the Liverpool City Region. “We are delighted by this latest announcement and see it as a very positive strategic move that will ensure school leavers in the South Sefton area enjoy access to a broad, high quality post16 offer. “The coming together of the two organisations provides our local community and employers with a ‘one-stop-shop’ for post16 provision and I am confident that we can build on the strengths of the two institutions. “We are confident that this transition will build on both colleges’ successful foundations and we look forward to developing and improving the educational landscape in the region for the benefit of school leavers, businesses and the wider local community”. 84

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New teaching assistant course launched Sefton Community Service has introduced a new teaching assistant (TA) course. The five-week course covers the basic roles, knowledge and skills required to understand the diverse roles a TA has within the education system. The underpinning knowledge developed during the course places learners in good stead for progressing onto accredited teaching assistant/learning support courses. Learners could also apply for Level 1 teaching assistant jobs that do not need a recognised qualification but someone who has a good range of experience. By the end of the five week course it is hoped that learners have begun to investigate their next steps and with support decided whether they want to return to full-time education. Students are then encouraged and supported on completion of their current course to apply to university and get their primary teaching degree and become a fabulous, inspirational and motivational teacher themselves.

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In the fast lane Rainford students perform at Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Five students from Rainford High and Rainford Sixth Form took centre stage at the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi in November. Sixth-formers Ellie Mulhall (17) and Jess Smith (16) were given the unique opportunity through Rainford Sixth Form’s level 3 performing arts BTEC

course which is in partnership with a well-known dance school and talent agency in Liverpool. Whilst Jamie Carter (15), Jess Heddrick (14) and Kofi Wheatley (17) were invited due to their dedicated attendance to workshops and after school provisions at Rainford High.

The budding dancers were part of a 20strong team that performed at the highlyanticipated event, along with new up and coming girl band, Girl Talk. The trip was part-funded by sponsors, Florida Property Corner. The dance troupe showcased four high-energy routines to tracks by renowned artists such as Beyoncé and Michael Jackson. They also got the chance to show off their talents on the main stage within the Yas Marina Circuit before sets from DJ and producer, Calvin Harris and American singer, Pink. Speaking about the project, Jess Smith said: “Ever since a young age performing arts has been my passion. During my time at Rainford High I knew I wanted to go onto sixth form and study this exciting course which offers endless possibilities for students.” Principal of Rainford High, Ian Young, said: “We were very proud to see our talented students prepare for their big debut at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. They rehearsed every spare minute of the day and I’m sure they wowed the audiences with their talents. Pictured left to right are: Rainford students Ellie Mulhall, Jess Hedderick, Jamie Carter, Miguel Doforo, creative director, Less Smith and Kofi Wheatley.

Record success in applications Students at the newly formed All Saints Sixth Form College in Liverpool have achieved record success in their applications for the prestigious University of Liverpool scholars programme. Eight students applied and met the academic and personal criteria needed to gain entry to the scheme. Once accepted onto the programme there are so many benefits for the students. The university organises a programme of events throughout Year 12 in which students attend events to provide valuable insight in to studying at university including both academic expectations as well as the social aspect. Students learn about the academia through a series of bespoke workshops, lectures and seminars. These prepare

Some of the successful students on the All Saints sixth form scholars programme

students for completion of an academic assignment fully supported academic tutor provided by the university. Upon successful completion of the assignment, students receive a conditional offer of a place to study at their

preferred university. Once students begin studying at the university a bursary of up to £2,000 is payable for each year of their study. This opportunity forms part of the futures gateway programme at the college

aimed to inspire students and guide them into further education, higher level apprenticeships or employment and is a really positive achievement for students at All Saints Sixth Form.

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Educating UK offer a range of accredited qualifications which can be undertaken both online and classroom based. Our qualifications include: Level 3 Award and Certificate in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (QCF) for teaching assistants. Level 5 Certificate in Observation of Teaching and Learning (QCF), for qualified teachers. Level 3, 4 and 5 qualifications in Education and Training (QCF). www.educatinguk.com email: enquiries@educatinguk.com Telephone: 0151 364 7491

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High flying student Keir named ‘Scholar of Selwyn College’ Cambridge One of Winstanley College’s brightest stars, former student Keir Martland has been named ‘Scholar of Selwyn College’ at Cambridge University. At college, Keir took an active role in extra-curricular activities whether in the debating society or as president of the history society. At the colleges 2016 awards evening, he received the Governors’ Award for academic achievement. Keir progressed to Cambridge from Winstanley with an outstanding 2 A*s and 2 As in his A-levels. A year since beginning his degree in history at Selwyn College, Cambridge, Keir has been recognised as a scholar of the college. Impressively, he achieved the highest mark in the whole college in his first year history exams which entitled him to a £150 scholarship and the

prestigious ‘Scholar of Selwyn’ title. Book-lover Keir was also delighted to receive an £80 Blackwell’s voucher as additional reward from his achievement. Keir said: “To receive such recognition from the college after my first year is an honour. Cambridge has and is opening up a world of opportunity for me. “I have secured the opportunity to give a talk at the Oratory School in London on history and, last year, had the chance to observe at Norwich School which is great experience for my possible future teaching career.” A spokesperson for the college said: “Keir is planning for a career in teaching or the priesthood in the future and we wish him the very best of luck; we know his hard work will pay off.”

‘Scholar of Selwyn’, former Winstanley College student Keir Martland with his mum at a previous Winstanley College event

A new era for Starting Point After almost 20 years of providing advice and guidance on employment, skills and education to the people of St Helens, Starting Point, part of St Helens Chamber, is entering a new era as work gets underway to transform it into a modern hub for digital skills. Thanks to funding secured from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s Local Growth Fund, this exciting new development will see Starting Point become a modern skills centre leading the way for delivering the skills, knowledge and qualifications demanded by today’s businesses, operating in a digital world. Whilst the developments take place, the Starting Point team, which provides the national careers service in St Helens, will be moving into St Helens Chamber’s main building on Salisbury Street near the World of Glass, and will continue to deliver its full range of services to support local people into jobs or training. Kath Boullen, chief executive at St Helens Chamber, said: “Starting Point has been a real jewel in the crown at the Chamber for many years, having helped thousands of local people to improve their skills, gain confidence, move into employment and contribute to the local economy.

“This exciting new investment will see not only a physical transformation to the building, but a whole new offer of training, facilities, resources and expertise, designed to provide the skills people need to compete in today’s labour market, opening up a raft of new opportunities and industries.” As well as being a training facility, the building will also become a hub for local digital talent, opening its doors for local

entrepreneurs and businesses in the digital sector to use the facilities. Steve Rotheram, Metro Mayor for the Liverpool City Region, said: “These awards have been targeted to support key priorities and ensure we have the spaces and facilities across the City Region to enable all our communities to access the skills and jobs we need to develop in every one of our six boroughs.”

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SPORTING CHALLENGE St Hilda’s triumph at table tennis tournament Teams from the Academy of St Nicholas and St Hilda’s went head-to-head in a round-robin table tennis tournament with St Hilda’s emerging as winners to qualify for the city championships. The KS3 pupils played in teams of four and competed against each other in both singles and doubles with the players officiating and scoring their own matches at the Liverpool School Sports Partnership (LSSP) organised event. St Hilda’s will be joined by their other team at the finals’ day after they finished runners up and also qualified for the right to be crowned champions of Liverpool in February.

The tournament was held at The Academy of St Nicholas

Great concentration

Stretching all the way to make the return

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OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF ALL SAINTS A special ribbon cutting ceremony Liverpool’s newest sixth form college is officially open after a special ribbon cutting ceremony took place. The Rt Revd Paul Bayes, Bishop of Liverpool and Most Revd Malcolm McMahon, Archbishop of Liverpool were in attendance to officially open the joint Catholic and Church of England college and bless the new facilities. Bishop Paul and Archbishop Malcolm were taken on a tour of the new college, alongside staff, governors and special guests. A student choir performed a beautiful arrangement during the ceremony, while the college’s Samba band ended the celebrations on a high with a colourful, energetic drum performance. The college is part of the All Saints Multi Academy Trust and is a collaboration between The Academy of St Nicholas and The Academy of St Francis of Assisi. Executive head of the trust, Mrs Anne Pontifex, said: “All Saints provides young people with the freedom and flexibility to develop important skills and choose a path which is right for them. Our first cohort in September are already reaping the rewards thanks to our strong business links, placement opportunities and varied enrichment programme.”

David Lancaster, head of school at The Academy of St Nicholas and Tracey Greenough head of school at St Francis of Assisi cut the cake

Most Revd Malcolm McMahon, Archbishop of Liverpool addresses the room

Most Revd Malcolm McMahon, Archbishop of Liverpool unveils the plaque

Paul Bayes, Bishop of Liverpool delivers a passionate speech

Musical entertainment was on hand

Paul Bayes, Bishop of Liverpool cuts the ribbon

The college’s Samba band ended the celebrations on a high with a colourful, energetic drum performance

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51 Horrocks Avenue Liverpool Merseyside L19 2NP 0151 230 2570 www.allsaintssixthformcollege.org.uk

Official launch for All Saints Sixth Form College Liverpool’s newest Sixth Form College is officially open after a special ribbon cutting ceremony took place on Tuesday 7 November. All Saints Sixth Form College in South Liverpool is an innovative hub for post-16 education, offering young people high quality careers advice, UCAS guidance and pastoral support. The Rt. Revd. Paul Bayes, Bishop of Liverpool and Most Revd. Malcolm McMahon, Archbishop of Liverpool were in attendance to officially open the joint Catholic and Church of England College and bless the new facilities. Bishop Paul and Archbishop Malcolm were taken on a tour of the new college, alongside staff, governors and special guests. A student choir performed a beautiful arrangement during the ceremony, while the college’s Samba band ended the celebrations on a high with a colourful, energetic drum performance. The college is part of the All Saints Multi Academy Trust and is a collaboration between The Academy of St Nicholas and The Academy of St Francis of Assisi. This September marked All Saints’ first intake of students, with 2018 applications now open. The Executive Head of the Trust, Mrs Anne Pontifex, says: “We are extremely excited to officially launch All Saints Sixth Form College. Thank you to Bishop Paul and Archbishop Malcolm for attending and celebrating the launch of this fantastic new college for the region’s young people. “All Saints provides young people with the freedom and flexibility to develop important skills and choose a path which is right for them. Our first cohort in September are

already reaping the rewards thanks to our strong business links, placement opportunities and varied enrichment programme.” All Saints Sixth Form College offers a rich, innovative curriculum and state of the art facilities to students from across Liverpool, Merseyside and beyond. Students have the opportunity to take part in the prestigious Scholar's Programme (USP) with Trust bursaries available to the highest attaining students to support them as they start university. The dedicated Scholar's initiative also supports applications to Oxford and Cambridge, Russell Group Universities and higher level apprenticeship programmes. Subjects on offer include computer science; a range of creative media and ICT courses; A Level English; humanities; business and law; mathematics and further maths, as well as all sciences, sports, health and fitness. A full range of social sciences will be offered including psychology, sociology and health and social care, childcare and theology. Technologies on offer will include hospitality, product design and engineering. Excellence in the arts will include A Level and vocational courses in art, fashion, photography and music. Leisure facilities include a fully equipped gymnasium and Astroturf. A full size auditorium, 3D theatre and Apple Mac computer suites will aid students’ post-16 learning experience. Mrs Anne Pontifex said: “If anyone is unsure of their next steps after school, I would urge them to come and visit All Saints Sixth Form College, tour our facilities, meet staff and find out how we can help you reach your aspirations.”

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SCHOOLS BATTLE FOR TITLE Future stars on show at basketball tournament New Park Primary School slam-dunked its way to glory after coming out on top in a basketball competition for pupils in school Years 5 and 6. The tournament, organised by the Liverpool Schools Sports Partnership (LSSP) in conjunction with Mersey Mavericks Basketball club, saw seven of the city’s primary schools battle it out for a place at the Summer Games with the top two schools qualifying. Belle Vale, Holy Family, King David, New Park, Northway, Our Lady Bishop Eton and St Anne’s played against each other at St Margaret’s School in Aigburth during a memorable morning of sporting action with New Park emerging victorious after remaining unbeaten throughout, with Our Lady Bishop Eton finishing runners up to clinch the other spot. LSSP’s Jason Evans said: “A huge well done to New Park Primary on their victory although every team played their part and probably deserved the win too. The standard of play was incredibly high all morning. The watching coaches from Mersey Mavericks were genuinely surprised at just how good some of the play was and spotted lots of future basketball players in the making.”

There was plenty of great action

LSSP’s Jason Evans who organised the tournament

New Park Primary were winners

There was plenty of great action

All smiles after a score

Concentration!

The break is on!

Our photographer was close to the action!

There was plenty of great action

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HEROES HELPING THE HOMELESS Students on a mission with Humanutopia Gateacre School Year 11 student leaders were on a mission to help the homeless in Liverpool this winter. Their leaders, called heroes, worked with Humanutopia and their International Volunteer Day in December by putting together â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;winter warmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bags containing a coat, hat, gloves and scarf to gift to those in need and were given out to rough sleepers via the Paper Cup Project. Donations of any of the listed items can still be taken to the BIG Little Library in Belle-Vale shopping centre. As well as working with the project the heroes have been working with Mrs Delaney and her Year 7 team in order to support any Year 7 students needing support, advice and/or encouragement. All heroes meet with selected Year 7 students. Their work involves a wide range of activities and support including: overcoming barriers to learning and success; homework, social and emotional barriers; numeracy, literacy, drama club and learning to make friends.

Pupils with some of their winter warmer bags

Donations were dropped off at the BIG Little Library

The heroes offer help and advice to Year 7 pupils

Hand knitted hats and scarfs donated from the local knit and natter group

The winter warmer bags ready for collection by the Paper Cup Project

The heroes plan their volunteer day

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FIRST PAST THE POST A horse named ‘Becky’ takes the top prize The community of Archbishop Beck Catholic Sports College celebrated a very prestigious horse race win. The colleges very own thoroughbred BECKY won the Aintree community day equine art competition. Art and design teacher, Mr O’Brien who led the project collected the prize of £500 for the winning art department. Chair of Aintree, Rose Patterson, commended students on their skills and attention to detail. She claimed that the many references to Aintree and the wider community clinched the win. Speaking after the event Mr O’Brien said: “My sincere thanks to everyone involved and for the support of all staff and those who influenced the online vote. Let’s hope we can be involved in similar community projects in the future. Well done to students: Courtney Groves, Beth Gillon, Jacob Molloy, Jordan Hancox, Anthony Wishart, Joe Glover, Declan Newcombe, Sophie Leary, Grace Farrington-Black and Tom O’Loughlin. A huge congratulations also to all staff involved”.

Some of the entrants for the art competition

A proud Mr O’Brien receives the winning cheque from chair of Aintree, Rose Patterson

The story of ‘BECKY’ and its link to the Aintree races

‘BECKY’

Mr O’Brien with Archbishop Beck’s winning design

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ICONIC SETTING FOR GIG Young musicians follow in legends’ footsteps Talented students from the Academy of St Francis of Assisi (ASFA) played a sold out gig at Liverpool’s most iconic music venue, The Cavern Club, in December. Organised by the ASFA music department, led by head of music Jay Bradley, ‘Live at the Cavern’ was an evening of great music featuring bands and acts from the Academy. Over 75 students took part in the show across all year groups from Years 7 to 11. Performances came from the Academy’s band ‘Vocalize’, drum ensemble ‘Stix’, a Year 7 body percussionist, bands from Years 8, 9 and 10 and fantastic soloists including Candice Ranario, Rhys Johnston and Lisa Mhagrh. The Liverpool venue was full to capacity as parents, teachers, governors and invited guests watched students take to the stage. Head of music, Jay Bradley said: “I wanted to give students a taste of a real gig venue and what better than a venue at the heart of the Liverpool music scene - The Cavern Club!”

Performances included the Academy’s band ‘Vocalize’

‘Live at the Cavern’ was a sell-out success

The night included a range of fantastic soloists

Head of music Jay Bradley said: “I wanted to give students a taste of a real gig venue”

A talented drummer performs on stage

Drum ensemble ‘Stix’ take to the stage

Students performed a range of genres The venue was full to capacity A packed audience watches as a student take centre stage

Over 75 ASFA students took part in the show across all year groups from Years 7 to 11

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There was plenty of fresh produce

COMMUNITY SPIRIT Bickerstaffe School collect food for harvest Following their Harvest service at Holy Trinity Church, pupils from Class 4 at Bickerstaffe CE School generously volunteered their time and efforts into benefitting the local community. They began with collecting the heaps of food donated by parents, local farmers and village parishioners, and then went on to divide it up into food hampers to distribute within the community of Stockley Crescent, a local retirement home. The residents were ‘delighted’ with their hampers and enjoyed chatting with the children about their hard work; one local resident, Mrs Beeby, was immensely touched by the generosity and community spirit of the children saying: “how much kindness can go a long way”. As well as doing so much for the Harvest, Class 4 also raised £85 in order to continue sponsoring Dipok – a tenyear-old Bangladeshi boy enrolled on the Bhatpara Child Sponsorship Program.

Pupils sort the hampers

Pupils deliver the hampers to the homes

Strong arms were needed to load the hampers

RECOGNISING SUCCESS College salutes achievements of pupils

Ciaran Thomas received the Fergus Gower Adams Cup for character, ability in studies and boys’ games and the Dr Trevor Lane Cup for commitment to studies in A-level chemistry

Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral was the spectacular setting for the event

Tom Delamere shared memories of his time at St Mary’s

Tom Delamere (second from left) and St Mary’s principal Mike Kennedy pictured with head girl Sophie James and head boy Elliot Amadi

St Mary’s College in Crosby paid tribute to the many achievements of its pupils over the past year at its annual prize day ceremony. Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral was the spectacular setting for the event, which saw the school welcoming its youngest-ever VIP guest speaker, former head boy Tom Delamere. Tom - who left St Mary’s in 2007 - is now programme officer for Bangladesh for Catholic international development charity, CAFOD. In his address the principal also highlighted pupils’ efforts in support of a wide range of charity fundraising projects at St Mary’s during the year. And there was also praise for staff, governors and parents for their contributions to life at St Mary’s, and the many successes highlighted during the ceremony. Mr Kennedy said: “Prize day is a great opportunity to recognise the successes of our pupils who continue to maintain the high-achieving traditions of the school, academically and in many other fields”.

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The models take to the catwalk

PUTTING ON THE STYLE Show is a celebration of creative talent A fashion show brought together by Broughton Hall High School featured garments designed and made by their pupils in GCSE and A-level in textiles. The show was a celebration of creative talent and featured dance, singing and modelling with 71 of their pupils taking part from Year 7 to Year 13. The school also involved two local primary schools St Margaret Mary’s and St Paul’s and St Timothy’s. The primary children worked with their dance teacher Mrs Sutherberry who choreographed routines with the children. The event was run three times over two days and collectively watched by over 600 pupils and parents. Anna Diamond Lee, teacher of design technology, textiles said: “The feedback has been brilliant, the show was a real chance to showcase our girls’ talents and the creative subjects here at Broughton Hall and a chance to work with our local primary school children. We raised over £300 through a raffle for two charity causes, and the ticket money raised will go towards new materials and equipment for dance and textiles”.

The show brought a dazzling array of colour

Primary school pupils loved the event

Girls from the school dance programme

The students show off their creative side

Girls from the Broughton Hall school dance programme also provided entertainment

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Sixth Form

Success Deli very Thur sday 11 Janu ary

2018

WDS 6F 11/1/1 8

WDS 6F 11/1/1 8 WDS 6F 11/1/1 8

Save the date Sixth Form Open Day Thursday 11 January 2018 4pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6pm

Headteacher: Mrs S Graham 364 West Derby Road, Liverpool L13 7HQ www.westderbyschool.co.uk

SD 4pm

SD 4pm WDS 6F 11/1/1 8

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The models prepare for the event

EMPOWERING THE PUPILS Halewood Academy stage a charity fashion show The community of Halewood came together to support a fashion show hosted by Year 11 pupils to promote body confidence and celebrate the life of a former student. Teachers and students of Halewood Academy took to the catwalk to show off a selection of dresses. The money raised will go towards extending the memorial of Megan Hurley who died in the Manchester Arena bombing. Teacher Josie Gallagher, who organised the event, said: “It’s about that empowerment, that it doesn’t matter the shape or size that you are, you’ve got to be happy with who you are. That’s what I want to get across to not only the Year 11 girls, but also the girls across the school and the boys to be able to grow up as gentlemen.” The school hopes to make the fashion show an annual event and empower young men and women year on year. Hundreds of people turned up to watch and see the pupils strut their stuff on the stage. Headteacher, Gary Evans, who recently named an award after Megan, said it was great to see the community come together. He said: “It has been an amazing event and it's great to see students have so much fun but for such a good cause.”

Halewood Academy headteacher Gary Evans (left) joined staff to show support for the show

A very appreciative audience

Ms Europe backed the event

Time for a selfie

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BANKING ON EDUCATION Bank of England Governor teaches a lesson at Alsop Mr Mark Carney, Governor of the Bank of England, made a historic visit to Alsop High School. The visit arranged through the Speakers for Schools Programme, provided a fantastic opportunity for Alsop students to learn about the workings of the Bank of England and the British economy. Mr Carney was welcomed to Alsop by head boy, Luke Hogan and head girl, Alex Birkett. After a tour of the school, Alsop students led an assembly about social justice. During the assembly students spoke about how the wealth of the UK is not shared fairly, and the poverty faced by the increasing numbers of people who are using Trussell Trust. They also spoke about the “Common Good Schools” pilot at Alsop, developed in partnership with Together for the Common Good. Mr Mangan, headteacher said: “This was an amazing day. It was an honour and privilege to host Mark Carney. Mr Carney was a great inspiration to Alsop students. His engaging, motivational speech is something Alsop students will remember for the rest of their lives.”

Mark Carney arrives at Alsop High School

Mark Carney, Governor of the Bank of England

A few words of welcome

A warm welcome for Mark Carney

Joe Mangan, headteacher Alsop High School, with an appreciative Mark Carney

The audience were entranced

Peter Bull, head of RE greets Mark Carney

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Pupils from St Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CE School perform a rendition of Seek Ye First the Kingdom

Mark Carney starts his speech

Question time for the students

Alsop High School headteacher Joe Mangan thanks Mark Carney for his speech

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PICTURE PERFECT PUPILS Primary pupils showcase their artistic talents Staff and pupils from Plantation Primary School in Halewood recently set up an art gallery to showcase their artistic talents. The art gallery was set up by the schools performing arts leader, Ben Palmer to raise the profile of art in the school and give the children the opportunity to celebrate their high quality work. Ben said: “Every child from across the school (nearly 550 pictures) created a piece of art based on a specific artist. In class, they learnt about that artist, where he or she was from and where they got their influences from. “They then looked at a range of artwork from that artist and based their work on his/her style. “The children were given the chance to see their pictures in the gallery and the parents were able to buy their child’s work. “It was a roaring success and both children and parents really enjoyed the experience”.

Pupils get to view their artwork first

The Plantation artists

A pupil shows off her artwork

The Plantation artists

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Book Review

In association with

5-8 Years The World’s Worst Children - David Walliams £12.99 A collection of ten short stories about five beastly boys and five gruesome girls. Meet TV super-fan, Sofia Sofa, so stuck to the sofa that she’s turning into one; Dribbling Drew, a boy whose drool gets him into trouble; and Blubbering Bertha, a girl who bawls and tells terrible tales. Plus expect an appearance from everyone’s favourite character: Raj! The Creakers - Tom Fletcher £9.99 Chaos descends as the children in Lucy's town run riot. It’s mayhem. It’s madness. To most kids, it’s amazing! But Lucy wants to find out the truth. Lucy lost her dad not long ago, and she’s determined not to lose her mum too. She’s going to get her back - and nothing is going to stop her ...except maybe the Creakers. Toto the Ninja Cat and the Great Snake Escape - Dermot O’Leary £5.99 Toto the cat and her brother Silver live footloose and fancy-free in a townhouse in London. Toto is almost totally blind, and learned to trust her senses from a ninja cat-master who taught her back in Italy where they were born. By day, Toto and Silver seem to be ordinary cats, but by night, they love to have adventures! One evening, news reaches Toto that a king cobra has escaped from London Zoo!

9-12 Years Fiction Little Women - Louisa May Alcott £5.99 Though they may be poor, life for the four March sisters is rich with colour, as they play games, put on wild theatricals, make new friends, argue, grapple with their vices, learn from their mistakes, nurse each other through sickness and disappointments, and get into all sorts of trouble. Five Children and IT - E. Nesbit £5.99 'Don't you know a sand-fairy when you see one?' I dare say you have often thought about what you would do if you were granted three wishes. The five children - Cyril, Anthea, Robert, Jane and their baby brother - had often talked about it but when they are faced with the grumpy sand-fairy they find it difficult to make up their minds. And that is just the beginning of their dilemmas. The Letter for the King - Tonke Dragt £7.99 A young messenger. A secret mission. A kingdom in peril. It is the dead of night. Sixteenyear-old Tiuri must spend hours locked in a chapel in silent contemplation if he is to be knighted the next day. But, as he waits by the light of a flickering candle, he hears a knock at the door and a voice desperately asking for help. A secret letter must be delivered to King Unauwen across the Great Mountains.

Teenage Fiction La Belle Sauvage: The Book of Dust Volume One - Philip Pullman £14.99 Set in the world so masterfully established by Philip Pullman in his trilogy His Dark Materials, La Belle Sauvage is a story of survival, where two children, with everything at stake, find themselves pursued by a terrifying evil. In their care is a tiny child, and in that child lies the fate of the future. 13 Minutes - Sarah Pinborough £5.99 I was dead for 13 minutes. I don’t remember how I ended up in the icy water but I do know this - it wasn’t an accident and I wasn’t suicidal. They say you should keep your friends close and your enemies closer, but when you’re a teenage girl, it’s hard to tell them apart. My friends love me, I’m sure of it. But that doesn’t mean they didn’t try to kill me. Does it? The Hate U Give - Angie Thomas £7.99 Sixteen-year-old Starr lives in two worlds: the poor neighbourhood where she was born and raised and her posh high school in the suburbs. The uneasy balance between them is shattered when Starr is the only witness to the fatal shooting of her unarmed best friend, Khalil, by a police officer. Now what Starr says could destroy her community. It could also get her killed.

Are you a librarian, teacher or purchasing manager? Do you buy books for your school? Waterstones Liverpool offers a comprehensive account sales service. Contact Sarah Hughes, Children's Department, Liverpool ONE, 12 College Lane, Liverpool, Merseyside L1 3DL. Tel: 0151 709 9820

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

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Best Foot Forward

BEST FOOT FORWARD Kick-start 2018 with the latest trends in girls and boys trainers

Grey knot slip on trainer £17.99 New Look Nike Presto Fly trainers £79.99 Ofﬁce Chunky grey trainer £10 Primark Metallic pink plimsolls £22.99 Zara Contrasting leather platform sneakers £39.99 Zara Gold trainers £17.99 H & M Elastic slip on white trainer £14 Matalan Pink runner trainers from £22 Next

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Best Foot Forward

Grey/black pull on trainer £12 Primark Black sneakers with straps £39.99 Zara Grey hi-top trainer £17.99 H & M Souluxe active trainers £18 Matalan Nike Air Max 97 Ultra £145 Ofﬁce Nike Huarache £56.99 Ofﬁce Khaki elastic lace trainers from £22 Next

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Education News

Welcome return The Big Bang North West 2018! Building on the amazing success of previous years, The Big Bang North West will be returning to the Exhibition Centre Liverpool on the 10 July with a Big Bang like never before! There will be 5,000 square metres of show floor, hundreds of inspirational science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) experts, shows, activities and increased capacity for 7,000 attendees. The arena will be packed with performances, hands-on experiments and fun experiences including fire shows, virtual reality, dry ice, gadgets, robots, coding, forensics, creatures, slime, medical magic and more! Best of all, the Big Bang North West is free and your class or school can attend, you only need to arrange transport. All school aged children are welcome. Schools can meet face-to face with inspiring engineers and scientists, from all walks of industry and academia, to discover information about careers, employers and further study. Attendees can check out the entries for The Big Bang UK Young Scientists and Engineers Competition too as judging takes place at The Big Bang North West, who will make the grand final?

AstraZeneca have confirmed as headline sponsor for their fifth year along with Unilever, Shaping Futures, Air Products, United Utilities, Science & Technology Facilities Council, ITV, Canal and Rivers Trust, Farm Urban, Reaseheath College, Hi Impact, University of Liverpool Statistics Ambassadors & Atkins Global. Simon Willocks, director of engineering, facilities & SHE, AstraZeneca, said: “AstraZeneca are excited and proud to be headline sponsors, supporting the 2018 Big Bang Fair in partnership with the All About STEM team for the fifth consecutive year. “As a major employer in the north west

with over 3500 staff working across the field of STEM, the Big Bang Fair is a great opportunity to spark the interest of the next generation and promote the vast array of career options within science, technology engineering and maths can bring. “With support from the AZ STEM Ambassador Team it is our mission that the Big Bang Fair 2018 will inspire students from across the Northwest to see how their studies and future career choices can equally contribute to society.” All About STEM will be revealing all activities, exciting experiments and expeiences over the next few months.

Clarence Community Food Share project launched Clarence High School in Formby welcomed guests from the local community as well as dignitaries from Tesco and FareShare to help launch the Clarence Community Food Share project. The launch event promoted a service that Clarence High School had been delivering for several weeks already, after receiving surplus food from the Ainsdale branch of Tesco and laying on meals for the local community. The hope was that even more members of the community could benefit. Guests at the event included Nugent CEO Normandie Wragg, Mark Jamieson from Community Food Connection Tesco, former Bootle MP Joe Benton, and representatives of FareShare Merseyside which fights hunger by saving good food from going to waste and 110

redistributing it. Joe Benton, who had an integral role in initiating the Clarence Community Food Share, said: “The event was highly successful. It was very positive to see so many responses to help the project from the different organisations that attended. There is great potential at Clarence High School to improve social welfare for the elderly.” Maria Bailey, a senior pastoral worker at Clarence House, said: “The aim is to help put an end to loneliness by giving people in the local community an opportunity for a chat and to make new friends while enjoying afternoon tea”. The project will continue to serve up weekly lunches and to share food collected from across the local community to assist older people and families.

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

L–R back:Colin Pryor, Nugent volunteer co-ordinator; Julie Handley, Clarence pastoral support; John Gorman, Ainsdale Tesco Express; Mark Jamieson, Tesco Community Food Connection; Maria Bailey, Clarence senior pastoral worker L–R front: Sue Nuttall – Margaret Roper resident and Faye Wignall, Clarence student

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WHERE CAN WE GO? Our pick of what’s happening out & about in the region

Peace Proms 2018

9 February - 28 October

China’s First Emperor And The Terracotta Warriors

Must see

Saturday 27 January Echo Arena, Kings Dock, Liverpool Waterfront, Liverpool L3 4FP Tel: 0844 8000 400

World Museum, William Brown Street, Liverpool, Merseyside L3 8EN Tel: 0844 871 3017

Figures from China’s famous Terracotta Army are going on show in a UK museum outside London for the first time in more than 30 years. The must-see exhibition at Liverpool’s World Museum will reveal almost 1,000 years of China’s history and coincides with the China Dream season of cultural commissions. Among the exhibits from the Terracotta Army, in entirety a collection of some 9,000 military sculptures intended to guard Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife, the majority of which remain buried, will be a life-sized horse as well as other objects from the Emperor’s vast burial complex. The Terracotta Warriors were discovered near Xi’an, the ancient capital of China, across three large pits to the east of the Emperor’s mausoleum and part of a burial site that covers some 21 square miles.

Liverpool Peace Proms will return to the Echo Arena. The event will culminate in a large-scale choral and orchestral performance. Peace Proms celebrates culture and diversity and promotes peace, unity and tolerance through music. Recognised internationally as an invaluable arts education and peace initiative, the programme already engages over 25,000 children from schools in Ireland and the UK, giving them the unique opportunity to perform in a large-scale production, work with leading professional conductors and soloists, and sing with a full symphony youth orchestra. Almost 3,000 children for primary schools in Liverpool and beyond will take part in Peace Proms. Peace Proms UK 2018 will be an inspirational and thrilling experience for choirs, teachers, parents and audiences alike! Don’t miss it! Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult.

Jane Eyre: An Autobiography

23 - 25 March

Saturday 24 March The Atkinson, Lord Street, Southport PR8 1DB. Box office: 01704 533 333

St George’s Hall, St George’s Plateau, Liverpool L1 1JJ Based on the North West European tradition of lighting bonfires over Easter, this new mini-festival experience is sure to set imaginations alight with an atmospheric feast for the senses. Visitors will be able to get up close and feel the heat of spectacular fire-fuelled sculptural installations as they promenade through the historic gardens.

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FUTURE EVENTS

Hot stuff

Feast of Fire

Do mi n’t ss

Struggling to think, live and love beyond the stifling expectations of duty, class and convention, governess Jane Eyre and Master Edward Rochester take a dark journey towards sensual and intellectual liberation. Told through Jane’s eyes, English literature’s most celebrated autobiographical novel shocked the Victorians, and Charlotte Bronte’s gothic subversion of fairy-tale romance is now distilled for the stage – under its full title – by writer/director Elton Townend Jones. Performer Rebecca Vaughan embodies everywoman Jane – and several other characters – in this intimate study of love’s realities.

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Sunday 11 February

Sunday 25 February

DVD and APP REVIEW Blue Planet II Narrated by David Attenborough

BGT Big Celebration Liverpool Empire Theatre, Lime St, Liverpool L1 1JE In aid of the world-renowned Alder Hey hospital! The two BGT The Big Celebration shows mark the return to dance of MerseyGirls performer Julia Carlile who has received treatment from Alder Hey since a young age. MerseyGirls were finalists on Britain's Got Talent 2017. 1 - 3 March

Havfrue Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, Mount Street, Liverpool L1 9HF Taking inspiration from the classic Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale The Little Mermaid, originally Den Lille Havfrue, this dance production follows a young mermaid through love and self-sacrifice in the quest for an immortal soul. Performed by LIPA third-year dance students Friday 6 April

Liverpool Cathedral Sleepout Liverpool Cathedral, St James’ Mount, Liverpool L1 7AZ Together with the Whitechapel Centre, they are helping raise money to help vulnerable people across our area and you can get involved by spending one night sleeping in Liverpool Cathedral. Sign up registration costs £5.00 per person

Chinese New Year Lady Lever Art Gallery, Port Sunlight Village, Wirral CH62 5EQ Celebrate Chinese New Year with a traditional dance performance and cheongsam show by the Wirral Chinese Association, join the Liverpool School of Cantonese Kung Fu for exciting dragon dance and Join BBC Radio Merseyside presenter Billy Hui to find out more about Chinese New Year through storytelling.

Sunday 11 March

From Hamelin to Hogwarts Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, Hope St, Liverpool, L1 9BP Liverpool Philharmonic Family Concerts are a great way for children and adults to come together. Hear tales of Hamelin and Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings, the Cat in the Hat, Alice in Wonderland all without using a single word!

£22.99 DVD Verdict: ★★★★★ By Andy Kelly It was the landmark nature documentary that took us deep down to the bottom of the ocean to explore never before seen creatures. 16 years on, the BBC has announced a new series of the award winning Blue Planet after film crews spent four years scouring the seas for a fresh cast of aquatic animals. The seven part documentary sequel sets out to explore the deepest and darkest realms of the world's oceans. Narrated by David Attenborough. David Attenborough's underwater documentary series Blue Planet II was the most-watched TV show of 2017. The 29 October episode - the first of the series attracted more than 14 million viewers to BBC One and occupied the top four slots in the end-ofyear top 10.

Spellwick - The Magical Spelling Game Category: English / Literacy Ages: 4-11 Verdict: ★★★★★ By Andy Kelly

Sunday 27 May

Keepy Uppy The Citadel Arts Centre Waterloo Street St Helens WA10 1PX Our journey begins with grass stained knees, Astro Turf and champions. Keepy Uppy tells an extraordinary tale of love, devotion and family, set in the world of all things football and undeniable team spirit. Celebrate the joy of the beautiful game.

I really like this app and definitely enjoyed playing it. The developers have certainly completed a lot of research and from viewing their website you can see that a lot of work has gone into creating an app that will engage young people but also help them to improve in the important aspect of spelling. Often curriculum apps try and incorporate a game play style within their apps to differing successes however Spellwick goes about this the other way with the developers creating a fully fledged game that also has the added bonus of helping young people to improve their spellings. In this app it certainly works and works very well as this is the type of app that you would enjoy playing on no matter what your reasons were: educationally or not.

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My School Days Keziah Joseph – Actress

Actress Keziah Joseph is starring in the role of Mowgli in the new adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s family classic The Jungle Book which takes place at the Liverpool Playhouse from 13 - 17 February. Keziah trained at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and made her professional theatre debut in Sandi Toksvig’s Silver Lining (2017). My School: Montpelier Primary School and then Twyford C of E High School My Favourite Teacher: I had two really – Mrs Moore and Ms Flinders My Favourite Subject at School: Drama, perhaps for obvious reasons, I enjoyed engaging my imagination and analysing and making sense of scripts. Also English literature for very similar reasons and I loved reading fiction and creative writing. Finally art, I always loved drawing especially portraits and it was fun. Were you streetwise or a bit of a geek? I guess more geek than street. The official name I was called was ‘boffin’ but that became a cool thing to be in Year 11 when GCSEs were upon us! My Favourite Childhood Singer/Band: Lauryn Hill and Erykah Badu. I developed a personal taste in music quite late but these were the first two

artists I remember being introduced to by my best friend at the time that I felt ‘yeah I really like that’. Before that my musical taste was definitely influenced by my dad with Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind and Fire, Chaka Khan, so I can’t really complain! My Favourite Extra-Curricular Activity: Was definitely cross country and football in childhood. Do you remember your first school crush? Ethan Delaney I think, but he left quite early on and Gethin Jones took his place! My Favourite Book: Noughts & Crosses by Malorie Blackman and Children of the Dust by Louise Lawrence School Dinners: I used to enjoy them because they were often warm, still something I prefer for lunch, hot meals over sandwiches. My Ambitions at School: To write lots of stories and be the next Macaulay Culkin or just a spy!

In her final year, she was nominated for The Spotlight Graduate prize, was the recipient of The Carlton Hobbs Bursary Award in 2016, and also landed the role of Dorothy in the long running British radio soap opera The Archers, as well as the part of Uche in a BFI sponsored short film entitled Hush. The Jungle Book, is loved as a wild and fun tale of family, belonging and identity. And now it comes to life in a brand new show packed with memorable characters, new songs and brilliant storytelling. Mowgli the man cub battles for survival in this heart-warming comingof-age story about a boy raised by wolves in the jungle.

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