Educate Magazine January 2019 by Educate Magazine

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January - April 2019

Full coverage of The Educate Awards Who knows what about me? Stronger as one

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Educate Contents 47

Welcome... Welcome to the January edition of Educate As we reflect back on yet another amazing year at the Educate Awards, we bring you the full coverage in pictures of all the winners, as well as the 600 plus guests celebrating success inside the iconic Liverpool Cathedral, at what is now certainly the most prestigious event in the education calendar. Preparations are well underway for the 2019 Awards, and we look forward to even more schools and colleges getting involved and entering this year. Go to www.educateawards.co.uk for more information, or follow @EducateAwards on Twitter.

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Features 6-9 Stick or switch? Choosing the right sixth form or college

21-29 Celebrating success Educate Awards 2018

32-33 Educate Awards 2019 News of the Educate Awards 2019

58-59 Supply and demand Dawn van Alwon - School Improvement Liverpool

70-75 Educate 16+ Education, training and employment

76-77 Meet Mark O’Shaughnessy, director of sixth form at Formby High School A helping hand

80-81 Stronger as one Meet Laura Kwissa, Liverpool Diocesan Schools Trust

83 Viewpoint Care of duty for our children

108-109 Where can we go? Our pick of what’s happening out & about in the region

106 Fashion The humble hoodie

88 Book review This season’s must reads

90 My school days Nikki Holland - The National Crime Agency director of investigations

78 Liverpool School Sport Partnership Making a difference

Published by Mersey Mirror, Suites 3 & 4 Pacific Chambers, 11-13 Victoria Street, Liverpool L2 5QQ. 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, Robin Clewley Editorial Alan Birkett, Christine Toner, Hannah Fowler, Ellie Adshead and Lawrence Saunders Design & Production Mersey Mirror, Suites 3 & 4 Pacific Chambers, 11-13 Victoria Street, Liverpool L2 5QQ. 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 this year’s Awards Formby High School Sixth Form won the coveted award for Most Inspirational 16-18 Education Provider and Hannah Fowler caught up with the director of sixth form, Mark O’Shaughnessy, to find out more about his career and what makes Formby High School Sixth Form so special. Reaching a milestone towards the end of 2018 was the Liverpool Diocesan Schools Trust (LDST) as it was just over a year ago that the Liverpool Diocese followed in the footsteps of many other dioceses around the country and established its own multi-academy trust (MAT). Christine Toner met up with Laurie Kwissa, the Trust’s education officer to find out more about the journey so far and the Trust’s plans going forward. January is a time when Year 11 students return to school after the festive break with the knowledge that it’s time to really get their heads down and step up the hard work towards the final preparation for their GCSE exams in May. However it’s also a time when they really have to start to finalise what they will do after their exams and where they will choose to go on to study or work. Stick or switch is one of the big questions they face. Should they remain in their existing school’s sixth form or move on to a sixth form college? This issue we’ve put together a helpful guide for students and parents to provide guidance to help navigate the next chapter.

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St ck or Sw tch? i i Choosing the right sixth form or college

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What does each subject cover over the two years? What extra-curricular opportunities are offered to students? What further education, apprenticeship or careers advice is offered? What were last year’s pass rates? What health and wellbeing services are available to students? What’s a typical class size? What transport is implemented and does it reach you? What’s the day-to-day dress code? What social aspects on offer to students? (Trips, productions etc)

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PUPILS MEET THEIR HEROES Local pupils get to meet real life super heroes Pupils from St Peter’s CofE Primary School, Farnworth, have received special visits from real life heroes as part of an ongoing project to inspire and inform children about important roles in society. The reception class has been eagerly learning about different careers and how they benefit the community. They have enjoyed a range of inspiring talks from an army nurse, midwife and vital members of the emergency services. The children met a paramedic called Pete. His informative talk detailed how he helps the lives of thousands of people each year and also showed what types of first aid he carries out. Further excitement followed when local police officers arrived at the school. Dressed in uniform, the officers turned up in a police van and car, which the children had the chance to sit in, as well as trying out some key pieces of the uniform. Police dog Harry also came along and received lots of strokes from the children, whilst officers talked in-depth about their roles, and Harry’s, in the community. Mrs Lynn Williams, headteacher at St Peter’s CofE Primary School, said: “Here at St Peter’s, we believe it is important to celebrate the wide range of careers people fulfill in society and teach children, from a young age, that we do have real life super heroes in our community”.

Pupils get to try out the fire hose

Pupils get the chance to try out police hats

RAF Sergeant Sophie Hobson shows pupils her medals

Reception pupils saluting!

An arresting site

Primary school reception class visit Farnworth Fire Station

Pupils meet police dog Harry

Pupils try out the fire engine

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Primary News

A cherry on top Pupils from Emmaus Primary School have helped to create an avenue of beautiful trees to welcome visitors to Liverpool’s Croxteth Hall and Country Park as a planting project gets underway. The youngsters from Emmaus Primary School joined members of the Croxteth Park Volunteer Group (CPVG) to plant 18 Wild Cherry trees, which will provide a stunning pink blossom gateway along the driveway leading to the green space in the spring. The tree-lined route will stretch from Muirhead Avenue Gates to the park, and has been made possible thanks to the dedication of the CPVG and funding from The Mersey Forest and the Community Forest Trust.

This is the first phase of a large-scale project in the park, which will see around 400 trees planted by local school children over the forthcoming months. Chris Beyga from the CPVG said: “It is vital to have a project like this and we are very proud to have been the lead partner in bringing everyone together to achieve this. “We hope this project will be one of many legacies of the group. It’s been a clear objective of ours to work closely with local children to engender a sense of pride and ownership in them as future citizens and custodians of the wonderful park that was gifted to the people of Liverpool by the late Earl of Sefton.” Steph Hepworth, from the The Mersey Forest team, said:

Pupils from Emmaus Primary help to plant the new trees

“This project is part of the Trees for Learning initiative which has been funded by Defra as part of their aim to plant one million trees with primary school children by 2020. The children involved

will learn about the trees they are planting and why it is so vitally important to plant more trees, they’ll also be leaving a lasting legacy for their community and visitors to this popular green space.”

Prestigious award for Parish Parish CE Primary are celebrating after receiving The International School Award which celebrates the achievements of schools that do exceptional work in international education. The award is in recognition of Parish’s fostering of an international dimension in the curriculum which is at the heart of the British Council’s work with schools so that young people gain the cultural understanding and skills they need for life and work. Parish’s international work includes working alongside schools in Dubai and Mexico, sharing their good practice and projects that are specific to their cultures, ensuring all children are global citizens. In the summer the whole school virtually jetted off to many destinations on a mission to develop their knowledge of various other cultures and diversities. On hearing the news that Parish had received the award, Tracy Foster, acting 12

assistant headteacher and modern foreign language lead said: “We were delighted to receive this reaccreditation which shows the hard work and dedication of the school and its pupils. “We are committed to ensuring international partnerships and global learning in a stimulating and exciting environment”. Sir Ciarán Devane, chief executive of the British

Council, said: “Parish has brought the world into its classrooms, earning them the British Council International School Award. Their pupils’ education is enriched with international activities that help children develop the skills they need to thrive in a globalised world”. Right: Parish CE Primary assistant headteacher and modern foreign language lead, Tracy Foster, with the award.

Blessed Sacrament raise the roof for charity

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Pupils from Blessed Sacrament Catholic School joined in with the festivities at Claire House’s first Christmas carol concert at Liverpool’s St George’s Hall. Presented by BBC Radio Merseyside’s Roger Philips, the primary school helped to raise £8,722 for the north west charity. They were also accompanied by the Vale of Clwyd singers and Allerton Brass hoping to raise awareness of the work the charity does over the festive period. Claire House recently launched an appeal to raise more money to improve facilities on the Wirral and build a new children’s hospice in Liverpool.

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Blessed Sacrament Catholic Primary School Cedar Road, Aintree, Liverpool L9 9AF T: 0151 525 9600 F: 0151 525 2998 W: www.bsprimary.com

Places available for Reception start date September 2019 We offer: • 2 year old provision • 30 hour offer • Extended Services including Holiday Club • Fantastic EYFS provision If you have any further enquiries please contact the school ofﬁce on 0151 525 9600 or check out our website www.bsprimary.com

From our RE Inspection: “The extent to which the Religious Education Curriculum meets pupils’ needs is outstanding.”

‘Aim High - Live Life to the full’ (John 10:10) Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

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Primary News

Marking 150 years School unveil St Helens 150 mosaic

The Mayor and Mayoress, Nyree Waters, and Bleak Hill Primary School pupils.

Love of reading leads to the top Pupils and staff at Ashurst Primary School, St Helens have got a lot to shout about after being told their school’s phonics screening results are among the best in England. The Blackbrook school achieved an impressive pass rate of 97 per cent for the assessment taken by all Year 1 pupils in England to test their ability to read words, which places Ashurst in the top six per cent in the country. The national figures show that 89 per cent of pupils who achieve the expected standard in the phonics check go on to achieve at least the expected standard in key stage 1 reading teacher assessment. In recognition of this fine result, the school recently received a letter from the Minister of State Schools and Standards, Nick Gibb MP, who informed them of their success and passed

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on his congratulations. Headteacher, Lisa Houghton, and deputy headteacher, Rebecca King said: “We were delighted to receive this letter from Rt Hon Nick Gibb MP congratulating us on our success in the Phonics Screening Check 2018. “At Ashurst we are committed to ensuring highly effective teaching of phonics and early reading, leading to a life-long love of reading throughout our school.” St Helens Council’s cabinet member for developing young people, Councillor Joe Pearson said: “Phonics is the most effective method for teaching young children how to read, so for one of our schools to be up there with the best in the country is something we must celebrate as it will influence our next generation to develop a love for reading. “Well done to all involved in achieving such an outstanding result”.

The Mayor and Mayoress of St Helens, Councillor Pat Ireland and Lynn Glover, were guests of honour as Bleak Hill Primary School unveiled a special mosaic to mark the 150th anniversary of the borough of St Helens. Made up of a number of images the borough is famous for - including Beechams, Pilkington Glass, Saints RFC, railways, Sankey Canal and The Dream sculpture – the mosaic is the fine work of pupils who have been working with artist in residence, Nyree Waters, the past year on several projects around the borough’s milestone anniversary. Speaking after the unveiling, which coincided with the school’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony, Mayor of St Helens, Councillor Pat Ireland, said: “As the Mayor of this remarkable borough, it’s been an honour for myself and Lynn to attend so many wonderful events this past year to celebrate all things St Helens. “To be invited down here to Bleak Hill Primary School to officially unveil this beautiful piece of art which captures the history and heritage of St Helens perfectly is a memory that we’ll never forget.” Headteacher Ian Wellens said: “There was such a tremendous amount of pride in St Helens, which is still evident today. “Our mosaic takes pride of place in a frame outside of our school to remind pupils, parents, staff and visitors to our school what a unique and special place St Helens is”.

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Primary News

Remembering Zac School raises thousands in memory of former pupil A St Helens primary school is ensuring the memory of one of its former pupils lives on after raising thousands of pounds for a brain tumour charity. Over the past three years, Garswood Primary School has held a number of fundraising events which has seen pupils get up to all sorts of challenges such as sponsored swims, Christmas jumper and wear a hat days - all to raise money for the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital's Children’s Brain Tumour Research Network in memory of 10-year-old Zac Barston who passed away in 2015 following a brave battle with an aggressive brain tumour called Glioblastoma Multiforme. Garswood’s contribution, which currently totals £2,755, was recently celebrated at a special presentation ceremony at school where Zac’s parents Jeff and Donna, as well as his sister Hannah, collected a cheque from staff and pupils who wore green, the colour of the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity. All of the money raised goes towards treatment and improving the quality of life of youngsters with brain tumours. After receiving the cheque, Jeff said:

Zac’s parents Jeff and Donna (centre) as well as his sister Hannah, were on hand at Garswood Primary School to collect a cheque for £2,755 from pupils and staff

“The ongoing support from staff, parents and children at Garswood Primary School has been amazing and we are so grateful for their efforts to raise funds in Zac’s memory for something so close to our hearts. “Zac was such a caring young boy who loved his time at the school and he would have been so proud to know that his memory is helping other children unfortunate enough to be in the same

School help to clean up Pupils from St Mary and St Paul’s RC Primary School in Prescot have taken part in a litter pick around Bryer Road with equipment and support from Knowsley Council’s environmental education officer, Paul Costello. The cleaning team was made up of pupils from Year 4 and the school’s Eco Warriors – a team of pupils working together to make the school more environmentally friendly. Twenty eight children spent an hour in the local area picking up litter around the school, local shops and the surrounding fields. Louis from Year 4 said: “We even found a trolley that was dumped.” Iain Parks, the school’s headteacher said: “As a school we are looking at the role we play within our community. We feel very strongly about teaching our children the importance and contributing to their own environment, ensuring our area is a clean and pleasant place to be. Paul Costello said: “This is a great start to making the area around St Mary and St Paul’s a better place to live and work. Hopefully, raising the children’s awareness of litter and fly tipping.” 16

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situation”. Headteacher Pam Potter said: “Zac was an important part of Garswood school and is remembered for his kind and thoughtful manner and great sense of humour. His courage and bravery will be forever admired. I’m enormously proud of the children and delighted with the community and their commitment to raise funds for this worthy cause which we’ll continue to support”.

Schoolchildren enjoy road safety lesson

Pupils from Lunts Heath Primary School in Widnes switched the classroom for the boardroom as they went behind the scenes at global logistics company Suttons Group. As part of Suttons’ annual Safety Drive, a group of more than 50 Year 5 students were invited to find out more about the multinational company on their doorstep and take part in a lesson on road safety. Mr Andrew Williams, headteacher of Lunts Heath

Primary School, said: “Working in partnership with companies is very important for us. When the opportunity first arose, we gratefully accepted Suttons’ offer for the children to see the trucks up close. “Learning about the logistics industry and, in particular, how to stay safe when cycling on the roads is a fundamental part of our teaching. “This visit will certainly have given them much to talk about with their safety teacher Miss Huddlestone in class.”

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Primary News

A story of a local man and ex-pupil Locals Dot Hawkes, from the Lathom History Society and Margaret Fairclough, a local ex-Bickerstaffe CE School teacher, visited the pupils at Bickerstaffe CE Primary School to share their knowledge of local history relating to World War One. Margaret, formerly Miss Alcock, who taught in school from 1960-1972, is a relative of fallen soldier Private William Pye. She mesmerised the children when she spoke about his journey from being a pupil at the Bickerstaffe CE School until the end of his life, when he served as a soldier in the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment. Private Pye, who rests in the grounds of Holy Trinity Church in Bickerstaffe, died in battle in Basra on 9 March 1917. He was just 21 years old. Horses play a significant part in the local community, so Dot went on to speak about the role of horses in the war. She shared lots of very interesting facts about this and showed photographs of many different types of horses, which were remounted at Lathom Park, in order to prepare them for war. As part of their learning, the school held an Armistice competition and the

Margaret and Dot with pupils from Bickerstaffe

winners received a book token and a signed copy of Michael Morpurgo’s War Horse. Maggie Teachen, headteacher, said ‘The pupils and staff have thoroughly enjoyed the local focus on World War One learning this year. “They were very keen to learn about William and his journey, especially as he

was a former pupil of our school, which makes their learning more meaningful. “They were intrigued to learn about the horses and the significant role that they played in the war effort. I’m sure that we will have many children trying to check horse hooves for numbers, to see if the horse descends from a war horse!”

Celebrating IntoUniversity LFC footballer motivating local children Liverpool FC Goalkeeper, Simon Mignolet returned to IntoUniversity North Liverpool to help celebrate the centre’s triumphant first birthday. The Anfield centre is a collaboration between educational charity IntoUniversity, the University of Liverpool and the Liverpool Football Club Foundation, set up to help young people in Anfield to do better at school and believe in their ability to get to university. In parts of North Liverpool where the centre operates, the higher education progression rate is as low as 17.5%, less than half the national average (37%). The project is celebrating a successful year, having exceeded all its annual targets; with over 1,100 local children attending to take advantage of the centre’s support services and many reporting they are working better at school as a result. The centre partners with a selection of primary and secondary schools in the local area, supporting students aged seven to 18, by providing after-school help with homework and one-to-one mentoring opportunities with University of Liverpool students, as well as 18

delivering workshops on careers and university life. During the event, children from All Saints Catholic Primary School, one of the six local schools that works with the centre, were taking part in a workshop about careers in sports organisations, when the Liverpool FC star surprised them. Having attended the launch of the centre last year, Simon, who has a degree in political science, was keen to

hear about the centre’s accomplishments. He said: “It has been great to come back and learn about the difference that the centre has made to local children; helping them with their school work and making them feel more confident about continuing education. “University may not be for everyone, but all children should have the option and the support to get there if they want to”.

Pupils celebrate the first anniversary of IntoUniversity

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Celebrating Success R

epresentatives from schools and colleges across the North West came together for the illustrious Educate Awards ceremony on Friday 16 November. Held in partnership with Copyrite Systems and Ricoh, over 600 guests attended the region’s largest education awards which saw prizes handed out in 21 categories. Veteran broadcaster Simon ‘Rossie’ Ross presided over the event which is now in its seventh year. Glamorous attendees were welcomed to the stunning Liverpool Cathedral by The Orquestra De Ritmo - a supertalented band of drummers from The Academy of St Francis of Assisi and All Saints Sixth Form College. Next, Olivia Williams from The Academy of St Francis of Assisi serenaded guests as they enjoyed a drink in the Well before heading through to the cathedral’s cavernous main space for a dynamic performance from 10-piece band MODE. The Academy of St Francis of Assisi pupils wowed the crowd with their unique interpretations of ‘Crazy in Love’ by Beyoncé feat. Jay Z, ‘Mo Money Mo Problems' by The Notorious B.I.G. and ‘I Want You Back' by The Jackson 5. Following speeches from Educate Awards founder Kim O’Brien, Canon Myles Davies and ‘Rossie’, guests were treated to a world premiere of the music video for the ‘We Are All Stars’ Children in Need single. Formby High School’s Steve Cook and Gary Heatherington joined forces with the team behind the Educate Awards to write the song for the annual fund-raising event. ‘We Are All Stars’ shines the spotlight on young people and celebrates their talents and learning gained through the world of education. The recording features the voices of more than 300 students from local schools including Bedford Primary School, Bickerstaffe Primary School, Brownedge St Mary’s Catholic High School, Freshfield Primary School, Formby High School, Queens Park Primary School, Redgate Primary School, Riverside Primary School, Saughall All Saints Primary School,

Trinity St Peter’s Primary School, Valewood Primary School, Waterloo Primary School and Whitefield Primary School. During an exquisite three-course gourmet meal, guests were treated to two more musical interludes. The first provided by Belvedere Academy student Charlotte Flynn who delivered a passionate rendition of ‘Burn’ from the hit Broadway musical ‘Hamilton’. Next up, pupils from Archbishop Blanch School presented ‘My teacher thought I was so I am’ – an arresting arts piece that explored how students can be too easily labelled by the education system. The demanding job of choosing a winner in each of the 21 hotly contested categories was left to an esteemed judging panel which included Michelle Dow, managing director of All About STEM; James Tartt, Merseyside track athlete and architect; Councillor Gary Millar, assistant mayor and mayoral lead for business and 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 Everyman and Playhouse Theatres. Michelle Dow summed up the mood amongst her fellow adjudicators when she remarked: “The quality of the entries year-on-year is getting more impressive and making our job much harder to do. “You can actually feel the heart in the schools jumping off the page. They are so expressive, so emotive, and it’s so hard to choose between them.” In addition to headline sponsors Copyrite Systems and Ricoh, the following businesses lent their support to a range of a categories: The Foundry Agency, Progress Schools, All About STEM, David M Robinson Jewellery & Watches, Liverpool Learning Partnership (LLP), Bishop of Liverpool, LSSP, CER Education, School Improvement Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Winstanley College.

Educate Awards 2018

By Lawrence Saunders

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1. The Communication Award Sponsored by The Foundry Agency Winner: Alsop High School A strategy which aimed to encourage young people, parents and residents to look on Alsop High School as a ‘community hub’ for lifelong learning convinced judges the Walton school deserved to take home the first award of the evening. “It’s a fantastic achievement for the school,” said Peter Bull, marketing and communications manager at Alsop High School. “We’ve tried to improve communication with parents, with community members, and we’ve tried to demonstrate that Alsop High School is a hub of lifelong learning.” Runner up: St Peter’s CE Primary School

Educate Awards 2018

2. Eco School Project of the Year Winner: Queen’s Park CE/URC Primary School Staff and pupils at Queen’s Park set about improving their school grounds with a number of projects including the ‘Schools Grounds Planter Challenge’. An astonishing 2,637 trees have been planted around the St Helens school - an extraordinary commitment to environmentalism that was appreciated by the judging panel. “When I looked at the competition we were up against, there were three good entries - one of the schools thought outside of the box so I was a bit worried about that,” said Matt Ward, sports coach and eco manager at Queen’s Park CE/URC Primary School. “But as I was saying to our headteacher, it wasn't really about the award as such, this is just the icing on the cake. “(It was about) seeing the kids planting all the trees and the smiles on their faces when they’re out of the classroom.” Runner up: Booker Avenue Junior School 3. Spirit of Enterprise Award Winner: Morecambe Bay Community Primary School Staff at Morecambe Bay Community Primary School worked tirelessly to introduce pupils to a wide array of career choices. Trips to local companies and an annual ‘Enterprise Project’, where children set up their own mini businesses, helped equip them with useful skills and experience related to the world of work. “We are very proud to accept this on behalf of the whole school community which work really hard to promote enterprise across every aspect of the curriculum,” said Siobhan Collingwood, headteacher, Morecambe Bay Community Primary School. Runner up: Neston High School

4. SEND Provision Award Sponsored by Progress School Ltd Winner: The Academy of St Francis of Assisi As part of its ‘Success for All’ vision, The Academy of St Francis of Assisi introduced a range of initiatives including targeted intervention for reading and writing, and one-on-one sessions for social, emotional and mental health. “It feels amazing (to win this award) because of everything we do for our students with SEND,” said Siobhan Riley, trust director of SEND, The Academy of St Francis of Assisi. “We want them to be treated exactly the same and perform better than the students without SEND. I think we’ve shown that this year.” Runner up: Alsop High School

7 5. Innovative and Creative Literacy Award Winner: Halewood Academy Not many schools publish their own book of poetry, but that’s exactly what Halewood Academy did after English / literacy co-ordinator Lauren Archer asked pupils to get creative on the topic of ‘Pride and Promise’. The judges were clearly highly impressed with the unique initiative which is said to have had a long-term impact on the school. “It feels brilliant to have won this award but I think it’s a combination of all the kids that took part,” said Miss Archer. “There were over 120 poems and a book which we published, and every single one was the product of the children’s brilliant creativity and imagination.” Runner up: Queen’s Park CE / URC Primary School

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6. STEM Project of the Year Sponsored by All About Stem Winner: Beamont Collegiate Academy Warrington’s Beamont Collegiate Academy was honoured for a successful project ran in partnership with United Utilities which saw students face real world problems experienced in the North West by the country’s leading water supplier. “I’m absolutely delighted to have won this award,” said Andy Moorcroft, principal, Beamont Collegiate Academy. “We’ve done some fantastic work in relation to science, technology, engineering and maths over the last couple of years and it’s just brilliant recognition of that (work).” Runner up: Sandbach High School

8. Outstanding Arts in a Secondary School Sponsored by Liverpool Learning Partnership Winner: The Academy of St Francis of Assisi Fairfield secondary The Academy of St Francis of Assisi demonstrated to the judges how music can been used as a catalyst for social change, cultural and racial acceptance. Standout projects include a sold out at gig at the iconic Cavern Club, a range of initiatives outside of the classroom and community events such as the ‘Cultural Celebration’ evening and Battle of the Bands. “That was a massive shock,” said Jay Bradley, head of music, Academy of St Francis of Assisi. “There were some great schools up against us in that category so it’s a massive achievement and I’m really proud.” Runner up: Archbishop Blanch CofE High School, Liverpool 9. Career Aspiration Award Winner: All Saints Sixth Form College An exceptional ‘futures gateway programme’ featuring close partnerships with the likes of BioGrad, AstraZeneca and The Crowne Plaza helped boost attainment in vocational subjects at All Saints Sixth Form College. “It feels absolutely amazing to be part of such an amazing team that has won this award,” said Caroline Swarbrick, careers and employability manager, All Saints Sixth Form College. “We have won this award because we put the students first; we care; we work together and we work hard.” Runner up: St Damian’s RC Science College, Greater Manchester

10. Community Partnership Award Sponsored by Bishop of Liverpool Winner: Northwood Community Primary School, Knowsley With the support of registered charity Magic Breakfast, this Kirkby primary guarantees its pupils a proper start to the day. Meanwhile with the help of FareShare and the school’s governors, all students are also entitled to a free lunch. “It’s great because this is all about the food which we’ve been giving to the kids,” said Jason Hollywood, headteacher, Northwood Community Primary School. “We’ve been working to give some of the most deprived kids not just in the country, but probably Europe - the best food they can get. “The nutrition and the fuel they get is helping their learning, undoubtedly. It’s the best thing I’ve done in 26 years.” Runner up: The Hollins, Accrington Captions continued on next page

Educate Awards 2018

7. Outstanding Arts in a Primary School Sponsored by David M Robinson Jewellery & Watches Winner: Riverside Primary School The visit of Prince William to a Wirral primary school in September 2017 made headlines nationwide after four-yearold pupil Archie presented The Duke of Cambridge with a peculiar gift for his then pregnant wife - an avocado. In tribute to this unforgettable moment, the school produced an all-singing, all-dancing film, ‘Archie and the Royal Avocado’, which involved the whole community. “We won last year and it was the most wonderful feeling but we had to defend our title and we’ve done it in true style,” said Christina Lahive, headteacher, Riverside Primary School. “How brilliant that it is today on Children in Need because our film has raised almost £1,000 for the charity.” Runner up: Lister Junior School

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Educate Awards 2018

11. Outstanding Teaching of Life Skills Winner: Abbot’s Lea School Pupils at Abbot’s Lea School in Woolton have been challenged to develop new skills as part of a unique programme devised by headteacher Ania Hildrey and her dedicated team. The initiative has included community outreach projects such as volunteering at food banks and opportunities in the world of work for senior students, as well as supported internships with facilities managements company, Amey. “It’s amazing recognition for everybody’s hard work,” said Mrs Hildrey. “This is the most amazing award to win after several years of working to provide holistic education for our students with equal access to academic progress, development of life skills and specialist support for children with autism.” Runner up: Middlefield Community Primary School 12. Innovation in Education Award Winner: The Hollins Accrington school The Hollins wowed the judges with its ‘Let’s Be Foundation’ - a platform which enables students to give back to their local community. Special initiatives this year have included an 8km fundraising walk, a special tea party for the elderly and a monthly ‘Curry Cafe’ run for the homeless and people in need. “It feels absolutely fantastic to be honoured with this award,” said Steve Campbell, headteacher, The Hollins. “The Social Action Team has worked incredibly hard this year under the leadership of Waqar Ahmed our extended services co-ordinator. “I couldn't be more proud of them.” Runner up: Mayfield School 13. Outstanding Commitment to Sport in a Primary School Sponsored by Liverpool School Sports Partnership Winner: Plantation Primary School Last year’s winner Plantation Primary was back to retain its title after building on past success by using sport to achieve its wider aims. Alongside achievement in a number of competitions, the Knowsley school increased its extra curricular sports programme and boosted attendance through clubs such as ‘This Girl Can’ and ‘Skills Builder’. Runner up: St Aloysius Catholic Primary School

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14. Outstanding Commitment to Sport in a Secondary School Winner: Rainford High An inclusive and ambitious approach to physical education and sport saw Rainford High prevail in this hotly contested category. Distinguished team and individual success alongside a commitment to breaking down traditional gender participation barriers tipped the balance in its favour with the judges. “It’s an absolute honour to have won this award and it’s testament to the talent and hard work of our wonderful students and the dedication of the staff,” said Gary Makin, head of PE, Rainford High. Runner up: Ridgeway High School 15. Leadership Team of the Year Winner: Gateacre School Under the leadership of a headteacher described as “boss” by his students, this South Liverpool secondary and sixth form has made great strides. Parental engagement and collaboration are now stronger at Gateacre School whilst a culture of higher standards has been brought in. “It’s fantastic to have won this award - we’ve been on a really tough journey,” said Paul Creed, assistant headteacher, Gateacre School. “We’ve been in special measures and come out, but together as a team we’ve become more like a family. “We’ve got there together through the dark days and achieved what we wanted to achieve for the school and the students.” Runner up: Archbishop Blanch CofE High School

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16. Teacher of the Year Sponsored by CER Winner: Suzanne Gardner, Academy @ Worden After 35 years of dedicated service, Suzanne Gardener retired in July 2018 from her role as head of English at the Academy @ Worden. Greatly missed by colleagues and pupils alike, she left behind a proud legacy built on inspiring youngsters to read and a long record of selfless charity work. “I’m absolutely amazed,” said an emotional Mrs Gardner after picking up her award. I’m so honoured to receive something like this and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed everything I’ve done for the young people in my care.” Runner up: Margaret Banks, St Damian’s RC Science College

17. School Support Star of the Year Sponsored by School Improvement Liverpool Winner: Elizabeth Jones, St Damian’s RC Science College A devoted servant of the St Damian’s community for over four decades, Elizabeth Jones was honoured for her phenomenal contribution first as bursar and part of the senior leadership team, and most recently in her voluntary role as chair of governors. “It’s just unbelievable to have won this award,” said Mrs Jones. “I feel like somebody on television when they say they don’t know what to say, but I don’t!” Runner up: Judith Bowden, St John Bosco Arts College

19. Most Inspirational Secondary School Sponsored by Winstanley College Winner: Ormiston Chadwick Academy Another deserving winner - Ormiston Chadwick Academy was rated ‘inadequate’ by Ofsted just three years ago but has since been transformed into one of the best performing schools in Widnes. “It feels amazing to win this award and it has been a long time coming,” said Jennifer Lowry-Johnson, principal, Ormiston Chadwick Academy. “We’ve worked from special measures to an outstanding secondary school and the staff have made this happen 100% it’s down to them. The staff inspire and they encourage our children to aspire. Our curriculum is amazing, our children are amazing and my staff are amazing.” Joint runner up: Gateacre School and Archbishop Blanch CofE High School

20. Most Inspirational Primary School Winner: Billinge St Aidan’s CofE Primary School Billinge St Aidan’s commitment to supporting pupils’ mental and physical wellbeing was honoured by the judges at the end of what has been a particularly difficult year for the school. “It feels fantastic to win this award,” said Melanie Ravenscroft, headteacher, Billinge St Aidan’s CofE Primary School. “I’m delighted for our school community - it’s been a really difficult year and this is a celebration of every child and everybody at St Aidan’s. “We want to dedicate this award to two people who died this year: Hope Colley, and one of our support staff, Ms Atherton,” added deputy headteacher Rachel Fisher. “They were part of this team and we live on in their memory.” Runner up: Kentmere Academy Primary School 21. Wow Recognition Award Winner: The Hollins, Accrington Accrington secondary school The Hollins made it a prestigious double win and gained further recognition for its ‘Let’s Be Foundation’ by bagging the final award of the evening. “This is the second year on the trot that we’ve won the Wow Recognition Award so we’re just over the moon,” said Steve Campbell, headteacher, The Hollins. “The social action work that the children are doing in school is phenomenal and we are just so proud of them. “It’s a pleasure to be able to help guide them to do these sorts of things and they are really getting so much out of it.” Runner up: Halewood CofE Primary School, Knowsley

7 1. The Educate Awards’ night in full flow as guests begin to finish eating and prepare for the much anticipated awards ceremony 2. Olivia Williams 3. The Orquestra de Ritmo 4. MODE 5. Charlotte Flynn, student at The Belvedere Academy 6. We Are All Stars, Charity single by The Educate Awards’ Super Choir 7. Archbishop Blanch CofE High School performing ‘My Teacher Thought I Was So I Am’

Educate Awards 2018

18. Most Inspirational 16-18 Education Provider Sponsored by Liverpool John Moores University Winner: Formby High School Easy access to support and guidance, excellent A-level and BTEC results, and wide range of extra-curricular activities were just some of the reasons why the judges chose to honour Formby High School this year. “It’s really fantastic for us to win this award,” said Mark O’Shaughnessy , director of sixth form, Formby High School. “It’s a team effort and it’s a reflection of the work that we put in, but it’s also a joy to teach the students we’ve got in our school.” Runner up: Cardinal Langley RC Sixth Form

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Educate Awards 2018

18 8. Ania Hildery (centre) headteacher at Abbotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lea School and some of the team from Abbotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lea 9. Copyrite Systems (L-R), Matthew Taylor (document solutions/account manager), Andrew Hampson (sales manager), John Naylor (document solutions/account manager) 10. Jamie McFadden (right) PR & communications executive at David M Robinson and the David M Robinson team 11. Guests gathering at the drinks reception 12. Andy Bridson (second from right, front row) headteacher at Cardinal Langley RC Sixth Form with the Cardinal Langley team 13. Orrets Meadow School, headteacher, Mrs Duncan and guest 14. Peter Kelly (left) Year 6 teacher at Lister Junior School, Lawrence Saunders (right) journalist at Move Publishing 15. Left to right: Mary Hind-Portley, Sarah Rymer, Alex Hughes and Catherine McGoohan from Booker Avenue 16. The Foundry Agency 17. Dave Smith (right) headteacher and the team from Halewood Church of England Primary School 18. Progress Schools

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Educate Awards 2018

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19. Canon Myles Davies 20. St John Bosco Arts College 21. Kim Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien (director at The Educate Awards) 22. LJMU 23. Simon Ross (left) host), John Naylor (right) document solutions/accounts manager, Copyrite Systems 24. (L-R) Mrs G Cousineau, assistant headteacher at ASFA, Mrs T Greenough, headteacher at ASFA, David Clayton, chief executive of The All Saints Multi Academy Trust, Miss K Sedgwick, assistant headteacher at ASFA and Nadia Wozny 25. Dinner is served 26. The delicious desserts 27. Matthew O'Keeffe, Nick Hill, Demi Blundell, Jonathan Deakin and Ted Lamb from The Belvedere Academy 28. Andy Bridson (second from right, front row) headteacher at Cardinal Langley RC Sixth Form with the Cardinal Langley team 29. Simon Ross (host)

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Educate Awards 2018

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41 30. Tara Welsh and Laura Riley from The Academy of St Francis of Assisi celebrating winning the SEND Provision Award 31. John Naylor, document solutions/cccount manager at Copyrite Systems with a guest 32. School Improvement Liverpool 33. Jamie McFadden (left) PR & communications executive at David M Robinson, Christina Lahive (centre) headteacher at Riverside Primary School, Gemma Parsley (right centre) deputy headteacher at Riverside Primary School 34. Guests arriving to the drinks reception to begin their evening at The Educate Awards 35. Andrew Hampson (centre) sales manager at Copyrite Systems with guests 36. Heswall Primary School 37. Pontville School 38. Heswall Primary School 39. The Iconic Liverpool Cathedral 40. CER 41. Selfie time

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Educate Awards 2018

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42. Jaqui Lawson and Caroline Swarsbrick from All Saints celebrating winning the Career Aspiration Award 43. St Aloysius Catholic Primary School 44. Riverside Primary School capturing the emotion of The Educate Awards 45. All smiles from Gary Makin (left) head of PE at Rainford High and Rainford High School after winning at the awards 46. Elizabeth Jones (right) from St Damian’s RC Science College on stage with Malik Killen (left) CEO at School Improvement Liverpool 47. Jay Bradley (centre) head of music at The Academy of St Francis of Assisi and The Academy of St Francis of Assisi celebrating their win in Outstanding Arts in Secondary School 48. Winning students from The Hollins 49. Queen’s Park CE/URC Primary School celebrating their big win on the red carpet 50. Gary Evans (left) headteacher at Halewood Academy taking to the red carpet after winning an award 51. Father Richard Peers with Jason Hollywood, headteacher at Northwood Community Primary School and the Northwood team on stage 52. Melanie Ravenscroft (centre) headteacher at Billinge St Aidan’s C of E Primary School celebrating with the rest of the team from St Aidan’s 53. Mark O’Shaughnessy (centre) director of sixth form at Formby High School) making the red carpet his own 54. Teacher of the Year, Suzanne Gardner from Acadmey@Worden

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Peter Kennedy, principal of The Belvedere Academy

CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENT The Belvedere Academy Prize Giving The Belvedere Academy held its annual prize giving recently at the Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. The event celebrated the success of students throughout the school. The evening started with a musical interlude performed by the Chamber Choir followed by principal Peter Kennedyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s report. School prizes, awards and certificates were then presented to pupils from the lower and upper school before Amy Roberts, a Year 12 student, performed a musical piece. More prizes, awards and certificates along with special awards were presented to students from the sixth form. After another musical piece, Liz AshallPayne, the guest speaker, addressed the audience, after which head girl, Alex McCaldon, thanked everyone for attending the prize giving. The evening finished with a rendition of Jerusalem.

Head girl, Alex McCaldon, thanked everyone for attending the prize giving

Pupils receive their certificates

Year 12 pupil Amy Roberts

A packed cathedral

Guest speaker Liz Ashall-Payne

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Educate Awards 2019

Entries open for the Educate Awards 2019 The prestigious Educate Awards are back for 2019, with entries now open for schools and colleges across the region. Founded by Kim O’Brien in 2012, the awards are the largest education awards in the North West. From inspiring teachers, superb support staff to innovative projects across the curriculum, the Educate Awards are an opportunity for

schools to showcase their credentials across a number of categories. Since launching in Liverpool in 2012, the awards has grown rapidly and now recognises schools and colleges right across the Liverpool City Region, Cheshire, Lancashire and Greater Manchester. 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. A new category has also been introduced this year, recognising schools’ commitment to mental wellbeing. The Mental Health & Wellbeing Award will be awarded to

a school with a strong commitment to promoting social and emotional wellbeing, mental health and wellness. Kim O’Brien says: “We are so excited to open entries for the Educate Awards 2019 and begin our search for this year’s most inspirational schools, teachers and staff. “The awards get bigger and bigger each year and are a fantastic opportunity to showcase the brilliant work happening in our region. “We can’t wait to celebrate another year of outstanding education in the North West, so please get in touch and submit your entry!”

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Educate Awards 2019

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, Lancashire and Greater Manchester. The deadline for entries is midnight on Sunday 23 June 2019. 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

“We were absolutely delighted to win the Educate Award for ‘Eco Project of the Year’. At Queen’s Park, we are committed to teaching our children powerful knowledge and skills that go beyond the National Curriculum and the classroom walls. Thank you to Educate Awards and all involved for recognising the hard work of our children, staff and school community.”

AWARD CATEGORIES The Communication Award Eco School Project of the Year Spirit of Enterprise Award SEND Provision Award

Mrs Kellett (Headteacher) Queen’s Park C.E / U.R.C Primary School

Innovative and Creative Literacy Award STEM Project of the Year

“The Educate Awards offers schools a chance to showcase their hard work and achievements every year, which is fantastic for the morale of staff and students. Last year Rainford High won the Outstanding Commitment to Sport in Secondary School - for the fourth time! It was a great honour for our PE department as they work incredibly hard to provide a wealth of opportunities for our students so they can lead an active lifestyle, during and after school.” Ian Young (Principal) Rainford High

“Overjoyed! Elated! Euphoric! So proud of my team, children and staff for winning Outstanding Arts in a Primary School 2018 at the Educate Awards. To have won it once was wonderful and to have defended our title successfully will go down in the history books of Riverside Primary School. “We cannot thank Educate organisers enough for making everyone feel like movie stars... the magniﬁcent setting, entertainment and ambience were second to none. What a magical evening celebrating all that is great about education. We are still celebrating now!”

Outstanding Arts in a Primary School Outstanding Arts in a Secondary School Career Aspiration Award Outstanding Commitment to Sport in a Primary School Outstanding Commitment to Sport in a Secondary School Community Partnership Award NEW! Mental Health & Wellbeing Award Innovation in Education Award School Support Star of the Year Teacher of the Year Leadership Team of the Year Most Inspirational 16-18 Education Provider Most Inspirational Secondary School Most Inspirational Primary School Wow Recognition Award

Mrs Christina Lavine Riverside Primary School

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PUPILS SHINE AT AWARDS St Cuthbert’s Sports Personality of the Year St Cuthbert’s Catholic High School held an evening to celebrate the sporting success, achievement and commitment of their students at St Cuthbert’s in line with the prestigious BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards. The school took the decision for the evening to take place in the same week as the annual BBC event to raise awareness of success in sport. The evening started with a drinks and canapés reception followed by the awards ceremony. To award the prizes the school was lucky to have Danny Richardson, a rugby league footballer who plays as a scrumhalf or stand-off for St Helens in the Super League. Speaking at the event, head of physical education, Miss Nicola Lethbridge, said: “We are proud of all our students who show passion, commitment and enthusiasm for being active and participating in exercise and sport as much as possible.” For the main St Cuthbert’s Sports Personality of the Year Award, the school shortlisted eight outstanding nominees. Students, staff, parents and governors were invited to vote for one nominee only with the overall winner being Year 10 student McKenzie who is described as being an asset to the school football, rugby and handball teams. He has signed a scholarship for Saints and was the Players’ Player of the Year for Thatto Heath RFC.

Joshua (Y9), Jordan and Jessica (Y11)

Y8 Sports Personality of the Year (Male) - Aidan

Y10 Sports Personality of the Year (Male) - Michael

Y9 Sports Personality of the Year (Female) - Maddison

Y10 Sports Personality of the Year (Female) - Jodie

Overall Sports Personality of the Year winner - McKenzie

Young Sports Personality of the Year Harrison and Emily (Y7)

Team of the Year - Y9 Rugby Team

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Secondary News

Fundraising cracker Concert for Isabel was a special moment A secondary school pulled together over the festive period to present a Christmas carol concert in honour of a music teacher. Sacred Heart Catholic College in Crosby, put on a spectacular show at Liverpool’s Metropolitan Cathedral to raise money for Isabel Morison, a teacher diagnosed with a rare type of brain cancer. In attendance were staff, pupils, family and friends all hoping to raise funds for Isabel’s lifesaving treatment, which could cost up to £200,000. Miss Clarke, a friend and colleague of Isabel, said: “The support and atmosphere that was evident in abundance not only showed the strength of Isabel’s positivity, impact and influence, but also recognised what a special community Sacred Heart really is. “Thanks go to our musical director, Mr Foy, whose hard work and dedication brought large numbers of colleagues, friends,

Liverpool students ready to build their future Students from across Liverpool are heading for a two-day careers event to give them an unrivalled insight into their future careers, and the world of work. Northern Schools Trust is working alongside UCLan and the University of Liverpool on the twoday event, as well as a variety of businesses from across the region. A cohort of Year 12 students will attend the Build My Future event for a unique programme of events, including presentations from future employers and interactive seminars. Jack, a pupil at Liverpool Life Sciences UTC, said: “I feel very fortunate to be a student here. The Build My Future festival is something that I know no other students have the opportunity to be a part of. “It will help me to stand out from the crowd when I go on to apply for my future career.” The Northern Schools Trust specialises in academic and practical education designed to give students a realistic taste of working life. The Liverpool City Region performs particularly strongly in the life sciences sector; it also far exceeds the national average in the creative and digital sector, with the city’s Baltic Triangle cluster appearing in the top five fastest growing clusters in the country. Matt Burrows, head of primary manufacturing at Seqirus, a sponsor of the event said: “Seqirus is proud to be a sponsor of the Build My Future festival. It’s a privilege to support the students as they decide on their career pathways and exciting to meet the scientists of the future here in Liverpool.” Build My Future takes place on September 28 at UCLan in Preston, and September 29 at the University of Liverpool. 36

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

students and well-wishers from across the Sacred Heart community and beyond. We were also very honoured to have His Grace, Archbishop Malcolm McMahon in attendance.” Fundraising events will continue into 2019, including a comedy bingo night and a night of singing entertainment, for which tickets will be available soon.

First school in England to complete the new criteria

St Cuthbert’s Catholic High School in St Helens is the first school in England to complete the new criteria for the Quality in Careers Standard fully incorporating the Gatsby Benchmarks. These benchmarks include the curriculum being linked with careers, students having encounters with employers and employees, personal guidance and learning from career and labour market information. At the end of June, the Department for Education received the results of 2,880 self-evaluation responses from schools and colleges. The results showed that on

average, schools and colleges were hitting only two of the eight Gatsby Benchmarks. Ms Nikki Hannah, CEIAG lead, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded the Quality in Careers Standard. The knowledge about future careers is embedded in all that we do, with local employers being an integral part of that learning.” Headteacher Mrs Catherine Twist, said: “Young people should have the excellent careers guidance they deserve and need. This is about changing the lives of the young people we work with, giving them the chance of a rewarding and fulfilling life”.

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Secondary News

SFX celebrates its 175 anniversary St Francis Xavier’s College (SFX) in Woolton is celebrating its 175 anniversary. The school has marked the incredible milestone with a celebration mass at the College Chapel which was attended by students, parents, families and staff. Following the anniversary service, attendees had the opportunity to view a spectacular art and photography exhibition which showcased the hard work and creative talents of SFX pupils. A delicious buffet and refreshments were also served. SFX has a vibrant history dating back to 1842 when it was established by the Society of Jesus. It was named after the patron saint of missionaries and one of the founders of the Jesuit order, St

Francis Xavier. Over the years, the school has moved locations several times including Soho Street, St Anne Street and Salisbury Street. In 2002, it settled on Woolton Hill Road where it proudly stands today. The anniversary also commemorated the retirement of executive headteacher, Les Rippon after 37 years with the school. Les said: “It is important that we celebrate the school’s heritage and that every student understands its vast history. This really helps to create a sense of pride amongst the year groups. “Our assistant headteacher, Peter Evans even designed a dedicated 175 years tie which students have been proudly wearing.” Speaking about his retirement, Les

SFX Year 11 students Nathan Capper with the anniversary tie

said: “I have had a wonderful 37 years with SFX. Seeing thousands of students benefit from a strong and varied curriculum, over this period of time, is what makes this job so worthwhile. “I would like to thank everyone for their support and kind words since the announcement of my retirement.”

A unique musical expreience Professional musicians from the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra spent a day at West Derby School Liverpool in November as part of the BBC Ten Pieces coaching scheme. Over 40 musicians from Years 8 to 11 took part in a series of composition workshops based around the ‘Storm’ Interlude from Benjamin Britten’s opera Peter Grimes. The Ten Pieces coaching scheme is free and open to any organisation that works with young musicians aged 10-18. One of their aims is to open up the world of classical music to the next generation. Their musicians work with organisations to share their knowledge and expertise with aspiring young performers across the UK. The day began with highly enjoyable musical games and icebreakers which encouraged team work, listening skills and co-ordination. Students were then introduced to the ‘Storm’ Interlude and engaged in some analysis of the compositional techniques used by the composer to depict a stormy scene. Students then split up into their instrumental sections of keyboards, guitars, percussion, brass and woodwind. They were guided by the professional musicians from the BBC Philharmonic in creating their own stormy soundscapes. Their percussionists were particularly thrilled to be introduced to some of the more unusual instruments the BBC Philharmonic percussionist brought along with her and very much enjoyed exploring the different sonorities. After lunch, students were brought back together to organise and structure their disparate musical ideas into a piece titled The Storm. The day culminated in a performance of this piece to 180 Year 7 students and accompanying staff. The audience were captivated by the dramatic musical soundscape. Even though they only had a short amount of rehearsal time, the musicians managed to demonstrate a high level of skill by performing with a wide variety of dynamics and articulation. Year 9 student Jack Cushion enjoyed the day and said: “We 38

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did something unique that we’ve never done before in music. Being involved with so many experienced people gave me an insight into what it means to be a good musician”.

School supports childrens charity Broughton Hall Catholic High School welcomed Adam Dixon from Alder Hey Childrens Hospital and Yvonne Matthews from Wigzee Woo at their Year 11 assembly. Last summer the pupils of Broughton Hall made woollen wigs during a week long wigathon with Wigzee Woo, a charity who create handmade crocheted hats for sick children, to send to Alder Hey and they invited Adam and Yvonne to visit the school and they handed them over in assembly! Adam later returned to the school and at the Year 9 Assembly told the pupils how Adler Hey was overwhelmed

by the wigs and the work we had put into making them. Adam said: “It is fantastic to see that the all the hard work from the girls in the summer had made a difference to children’s lives at Alder Hey Hospital”.

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Sixth Form Open Evening Tuesday 12th 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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Secondary News

Helping hand Academy support The Whitechapel Centre Students and staff at St Margaret’s Church of England Academy (SMA) have taken the time to support those in need over Christmas, after collecting and donating a range of items for The Whitechapel Centre. Working with the charity, the Aigburth-based academy identified what items would be most useful for somebody living on the streets during this time of year. Over the course of several weeks, the school has donated over 80 large bags packed full with tents, sleeping bags and coats. Principal of SMA, Stephen Brierley said: “The Whitechapel Centre is a fantastic charity that does an incredible job in this city. “Our students were very keen to support this cause and give back to those who are in need. Everyone within the school has worked extremely hard to gather these much-needed essential items that will hopefully help make a difference.” The Whitechapel Centre is the leading homeless and housing charity for the Liverpool region. It works with people who are sleeping rough, living in hostels or struggling to manage their accommodation.

Students look to the future Year 12 Students at Archbishop Blanch enjoyed a fun fact-filled morning preparing for their future career destinations by taking part in the Young Enterprise ‘Learn to Earn Programme’. The programme offers students aspirational careers guidance whilst developing their employability skills and giving them a greater understanding of financial literacy competencies that will prove vital in their future life choices. Pupils engaged in a range of hands-on activities including role-play interviews

and a board game to help them understand how education is key to their future success and happiness, exploring themes including career choices, personal skills, financial planning and budgeting. Head of business and enterprise, Andy Cornmell, who felt it was really important to give time to this event and promote the ‘Learn to Earn Programme’, co-ordinated the event. Andy said: “Given the current economic climate and the uncertain political future that the UK faces it is essential that all young people can

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

demonstrate a strong grasp of financial principles in order to understand and negotiate the financial landscape that they face. “Events like today’s “Learn to Earn” initiative are pivotal in allowing our young people to make informed choices that will shape their future success.” Feedback from the event was overwhelmingly positive with many of the pupils reflecting on the tough career and educational choices that they face in the next 18 months. One Year 12 student, Siân Campbell said: “Today’s event really made me consider some of the decisions that I face in the future when deciding which University to attend, I had not considered the living costs associated with moving away from home and now have a greater understanding of the need to budget and plan my finances”. Rob Clarke, assistant head (16-19 provision) said of the event: “At Archbishop Blanch we understand how important it is that every pupil has access to multiple opportunities to learn from encounters with employers and employees about work, employment and the skills that are valued in the workplace.”

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Secondary News

Celebrating 100 years Alsop High issues special medal to celebrate centenary Alsop High School, Liverpool has issued a special medal to commemorate the school centenary in 2019. The medal is a replica of medals issued to countless generations of students since 1919. The medal was launched at a special meeting of students, staff and residents, who gathered to plan a special programme of events, to commemorate this important milestone. Students were delighted that former headteacher, Mr Phil Jamieson, OBE, attended and is keen to be involved in the celebrations. Mr Mangan, headteacher said: “2019 provides a fantastic opportunity for Alsop to celebrate the 100th anniversary of delivering quality educational opportunities for young people in north Liverpool. “As a school we are extremely proud of the

achievements of successive generations of students and the impact they have had in Liverpool and beyond.” Alsop was founded in 1919, and moved to the Queens Drive site in 1926. The school is named after Mr James Willcox Alsop, OBE who was chair of Liverpool Education Committee. The school has several notable Alumni including: Jimmy Mulville; Pete Wylie; Alexei Sayle; Colin Parry; Monsignor Keith Newton and Lawrence Kenwright, During the centenary year, the school aim to organise a number of activities, social events and celebrations. Alsop is inviting all past students, staff members, governors, community members, parents and anyone who has been through their doors to get in touch and share their memories.

The launch of Alsop’s special medal to launch centenary

Guitar made by Liverpool students played on Jools Holland’s Hootenanny A guitar designed and built with the help of Liverpool students was played on Jools Holland’s Hootenanny. Mark Flanagan, a Liverpool-born guitarist who performs with Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, used the bespoke instrument during the famous New Year’s Eve broadcast. Students in the Northern Schools Trust (Liverpool Life Sciences UTC, The Studio and North Liverpool Academy) were tasked with creating Mark a new guitar which looked and sounded different to the ones in his current collection. The cross-trust school project came about after Dave Hornby decided to bring together the musicianship of Mark with the guitar making skills of Ray Palf. Working alongside Ray and Mark, students gathered information about what Mark wanted from the guitar, including the type of sound, the components and materials preferred, and its appearance. They were also involved in producing technical drawings and designs, models using softwood, testing, modifying and producing the final product on time. Mark, who has performed with the likes of Eric Clapton, Tom Jones and Amy Winehouse, demoed the finished product to the students before using the guitar during Jools’ Annual Hootenanny. 42

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A host of special guests appeared on the latest musical gettogether including Michael Bublé, Jess Glynne, Nile Rodgers, George Ezra, Marc Almond and Rudimental.

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Secondary News

Pupils inspired by film Pupils celebrate the relationship between Germany and England

Pupils Issac and Liam at the launch presentation

King David High School pupils once again have shown themselves to be outstanding language learners. Pupils from Years 8 and 9 entered a competition to celebrate the relationship between Germany and England over the last one hundred years. The competition was based around the 100 year anniversary since the end of World War One. There were some phenomenal entries from pupils showcasing wonderful artwork, poetry and prose in both English and German. Pupils Isaac and Liam showed a phenomenal empathy writing letters from the front line from a German soldier to his mum alongside her reply. The letters took into consideration the film pupils had studied in class as a starting point, 44

Joyeux Noël. The film looks at the football match played on Christmas day near the trenches between the different armies and showcases the plights of all the young men far from home, disillusioned by the realities of war. Their letters, written in fantastic German, inspired the judges and they won the opportunity to go to Berlin to a special ceremony to be presented with their award earlier this term. Teacher Mrs Brown, said: “We are so very proud of their achievement and are pleased to hear such positive stories of an amazing time spent in Berlin! Well done boys! “Thanks must also go to their parents for accompanying them and their support, and sharing some wonderful photographs!”

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

Gateacre secure funding to provide free healthy breakfasts for all students Gateacre School won a bid for funding provided by the government’s National Breakfast School Programme (NBSP). The programme is funded by the Department for Education through the soft drinks levy (sugar tax) and is delivered by the charities Family Action and Magic Breakfast, offering a healthy breakfast at school to ensure students are settled and ready to learn. The school is one of the first in Liverpool to offer the free breakfast which is being launched this month. From 14 January, students will be able to choose from a range of breakfast cereals, bagels and porridge - and they can eat as much as they want! On the third Thursday of each month they will also open this offer up to parents/carers and siblings of Gateacre students so they can all have a great start to the day (without the panic of making breakfast for everyone, and the washing up!). The first #fillmeupThursday will be on 17 January. Research by the Institute for Fiscal Studies found that Year 2 pupils in schools boosted their reading, writing and maths by an average of two months’ progress per year, compared to pupils in schools with no breakfast provision. Gateacre School hopes that the programme helps with attendance and punctuality, as the students are dropped off earlier and are already at school when the bell rings. Headteacher, Jason Roberts said: “At Gateacre we recognise the importance of a great start in the morning especially when our Year 11 and Year 13 pupils are preparing for their examinations. That is why we open the school during the exam period early to ensure that every pupil has the opportunity to have a free breakfast and prepare well for their tests.” Head of resources at Gateacre School, Anne Kavanagh, who applied for the funding, told us that before the breakfast club, many children had been coming to school hungry. Anne said: “We understand that those students who start the school day with a healthy breakfast have higher levels of attendance, punctuality and concentration, which results in improved learning. “We are committed to ensuring that no student at Gateacre School is too hungry to learn and so we have adopted the National School Breakfast Programme.”

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The production included over 240 students from Years 7-13

THE GREATEST SHOW St John Bosco pull it off St John Bosco Arts College has wowed audiences with its 2018 school production, The Greatest Show. More than 240 of students from Years 7 to 13 were cast in the production, inspired by last year’s blockbuster hit The Greatest Showman. Students spent months rehearsing for the all-singing, all-dancing show, which is inspired by the circus and the lives of its star attractions. With an exceptionally talented cast it is difficult to highlight all the noteworthy performances. The production was put together by the school’s drama, dance and music departments, led by Craig Gaffney. A matinee for the school’s feeder primary schools saw students take centre stage for the first time, with a further two stand-out performances taking place across two days to packed audiences. Craig Gaffney said: “We’ve had wonderful feedback from parents and attendees about this year’s production, The Greatest Show. “It’s been a real team effort, from those acting and singing centre stage to all those students helping behind the scenes with lighting and costumes. Our girls have really pulled off the Greatest Show!”

A dancer takes to the stage

Emily as Barnum

The show was inspired by the circus and the lives of its star attractions

Aiva delivered a mesmerising stoic performance

The production featured colourful characters!

Emily played the charismatic ringmaster Barnum A student takes centre stage as the bearded lady

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Former pupil Richard Archer (right) presented the prizes to pupils

Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral was the spectacular setting for the St Mary’s College prize day event

Dreaming of a career in boxing

YEAR OF ACHIEVEMENT St Mary’s College salutes pupils St Mary’s College in Crosby looked back on another year of achievement by pupils, and ahead to its centenary celebrations in 2019, at its annual prize day ceremony. Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral was the spectacular setting for the event, which saw the school welcoming former pupil Richard Archer as the VIP guest speaker. Richard, who left St Mary’s in 2003, went on to obtain a first-class law degree from Liverpool University before qualifying as a barrister practising criminal law. In March 2017 he was appointed a Recorder of the Crown Court at the age of just 32, the youngest person in recent history to hold judicial office. As well as enjoying Richard’s reflections on his time at St. Mary’s and his career to date, guests heard that during 2017 St Mary’s had maintained its tradition of both academic excellence and encouraging achievement in sport, music and many other extra-curricular activities. 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 the college, and the many successes highlighted during the ceremony. Summing up the year Mike Kennedy said: “Prize day is a great opportunity to recognise the successes of our pupils who continue to maintain the highachieving traditions of the school, academically and in many other fields. “I want to say congratulations to all our prize winners. You have achieved well and with credit. But I also want to congratulate everyone at St Mary’s your values and character are the real achievements being celebrated here today”.

St Mary’s principal Mike Kennedy and guest speaker Richard Archer with head girl Helen Fraser and head boy Adam Bennett

The talented members of the St Mary’s Symphonic Wind Band performed one of the musical interludes

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The inspiring day ended with a session about programming robots

INSPIRING GENERATIONS ASFA teams up with Barclays to pursue tech careers Programming, cryptography and innovation are on the agenda at The Academy of St Francis of Assisi (ASFA), as Year 8 students took part in Barclays’ IT Girls Allowed Programme. Students visited The Barclays Technology Campus in Knutsford, Cheshire for a full day of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) related activities. The project was created to directly address the lack of women who aspire to have a career in technology. During the one-day events, Barclays’ volunteers share their professional expertise and skills with students to encourage future female talent to join the profession and give them first hand insights into technology careers in a fun and engaging way. The full day event aims to get girls interested in technology and they complete plugged and unplugged activities including; cryptography, programming and innovation. The first session, named ‘Designing the Future’ saw ASFA students come up with brilliant ideas including a holographic teacher designed to help with homework! In the afternoon session, the girls learned about cryptography by decoding jokes using different cyphers. The inspiring day ended with a session about programming robots. Headteacher Tracey Greenough said: “Our Year 8 students enjoyed an inspiring day with Barclays at its IT Girls Allowed event. The event gave the girls a glimpse in to the many IT careers available and without a doubt it has inspired many of them to consider IT not just as a subject choice, but as a career choice too. “A massive thank you to Barclays for hosting our students and giving them first-hand insight into technology careers in a fun and engaging way!”

Students at Barclays Technology Campus

The girls got first hand insight into technology

The girls learned about cryptography by decoding jokes

A team gets to grips with their robot!

Activities included cryptography, programming and innovation

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LSSP apprentice Emily Jayne Rowe

The conference was very well attended

LSSP apprentice Thomas Gallagher with Ali Oliver LSSP apprentice Paul Gillespie received a certificate

TRANSFORMING PE IN SCHOOLS

Teachers from across the city attended the conference Ali Oliver, CEO of the Youth Sport Trust

School gather for Primary PE Conference Schools from across the region descended on the Partnership for Learning Centre, Liverpool as the Liverpool School Sports Partnership (LSSP) hosted their 2018 PE Network Conference with the theme ‘Transforming PE’. This year the LSSP worked closely with the Youth Sport Trust (YST), which is an independent national charity devoted to changing young people’s lives through sport. LSSP were delighted to welcome Ali Oliver CEO (YST) who delivered the keynote to senior leaders and PE subject leaders from schools across Liverpool, which left the audience inspired and focused for the workshop sessions later in the afternoon. Adella Dando, partnership manager, LSSP, said: “This year, the Primary PE Conference was a huge success with LSSP managing to secure Ali Oliver as a keynote speaker. Her speech was not only informative but inspiring”. The afternoon sessions included updates and training on: My Personal Best training, PE & Sport Premium funding and using yoga to development resilience and mindfulness.

LSSP’s Vicky Marshall welcomes the attendees

A light-hearted activity with a serious message

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CELEBRATING SPACE WEEK Thousands help celebrate Big Bang 2018 Pupils at St Laurence’s Catholic Primary School, Kirkby have been taking part in World Space Week, an international observance of science and technology and its contribution to improve our society. St Laurence’s took this as an opportunity to unite their children in an inclusive space project that would capture their imaginations and inspire them to think about space. Through assemblies and focused lessons, children across the school have learnt about the wonders of space through poetry, art, maths and science. School teacher, Peter Biggs said: “The most exciting part of our World Space Week focus however came in the form of our whole school design and technology competition. Children were given the opportunity to compete in two home learning projects. “The first was to design and build a space rocket, the second, was to create a poster based on a space theme that interested them. There was no design brief to allow for maximum creativity. “With over thirty prizes space themed prizes to be won, the response we have had from the children and families has been unbelievable. The buzz around the school from both children and staff as rockets and posters of all shapes and sizes have arrived each day has been nothing short of breathtaking”.

The pupils show off their designs at assembly

Congratulations to the winning design

The pupils impressive display

Some very impressive rockets

Some fantastic artwork

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Education News

Decisive moment Crucial life saving skills to become compulsory in schools Pupils in schools nationwide are to be taught life-saving skills such as Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) under new plans for health education to be taught in every school. The education secretary, Damian Hinds is stressing the importance of children knowing these basic skills and first aid, especially in the midst of the winter months. Emergency services are reporting a spike in cardiac arrests during this time period; with survival rates lower than usual. These figures have pushed Damian to stress the importance of the government’s plans for all children to be taught health education under proposals due to be rolled out from 2020. He said: “On arriving at university I was struck that the American students I met knew how to do CPR, and I didn’t have a clue. “As a father I want my children to have the knowledge and skills they need to keep themselves safe and help others, and as education secretary I want that

for every child. “That’s why we took the decision to include health education alongside relationship education for primary school children and relationship and sex education for secondary school children. These subjects are a crucial part of our work to ensure children learn the wider skills they need to flourish in the modern world.” The British Heart Foundation hails the plans as a “decisive moment” in improving on the fact that fewer than one in ten people who have a cardiac arrest outside hospital in the UK survive. Simon Gillespie, chief executive of the British Heart Foundation said: “The Department for Education’s plans to introduce CPR on the curriculum is a decisive moment in the battle to improve cardiac arrest survival rates, following years of campaigning by the BHF and others. “Introducing CPR lessons into health education in all state-funded secondary schools is a significant step that

Education secretary, Damian Hinds promises to improve the odds of survival for countless people who have a cardiac arrest in the future.” Under the proposed government plans, by the end of secondary school, pupils will be taught how to administer CPR, the purpose of defibrillators, and basic treatment for common injuries.

The Daily Mile funding announcement Sport England have announced they have committed £1.5 million of National Lottery funding to support The Daily Mile™, the ground-breaking fitness initiative that aims to get children fit for life. Merseyside Sports Partnership (MSP), who are the strategic organisation dedicated to unlocking the power of sport and physical activity across the whole of the Liverpool City Region are delighted to be able to confirm that they have been awarded £100k from that national pot to help primary school pupils across Halton, Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens and Wirral benefit from the scheme. A dedicated Daily Mile co-ordinator, Trish Conning, was appointed to MSP’s team at the beginning of December, in anticipation of the formal announcement. She’s already hit the ground running, getting out and about ahead of the Christmas break to meet with school headteachers and PE leads. Speaking about her new role Trish said: “We know from the Active Lives Children and Young People Survey (Dec 2018) that 57% of primary pupils in the Liverpool City Region are doing less

than the chief medical officer’s recommendation of 60 minutes of physical activity a day. “The Daily Mile is a fantastic, simple way to boost the amount of activity children are getting within their school day. So, I’m incredibly excited by the opportunity to help schools get the initiative off the ground, plus help support them as they continue to make it a regular feature of school life.” Calum Donnelly, MSP’s strategic lead for children and young people said: “MSP are delighted to be able to support schools to get officially signed up to The Daily Mile. It’s a supersimple, but effective concept that takes 15 minutes from desk-to-desk. “Children head outside to jog or run around the school grounds every day, rain or shine, at whatever pace suits each child best. It gets children active with their friends and teachers and refreshed for further learning. “Any school can implement it completely free of charge and without the need for staff training. Its impact can be transformational – improving not only the children’s fitness, but also their attainment, mood, behaviour and mental wellbeing”. Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

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Education News

Recognising effort Exceptional attendance students attend award ceremony

Pupils receive their awards at Liverpool Town Hall

Pupils who have never missed a day of school have been recognised for their efforts at the annual attendance awards. 29 pupils from across 19 schools in Liverpool have been rewarded for not missing a day of education during their time at either their primary or secondary school. They received a kindle, a certificate and medal. Rhianna Wilson, 16, from Bowring Park is one of two pupils who were rewarded for not missing a day at both primary and secondary school. She said: “I’ve been really lucky in that I’ve always been healthy, although there was a time in Year 9 when I refused to go home even though I’d been sick in the dinner hall at lunchtime and was begging teachers to let me stay!” Rhianna is studying A-level maths, physics and performing arts, and has ambitions to be a maths teacher after going to university. Part funded by the families programme, but organised by Liverpool Learning Partnership and School Improvement Liverpool, the annual attendance awards aim to celebrate dedication and commitment.

Councillor Barbara Murray, cabinet member for education, said: “All the evidence that we have is that the better attendance that a pupil has, the better their chances of getting good exam results and going on to have a successful career. “Good attendance and punctuality create reliability which leads to trust in that person, which are great characteristics to have acknowledged at a young age.” A further 42 pupils from 20 schools received certificates and awards for their attendance. Elaine Rees, chief executive of Liverpool Learning Partnership, said: “We were delighted to award more pupils than ever at this, the third annual attendance awards. All the pupils and parents should be proud of their achievements. “As a city we have real challenges over attendance and punctuality and we all need to work together to address this. The event proves that you can improve attendance and it’s right that we acknowledge the hard work of schools, parents and children in making this happen.”

Liverpool Cathedral Sleepout is back! For the third year, Liverpool Cathedral and The Whitechapel Centre have teamed up to host a family fundraiser on Friday 5 April. It is a rare opportunity to spend the night sleeping inside the country’s biggest cathedral. The Liverpool Cathedral Sleepout is a fun and friendly event open to people of all ages. It is set to be an unforgettable night, with storytelling, arts and crafts, as well as prizes for the best ‘den’ and best pyjamas. While there is lots of fun for those involved, an important message is behind the event. Many children and young people are concerned about the people they see sleeping on the streets and those that are less fortunate. The Sleepout offers children the opportunity to help and find out more about homelessness in the safety of Liverpool Cathedral. Although it doesn't compare to sleeping outside on the street, it can go some way towards understanding the difficult situation people face when finding themselves homeless and no longer have a warm, cosy bed.

Inspiring imaginations! Inspire the imaginations of your pupils with one of National Museums Liverpool’s fascinating classes specifically for schools. From dinosaurs to space and plenty in-between, a series of additional sessions linked to science, history and geography curriculum are now available at World Museum, the Museum of Liverpool and the Merseyside Maritime Museum. Specially designed for children from Early Years to Key Stage 2, these sessions are part of a huge range of opportunities to support class learning at museums and galleries. A programme of free activities featuring stories, songs and art for early years children has launched at the Walker Art Gallery. Storywalkers is a collection of events linked to literacy for children up to seven years old to encourage early communication, physical development, language and literacy skills, as well as encouraging a love of reading, writing and art.

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Sixth Form

Success Deli very Thur sday 10 Janu ary

2019

WDS 6F 10/1 /19

WDS 6F 10/1 /19 WDS 6F 10/1 /19

Save the date Sixth Form Open Day Thursday 10 January 2019 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 10/1 /19

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SUPPLY AND DEMAND

For schools across the region, supply teachers are a lifeline when a member of staff is absent. To find out more about the invaluable contribution of supply staff, Educate magazine caught up with Dawn van Alwon, a former Support Centre Manager with over 25 years teaching experience. Dawn has undertaken an assortment of long and short terms placements since registering with School Improvement Liverpool Supply in 2016.

Supply and Demand

It is estimated that during 2017/18, Liverpool Schools alone spent up to £8 million on supply costs

By Christine Toner Having worked for other agencies, and being in regular contact with other supply teachers, she feels SIL Supply is unique in the way it supports and invests in its workforce. How did you come to be a supply teacher? After taking voluntary redundancy, I decided to work as a supply teacher for two reasons. Firstly, I wanted to reconnect with mainstream practice as I had spent many years in Special Education and secondly I wanted the ability to choose which days I worked so that I could make work fit in with my life, rather than my life having to fit in with work. What’s your favourite thing about being a teacher? It is difficult to choose one favourite thing about being a teacher, but the thing that gives me most satisfaction is 58

working with children who have issues that can make school a difficult place to be, for example, autism, low selfesteem/confidence. Gaining the trust of such pupils and helping them to feel safe and secure usually results in children who blossom. The feeling this gives is indescribable and gives me the highest level of job satisfaction. What’s your favourite thing about being a supply teacher? I enjoy visiting a variety of schools and meeting many different people. I also enjoy seeing examples of good practice and learning new ways of doing things. For example, in one school I learned new ways of approaching PE lessons, in another, I learned about ‘mini mentors’. What challenges do supply teachers face that other teachers may not encounter? Apart from the logistical difficulties of learning the geography of schools and their rules and routines, there is also the

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

issue of being an unknown quantity to the staff and children. Another challenge faced by supply teachers is teaching from other people’s planning. It can be a very long time since you have taught certain concepts but the planning process gives you the opportunity to revise your knowledge. Is it difficult not being able to develop relationships with students? Have you developed skills for getting to know students quickly? I find that introducing yourself properly, telling them a little about yourself and smiling a lot puts children at their ease. Another way to help children to feel at ease with you is to try to learn their names as quickly as possible. This can be quite difficult, but is worth the effort. How do students respond to supply teachers? Pupils’ response to supply teachers varies from child to child. It is not an

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SPONSORED CONTENT

age, gender or school issue, but rather how each individual child responds to having a stranger in their classroom. Some see it as an opportunity to try and push the boundaries, some children find it quite daunting while others take it in their stride. What advice would you give to other supply staff? Never be afraid to ask if you are unsure of something. Better to ask a question than to get something wrong. Chances are that you won’t be the first person to have asked that question. If you make a mistake, apologise

and be willing to try to put it right. Everyone makes mistakes, so don’t be too hard on yourself. If you feel that a school is being unreasonable in their expectations, contact your supply agency. Never try to deal with an issue on your own. Remember that you represent your supply agency and so they will be judged on your performance. Always finish your marking before you go home and leave a note for the teacher about how things went. To find out more about SIL Supply, please visit www.schoolimprovementliverpool.co .uk/Supply

TOP TIPS FOR FIRST DAY 1. Get there early and say ‘hello’ 2. Ask about specific needs of your class 3. Familiarise yourself with the timetable 4. Request key policies/contacts/map

Guide for Schools | Things to consider when choosing a supply agency Ask for recommendations from other local schools of agencies they’d be happy to work with.

they have undergone specific checks relating to the supply of staff into the education sector.

Are their fees reasonable? Are they open about their rates and do they charge temp-to-perm fees?

How do they pay their staff? Remember that some supply staff can get charged additional fees for working as part of an umbrella company.

Do they offer a tailored service? Do they listen to your needs and offer a dedicated consultant? Are they accredited? For example choosing an agency who is a REC Audited Education member, means

Do they invest in their staff? Do they offer their staff fair rates of pay, access to a pension, as well as career support and CPD opportunities. Is the agency managed by sales people

or staff with an education background who will ask the right questions? Ask about their Safeguarding and preemployment checks? Do their staff have enhanced up to date DBS certificates? Are they driven by the desire to make a difference to the lives of children and support the wellbeing of schools? Lastly, do you like and trust the agency? Do they have an ethos that compliments your own?

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

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Education News

Offering support Liverpool supply agency expands to help schools A local education supply agency has set out its expansion plans across Merseyside, following a prestigious accreditation by The Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC). SIL Supply is a professional and ethical supply and recruitment service that assists schools with their staffing needs. Part of the School Improvement Liverpool family, SIL Supply are committed to robust safeguarding and maintaining high standards in education recruitment. After working predominantly in Liverpool, SIL Supply are now able to support schools across Merseyside with short-term and long-term cover for teachers, support staff and leadership roles. SIL Supply was recently awarded Audited Education Status by the REC, which only 10 per cent of education REC members ever work towards. It acknowledges the dedication and professionalism that SIL Agency delivers against the highest industry standards. In 2018 the government unveiled plans to crackdown on rogue supply teacher agencies charging excessive fees to schools – something SIL Supply are proud to have always stayed away from. SIL Supply’s ethical, fair and transparent ethos sets them apart from lots of other agencies. As well as competitive pay and a dedicated consultant for ongoing support, the company also offers access to CPD and offers feedback on CVs and interview skills. It also operate a PAYE model for staff, meaning there is no hidden umbrella fees or surprise charges. Sarane Kearns, school business manager at Smithdown Primary School said: “Smithdown Primary School has always found SIL Supply to be a professional organisation providing us with outstanding supply, from teachers to admin. Their prices are also extremely competitive. “We use SIL Supply for day to day cover and for long term sickness. They are always checking that all is well and their

Paul Gibson (recruitment consultant) and Melissa Brannan (recruitment resourcer) from SIL Supply with the REC accreditation

staff come with appropriate Safeguarding checks. I would highly recommend SIL Supply, they are always available at the end of the phone (even out of working hours) to meet the needs of the school.” Paul Gibson from SIL Supply added: “We are proud of placing the right staff with the right schools. Whether it’s a teacher or administrative officer, we’re driven by the desire to support the well-being of the wider school community and make a difference to the lives of children. “Our REC audited status award supports our vision to be the most trusted, reliable supply agency in the region and offer a viable solution for educational professionals looking for a flexible work-life balance. “Supply agencies provide a crucial service to schools and we’re proud to play our part in helping local schools find the talented staff they need.”

First ever financial education textbooks to hit schools 3,400 schools are to finally receive 100 free copies of financial education textbooks, after it became part of the National Curriculum back in 2014. ‘Your Money Matters’, written by financial education charity Young Money and funded by the money saving expert Martin Lewis, is the first textbook of it’s kind to aid teachers and pupils in the crucial new subject. The textbook, which is aimed at ages 15 to 16, has received the support of the government. All 3,400 state-funded schools will receive 100 copies, which is typically enough for one textbook per two pupils. Martin Lewis, who’s £325,000 personal donation funded the project, said: “I passionately believe that financial education could have a huge impact on the future wellbeing of millions of young people. When we got financial education on the national curriculum in 2014, we celebrated thinking the job was done. We were wrong. “We live in one of the world’s most competitive consumer 60

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

economies, with companies spending billions on advertising, marketing and teaching their staff to sell, yet we don’t get any buyer’s training. That needs to change. The best place to teach is the classroom. I hope this textbook will help make that easier.” Financial education is currently split across the maths and citizenship curriculums, as well as within the non-statutory element of PSHE. The educational textbook contains facts and information for children about how to manage their money, as well as interactive activities and questions. Michael Merciieca, CEO at Young Money said: “We’re delighted to have worked with Martin Lewis on this pioneering project to produce these important educational materials which will help many students and teachers across the country. “It’s vital to the personal wellbeing of individuals and to the country that we improve the education of young people in this area to give them the best possible chance of success in the future.”

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Education News

New mental health & wellbeing award announced The prestigious Educate Awards are returning for 2019 with a new category around mental health and wellbeing. The Mental Health & Wellbeing Award will be open to both primary and secondary schools across the region and will recognise schools that are effectively tackling mental health issues among pupils and staff. The award will focus on the long-term culture of a school and those with an ethos where mental health is regarded as the responsibility of all. Entries must show provision and interventions available for pupils and staff, a commitment to promoting mental health as part of school life and can include views from parents, pupils and teachers. According to recent figures, mental health problems affect 1 in 8 children and young people (NHS Digital). This new award hopes to shine a spotlight on the support schools have in place to promote good mental health and emotional wellbeing. The government has pledged to roll out mental health lessons to all schools from September 2020 as part of a redesigned national curriculum. Kim O’Brien, founder of the awards, said: “As children and young people continue to face many pressures, raising awareness of mental health and emotional wellbeing is so important. “Schools play a vital role in this support and we are looking for strong examples of how schools are creating an environment where children can thrive with good mental health. The mental health of teachers and staff is just as important and entries can reflect various school initiatives which tackle mental health issues among pupils and staff.” Since launching in Liverpool in 2012, the awards has grown rapidly and now recognises schools and colleges right across the Liverpool City Region, Cheshire, Lancashire and Greater Manchester. The deadline for entries is midnight on Sunday 23 June 2019. 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 62

A sense of success Students honoured for outstanding achievement

Pupils receive their awards at St George’s Hall

Exceptional children from schools across Liverpool have been recognised for their hard work and dedication as part of Liverpool City Council’s Sensory Service Awards. The annual accolades are presented to young people who are visually and hearing impaired and have overcome the barriers they face to make great progress in mainstream schools. Some have been recognised for their academic achievement, others for their personal development and growing confidence and all have been acknowledged for their determination to do well. The awards ceremony was held at St George’s Hall and guests of honour included Liverpool City Council cabinet member for education Cllr Barbara Murray and director of children and young people’s services, Steve Reddy. A total of eight young people received awards on the evening for a range of achievements. One of those honoured was visually impaired student Bethany Fowler from St Edward’s College, who achieved five GCSEs in this year’s exams. Steve Reddy said: “Our approach is focussed on supporting children wherever possible to attend their local

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

mainstream school. “The awards are a celebration which recognises excellent progress. They are also part of our strategy to promote independence through ensuring our young people have the skills, qualifications and confidence to prepare them for a successful adulthood.” The council’s sensory service operates in every school in the city. It provides specialist teachers and learning support assistants to work with the young people and provide a package of support tailored to their specific needs. There are currently 112 visually impaired and 275 hearing impaired children being supported by the team in mainstream schools in Liverpool. Cllr Murray said: “It’s a real honour to recognise the achievements of these remarkable young people and to share in their success. Not only have the students done themselves and their families proud, they are also acting as an inspiration to others.” “We must also pay tribute to the great work of the sensory support services and the officers who have worked with the students and encouraged them to perform at their best. This is a fantastic team effort that is producing outstanding results for our young people.”

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Education News

Sporting success

Representatives from Bleak Hill Primary School and St Aidan’s Primary School were invited into the Mayor’s Parlour to celebrate their Platinum School Games Mark awards.

Two St Helens primary schools are celebrating after becoming the first in the borough to achieve the Platinum School Games Mark award. Awarded to schools that show longstanding commitment to PE and school sport - as well as a consistently high level of engagement in the school games programme co-ordinated by St Helens Council - Bleak Hill Primary School and St Aidan’s Primary School in Billinge are two of only 352 schools nationally to receive the accolade. In recognition of their fine achievements, pupils and staff from both schools were invited in to St Helens Town Hall where they had the opportunity to show off their certificates to the Mayor and Mayoress of St Helens, Councillor Pat Ireland and Lynn Glover, in the Mayor’s Parlour - with St Helens Council’s

portfolio holders for leisure services and education, Councillor Anthony Burns and Joe Pearson, also among those in attendance. As well as Bleak Hill and St Aidan’s scooping platinum, 17 schools have won gold status; 13 silver - while five schools have been presented with the bronze award. Sports development officer, Danny Bacon, said: “The awarding of the Platinum School Games Mark to Bleak Hill and St Aidan’s is testament to the hard work of their PE leads, Rob Morley and Stephen Moore, as well as the support that they receive from senior leadership staff and their fellow colleagues. The vast number and wide range of opportunities that they provide for their pupils to take part in sport and physical activity fully justifies the award.”

Providing high quality service to Merseyside schools A Liverpool based company are providing maintenance and kitchen services for North West schools and colleges. DCE in Tuebrook is a leading company in providing commercial kitchen services and are currently working with 700 establishments across the north west region. Services include kitchen maintenance, annual servicing and repairs and fume extraction. DCE are able to provide all major brand appliances for local schools and kitchens, but can also service smaller workplaces. They also carry out annual servicing or reactive repairs to all mechanical workshop machine tools in ether the woodwork, metalwork or textiles departments of schools and colleges. DCE are also are specialists in carrying out deep cleans, the DCE team of kitchen cleaning experts are able to clean almost everything back to its original, from 64

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canopies, filters, equipments and hard services. The equipment stocked by DCE are all major branded appliances such as Falcon, Hobart, Rational and Williams Refrigeration and primarily targeted at schools and commercial kitchens, but the company is able to provide a service to large and small workplaces as well. The company offer an interest free finance plan and free no obligation quotes.

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A FIRST FOR MERSEYSIDE A player from Queen’s Park Primary School celebrates

Enrich Education host first ever quidditch tournament Merseyside was selected for the inaugural UK quidditch event, due to the huge popularity of the sport within primary schools across the area. Eight schools competed in the landmark event, which was won by St Aloysius Catholic Primary School, from Knowsley. Quidditch is a fast, physical, mixed gender sport that encourages all pupils to be active. There are seven players on each team and points are scored when a player throws the ball through the opposing team’s hoops or when they catch The Golden Snitch. The Golden Snitch is a game official, dressed in yellow and who’s role it is to prevent the capture of the snitch tail by either team’s Seeker. The game ends when The Golden Snitch is caught. “This is a huge milestone for the sport at a youth level” said Jack Lennard, founding director of the Quidditch Premier League. “The partnership with Enrich Education has been fantastic. Enrich are the driving force behind this tournament and the growth of youth quidditch nationwide.” In the final of the tournament, St Aloysius beat Evelyn Community Primary School 80-40.

The games were action packed

Goal-mouth action

St Aloysius take the points

Inaugural tournament winners St Aloysius Catholic Primary School

On the attack

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FOCUS ON HISTORY Primary school bring tragedy to life Year 2 pupils from Springwell Park Primary School in Bootle were welcomed onboard RMS Titanic to kick start their history topic. The school had transformed two classrooms into the ship and the children had to explore each of six areas to find the answers to set questions. In the afternoon, they struck an iceberg! The children were then set with a task from Captain Smith, the captain of the Titanic to find out how and why the unsinkable ship was sinking. Tom Hanlon Year 2 teacher, said: “The immersive environment completely gripped the children and not only did they thoroughly enjoy themselves, but they also learned so much. “It was a fantastic day, full of investigating, exploring, debating and our children thoroughly enjoyed themselves. We even dressed up! This is exactly what education should be about. The results were fantastic and that’s why I am passionate about immersive learning”.

Staff dressed for the occasion

Pupils were given lifeboat demonstrations

News of the sinking did not go down well

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EDUCATE16+ Education, training and employment

Pole position Rainford Sixth Form students visit McLaren Eight students from Rainford Sixth Form are feeling inspired after a recent visit to McLaren Group’s headquarters in Woking. Year 12 students from the sixth form’s dedicated magazine ‘Informed’ and the publication’s organiser, Harrison F Carter, founder of Creativity in Mind, visited the impressive site to interview the operations director and learn more about careers in the automotive industry, in order to promote STEM opportunities to the magazine’s young readers. The team were given VIP treatment as they looked around the state-of-the-art facility which took them behind the scenes of cutting edge car manufacturing and technology. Following a tour of McLaren’s F1 legacy, the students were given privileged access to the production centre and the wind tunnel facility where the engineering of these powerful vehicles is fine-tuned and developed. Students were also able to experience the staff gym which houses an Olympic sized swimming pool and F1 trainers at their disposal. The on-site Michelin star staff restaurant even

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provided a wonderful selection of food for them to enjoy. Finally, the budding journalists had the chance to pose their burning questions to Alan Foster, the operations director at McLaren, who originally hails from Liverpool. They found out about his route into this career and offered a wealth of advice for students keen to enter this industry. Concluding the memorable day, students and staff even had the opportunity to sit in the latest McLaren 720S and were given parting gifts to remember the day. One student, Jess Loftus, described the trip as “Outstanding and almost surreal!” Catherine Benbow, director of sixth form, said: “We are so grateful to Harrison F Carter at Creativity in Mind and Alan Foster at McLaren for making this happen. “We appreciate that not many young people get to experience such an insight into this industry; we hope that it inspires the readers of ‘Informed’ as much as it inspired all of us who saw it first-hand. What a remarkable experience!”

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Our New Year’s Resolution: Continue to do it better!

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College’s solidarity St Helens College supports No More Knives campaign Staff and students came together in a poignant show of solidarity to throw their backing behind the No More Knives campaign, performing an extremely moving rendition of Stand By Me. Sports, childcare and health and social care students were joined by the parents and family, of local knife crime victims, who took part in the heartfelt performance, that beautifully commemorated the lives of the victims and helped keep the message of the No More Knives campaign alight. The campaign was set up due to a huge increase in knife crime in the last 18 months, and has since seen a flurry of support from local businesses, colleges and schools. The aim of the campaign is to raise awareness of the devastating impact that knife crime is having on not only the country, regions, and local communities, but most importantly the individuals and family of those who are harmed or lose their lives to knife related incidents. Locally a St Helens College student Adam Ellison lost his life whilst out in Prescot on the 4 November 2017. IT Lecturer, Bill Newman, who taught

Adam Ellison, said: “Adam was a polite, pleasant and a funny young man. But as a lecturer, I knew, as he did, that he had a bright future ahead of him. To teach him was an honour, to have known him and to have been a small part of his life was a huge privilege.” Adam’s mum, Joyce, went on to say: “No child should go before a parent, the boys have been stolen from us. We want to seek justice and prevention of further incidents, to try and stop knife crime and prevent anyone else having to go through the same pain. Thank you St Helens

College. The support of the staff and students means a lot.” Programme leader for Level 3 health and social care, Dave Fitzgerald, who organised the community initiative at St Helens College, said: “I was introduced to this campaign by a friend, who was close friends with Adam Ellison. When I found out that St Helens College had been nominated, I was keen to get involved. “After researching the three local victims who sadly lost their lives, it made me even more determined to help raise awareness.”

Arts and Humanities Research Council awards LJMU £250,000 LJMU researchers are to help regenerate post-industrial sites of China after successfully bidding for £250,000 funding from the Arts and Humanities Research Council. Liverpool School of Art and Design researchers, Emma Roberts and Jon Spruce, and Department of Electronics and Electrical Engineering researcher Fang Bin Guo, applied for support from the AHRC’s Newton China Fund after recognising a need for artists and spatial designers to contribute to urban renewal projects in China. While China has enjoyed huge economic growth in recent years, since 2011 half of the country’s population has been living in city centres, which has led to mass urbanisation, and has developed the need to regenerate postindustrial sites. Previous regeneration projects have been completed in the country and, although they have been successful in terms of commercial success through retail and entertainment facilities, due to the design and planning failing to take into account the different contexts of each location, they have not provided opportunities for smaller, local businesses or addressed community needs. Dr Emma Roberts said: “There are unique characteristics of every locality and community which are particularly pertinent for the development of local creative economies, where an understanding of local skills, trading histories, cultural heritage, and the social 72

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Pictured, from left, are Fang Bin Guo, Emma Roberts and Jon Spruce

narratives that bind cohesive community identity, can help deliver more effective and sustainable regeneration strategies. “We are aiming to establish a multidisciplinary research network of UK & Chinese academics to pursue research activities through engagement with cultural and commercial stakeholders, and other constituent groups; utilising observational and participatory research methods to investigate alternative strategies for sustainable urban renewal of China’s in post-industrial areas.” The researchers will be working in the cities of Beijing, Shenyang, Dalian and Wushan, alongside Chinese partner organisations; Luxun Academy of Fine Arts, Dalian Polytechnic University and the Chinese National Academy of Painting.

Creative Careers event at Carmel College An event is due to be held at a college in St Helens for students interested in the creative industry. The free creative careers event at Carmel College will feature workshops and professional speakers from jobs in industries such as television and film, advertising and design and fashion and beauty. High profile speakers attending include leading celebrity and make-up artist, Lisa Eldridge and CEO of MY Beauty Brand, Robin Derrick. Former students will also be there to talk about their careers in the industry and to offer advice to potential students. The event takes place on Saturday 26 January between 11am and 2pm.

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Three is the magic number

EXPLORING NEW EVENTS Schools encouraged to explore and enjoy different activities Year 8 girls from Liverpool secondary schools local to Firefit were invited by Liverpool School Sports Partnership (LSSP) and Commutual to an event designed to encourage them to explore and enjoy different activities which will impact on their physical, mental and social health and well-being. Girls from Calderstones, Childwall Sports & Science Academy and Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leadership Academy had an action packed morning taking part in roller blading, hair and beauty demonstrations, boxing, dodge ball and fun games, whilst meeting the centre staff and seeing what facilities and sessions they have to offer. The sessions allowed the girls to experience new and different activities which may not be available in their schools.

Hair and beauty demonstrations were held

A swift uppercut!

The dodgeball match gets underway

Festive cheer on the dodgeball court

The girls were shown how to do boxing pads

Dreaming of a career in boxing

The roller skating was great fun

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Interview with: Mark O’Shaughnessy, director of sixth form at Formby High School

Educate meets Mark O’Shaughnessy, director of sixth form at Formby High School to find out how he prepares students for the real world.

A helping hand By Hannah Fowler It’s at this time of year when students are debating their next step – A Levels or vocational qualifications? Maybe an Apprenticeship? Sixth Form or College? For director of sixth form Mark O’Shaughnessy, there’s no place like Formby High School. “I say to students you’ve had such a great time with us, why would you then want to go anywhere else? The atmosphere here, I’m constantly taken aback at what I see happening around the school, even after 20 years I say wow!” Catering to over 270 students, FHS Sixth Form prides itself on its high level of care and support. “We have a dedicated team whose aim is to produce well rounded, kind, academically able students,” says Mark. “Our strapline this year is Be One of Us.” And their approach seems to be paying off. The school picked up the Most Inspirational 16-18 Education Provider Award at last year’s Educate Awards, reflecting the high levels of teaching and learning at the Sixth Form. “We had an absolute ball, the whole evening was fantastic,” says Mark. “We were genuinely thrilled to have won it. I 76

decided it was the right time to do a bit of dad dancing on the red carpet! “It is absolutely a team effort. Everyone at the school works hard to support our 11 to 18 year olds on a daily basis, so the [award] was a real recognition of that.” Starting at the school 20 years ago as head of English, he soon side-tracked to director of Sixth Form. “It was an area that I was interested in and the opportunity presented itself,” explains Mark. “I’ve always had that belief, even going back to the days before I was a teacher, that if you get these 16 year olds you can change their lives.” In fact, Mark worked in social security for a number of years before meeting his now wife, who claimed he looked like a teacher. “To this day she swears down I was wearing a corduroy jacket, à la Ken Barlow.” Not wanting to disappoint, Mark went to night school to get another A Level and enrolled on a PGCE course. “It did strike me, in a noble way, that there was more I could do to go out and change things for the world,” he explains. “When I joined as head of sixth form we had less than 90 [students] and it’s increased over time as the school has grown and got more popular.

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“

It did strike me, in a noble way, that there was more I could do to go out and change things for the world

”

“We have had our highest ever numbers over the past two years. We’re delighted by that. There is a large proportion from our own year 11 and increasing numbers from outside of school, from all over the place.”

Guiding students through their time at Sixth Form is no easy task, what with exam pressures and stress, not to mention all the worries outside the classroom. That’s why Mark and his team focus on all aspects of a student’s progress, both academically and pastorally. “The challenges for 16-18 year olds are greater than they have ever been,” he explains. “The pressures that they are under are immense. So we have got to work even harder to support them, protect them,

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guide them and advise them because that is part of our job now. “It’s not just about standing in front of a group of kids and teaching them things, you’ve got to work with them, be a role model to them and be a person that they can come down and talk to and tell you what their issues are. “You know what they say, you always remember your best teacher. We’re in a very privileged position in that respect.” FHS Sixth Form understands the so called ‘traditional’ route (A Levels then University) isn’t right for everyone. The Sixth Form offers a wide range of academic and vocational qualifications, including 20 A Level and five Level 3 vocational courses. Those applying for university are guided through UCAS, as are those wishing to follow an alternative pathway including employment or a higher apprenticeship. “We are an inclusive Sixth Form, we cater for different pathways and are particularly keen on FHS students remaining with us – which they do in large numbers. We need to respond to different challenges, hence the introduction of the BTEC Engineering course and a switch to the Digital Media course.” Careers advice is a strong focus of the Sixth Form with students experiencing everything from formal interviews, a

chance to meet professionals and go on career experience weeks. Students also have access to the Unifrog careers programme and can schedule individual sessions with careers advisers. Students’ personal growth and development is also celebrated through its FHS Baccalaureate, says Mark. “The Baccalaureate is a certificate whereby we’re saying that you’re academically able, you do your citizenship, you participate in the community, you do enrichment activities and you extend your learning. “It’s a recognition of what the students do and what we offer.” A new year and new term brings with it plenty of motivation and things to look

forward to. “We are nearing the end of the first phase of our FHS Baccalaureate and we have some plans afoot to try and celebrate that,” says Mark. “We’ve already had huge numbers of students applying to us for Sixth Form so we are looking forward to September and seeing our biggest ever numbers and growing even further. “We’re also absolutely delighted to hear the news that two students have had offers from Oxford University, we’re made up for them.” Ultimately, says Mark, “It’s about being able to celebrate the success of very hardworking, nice human beings.” That’s definitely a New Year’s resolution we can get behind.

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Liverpool School Sport Partnership (LSSP)

Making a difference By Lawrence Saunders

Liverpool School Sport Partnership (LSSP) is a not-for-profit organisation which provides a range of sports-related services to schools including competitions, training for staff and expert coaching. Educate Magazine spoke to the LSSP’s lead on its new apprenticeship scheme which is giving young people interested in sport the chance to make a difference in communities across Liverpool. It might have started small, just three schools and three apprentices were involved last year, but the LSSP’s apprenticeship scheme has already made a big impact – especially on one young person. “We took on one lad last year, who, when we interviewed him, couldn’t even look us in the eye - he was so shy,” explains Vicky Marshall, partnership manager and lead on the apprenticeship scheme at LSSP. “A year later he’s standing up in front of a class talking to headteachers.” A remarkable transformation such as this is the result of a programme which sees apprentices assist with the delivery of physical education and sport in a

school four days a week and train at LSSP HQ for one. From setting up equipment for lessons and helping out at playtime to supervising warm-ups and leading activities, apprentices are those muchneeded extra pair of hands. Now into its second year, the scheme has 10 young people on board and is making a difference in primary and secondary schools throughout Liverpool. “We see the schools regularly at events and they always say how brilliant our apprentices are,” adds Vicky. “We’ve been really impressed with the quality of the youngsters coming through. “They are treated like an employee - as

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soon as they come to that first training session with us it’s very much: “You are here not just to represent LSSP but also your school. You’re not a student anymore and we’re not going to babysit you.” Vicky says young people these days are not keen on committing the large amounts of money required to continue onto higher education if they are not sure what they want to do. The one-year contract with LSSP gives those with an interest in education or working with children the chance to find out more and decide whether it’s the right career path for them. “When a lot of the apprentices come to us to explore what we were offering, a number are undecided as to whether to go to further education to do extra qualifications. “This apprenticeship scheme just gives them that something extra and that experience which makes them stand out if they do decide they want to go to university later.” Given it only started last year and involved just three apprentices, it’s too early to say what the long-term benefits of the programme may be, but the trio from year one have all stayed on for another 12 months. “The reason we do this is because we want to give young people from Liverpool an opportunity and a helping hand,” adds Vicky. “In the future we are looking at things like teaching assistants so if apprentices don’t want to go to university but they want to stay in education there is another pathway for them. “That’s what we are trying to do - give these kids an opportunity to work locally and get the necessary experience and qualifications they need.”

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STRONGER AS ONE

It’s been over a year since the Liverpool It’s Trust was established.T Diocese Schools Trust established.Too ﬁnd out more Educate caught up with the Trust’s education ofﬁcer Laurie Kwissa. Trust’s

stronger sst tasr ro o on n g ge e er r one one Once upon a time, the academy mode model was only used for schools that were seen to be struggling. Dev Devised under the last Labour go government the sponsored academy model saw ailing lin in s schools taken over and run by an academy trust. st. However How , that conceptt has now changed signiﬁcantly gniﬁ .

Tooday ay all schools are giv g ven the option n of beecoming an academ myy and joining an academy trust, regarrdless of hoow successful they are. And many have hav taken up that option. According to government figures, as of 2017, 68.8% of secondary pupils pils and 24.3% % of primary pupils in England were attending academies. While the model has been embraced by many it has not been without criticism. Indeed, a Panorama report which aired last September exposed one Trust, Bright Tribe, for misusing government g overnment funds and questions have raised have been b i d about b t finances. Foollowing the BBC’s report, however, thee academies minister Lord Agnew said more d academies had to provide p financ information than financial th other schools chools and that more than t 95% of trusts sts had ha no issues. Last year ear the th Liverpool Diocese followed in the th footsteps footstep of many other Dioceses around a t country the and established its it own Multi Academy ademy Trust. t. Here Her the th Trust’s educate te officer Laurie Kwissa K tells Educate how the first 1122 months m have gone. g

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STRONGER AS ONE

Can you explain to me how the Trust T rust came about? The Trust was established in 2017 in response to the Government’s continuing academy agenda. The vast majority of Dioceses nationally had already established a Multi Academy Trust. Following extensive consultation with all Church of England Schools in the Diocese of Liverpool, and extremely positive responses, the Diocesan Board of Education unanimously agreed to develop a Multi Academy Trust of its own. What was the thinking behind it? There were three key drivers: 1. To keep the Chur Church of England family of (120) schools together; 2. To keep Jesus at the heart of those schools; and 3. To build on the vvery strong educational foundation we already had (90% of schools are judged as ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’) We believe that as a diocesan led Multi Mult Academy Trust (MA AT) T we can create te stron str on nger bonds of stronger collaboration and ccooperation, collab eration, sharing good practtice, addressing addre areas of weakness ess and offer offering increased opportunities nities ies for professional development. Where did this initiative originate? It was the Diocesan Director, Fr. Richard Peers, whose vision it was to have a Church of England Multi Academy Trust that is collaborative, values the local, values difference and is inclusive. Were you nervous? What Were challenges did you foresee? I don’t think nervous is the correct term. We knew there was a huge amount of work to do in establishing a Trust of the size intended, from scratch. We also knew and had faith in our schools and the amazing level and diversity of expertise within th those schools. We had to create the str structure tructure that would woul allow schools to support su one another anot , to share best

practice and to work collaboratively, so that the children in our care flourish. What challenges have you seen? The main challenge has been around growth and scaling the LDST sustainably. You o need to have an experienced Central Team in place in order to give schools the confidence to join, but no income is forthcoming until they do. As a consequence it is necessary to budget extremely carefully and to be flexible and innovative in providing the best possible services, support and solutions for each school, and centrally. What has been the biggest success of the past year? Headteachers working together to make collaborative decisions about the future of our Trust. The HT forum has been highly effective in giving HTs a voice Agreeing a School Improvement strategy from the beginning has enabled us to get to know our schools well and provide support at the appropriate level The Panorama documentary raised some concerns about the raised financial financ anccial set up of academy trusts. trusts What did you make ma of this? Reputa putaationally this could be very ver damaging. ging. Our concern is that this could uld be perceived as normal practice ce in all MA ATs, when in fact it isn’t. Those who know LDST know that we are very different and that the top slice is used to support schools and improve outcomes for children. We have a small central team and in fact our CEO and Deputy CEO are not salaried. How have pupils responded to the LDST model? With no re-branding, no re-naming and no change of uniform, most pupils will have little awareness of the conversion their school has been through, which is what was intended. ed. Children benefited from m our Ethos hos Day when all schools ools came cam c together er to worship and d through throu

a Trust wide art project that was exhibited in the Cathedral. We aim to have a Trust pupil Forum in the near future to give pupils more ownership. Pupils will benefit from our approach to school improvement, as networks are established to address the gaps identified. And parents? The response to consultations prior to conversions from parents was very positive. The outcomes, progress, rounded education and fulfilment of children will dictate the nature of parental responses moving forward. What’s What’s the plan going forward? We are still in the early stages of developing the Trust and so there are many plans. The collaboration throughout the Trust is key to strategic thinking. We believe that local governors, headteachers and school practitioners are crucial in shaping the way ahead. We also value the experience of other Multi Academy Trusts and are keen to learn from them, as well as from the latest educational research. We are currently in the process of developing a Trust wide approach to curriculum, assessment and provision for SEN children. Embedding these crucial as we believe that they will strengthen the work we do to ensure all children succeed. We currently have the capacity c to welcomee a further fu eight schools and we expect ct to do that over ov the next couple of years. yea Once at twenty four schools we will w reassess and ensure all is working kin well. We are likely at that point, nt, to t develop a ‘hub’ model MA AT, primarily rim on a geographical geo basis in n order or to maximise maxim the potential tial support and collaboration c between ween schools. What is an Academy? Academy Academies Ac are independent, indepen selfgoverning schools. They are not funded by the local authority in the way traditional schools are and instead receive funding directly from the government.

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Andy Hampson greets the attendees

STAYING AHEAD IN BUSINESS Schools look to the future in business Over 100 schools from across the region descended on Liverpool Football Club as it played host to the School Business Manager Conference. Business managers from primary and secondary schools are invited to the conference to keep up to date with new trends, listen to talks from leading professionals and visit exhibiting businesses. The day focused on the emerging changes that are providing new challenges to the role of school business management professionals such as the safeguarding CCS framework information and general HR and payroll. Attendees also got the opportunity to meet fellow colleagues and visit the different exhibitors’ stands, which included Copyrite Systems. Copyrite Systems, title sponsor of the Educate Awards, showcased its printing software on the day and received ‘substantial interest’ in the technology.

Colette Rice with Andy Hampson

Guests mingled and networked

Helen McLinden, Rudston Primary and Sue Bowden, Palmeston School with John Naylor and Andy Hampson, Copyrite Systems

Looking at the new technology

A packed conference room

Jenny Fargnoli (St Hugh’s) treasurer Julie Driscoll (St Mary’s) chair and Ann Ellinson (Dovedale) secretary with John Naylor and Andy Hampson

Tom Lambeth and Simon Formby, Food for Thought with Andy Hampson, Copyrite Systems

Viewpoint NEW_Layout 1 12/01/2019 07:28 Page 1

Viewpoint

Care of duty for our children With so much in the news lately about children’s screen time and impact of time spent on line, a report published in November warns about the collection of data and the duty of care internet giants should have in relation to young people. Should we be asking whether the internet giants should have a greater duty of care and how far should this go?

Ania Hildrey, headteacher at Abbot’s Lea School in Woolton, Liverpool The Commissioner’s call for the companies promoting cyber engagement in society to reflect on the level of collection and sharing of children’s data was of particular interest to me when I read the report published last November. It is an accepted fact amongst educationalists that the amount of information we hold regarding “our people” has reached unprecedented levels and, more interestingly, it just keeps on growing! As the headteacher of a special school catering for children age 3-19 with Autism and associated complex learning, health and social needs, I continuously navigate the world of hundreds of documents coming in daily waves through the physical or e-doors of my school. The ethically and morally righteous concept of “nothing

about me without me” appears to be challenged by the ever-more-complex matrix of interlinked, but far too often, uncoordinated pieces of evidence of a child’s life – often from pre-birth all the way to the tentative aspirations and plans for their future. Alongside, the vastly rich information regarding familial networks, previous schools, medical conditions, social engagement (or disengagement) of the children, their peers and others tightly or loosely related, also feature. It is imperative that this information load is managed carefully and only to serve a positive role in supporting children and young people in their lives. The benefits can be enormous, but the risks of mismanagement of such holistic data – truly petrifying.

Hannah Moreton, pastoral manager, Rainford Sixth Form The value of our personal data has been brought to the forefront with the introduction of new GDPR regulations. Young people are possibly more exposed to online institutions than any other age bracket. They will not realise the significant impact this will have and it is

unacceptable for companies to take advantage of the fact that they are less aware of the consequences of organisations tracking their online activity and potentially using this information to target them to influence their purchasing habits.

Patricia Winters, Parent We live in an age of access that allow our children to enjoy the wonders of the internet. Not a bad thing you might think. However, the collection of data by the internet giants can be dangerous. How many of our children answer the questionnaires which pop up so regularly on Facebook or other social media sites without thinking? As adults we do it too. But all this data is recorded somewhere and it’s all about us As an adult we should know what we are doing and what this means for us. To a

child this is simply a bit of fun, and to be fair it can be, but the ramifications for our children in their future life cannot be underestimated. Our digital footprint will live forever and can be used in the future by others to influence what we do and what we buy. So should a duty of care be extended to young people by the companies harvesting such personal data – yes! Children are malleable and open to exploitation if such a duty of care is not exercised.

Have your say: To suggest or contribute to a topic for debate in Viewpoint email us at: educate@merseymirror.com www.educatemagazine.com

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

NOW Festival 2019

Saturday 26 January

Thursday 7 February Epstein Theatre, Hanover Street, Liverpool L1 3DZ Telephone: 0844 888 4411

Peace Proms 2019 Echo Arena, Liverpool Waterfront, Liverpool, Merseyside, L3 4FP Telephone: 0344 8000 400

Peace Proms is a music education resource for Primary Schools which will culminate in a large-scale performance for choirs and orchestra at the Echo Arena, Liverpool. The programme promotes ‘peace through music’ and already engages almost 30,000 children from 500 schools throughout the UK, Northern Ireland and Ireland, giving them the opportunity to sing in a large-scale production with a choir of up to 4,000 and a full symphony youth orchestra. Peace Proms 2019 will be conducted by internationally acclaimed UK music educator Greg Beardsell who is renowned for his extraordinary ability to lead powerful and exhilarating performances. Peace Proms 2019 will bring a shared love for music and passion for peace to ever-greater numbers of children, schools, communities and live audiences throughout the UK and Ireland.

Now Festival returns for it’s fourth year after a run of past successes. This year’s theme is Rise Up: Adverse Childhood Experience and Resilience. Performed by the Merseyside Youth Association, the festival aims to raise awareness of how traumatic childhood events can have life-long effects on health and well-being. Past festival themes include: My Education, My Mental Health and Mental Health and Technology: Friend or Enemy? Now Festival 2019 promises a hard-hitting dramatic performance from over 250 of Merseyside’s talented youths.

Ministry Of Science Wednesday 3 April The Brindley Theatre, High Street, Runcorn, Cheshire WA7 1BG Telephone: 0151 907 8360

Thursday 21 February

Don’st mis

D mion’t ss

M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool Waterfront L3 4FP Tel: 0344 8000 400 https://www.mandsbankarena.com After a previous sell-out tour of the UK and Ireland in 2017, quirky Professor Brian Cox, best known for Stargazing Live, is heading back to Liverpool for one night only. ‘Universal’, is offering the audience an exclusive insight into the workings of nature, including our place in the universe on Earth to the edges of the cosmos. The show is suitable for all ages, for the lovers of anything scientific or complete beginners. Professor Cox will be joined by comedian and co-host Robin Ince, for an audience Q&A session. 84

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

FUTURE EVENTS

Professor Brian Cox: Universal

Please keep your head firmly on your shoulders, and your arms, legs and feet inside the ride at all times! This is not your ordinary science show – it comes with a bang. It comes with a whoosh. But most of all is comes with a hovercraft built on stage! Full price: £17.00, Concessions: £15.50

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28-29 January

Thursday 31 January

Film and Video REVIEW

The House with a Clock in Its Walls

Must see

DVD release date January 28 Verdict: HHH Last Train to Auschwitz The Brindley Theatre, High Street, Runcorn, Cheshire, WA7 1BG

Dan Snow Epstein Theatre, Hanover Street, Liverpool L1 3DZ

A period of history that needs little explanation. Back by popular demand to the highly acclaimed Brindley Theatre, the production tells the story of a group of women’s journey and fight for survival in the notorious concentration camp Auschwitz.

In ‘On This Day in History’ Dan Snow tells the story of an important event that happened on each day of the year. From the signing of the Armistice treaty at 11a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, to Rosa Parks refusing to give up her bus seat on 1 December 1955.

21 - 23 February

15 March - 26 August

Romeo & Juliet Paul McCartney Auditorium, LIPA, Mount Street, Liverpool, Merseyside, L1 9HF

Charles Rennie Mackintosh: Making the Glasgow Style Walker Art Gallery, William Brown Street, Liverpool

Performed by third year students at LIPA, this modern day dance interpretation of William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet takes inspiration from Baz Luhrmann's film adaptation. The original story is one of love and tragedy and this production encapsulates the essence of this.

This exhibition will span the lifetime of Charles Rennie Mackintosh (1868–1928) and his contemporaries, exploring the movement that became known as The Glasgow Style produced between about 1890 and 1920.

Tuesday 26 March

Friday 5 April

Blue Planet II Live in Concert M&S Bank Arena, Kings Dock, Liverpool Waterfront L3 4FP

Cathedral Sleepout St James Mount Liverpool L1 7AZ

BAFTA award-winning BBC television series Blue Planet II, presented by David Attenborough, is floating to Liverpool’s waterfront this March. A selection of stunning visuals from the series will be projected on a huge 200 square metre 4K Ultra HD LED screen. With a live full symphony orchestra

Liverpool Cathedral and The Whitechapel Centre are working hard to help the homeless. This is a opportunity for the whole family to spend a night in this amazing building and help bring an end to homelessness. It costs £5.00 pp. This is a fundraising event and all participants are asked to raise sponsorship.

One for older children, originally a book published in 1973, The House with a Clock in its Walls is the first book in the multivolume Lewis Barnavelt series of creepy tales by the late John Bellairs. Released in September 2018 and due for DVD release this month, director Eli Roth considers this film a ‘starter horror movie’ for families and teenagers. Parents who enjoy horror films will appreciate this introduction to the genre, but it may be unsuitable for younger children. Set in 1955, the plot consists of orphan Lewis Barnavelt who is sent to live with eccentric Uncle Jonathon (Jack Black), whose house is filled with magical, creepy occurrences. Spooky and funny enough to entertain older children and teens who are new to the genre, however not a movie masterpiece.

New Super Mario Bros U Deluxe Nintendo Switch Release date January 11 Verdict: HHHHH

Nintendo fans are in for a treat as this video game is due to be released on Switch, where up to four people will be able to enjoy this game together. Some changes have been made to the Switch version including two new characters: Toadette and Nabbit. With a huge 164 courses to complete, you can gurantee players will get their money’s worth as you battle classic and new Nintendo baddies to rescue the Princess Peach. When you’ve exhausted story mode, there are three additional modes to get stuck into: Coin Battle, Challenge and Boost Rush.

Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils

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The humble hoodie

White slogan hoodie from £5 Marks and Spencer Black hoodie from £12 Marks and Spencer Navy ‘Kings will dream’ hoodie £45 River Island Candy couture yellow slogan sweatshirt £10 Matalan Orange ‘The future is now’ hoodie £10 Next NASA logo hooded top £14.99 H&M Purple tie dye hoodie £15.99 New Look Bluezoo headphone print hoodie from £15 Debenhams

marksandspencer.com / riverisland.com / matalan.com / next.co.uk / hm.com / newlook.com / debenhams.com

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Edsential Schools Catering Service are proud to use local butchers, along with fresh fruit and vegetables; we carefully source every bite to bring you sustainable, seasonal, ethical, and healthy food. Our aim is to provide your school with nutritious, memorable food in a cost-effective way.

Only Only E Edsential dsential ffoods oods m meet eet Standards: aall ll the the following following Food Food S tandards: All our meat comes from Birtwisle’s Butchers, a traditional local butcher based in Northwich. All meat is ‘Red Tractor’ assured. This ensures food and drink is traceable, safe to eat, produced responsibly and British. We only use Red Lion Eggs. Our food is assured by the RSPCA, who are dedicated to farm animal welfare. All our ﬁsh is certiﬁed as ‘Fish to Eat’. We use ‘Soil Association’ approved organic foods. We use Fairtrade produce. All our lunches adhere to the ‘5-a-day’ guidelines

5,320,000 SCHOOL S CHOOL MEALS MEALS

B BUILD UILD

YOUR OWN

SERVED PER YEAR

O OPTION PTION

Sustainable Palm Oil Challenge We are committed to participating in the Sustainable Palm Oil City Project in Chester. By April 2019 we will have worked with our suppliers to ensure that any palm oil present in food served in our kitchens to your children, will only be sourced from sustainable sources. In doing this, we know that we can better protect wildlife around the world from the impact of unsustainable agricultural practices.

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Book Review

In association with

5-8 Years The Pug Who Wanted to Be a Unicorn - Bella Swift £4.99 When she's abandoned just before Christmas, Peggy the pug puppy is taken in by a foster family with a unicorn-mad little girl named Chloe. Her older brother, Finn, doesn't like little dogs. And Chloe wants a unicorn for Christmas, not a puppy. Believing that anything is possible, Peggy decides that she will somehow turn into a unicorn to make her new friends happy. There’s A Yeti In The Playground! - Pamela Butchart £4.99 Izzy and friends are excited! The snow is falling fast and they're hoping they'll all be sent home early. But then they hear weird noises in the playground, and find a big footprint in the snow... And that's when they know! There's a YETI in the playground and it's HUNGRY! The Truth Pixie - Matt Haig £7.99 From number one bestselling author Matt Haig comes a hilarious and heartwarming story, brilliantly illustrated throughout by Chris Mould. Wherever she is, whatever the day, She only has one kind of thing to say. Just as cats go miaow and cows go moo, The Truth Pixie can only say things that are true.

9-12 Years Fiction The Skylarks' War - Hilary McKay £4.99 Brought up in an austere and cold London house in the haphazard care of their largely absent father and a short-tempered housekeeper, Peter and Clarry long for each summer when they can escape to their grandparent’s house in Cornwall. Here they and their kind and charismatic cousin Rupert taste true freedom and a kindling of mutual kindness and understanding. A Pinch of Magic - Michelle Harrison £6.99 Three sisters trapped by an ancient curse. Three magical objects with the power to change their fate. Will they be enough to break the curse? Or will they lead the sisters even deeper into danger? ... When we were Warriors - Emma Carroll £6.99 A body washed up on the beach... Evacuation to an old house with forbidden rooms and dark secrets... An animal rescue service... Set in World War Two, Emma Carroll explores the resilience, resourcefulness and inventiveness of children when their lives fall to pieces. Introducing some compelling new characters, as well as revisiting some familiar settings, these adventures are sure to win over new readers.

Teenage Fiction On the Come Up - Angie Thomas £7.99 The award-winning author of The Hate U Give returns with a powerful story about hip hop, freedom of speech - and fighting for your dreams, even as the odds are stacked against you. Bri wants to be one of the greatest rappers of all time. As the daughter of an underground hip hop legend who died right before he hit big, Bri's got massive shoes to fill. Gone - The Gone Series 1 - Michael Grant £7.99 In the blink of an eye all the adults disappear in a small town in southern California and no one knows why. Cut off from the outside world, those that are left are trapped, and there's no help on the way. Sam Temple and his friends must do all they can to survive. Chaos rules the streets. Gangs begin to form. Sides are chosen - strong or weak. Kingdom of Ash - Sarah J Maas £7.99 Aelin Galathynius's journey from slave to assassin to queen reaches its heart-rending finale as war erupts across her world... She has risked everything to save her people - but at a tremendous cost. Locked in an iron coffin by the Queen of the Fae, Aelin must draw upon her fiery will to endure the months of torture inflicted upon her. The knowledge that yielding to Maeve will doom those she loves keeps her from breaking, but her resolve is unravelling with each passing day... 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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My School Days Nikki Holland – The National Crime Agency director of investigations

My School: St Andrew’s Primary School Maghull and Old Hall High School which is now Maghull High, I believe.

My Favourite Book: Jemima J by Jane Green, I found it a brilliantly funny and honest novel.

My Favourite Teacher: Mrs Quirk, she was my sociology teacher and a lovely woman.

School Dinners: Nice. I quite enjoyed my school dinners and didn’t see why people complained.

My Favourite Subject at School: Definitely sociology, it also helped that my favourite teacher took the subject. Were you streetwise or a bit of a geek? I was definitely a streetwise girl. My Favourite Childhood Singer/Band: I had a very eclectic choice in music which varied with anything from Gary Newman to Take That. My Favourite ExtraCurricular Activity: I definitely loved socialising with my friends. Do you remember your first school crush? Yes, Robbie Williams when he was in Take That.

My Ambitions at School: To be in the police. I am actually the fourth generation of my family to serve with the police, so really I was destined to join them.

Nikki Hoalland joined Merseyside Police in 1988 and was initially posted to North Liverpool, Merseyside. She later went on to work in other areas of Knowsley and Liverpool. Nikki led the reduction of crime and disorder across every aspect of policing and was a key member of the Safeguarding Children Board and other partnership forums. Nikki went on to become the Area Commander in Sefton between 2012 – 2014 on promotion as a Chief Superintendent. In April 2017, Nikki was promoted to Director of Investigations in the National Crime Agency (NCA). She has responsibility for the management of NCA Investigations, in response to serious and organised crime. She also has responsibility in her portfolio for specialist investigations, border command, economic crime, serious crime review, child sexual abuse and exploitation, economic crime, specialist support including the armed operations unit, forensics and technical operations alongside all national investigations. This month Nikki received the Queen's Police Medal (QPM) which is awarded to police officers in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth of Nations, for gallantry or distinguished service.

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inspiring imagina imaginations maginaations t

BOOK YOUR SCH SCHOOL VISIT Bring ing education to life e of o our fascinating at one schools activities. po liverpoolmuseums.org.uk #museumeducation

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OPEN DAYS 2019 Liverpool John Moores University Open Days are not-to-be-missed events. You will receive a warm LJMU welcome across our campuses as you find out more about us.

21 June 28 September 19 October 6 November