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The Magazine for Parents and Pupils September – December 2014
21st Century Schools Environments where children can thrive
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Educate Contents 40
Welcome...
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Welcome back everyone to the start of a new school year. We hope that many of you have been busy finalising your entries for this year’s Educate Awards 2014. The Educate team have been brimming with excitement over the summer months by both the quality and number of entries we have received so far. As we go to press a few days before submission deadline, Monday 15 September, we are looking forward to receiving many more!
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112 Features
66-75
07-11
Educate plus Apprenticeship success in Sefton
Structures for success 21st Century learning environments
112-113
20-21 Meet the headteacher Paul Dickinson, Archbishop Beck Catholic Sports College
Wall to wall Space to express, learn, inspire and grow
115
33-34
Book review This season’s must reads
The gamification of learning Technology in schools
116-117
40-41
Where can we go? Our pick of what’s happening
Meet the headteacher Maria Sharratt, Litherland High School
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50
My school days Bill Kenwright
A week in the life Phil Daniels, headteacher at Springwood Heath Primary School
53 Viewpoint Choosing the right secondary school for your child
55-57 Taking learning to the limit Challenging the brightest Published by Mersey Mirror, 36 Henry Street, Liverpool L1 5BS. Tel: 0151 709 7567 Fax: 0151 707 1678 Email: post@merseymirror.com Executive Editor Kim O’Brien Advertising Sales Manager Andy Rogers Tel: 0151 709 7567 Photography Tom Murphy, Peter Kelly, Liam Deveney Editorial Alan Birkett, Natasha Young, Stephen Hurrell Design & Production Mersey Mirror, 36 Henry Street, Liverpool L1 5BS. Tel: 0151 706 7411 Email: post@merseymirror.com Distribution Barbara Troughton Tel: 0151 733 5492. Printed by PCP. Educate magazine is published by Mersey Mirror. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and nothing may be reprinted or reproduced without permission. Disclaimer The information contained within Educate we believe to be correct at the time of printing, no responsibility can be accepted for errors or omissions. © Copyright Mersey Mirror 2009.
As the new academic year gets underway there is also excitement for some Merseyside pupils as they return to new 21st Century learning environments with the doors opening of three new school buildings. The work that has gone into one of the new-builds, Archbishop Beck Catholic Sports College, is shared with us by headteacher, Paul Dickinson when we meet him on site at his new school. The importance of teaching environments to learning is integral and interestingly along with schools moving towards 21st Century building design and layout, Merseyside’s schools are also embracing the latest technology in the classroom. The gamification of learning is certainly having an impact. It is always great to finish with wonderful school day memories and on stage sharing his with us this issue is Bill Kenwright, one of the UK’s most successful theatre producers. Many thanks
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21st Century Learning Environments
When the new academic year got underway this September, some Merseyside pupils not only returned from their summer break to face a new stage of their education and a new set of challenges in the forthcoming term, but also a new 21st Century learning environment to see them through it.
Words by Stephen Hurrell
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21st Century Learning Environments
Secondary schools Archbishop Beck Catholic Sports College and St John Bosco Arts College, as well as Millstead School – a primary school for children with special educational needs, all started the new year in a brand new building equipped with up to date facilities. The trio of building projects, which each got under way last year, amounted to millions of pounds and were brought to fruition through the Liverpool Schools Investment Programme. The initiative, which previously saw a new Notre Dame Catholic College site reach completion in September 2013, was introduced by the Mayor of Liverpool as part of his pledge to build at least 12 new schools following the scrapping of the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) project. As they opened their doors to students and staff for the first time, we took a first look inside the new facilities.
PROJECT
ST JOHN BOSCO ARTS COLLEGE In June last year, Vinci Construction began building a new £18 million home for St John Bosco Arts College. The building, at the school’s Stonebridge Cross site in Croxteth, fits into a wider regeneration of the area and boasts features including state-ofthe-art science laboratories, drama and dance studios, 3D immersive learning environments and 3G sports pitches.
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21st Century Learning Environments
PROJECT
ARCHBISHOP BECK CATHOLIC SPORTS COLLEGE Archbishop Beck Catholic Sports College has relocated from its Cedar Road campus to a new Long Lane site, where pupils will benefit from a £17 million modern school environment. MUGA (Multi Use Games Area) pitches are set to enhance the school’s sporting facilities, along with a 3G pitch and a double-sized sports hall. Meanwhile updated arts spaces, science labs and a Chapel are also welcome additions within the building, which has been constructed by Willmott Dixon.
MUGA (MULTI USE GAMES AREA) PITCHES ARE SET TO ENHANCE THE SCHOOL’S SPORTING FACILITIES, ALONG WITH A 3G PITCH AND A DOUBLE-SIZED SPORTS HALL.
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21st Century Learning Environments
PROJECT
MILLSTEAD SCHOOL Millstead School has made the move from Old Mill Lane in Wavertree to a new Iliad Street site in Everton, where a brand new building provides a range of features that the school has never previously had on site. Thanks to a £6 million development scheme, the school now benefits from a hydrotherapy pool, an immersive learning suite and facilities for trampoline based rebound therapy.
THANKS TO A £6 MILLION DEVELOPMENT SCHEME, THE SCHOOL NOW BENEFITS FROM A HYDROTHERAPY POOL, AN IMMERSIVE LEARNING SUITE AND FACILITIES FOR TRAMPOLINE BASED REBOUND THERAPY.
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21st Century Learning Environments
As this trio of schools settle in to their new buildings, fellow schools continue to look forward to seeing the results of their own building projects over the coming year.
COMING SOON
FUTURE PROJECTS
In September 2015, Archbishop Blanch School is scheduled to relocate from its current Mount Vernon Road building to a new address on Smithdown Road. Following its successful work on Notre Dame Catholic College and Archbishop Beck, Willmott Dixon has once again been awarded the contract to build the school. A synthetic sports pitch is in store for the three-storey development, along with theatre and dance studios and a solar-panelled roof. Meanwhile, construction work is already underway by Kier to build new facilities at Holly Lodge School for Girls’ West Derby site.
The project, which aims to give pupils and staff “the accommodation and ICT facilities they deserve” according to headteacher Julia Tinsley, is due to open in January 2015. Elsewhere in the city, July saw work get underway to provide a new £5 million building for Redbridge High Community School, which will see it move from Fazakerley of a Long Lane, where it will be co-located with a new £5 million home for Bank View High Special School. New Redbridge facilities will allow school places to increase from 90 to 120, and Bank View will be able to accommodate up to 150 pupils once its new building is complete.
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Primary News
Switched-on Liverpool youngsters pioneer online safety scheme Internet savvy youngsters are helping their classmates stay safe online, thanks to a pioneering scheme launched by an expoliceman. Whitefield Primary School is the first in Liverpool to sign up to the eCadets scheme, where youngsters advise other pupils on how to protect themselves online. The scheme, which runs in 120 schools across England and Wales, was the brainchild of former policeman Henry Platten and his wife Danielle, who already run successful company eTreble9, advising about online security for companies and individuals. Every school that signs up to the scheme aims to have up to eight pupils trained as eCadets, who will advise fellow students how to protect themselves when browsing the internet, using social media on smart phones and tablets, or playing online games. Henry said: “As well as keeping youngsters safe, the eCadet scheme has been designed to help schools meet targets in relation to online safety, health and wellbeing, literacy and numeracy and personal development. “We know that children can find it difficult to talk openly to parents or teachers about an issue like this but they are much more comfortable turning to their friends and peers for advice. “We are there in the background to provide support and advice, providing a safety net should something come to
Pupils learn to stay safe with the help of Henry and Danielle Platten
light that needs adult intervention. Nursery teacher Marie Beale, IT coordinator at Whitefield Primary School in Boundary Lane, first came across the scheme through Twitter and realised that it would be extremely useful in her school, which has 250 pupils and is keen to prepare them for a future in a world where internet use is commonplace. “We know that many children use smart phones, iPods and tablets - in a recent school assembly, many said they were on Facebook, even children as young as Year 2, though they are not meant to join until they are 13.
“They know enough to give a wrong birth-date, or an older sibling sets them up. “Many also use X-Boxes, and play online – so they can make friends with anybody around the world, without knowing who they really are. We wanted to make them aware of the dangers of being online and teach them how to stay safe. “Being part of eCadets will help address these issues, and its important knowledge they will take with them as they move up into secondary school and beyond,” added Mrs Beale.
Formula 1 whizz kids Pupils from St Laurence’s Primary School, Kirkby have been testing their mental ability and having fun at the Formula 1 Project in Halewood. The Formula 1 Project is a competition and series of workshops organised by Jaguar in which primary schools build Formula 1 cars from different materials. Headteacher, Paul Cronin, said: “Over seven weeks, our children have been designing and testing their very own competition cars. They tested their cars speed and aerodynamics by using everyday appliances like hairdryers and fan’s. “Our children visited the IAC components factory in Halewood where they were given lots of helpful information and tips on how to improve their cars, as well as a tour around the factory. “During the project, the children made a portfolio of their work as well as creating a pit wall, detailing each team member’s job and responsibilities in the project. “As well as coming first in both the verbal presentation and the fastest car, our children were crowned overall winners in the regions final; as a result, they went on to representing Merseyside in the grand final in Coventry finishing fifteenth out of 36 schools. 12
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Primary News
High five
Tauhid gets on board
School is first to achieve Ofsted’s top rating five times
Anti-bullying ambassador Tauhid Ahmed
Headteacher Paul Kinsella with chair of governors and pupils from St Monica’s
A Merseyside primary school has become the first in the country to be awarded five consecutive outstanding verdicts by school inspectors Ofsted. The unique achievement by St Monica’s Catholic Primary School in Bootle puts the 420-pupil school top of the class out of almost 17,000 primary schools in England. Headteacher Paul Kinsella said: “This success is a testimony to everyone in our school community and their exceptional efforts, achieving high standards every day of the year, from children to teachers, support staff, governors, parents and parishioners. “Ofsted have inspected us five times since 1999 and each time we’ve been judged outstanding. As the records show, that’s unique among primary schools.” Chair of governors George Foster added: “Ofsted has raised the bar many times, shifting emphasis in a fastchanging environment. Every time we have met the challenge because St Monica’s is committed to continuous improvement; doing everything we can to give our children the best possible start. 14
“Fifteen years of excellence at St Monica’s is something the school, the parish, the town and indeed Merseyside should be very proud of.” The school was specifically praised for its work in ensuring all pupils, including any socially or economically disadvantaged pupils, consistently make good progress. In their latest report Ofsted inspectors stated: “Pupils at St Monica’s achieve extremely well. “They make excellent progress throughout the school, often from below-average starting points, and consistently reach above-average standards. “The school daily provides a rich, stimulating climate for learning and life experiences.” In 2009, as a result of previous outstanding judgements, the school was included by Ofsted in a list of ‘Twenty Outstanding Primary Schools Excelling Against the Odds’ featuring best practice. The school was also commended in an early day motion in the House of Commons and has received fact-finding visits from teachers and headteachers from 31 schools across the country.
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Tauhid Ahmed age 10 from Waterloo Primary School has been selected from 100 applicants to be a National Anti-Bullying Ambassador Youth Board Member. 15 inspirational young people, aged from 9 to 17 from different regions across England, have been selected to sit on the Youth Board. The Youth Board will represent the views of thousands of schools and young people from across the UK, offering advice on anti-bullying policies and practices. The members will also be given the opportunity to help with the planning of this year’s Anti-Bullying week which takes place in November. The Diana Award runs the AntiBullying Ambassadors programme, a nationwide peer led initiative with 7,250 trained ambassadors in over 635 schools across the UK. The Diana Award helps the Ambassadors by holding training events, giving them inspiration, practical ideas and top tips. Tauhid said: “I am delighted to be part of the National Anti-Bullying Youth Board and I am really looking forward to representing young peoples’ views about bullying and sharing ideas. “By being a member, I feel I will definitely make a difference to the lives of other young people who have experienced bullying or have been a bully themselves.” Deputy Headteacher, Sarah Maciver said: “We are incredibly proud of our involvement with the Diana Award and feel that our whole school community has learnt a great deal over the two years since we first signed up. “All of our ambassadors work incredibly hard and show real commitment and we are all very proud of Tauhid’s appointment to the Youth Board –We know that he will do his best and make wonderful contributions.’
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Primary News
Excellence celebrated School recognised for commitment to staff A Prescot school is the first in Knowsley to receive a prestigious award recognising its commitment to staff training and development. St Mary and St Paul’s Primary School, Bryer Road, Prescot, has been awarded the prestigious Continuous Professional Learning Development (CPLD) Quality
Mark. This recognises the school’s commitment to, and excellence in, the continuous professional learning and development of its staff team. The school is part of a growing national network of schools and nurseries in England who have either
achieved the award or are working towards the accreditation. Neil Dixon, headteacher at St Mary and St Paul’s, said: “I’m delighted that The CPLD Quality Mark has recognised the quality of the professional learning and development of all of our staff and recognised our role as a teaching school alliance leader and initial teacher training provider. “Our staff are our greatest asset and their knowledge, skills and shared commitment is critical to the quality of education that our children receive and the progress they make. “Our school firmly believes that investing in the learning and development of our staff team is central to improving children’s learning.” Cllr Gary See, Knowsley Council’s cabinet member for children and family services said: “I would like to congratulate St Mary and St Paul’s for achieving this standard. “Having a well qualified and highly motivated workforce, recognised for their efforts and contribution, has been clearly shown to improve the quality of teaching, learning and guidance for children at any school.” Left: Headteacher Neil Dixon and pupils celebrate their award
The good food revolution Pupils of Melling Primary School will be taking part in Jamie Oliver’s third global Food Revolution Day. Children in schools all over the world cooked along with Jamie over the internet. More than one million people took part in the biggest cooking lesson ever. The children had great fun cooking appetising food from scratch and along the way they learnt where their food came from, how to turn ingredients into delicious, healthy meals, and what food does for their bodies. Food Revolution Day is supported by a website full of easy to make, tasty recipes. Jamie’s intention is to encourage children to become food smart and to get them excited about food. Parents and family members were invited to join the revolution at Melling Primary School and to come along to help. They were encouraged to take a look at the website after the event, try more of the recipes together with their children, and help them to make informed choices about the food they choose to eat. Mrs Miller, acting headteacher at Melling Primary School said: “We are always looking for fun and exciting ways to bring the healthy eating message to our children. Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution Day is a great way to inspire them to think about what they are eating and the importance of a healthy diet.” 16
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Melling Primary pupils make carrot cakes
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Primary News
Speedy artist A six-year-old girl from Huyton has been voted ‘top drawer’ by Speedy, after being crowned the winner of a World War One inspired colouring competition. Kate O’Neill, a pupil at Huyton with Roby C E Primary School, was presented with book vouchers for herself and her classmates by Allan Jones, manager at the Speedy Liverpool superstore. To celebrate being an official partner for the giant spectacular Memories of August 1914 and to commemorate the centenary of the First World War, Speedy worked with Liverpool City Council’s community participation team and together, called on schools in Merseyside to get creative and enter its WW1 themed art competition. Pupils aged between five and seven were invited to colour in the iconic Liverpool Exchange Newsroom War Memorial 1914-1919, which is situated in the city’s Exchange Buildings, and was the first WW1 memorial to be unveiled in Britain. Judges from Speedy and Liverpool City Council unanimously hailed Kate the winner for her bright and colourful design, which was also decorated with poppies in keeping with the WW1 theme. Kate said: “I’m really proud of myself for winning and so is my family. “I loved seeing the Liverpool Giants and I hope the Little Girl giant visits again!” Allan Jones, manager at the Speedy Liverpool superstore, said: “I was really impressed with how well all the children grasped the WW1 concept with their designs. “It was very hard picking a winner but Kate showed excellent creativity and the poppies added a really nice touch. “As Memories of August 1914 is a commemoration of a turning point in world history, we thought the competition would be a fitting way to engage with local schools.”
Allan Jones, manager at the Speedy Liverpool Superstore and winner Kate with Mum Anne Burnett
What a way to learn! Staff at a Our Lady of Good Help, Liverpool are very clear in the vision they have for the children they work with: to develop confident, caring, inquiring individuals prepared for the future. And, with inquiry in mind, they place a high emphasis on science. Mrs Hughes, the school’s science co-ordinator, said: “Science allows pupils to understand and describe the world around them – and to predict future events!” “Displaying an admirably enquiring philosophy, the school recently commissioned a local company, as creatives, to design and deliver a whole day of workshops that would give every child at Our Lady of Good Help an opportunity 18
to explore their science topics through drama – including a whole-school assembly on the phases of the moon! And what a day it was! Early Years and Key Stage 1 children explored habitats and both mini and macrobeasts, whilst Key Stage 2 children practiced and developed their science vocabulary as they investigated the day when interplanetary tours will be as normal as a day trip to Blackpool. The Year 6 teacher described her pupils’ workshop as “brilliant”, whilst the Year 2s took to their blog... “We recently took part in a science workshop, where we learnt about the savannah, linked to our topic of habitats.
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“We had fun acting out the various animals that lived there. We learnt about the habitats they lived in and
how they survived”. Below: Can you guess what animal we are?
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Meet the Headteacher Paul Dickinson, Archbishop Beck Catholic Sports College
Having returned to take the headship at Archbishop Beck school, Paul Dickinson was tasked with overseeing a multimillion pound new build for the school while maintaining improving results at the existing site. With the doors of the new-build finally open, he explains the work that has gone in to get the project off the ground.
New beginnings by Stephen Hurrell The collapse of the £1.9 billion Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme in 2010 saw 675 new school projects across the UK cancelled in one fell swoop. For Archbishop Beck’s headteacher Paul Dickinson, it was a significant blow for a school that was earmarked for one of the early stages of the ambitious scheme. “In July 2010 we were due to sign on the dotted line and it was cut.” He explains. “We were pretty devastated. We’d done two years work preparing the school and it looked like it would be for nothing.” When the plans for the new-build schools were scrapped, help came from a more local source. The day after the announcement Councillors Joe Anderson, the now Mayor of the city, and Jane Corbett pledged their support for a new, less expensive project to ensure the pupils would have a new home, something Paul is ‘eternally grateful’ for. 20
After four years of planning, design and construction the new school is set to open its doors in September and Paul can look back on a journey that stretches back nearly 20 years. “I started in 1988 right here at Archbishop Beck, where I was a Geography teacher.” He says, admitting he has a strong affinity for the area of Walton and North Liverpool as a whole. After several years away he returned to Achbishop Beck as headteacher in 2007. He adds: “It was interesting coming back because many of the staff who I came back to work with at the time were still here so it was nice to come back and work with old colleagues.” Since his arrival, Paul has worked with improving the culture of the school and he speaks extensively about the hard work himself and the staff have put in to create a place where pupils respect themselves and others. “Results have improved dramatically. It’s been a big improvement in the
Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils
“
We have to make sure our children achieve academically but I’m also a strong believer to have a fulfilled life you need something more than academic achievements
”
performance of the students. That’s come with a change in culture. There are higher expectations, greater emphasis on respect and making sure the children appreciate the education they’re receiving.
“If I go back to it when I arrived there are a lot of things that needed to be repaired. We spent money making sure the environment is right. If you respect the environment and respect yourselves you start to respect each other.”
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The importance of the teaching environment is integral to Paul and his staff’s dedication working with the council to find the funds for a new school build. With space at a premium on the current site, Paul knew it was integral to build a state-of-the-art building for the next generation of pupils. And so for the past four years everyday school life has clashed with designing and creating an entirely new school in a £17.2 million project that will open its doors this year.
development. “We’ve had four years planning the new build. We’ve got certain philosophies. In our existing site it was an old building and they just built extensions as the school grew. We wanted to create mini communities within the school. The design of the building is based around hubs, learning areas. It’s individual classrooms around a central area.”
The school, housed in a vast warehouse-like building, is unique. A central atrium that can be transformed into a theatre is overlooked by a chapel that includes an eye-catching stained glass window created by local artist Paul Kelly, while clusters of classrooms across several floors make up the main teaching spaces.
Perhaps the most ambitious aspect of the build came from Paul’s own philosophy. “We have to make sure our children achieve academically but I’m also a strong believer to have a fulfilled life you need something more than academic achievements, whether that is music, dance, theatre, sport, art and as a catholic school the spiritual developement of the child. In the new college it’s about providing the facilities to do that.”
Paul says he and his staff had ‘total’ control over the new build, working with architects Sheppard Robson and contractor Willmott Dixon, who he describes as ‘outstanding’, to create the
The school has a sports hall that includes six badminton courts and bleacher seating, while other facilities include a full size 3D sports pitch, three multi-use game areas, a fitness studio
and dance studio. There’s also a music recording studio and music rooms, as well as the main theatre. Paul says the extracurricular activities are there to ‘prepare children for life’. “We’re trying to create a facility for the community. It would be easy to charge high amounts and while we need to generate income we need to make sure there are clubs for the children in the north of the city. It’s a massive community aspect. We need to analyse how the rest of the building will be used for community benefit.” For Paul, it has been a labour of love that will serve the next generation of pupils at the school. He mentions he has taught several of the parents of the existing children and hopes in 20 years the current crop of pupils will be proud they were the first to step through the doors. He says: “I hope they can drive past this little oasis in quite an industrial area and be able to say ‘I was the first in there’. It always comes back to providing the environment where children can thrive.”
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Primary News
Party in pyjamas day
Proud pupils from Stockbridge Village Primary School show off their certificates and medals after passing their safety course.
Hot stuff Pupils work together for fire safety Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service’s Fire Cadets from Croxteth helped to highlight safety messages and a new project that involves local primary school pupils. The demonstration at Stockbridge Village Primary School was also highlighting a new project – Emergency Service Cadets, which has seen eight pupils at the school complete a 12-week course run by Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service with the Croxteth Fire Cadets. At the end of the course the pupils gave a demonstration at the school showing what they had learned about how emergency services work together to carry out a rescue. Guests at the school demonstration included Knowsley district manager Gary Oakford and councillors who are members of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority. Susan Potter, of Merseyside Fire &
Rescue Service, said: “The new project – has seen its first group of primary children complete the course which covers a wide range of activities giving the children the opportunity to develop key life skills and learn about the role and the importance of the partner organisations. “The long-term intention is that the young people will remain engaged citizens, contributing to positive activities in their local community. The programme is based at Stockbridge Primary School, Stockbridge Village, who helped to provide the programme for Year 6 pupils who are aged 10 to 11.” Group Manager Gary Oakford, who attended the event and is the district manager for Knowsley, said: “The demonstration was excellent and this project has clearly helped young people’s confidence at the school as well as highlighting fire safety to the community.”
A pyjama party took over Holy Name Catholic Primary School for a JimJam Day in support of The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust’s Home from Home Appeal for relatives’ accommodation. The ‘Jarmy Army’ included children and teachers at Springwell Park Community Primary School in Bootle and St William of York Catholic Primary School. Head of fundraising Madeleine Fletcher explained: “Wearing pyjamas for the day is a bit of fun for a great cause, but there is also a serious connection to the reason we are raising money, the families who have to snatch sleep in our visitors’ rooms while their loved ones are fighting for their lives in intensive care. “We want to be able to provide a place that is comfortable and welcoming during traumatic times for our patients and their relatives.” The nightwear day is part of a new pyjama themed campaign in aid of the hospital’s Home from Home Appeal, to build relatives’ accommodation.
A fun way to raise funds - pupils from Holy Name Catholic Primary School
SCHOOL’S POPPY PICNIC To commemorate the First World War the pupils from St Michael and All Angels Primary School, Kirkby dressed in red, black and green to form a giant poppy on the school’s playing fields. Headteacher, Louise Bowman said: “We had a great day when as a school we created a huge piece of art work. We all gathered together to create a supersized poppy. All members of school community were involved including pupils, staff and governors. “Dusty” Miller (90 years) was guest of honour with Craig Flynn (former pupil) and representatives from the local Sea Cadets. Dusty hopes to return soon when we plant our poppy garden. “Afterwards we had a cafe and proceeds will be presented to the Royal British Legion”.
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Secondary News
Last Night Curtain comes down on campus
County Champions! Archbishop Beck Catholic Sports College brought the curtain down on the Cedar Road site when they presented their annual summer concert, “Last Night of the Proms”. This was the last event at the present college before the move to their new campus on Long Lane. The sports hall came alive with flags of red, white and blue. This was the 11th” Last Night of the Proms” concert organised by director of music, Bruce Hicks. The college concert band were on top form, playing at their best. They were joined by their partner primary school pupils, the award winning chamber choir, college dance ensemble and training band. All the favourites of the ‘Last Night of the Proms’ made up part of the concert as well as the usual combination of comedy, fun and fine music! An appropriate and emotional finale was the lowering of the flag ceremony when the college flag was lowered for the last time, meanwhile, the college band and trumpeters sounded the evening hymn and Last Post. The college piper Mr Ken Beamer and associates followed this with the performance of the, Highland Cathedral and Auld Lang Syne bringing the curtain down on an amazingly successful period of service by the college to the local community, and a celebration of yet another year of outstanding musical achievement at the College.
The 1st XI Archbishop Blanch High school hockey team participated in the 2014 Merseyside Hockey Tournament and, after playing several closely fought games, the team remained undefeated and are to be congratulated on winning the competition. The head of physical education, Mrs Jayne Rees, said: “The students are to be praised for the high standard of skill and team work that they produced throughout the tournament. “Congratulations also go to the following girls who have been selected to represent South Lancashire as part of the Hockey development squad - Maddie Broad, Victoria Matthews, Georgia Drohan, Alex Pearson and Kara McDougall”.
Pupils sweet treat Pupils from Merchant Taylors’ Girls’ School were treated to a sweet visit from top author Cathy Cassidy, writer of the famous ‘Chocolate Box Girls’ series. The local star popped in to the school to speak about the latest book in the series, Sweet Honey. The girls were regaled with anecdotes of her own time at school, embarrassing interactions with boys and her formative years as a writer. Cathy’s hugely popular books usually centre around a young female protagonist and contain themes of family troubles, newcomers, moving away and teenage crushes. She shared some of her secrets about writing, stressing the importance of day dreaming as a way of awakening ideas for a story. The girls were shown Cathy’s website which features webcasts from the Chocolate Box characters. 24
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Author Cathy Cassidy meets Merchant Taylors pupils
They were encouraged to upload a ‘selfie’ with their favourite book, or, if they were feeling shy, a ‘shelfie’ of their book collection!
After the session the girls were given the opportunity to speak to Cathy one to one at a book signing.
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Secondary News
Respect awareness Anti-bullying work recognised nationally
The Diana Award Trust, an organisation that works nationally with thousands of young people has recognised the valuable work conducted in St Margaret’s Church of England Academy Year 7 respect programme. In awarding second prize, in their anti-bullying competition, the judges commented: “As a team we really enjoyed reading your entry… the hard work from your students really stood out to us. You showed your whole school working together as part of an inspirational team.” The respect programme is based around the eight core values of their school. The Diana Awards run the anti-bullying ambassadors programme, a nationwide peer led initiative, with over 5,000 trained Ambassadors in over 600 schools across the UK. St Margaret’s hosted a training day which brought together young people from primary and secondary schools, of all ages and abilities, across the region to be trained as anti-bullying ambassadors. The young people creatively explored and understood the issue of bullying and gained practical ideas and top tips on how to stop bullying.
St Ambrose Barlow Win Year 8 Sefton League
Pupils from St Ambrose Barlow Catholic High School in Netherton were celebrating after winning the Year 8 Sefton Football League for the second consecutive year. In a close league it went down to the last week and the top position changed hands on numerous occasions but St Ambrose Barlow held on to finish outright winners. The Year 8 team also made it into the Sefton cup final but narrowly missed out on lifting the trophy after being beaten on penalties by local rivals Maricourt High School. Team manager Michael Metcalf said “The boys have played some really nice football over the year and conducted themselves really well. They have been a credit to our school. The lads deserve their success and I hope they continue to develop as a team and as individuals next season.
BELLERIVE PAYS ITS RESPECTS Students and staff from Bellerive FCJ Catholic College visited the World War One battlefields and cemeteries of France and Belgium during a recent trip Mr McVeigh, head of histroy picks said: “We left Bellerive on saturday 28 June at 6am, arriving at our hotel in Ypres in the early evening. We spent Sunday visiting sites in Northern France. “The girls were particularly taken with the Thiepval memorial, listing the names of over 50,000 soldiers missing as a result of the Battle of the Somme in 1916. “We got a great insight into the harsh realities of trench warfare when we visited the excavated trenches at Vimy Ridge where thousands of Canadian soldiers perished. “We also visited several museums near Ypres and laid a wreath at Tyne Cot cemetery, where over 11,000 soldiers are buried with over 60% of the identities of the soldiers in the graves unknown. “We conducted a brief service and offered up our prayers for all the dead of all wars. As ever, our students were excellent ambassadors for Bellerive and the FCJ values."
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Secondary News
Awesome! How to be more awesome launched A journal co-designed by World Merit partners and students from The Studio school has been launched in the school’s on-site cinema. How to be More Awesome, written by Tim Slack and Suzanne Quinney, members of the organisation Appreciating People, has been designed to boost confidence and self-esteem, develop strengths and encourage young people to make positive life decisions. Inspired by research indicating that the encouragement of positive emotions, wellbeing and gratitude promotes creativity and achievement, How to be More Awesome helps young people deal with difficult times and reach their potential. A recent study, conducted by the University of California, showed that writing about emotions in a journal or diary produces a calming effect that can help individuals recover from distress and worry. Similar research suggested that keeping a journal provides an emotional release and helps prevent stress and anxiety. In attendance at the launch on Friday, September 5, was Mike Taylor, chair of governors at The Studio school, Shaun McInerney, principal of The Studio, Liverpool, Tim Slack and Suzanne Quinney of Appreciating People, and members of The Studio’s faculty and student body. Shaun McInerney, principal of The
Studio Liverpool, said: “We want our students to be self-aware and skilled at building relationships so they can develop positive mind-sets that are essential for digital leaders.” Shaun added: “The ability for our students to inspire themselves and others is important, and this book will help them do that.” Co-designed by The Studio - a state-ofthe-art school and sixth form,
specialising in creative media, gaming and digital technology – How to be More Awesome will be available for use in classrooms or independent study. The Studio actively seek to incorporate new approaches to learning including enterprising projects and work-based programmes for the innovators of tomorrow. The journal is now available to purchase.
(From L to R) back: Peter Freeman, Joseph Bibby, Joel Pickavance, James Evans. front: Lucas Dube, Redd Dring, Shona Jerome, Jordan Kabymela, Nigel Chuma, Cavan O'Brian.
Giant ambitions This summer the ‘Giants’ came to Newsham Park and the Academy of St Francis of Assisi celebrated this momentous occasion with a week of special lessons culminating in a spectacular World War I ‘street party’. In July the academy, which is built inside the park, collapsed its normal timetable as the students and staff got ready to welcome the giants with a host of events. Students learned all about the early days of the war; the hopes of a nation on the brink of its first major conflict for more than 50 years, the excitement of the youngest generations as they prepared for the adventure of a lifetime and the fears of those they were leaving behind that perhaps it might not be ‘over by Christmas’ as everyone expected. The culmination of these special lessons was a street party to celebrate the men enlisting for the war. Local ward councillors, community residence groups, representatives from the Liverpool PALs battalions and local primary school children all attended. 28
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The street party in full swing
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Secondary News
Banking on success Head of banking turns guru for students No matter where you start off you can always reach the top off the business ladder; that was the message given to students at All Saints Catholic High School in Kirkby who benefited from the business know-how of Steve Pateman, head of banking at Santander UK. The executive director, who began working in banking when he was 16, visited the school to talk about his career path and to provide guidance and insight to students. He was joined by a team of executives including Steve Granite who was a pupil at All Saints before joining Abbey Logistics in 1995. All Saints is a school closely connected with the city-region’s knowledge economy, in particular the finance and advanced manufacturing sectors. The school is a flagship for charity Career Academies UK which fosters links between education establishments and businesses. Santander has partnered with All Saints on the career academy programme since 2011 and provides students with paid internships, guru lectures, business mentors and work experiences, with more planned this year. “We were delighted to welcome Mr Pateman to our school” said Pete Bradley, headteacher. “We believe it’s vital we prepare students for the world of work and as the business world arrived on our
Santander's Steve Pateman (left) is pictured with Pete Bradley, headteacher of All Saints Catholic High School and guests
doorstep for IFB 2014 this was an opportunity we couldn’t miss. “This was a face to face experience for our students, hopefully it will inspire them, and allow them to see where their education will get them and the career paths open to them”. Steve Pateman, Santander said: “We are committed to helping young people reach their potential and the career
academies programme is focused on giving students the chance to gain vital employability skills, alongside their A level studies. We are very proud of our partnership with All Saints and I hope today we were able to give the students an insight into the fulfilling career opportunities that exist across the financial services sector.”
Musical Interludes at Notre Dame It is becoming more commonplace for the pupils at Notre Dame Catholic College to listen to musical interludes as pupils take the opportunity to perform before a live audience during lunch times. Miss Hart, the head of music at Notre Dame, is calling the performances ‘surprise concerts’ as they are not advertised and they can be located anywhere on the ground floor of the college on any day of the week! The design of the new college building, opened in September 2013, now lends itself to this type of performance. The music is often classical and allows the audience to become familiar with a genre of music that would not be the first choice of many young people. Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils
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Secondary News
Headteacher honoured Broughton Hall headteacher, Sue Clarke has been named ‘Headteacher of the Year’ at the first Echo School Awards Ceremony held in July at the Crowne Plaza. Described as a “committed and talented head teacher” (OFSTED 2013), Sue was recognised for her charismatic leadership style that is well suited to the demands of a modern secondary school; she leads from the front by example. Passionate about teaching and with a genuine concern for her charges, Sue is always approachable and affable. According to colleagues at Broughton Hall “Sue is a great person whose heart and talents are Broughton through and through. “She has the support of staff and the girls and is widely respected”.
Gary Williams presenting the Headteacher of the Year Award to Sue Clarke from Broughton Hall High School.
Pupils from St Hilda’s dressed up in period costume for World War One day
Lest we forget Students and staff at St Hilda’s Church of England High School commemorated the centenary of the outbreak of World War One by holding a special WWI day. Everyone was encouraged to attend school in WWI themed outfits. Pupils followed their usual timetabled lessons, but each subject was taught with a WWI theme. In geography, classes solved a mystery relating to changing borders at the end of WWI and in science, classes made gas masks and looked into the weapons of war, the PE department had pupils marching in formation. War songs were heard coming from the music room and by the end of the day an art exhibition was installed in the foyer. Even the lunch menu had a WWI theme and the dining room was decorated accordingly. Feedback following the event was really positive and students gained an insight into many different aspects of war.
Holly Lodge artist exhibits in London Holly Lodge Girls College were delighted when Year 13 Charlotte Johnson’s artwork called ‘Vanity (Vanitas) had been chosen to be displayed at the 2014 National Students’ Art Exhibition. Charlotte’s work was on display at the Mall Galleries on The Mall in London. Her work comprises of six small paintings of oranges in varied states of decay, which Charlotte used as a metaphor for the human aging process. Charlotte combined acrylic paint with puff paints, which created a 3D textured surface to emphasize the mould growing on the pieces of fruit. The paintings form part of her final project, on the BTEC Level 3 course, which was originally commissioned by local writer Cath Bore. Charlotte produced the work in response to a short story that Cath had written called ‘Oranges are the only Fruit’. Charlotte and her family were thrilled with the news and attended the opening of the exhibition. A number of exhibiting students will then be chosen to become Royal British Society of Artists (RBA) Scholars and invited to show work at the Annual RBA Exhibition in March 2015. 30
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Secondary News
Teachers Ghana visit A Liverpool teacher swapped her Widnes classroom for a schoolroom in Ghana on a visit to see charity work in the West African state. Heather Smith, 28, who teaches English at Wade Deacon School, visited the West African country with her mother Gillian, who sponsors Veronica, 12, a young girl in Ghana through children’s charity Plan UK. Although Gillian had visited Veronica and her family before, it was Heather’s first time to visit Veronica in Ghana. “Nothing can prepare you for when you step off the plane, it was eyeopening. But it was great, we were made so very welcome,” says Heather. “We arrived at Veronica’s school, met her teachers and saw her school report. Then we walked over to the family home and met the rest of the family. “It was really nice to see them in their home environment. We were made so very welcome,” she adds. Money donated to Plan through sponsorship benefits whole families and communities, rather than individual children. A donation of £15-a-month helps provide clean water, healthcare and education in communities across Africa, Asia and Latin America. Sponsors receive regular updates and
Gillian and Heather, with coconuts they were given, sitting alongside Veronica
photographs from their sponsored child and keep in touch by writing letters back. Plan UK has 95,000 sponsors in the UK, generating £24 million a year, and supporting one million children worldwide. While in Ghana, Heather spent a week teaching at a school run by a friend of her mother, in Oyarifa, Greater Accra. “The children were so friendly and
welcoming, they really wanted to learn, to get involved and to try, even if they get it wrong,” she says. “I did a lot of creative writing with them, I gave them a description of the school where I work and they told me about theirs. “The classrooms walls were quite bare so we worked on some displays and also painted a classroom,” she adds.
We’ve had a ‘Brain Wave’ Clarence High School has been awarded a grant in excess of £9,000 by the Awards for All Scheme run by the Big Lottery. The scheme funds projects which address the issues, needs and aspirations of local communities and people. The scheme covers a wide range of community projects aimed at developing skills, improving health, revitalising the local environment and enabling people to become more active citizens. The principal of Clarence High School, Paul Boulton said: “We are delighted to receive this award and both students and staff are keen to start using the new programmes. “Staff at Clarence High School and children’s home based in Formby put a ‘Brain Wave’ proposal together that would help to improve emotional, mental and physical health by offering computer based programmes that relax and reduce stress to the students. “The programmes can be used for both adults and children who are at risk of and experiencing mental health problems, social and emotional problems and those who may have no obvious difficulties but do give rise to concern. “The programmes are computer bio feedback programmes called Heartmath - emwave. The programmes enable individuals to learn new techniques for managing stress, reducing anger, depression and anxiety and build resilience so individuals enjoy life more. “The teaching staff will deliver the programmes to individual students at Clarence High school. As the programme is computer based it can be delivered during the school day and in 32
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the case of the children who live on site the programme can be used after school and during the weekends. “Each programme will be individually tailored to meet the needs of the student. Heartmath emwave clinical studies have dramatically demonstrated the critical link between emotion, heart function and cognitive performance. “When we are internally self - managed - feeling balanced and in control we make our greatest contribution, we act not react, we think creatively, we communicate clearly, we manage well under pressure. “The technology has games on it where the user can only complete the game using a breathing technique, this really appeals to younger people and helps to engage them to take part and complete the activity.”
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Technology in schools
The gamification of learning?
As the use of tablets becomes second nature to teachers and pupils, what impact can the new trend to introduce ‘gamification’ to learning have on the way we teach? Words by Stephen Hurrell
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Technology in schools
From interactive whiteboards to blogging and social media, Merseyside’s schools are never slow to embrace the latest technology. To be able to keep up with the latest advances that are taking place across the nation’s further education institutes, offices and science labs, new hardware is necessary.
Naace, an ICT association that encourages the use of technology in schools and awards an ‘ICT Mark’ to schools who make use of tablets to enhance learning, is keen to champion the use of tablets in the classroom. Jan Webb of Naace, the ICT association, says: “As one teacher put it, ‘The iPads have revolutionised teaching’, with appropriate use of iPads helping to enhance learning across the curriculum and encouraging collaborative learning. Whilst it’s early days for evaluating the impact on achievement, there are significant gains in quality and standard of pupil work and progress and potential for extending use even further. Many of the region’s schools are joining the trend in bringing iPads into the classroom, with some favouring creative ways to raise the funds. St John Bosco Arts College
“St John Bosco applied to the Wolfson Foundation to enable all Year 11 students to access an iPad in all of their lessons. This followed a survey that stated only 40% of students had access to technology at home.” Anne Pontifex headmaster at St John Bosco
recently launched a successful application to the Wolfson Foundation, a charity that awards funds to drive excellence in education, to pay for 200 iPads to use in the classroom. Anne Pontifex, headteacher, says: “St John Bosco applied to the Wolfson Foundation to enable all Year 11 students to access an iPad in all of their lessons. This followed a survey that stated only 40% of students had access to technology at home. “The impact of receiving this award will be tremendous and will allow students access to fantastic resources and will equip them with the necessary skills to be successful in the modern world. “
Introducing Gamification The next advance in iPad technology as a learning tool, believes some experts, is in the use of gamification to enhance learning. Gamification is a term that refers to offering small, incremental ‘prizes’ as a means of increasing engagement and interactivity. It has been a popular buzzword for iPad apps, where in-game bonuses such as points or extra content have proved successful. The premise comes on the back of the runaway success of language learning website Duolingo. The site gives users points as they learn a language, awarding them for correct translations and allowing people to progress at their own speed. According to Duolingo, gamification works, with 38 million users signed up to the website. Meanwhile, the Tablets for Schools charity also believes there is a scientific argument for using this gamification model in schools. It says Gamification is about much more than making boring subjects “fun”. It explains: “It’s more accurate to say that gamification is about engagement. It works largely
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Technology in schools
“Previous Tablets for Schools research shows 81% of teachers said they saw a dramatic and positive change in the pedagogical learning of pupils. So we know about the incredible force for good tablets are.” Andrew Harrison, chair of Tablets for Schools and CEO of Carphone Warehouse by providing instant feedback – quickly rewarding even the tiniest step of progress. Incentives are dangled in front of the user at regular intervals – increasing motivation.” The results can be impressive. Andrew Harrison, chair of Tablets for Schools and CEO of Carphone Warehouse says: “Previous Tablets for Schools research shows 81% of teachers said they saw a dramatic and positive change in the pedagogical learning of pupils. So we know about the incredible force for good tablets are.”
Gamification in Liverpool Can gamification be a success in the classrooms of the region? One Liverpool school is using technology to give its pupils a voice and design its own gamification for learning. Amanda Anders, Headteacher at Roscoe Primary School in Liverpool, says: “We love our iPads at Roscoe and the Makewaves app is our favourite.” Makewaves works is an app that allows pupils to share activities such as online writing, video-making and other creative work. It allows pupils to connect to each other via technology in a safe environment. Amanda explains: “All classes, from nursery to year six, use the app. We upload a variety of activities every day and
try to make sure that we cover every subject. Our children and staff enjoy commenting on each other’s stories and our next steps are to make sure that we use commenting effectively as a form of assessment.” Not only does the use of the app allow pupils of all ages to share their work with classmates and teachers, it also allows them to show their progress to parents, who can see what their child does on a day-to-day basis in an open and easyto-view way. However, where apps such as Makewaves really succeed is in adding a gamification element to learning. In the case of Roscoe, the school has created ‘badges’ that children can achieve through good behaviour and punctuality. Amanda adds: “We are just getting into badges on Makewaves at Roscoe. Our children have been hugely motivated by the Makewaves badges and are really keen to earn the new, Roscoe badges we are creating. So far, we have badges for attendance, punctuality and behaviour with teachers beginning to explore badges in different subjects.” By creating its own gamification prizes, Roscoe is bringing a gaming element to learning and seeing results – and other schools are to sure to follow in future.
“So far, we have badges for attendance, punctuality and behaviour with teachers beginning to explore badges in different subjects.” Amanda Anders, headteacher at Roscoe Primary School
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Secondary News
New role
By royal appointment HRH The Earl of Wessex visited Enterprise South Liverpool Academy (ESLA) to officially open the £23 million learning park. ESLA is a school that is committed to raising aspiration and attainment of children in south Liverpool and it is doing this through a combination of its fantastic facilities and a clear educational philosophy. That can be seen in the mixture of indoor and outdoor learning spaces, the university-standard laboratories, and the wide range of initiatives to switch students on to learning. The Royal visit marks the official handover to the school, which saw phase two of its learning park development completed over the summer. While the Academy has been operating for four years, most of that time has been spent split over the sites of its predecessor schools. HRH The Earl of Wessex and his party were joined by Garston and Halewood MP Maria Eagle, Liverpool City Council chief executive Ged Fitzgerald and representatives from the Academy's sponsors at the event.
Fazakerley High School has a new headteacher. After being in the school for nine years, the last four of these as deputy head, James Beaton has been Newly appointed appointed headteacher James Beaton head. Mr Beaton, who has a background of teaching science, said: “It is an absolute honour to be appointed to this position of head at Fazakerley High. “The school is an amazing place in which to work and I am overjoyed to now lead the school into the next stage of its development. “The engaging and modern environment, the highly committed and highly skilled staff and the most vibrant pupils I have ever met make it my school of choice. “When it came to applying for headteacher roles, this was the only school I was interested in. “Fazakerley High is known locally and beyond as a school where interesting and exciting things are happening. "We pride ourselves in offering a good education where the quality of teaching in the classroom is difficult to match”.
TOWER OF STRENGTH Team Calderstones complete cycle challenge The Tower2Tower bike ride saw 16 teachers, governors and pupils from Calderstones School cycle just under 500 miles from St John’s Beacon Tower in Liverpool to the Eiffel Tower in Paris in aid of local mental health charity, Imagine Independence, and in memory of much-loved PE teacher Phil Gibbons who passed away last November. A team of staff, governors and pupils from Calderstones Community Comprehensive School left Liverpool for their own ‘Tour de France’ cycling from tower to tower arriving in Paris five days after their departure. The ride proved to be a tremendous success for the Calderstones School community. Allan Preston, speaking on behalf of the team said, “The successful completion of this 500 mile journey is a giant victory not only for all those who took part, but a 36
victory for mental health support and awareness too. “We have raised money, awareness about mental health, and demonstrated
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that with preparation, collaboration and resilience, tough goals can be achieved. Competition is fine, but co-operation and support is vital to our well-being”.
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Secondary News
Please sir! Teachers sit GCSE’s alongside pupils Nine members of staff at Childwall Sports and Science Academy joined teenagers in taking English and maths GCSEs this summer. Teachers sat GCSE maths and English exams with the aim of bonding more with their pupils. The English teachers took maths and vice versa to find out if they could make the grade at GCSE. It saw the school’s head of maths swapping algebra for authors and English teachers brushing up on their numbers. And there was no hiding away for the adult learners – they took the exams in the same room as the students at exactly the same time. The challenge is the brainchild of Childwall Academy’s assistant headteacher, Tom Reynolds. Academy principal James Kerfoot said: “The “fantastic gesture” took the group of teachers and support staff out of their comfort zone – and showed students that their teachers are always learning. “They took absolutely the same exams – they were sitting proper GCSEs. “We are trying to push a really powerful message about learning. Tom believes that we have to show that teachers are learners too. “If you can’t show that we are prepared to sit alongside students, then what are we telling them? “The staff gave it a go and they were in the sports hall sitting the exams at the same time as the students. “I think it’s fabulous and it’s really showing the team spirit of the school.”
Staff at Childwall Sports and Science Academy swat up
Staff signed up for the exams in January and spent their Easter holidays completing coursework to meet the same deadlines facing their students. All the teachers who sat the exams passed with C’s and above, although some were disappointed with not getting straight A*’s. The Principal James Kerfoot stated: “This shows the extra mile our staff are prepared to go for our students and gave a superb message that the staff understand the pressures of exams and are prepared to put themselves through this to develop empathy for the young people in their care.”
iPAD SUCCESS FOR STUDENTS St John Bosco Arts College are celebrating funding for 200 iPads from the Wolfson foundation. The funding means from September all Year 11 students at the Croxteth based school will be equipped with the tablet devices. With a growing consensus among teachers suggesting tablets can assist students achieve improved grades, the news has been welcomed by Headteacher, Anne Pontifex. She said: “We are delighted to have been awarded the funds to provide students with these fantastic resources. The use of iPads can help our children reach their full potential through increased engagement, motivation, learning and qualifications. “A recent survey showed that only 40% of students have access to tablets at home, so it’s great to be able to offer these resources at school.” The Wolfson Foundation is an 38
independent charity that awards grants to support and promote excellence in the fields of science & medicine, health & disability, education and the arts & humanities. The iPad funding success comes as the school prepares to move into its new 1,200 pupil, £18 million building. Earlier this month the school moved to a new state of the art building. The new building is less rigid in design, allowing maximum use and flexibility in the way the lessons are taught. The design is based around a central heart space which offers students study booths with flat screen technology and a learning resource centre. The move comes after a successful summer for the school with A-level exam results increasing and 24 subjects receiving a 100% pass rate. This follows a great GCSE results day, where 66% of their pupils secured A*-C grades (including maths and English).
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Meet the Headteacher Maria Sharratt, Litherland High School
A positive experience of education is not only something that Maria Sharratt strives to deliver to Litherland High pupils, but it was also what prompted her to kickstart her own teaching career at the same school 22 years ago.
Learning to accomplish by Natasha Young Maria Sharratt may still be new to the top headteacher role at Litherland High, but she is no stranger to the school and its wider community. Having been educated herself in nearby Netherton, she looks back on her own school years as a time which instilled in her the importance of lifelong learning and the impact that education can have. “What really attracted me to the job of teaching was the educational experience that I’d had, and then seeing what success in education can actually lead to,” says Maria. “I think it’s key to social mobility, and that for me was something that I wanted to be able to share with other young people and empower them to see the world of opportunities that lay beyond the school gates; that actually what you do in school can impact on your life both positively and negatively for generations to come as well, and really to foster that love of lifelong learning.” Following her time at university in Manchester, Maria, who had often been 40
told she would “make a good teacher”, originally decided she would take time away from education and ventured off to London in search for opportunities. “Really my heart was in Liverpool and I wanted to come back to learn how to teach and then be able to make a difference to the lives of people where I grew up,” explains Maria, and it was when she took on her PGCE training back home in the city that she first landed a placement at Litherland High School and eventually secured a job. “I worked here as an NQT and then basically progressed with different roles within the school as Excellence in Cities European co-ordinator, head of languages, head of specialism, assistant headteacher, deputy headteacher in charge of teaching and learning, and then headteacher,” she says. Having studied Spanish and French, Maria’s area of teaching has been languages and it’s a subject area which she says is “very much about broadening horizons and fostering a cultural and economical understanding
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Really my heart was in Liverpool and I wanted to come back to learn how to teach and then be able to make a difference to the lives of people where I grew up
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of how the world works and your place in that world”.
It’s also a subject that has particularly thrived at Litherland High School, which prides itself on being a ‘global learning community’. According to Maria, the school’s internationalism “permeates the school and the life of the school and has brought opportunities”. “The school is a languages college and the languages department is very
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successful, they get very good results. The children are very motivated to learn languages, and all the children in the school learn Spanish GCSE, and they have the opportunity to do other languages such as French, German, Italian and Chinese as well,” she adds. Looking beyond her familiar languages department though and to her future at the helm of the school as a whole, one of Maria’s key aims is “raising educational standards for the children”. According to Maria, making sure that all pupils’ talents are recognised as opposed to concentrating on achieving grades is high on the agenda in a bid to create “confident” and “resilient” young people. It’s an idea that also echoes the school’s ‘Achieve by Caring’ philosophy, which adorns the front of Litherland High’s 21st Century building - a philosophy which, according to Maria, “underpins the belief that every child matters and that we will help them to achieve their very best in whatever field that may be”. As she enters her first full academic year at the top, Maria also plans to celebrate pupils’ work by showcasing it within the school’s already “motivational” modern environment.
“There are a lot of extremely talented people throughout the school and we’ve got something called the Avenue of Stars as you walk through. That avenue will be filled with the stars’ work – the stars are the children. Everywhere you look at Litherland High School you will see a celebration of students’ work.” Overall, Litherland High School is facing some changes as it gets the new academic year underway under Maria’s reign, starting with a new uniform – a change which is being implemented
following consultation with the school’s Student Voice. “There are a lot of changes in education and in the way performance is measured but the focus for Litherland High School is to maintain its place in the community, to build on the links within the community and to improve educational outcomes for all students with a can-do attitude right around the school, from staff to students to parents,” adds Maria.
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News
Life in modern Britain Pupils begin tough new curriculum Millions of school children have begun the new school year with a ‘tough’ new national curriculum. The curriculum is being implemented for most year groups simultaneously. Five-year-olds will learn fractions and computer coding, while those in early secondary school will have to study at least two Shakespeare plays. A spokesman said the government wanted “all children to learn the core knowledge in key subjects the ones universities and employers value the most”. School Reform Minister Nick Gibb, said: “Millions of pupils returning to the classroom this term are being taught a forward-thinking, knowledge-rich national curriculum that will give them the knowledge and skills to succeed in modern Britain”. “The programmes of study are a key part of the government’s plan for education and long-term economic objective. “They embody high expectations and are designed to raise standards for children aged 5 to 16, especially the poorest. It will provide a broad
and balanced education ensuring all pupils gain core knowledge across a range of key subjects so that they get the best start in life. “The curriculum combines the best elements of the world’s most successful school systems, including Hong Kong, Massachusetts, Singapore and Finland, with some of the most impressive practice from schools in England. “With a strong focus on getting the basic skills right in primary school, it has been deliberately designed to ensure England has the most productive, most creative and best educated young people of any nation. “It ensures a population with the knowledge and skills not just to secure good-quality employment and success in life, but also to help us compete and win in the global race. “The new curriculum is also far less prescriptive and is about half the size of its predecessor, allowing teachers to concentrate on what they do best - teach - rather than being burdened by endlessly reading the document.” Russell Hobby, general
School Reform Minister Nick Gibb
secretary of the National Association of Headteachers, said teachers had worked hard to prepare for the new curriculum over the past year. He said he was confident they would cope with its implementation but he warned there could be some difficulties with maths, where more advanced topics are to be taught at a younger age. “One of the mistakes in the implementation of the curriculum is that it's all being implemented at once,” he
said. “In maths you need to learn the early concepts before you learn the later concepts, so there is a problem that there will be children who have not learned the earlier concepts before being expected to learn the more demanding ones.” Mr Hobby warned that there would have to be “a lot of cramming in maths this year” as whole classes are made to catch up with the new demands.
ENJOYMENT OF READING HAS INCREASED New National Literacy Trust research reveals that children and young people’s reading enjoyment has reached its highest level for eight years. Results from the National Literacy Trust’s 2013 annual literacy survey of 30,000 8 to 16-year-olds show that: • 53.3% of young people enjoy reading either “very much” or “quite a lot”; this surpasses the highest level of reading enjoyment the charity recorded eight years ago in 2005 which was 51.4% • Only 10% of children and young people in 2013 say they don’t enjoy reading at all, which is the lowest level recorded in four years (12.2% in 2010) • More young people in 2013 read outside class daily than in 2012 (32.2% vs 28.4%) • Nearly a third of young people read outside class every day (32.2%), with another 28.3% reading a few times a week. 42
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However, a fifth of young people (20.2%) say that they rarely or never read outside class. Young people who enjoy reading very much are nearly four times as likely to read above the expected level for their age compared with young people who do not enjoy reading at all. Jonathan Douglas, director of the National Literacy Trust said: “The findings from our research that reveal children enjoyed reading more in 2013 are indeed encouraging, and we look forward to monitoring this trend and investigating the reasons behind it. “Reading books opens up a whole new world for children – it is fun and is shown to support their education enabling them to reach their full potential. “Poor reading, writing and communication skills will hold children back at school and throughout life; reading for enjoyment has never been more important.
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School Ec News Sponsored by
We are the Eco Champions! Bishop David Sheppard CE Primary School was celebrating after being named as Sefton Eco Team of the Year. Every school in Sefton was invited to nominate pupils who demonstrate a commitment to the environment and an understanding of how their work supports broader green issues. Now in its seventh year, the competition was organised by Julie Kirk and Darren Lloyd, the resident teachers at Sefton’s Southport Eco Centre, to help showcase the work of green-thinking young people from across the borough. The Eco Committee at Bishop David Sheppard CE Primary School on Devonshire Road was nominated and attended the award ceremony at the Ramada Plaza Hotel in Southport. Headteacher, Karen Murphy said: “We are very proud to have won Eco Team of the Year! Well done to our Eco
Bishop David Sheppard CE Primary School celebrate after receiving their eco award
Champions, and to Mrs Petrie for supporting the eco committee and the many activities that they plan and carry out”.
The three R’s Merseyside’s two recycling discovery centre’s offer free and exciting waste education programmes for 2014. Merseyside Recycling and Waste Authority and Veolia Environmental Services are dedicated to changing perceptions of waste within Merseyside. The free waste education programme aims to raise awareness of waste solutions and promote action to reduce, reuse and recycle. The two recycling discovery centres – at Bidston in Wirral and Gillmoss in Liverpool – offer an interactive experience which uses the very latest technology to inspire and educate all schools, higher education providers and community groups. Activities at the recycling discovery centres include: Primary Schools – Guidance for eco-councils, waste free packed lunch, wastewise bean bag activity, recycling computer games, interactive whiteboard activities, reduce, reuse, recycle workshops, green screen and video camera. Secondary Schools – Explore the waste hierarchy and discuss global, national and local responsibilities, understand the human impacts on the environment, explore renewable and non-renewable energy sources, contextualise maths in a business environment, interactive group work and discussion groups exploring waste solutions for sustainable development. Higher Education Courses – BTEC environment and countryside, geography, environmental science, developing environmental awareness, architecture, PGCE. 44
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Sponsored by
Green corner Pupils join The Big Sunflower Project Staff and pupils from Calderstones School saw the fruits of their labours blossom with The Big Sunflower Project. English teacher and teamlead, Emma Taylor said: “We have a green corner at Calderstones and planned to plant some sunflower seeds. We enjoyed doing this last year and made a feature of sunflowers along the side of one of our school bike sheds. “I got chatting, via twitter, to Toni Abram from the Big Sunflower Project, which aims to raise awareness of Centronuclear and Myotubular myopathy by growing sunflowers. “When I learnt all about Toni’s project and the fantastic way she wanted to raise its awareness it was a complete nobrainer that our school got involved. “Myotubular Myopathy is a rare muscle condition which affects mostly boys at birth, and sometimes an even rarer form develops later in life affecting both boys and girls. “It causes profound muscle weakness. Most critically it affects the muscles that control breathing and swallowing and is a constant threat to life - even a simple
cold could prove fatal. “We have a team of young eco leaders in school who work on the allotment for extra-curricular enrichment, and along with our KS3 pupils who get to take part in green corner lessons as part of our PSHE SOW, all have been involved in sowing, growing and nurturing our flowers and produce at the allotment. “The growing of the sunflowers has been a real highlight in the last term and we challenged ourselves to grow 100 sunflowers and show their progress via photographs on Twitter, Project Dirt and our school website. “Pupils have enjoyed experimenting with different varieties of sunflower and monitoring their growth patterns, staff have got involved at home (and in school) by growing their own, and form classes have recycled tin cans, turned them into planters and grew sunflowers in them for their desks. “One of our youngest and keenest eco leaders, Cameron (Year 7), had an opportunity to contribute further to the project by writing a little blog for Toni, which she added to Project Dirt. A proud moment for Cameron!
Emma Taylor
“The growing of the sunflowers has been a superb learning experience for all involved, given added value this year for all of our school community who have all been introduced to The Big Sunflower Project. “We have learnt about those who suffer from the muscular conditions outlined and the impact on their families. “It has been a pleasure to support Toni and this project in the small way we could and have enjoyed displaying the bright blooms .”
Designs blossom for Sophie Pupil Sophie Turner from Farnborough Road Junior School, Southport was celebrating having being named as the Southport Flower Show design a garden competition. The competition was opened to all junior school children in years 3, 4, 5 and 6. The children were encouraged to design an eco-friendly garden in line with the 2014 show theme of ‘Brazil’. Over 600 young people from 39 schools submitted their designs. Sophie received £500 for her school grounds and a £50 prize for herself. Adrian Antell, headteacher at Farnborough Road School, said: “Sally Wright, the Year 5 leader, introduced the children to the ‘Design a Garden’ competition and encouraged them to have a go – and what a result, with Sophie of year 5 being selected as one of the winners. “Sophie is interested in gardens, ecology and possesses a creative streak which she has certainly put to good use. She is obviously delighted about the prize money as is the school. “The £500 prize is likely to be spent on improving our nature area, where we encourage all kinds of wildlife to flourish.”
2014 Winner – Sophie Turner from Farnborough Road Junior School
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Sponsored by
Green schools Scarecrows scoop prizes The National Wildflower Centre announced the winners of their annual scarecrow making competition in July. Caroline Davies, public open spaces manager and Cath Seil, Green Space development office from Knowsley Council braved the weather to tackle the difficult job of judging the 49 entries; all created by local schools and community groups from across Merseyside. The theme this year was ‘Happy and Healthy Outdoors’ Caroline Davies said: “It was such a difficult job to have to choose a winner from each category. They were all amazing! Well done to everyone who took part”. Right: Sporty Simon Simply Cycling, Mosspits Lane Primary School
‘Conifers for Colleges’ scheme Myerscough College has become one of the first in the country to take part in a project to promote the sustainable growth and use of coniferous trees across the UK in future generations. The ‘Conifers for Colleges’ scheme is a joint venture with the Royal Forestry Society (RFS) and will see hundreds of trees planted at the college’s Bilsborrow campus this year. In total, around 400 coniferous trees, made up of 18 different species, as well as a further 100 additional broadleaf trees, all with tree guards, will be planted. Over the coming years, arboriculture students will monitor their growth and be able to get a broader understanding of a larger variety of trees, with the research data from the project also being made widely available to woodland owners and managers across the UK via a special database.
The winners were … Under 7’s winning scarecrow – Sporty Simon Simply Cycling Mosspits Lane Primary School Under 12’s winning scarecrow – Miss R E Cycling Christian Fellowship School
Duncan Slater, above, is a senior lecturer in Arboriculture at Myerscough College and said: “This planting represents a great opportunity for the College to interact further with the forestry industry, which it already helps in terms of the training of students in woodland management practices and practical courses in the use of chainsaws, tree climbing and the safe use of arboricultural machinery. “Our diploma and degree students are all taught about and involved in tree-related research, so this project adds another opportunity for learning for both our current and future students and adds to the suite of scientific trials that the College is undertaking on-campus and within the arboricultural industry.” Miss R E Cycling made by – Christian Fellowship School
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West Derby School We Deliver Success Outstanding Ofsted
Year 5 & 6
Open Evening Thursday 18th September 3pm – 6pm West Derby School, 364 West Derby Road, Liverpool, Merseyside L13 7HQ, T: 0151 235 1333 www.westderbyschool.co.uk @westderbyschool
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News
World Record Breakers Sefton set a new world record
A total of 5,821 school children from schools in Sefton have set a new human poppy world record
To mark Sefton's World War I commemorations, a total of 5,821 pupils from more than 47 schools were on Southport beach to form a huge human poppy. The huge group formed the famous poppy logo on Southport beach wearing red and black and green t-shirts. Pupils had to stand in the formation for more than 15 minutes and the amazing feat has been verified with Guinness as a new world record. The event was organised by Sefton Council in partnership with Sefton CVS and the Royal British Legion and watched by thousands of residents and visitors on Southport seafront. Leader of Sefton Council, Cllr Peter Dowd, was at the event. He said: “To watch the world record being set on Southport beach was truly amazing. “Once in formation, the poppy looked spectacular and the hugely successful event marks the start of Sefton’s commemorations to mark the onset of World War I. “Thanks must go to everyone involved in the world record from the children in the poppy to all the staff at Sefton Council and our partners to make this happen. It has certainly put Sefton on the map.” Schools who took part in the event 48
were supported by Merseytravel who put on additional trains to Southport and all schools who took part made contributions to the Royal British Legion. Throughout the day pupils were entertained with music, singing, physical exercises and marching drills hosted by compere Neil Newton. Mandy Sutton, interim area manager for The Royal British Legion in Merseyside, said: “Congratulations to Sefton Council for this fantastic effort and we were over the moon to hear the official results that they’ve broken the world record. “We are thrilled the team chose to create a giant human poppy, especially in this poignant year as the nation commemorates the centenary of the First World War. “The Legion is also grateful to the generosity of local people and school children across Sefton who supported this event and gave donations to the Legion the money raised will help us to continue providing help and advice to serving personnel and veterans of all conflicts.” “Amongst some of the guests included Dame Lorna Muirhead, Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside, the Mayor of Sefton, Cllr Kevin Cluskey, Ian Meadows the High Sherriff of Merseyside and a number of Sefton residents aged 96 or older.
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Landmark moment in education Changes have been welcomed that will see children and young people with special educational needs (SEN) and their families a greater say in the support they receive. The new measures are being described as some of the biggest changes in special education for 30 years. Firstly there’s been a name change - acronym SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). The new system will also give parents the option to apply for a personal budget. For the first time they can have more financial control over their child's education. The government has said the new system is a “landmark moment” for children with SEN, which will stretch from birth to age 25. For children and young people on a statement - they receive statutory support in school - they will be moved onto Education Health and Care plans. This means the local council, NHS and school will work together to create a plan for the child. Edward Timpson, Parliamentary under-secretary of state for children and families, said: “Like any parent, I want the best for my child. Every parent should expect people who provide support for their children to make sure that support is the best it can possibly be. “The system for supporting children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities is changing. “For far too long, many families have had to fight for the support they need. That has to stop. I want to see a system where families are at the heart of things. A system where decisions taken by those who provide support for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities really do put those children and young people first. “The most important people in any child or young person’s life are their parents. You know your children best of all. What you as parents think, feel and say is important. “You should be listened to and you need to be fully involved in decisions that affect your children. That’s what the new system is all about”.
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Phil Daniels A Week in the Life of... Phil Daniels, headteacher at Springwood Heath Primary School Sunday Like most headteachers, my week starts on Sunday. I produce notes for staff because I don’t like holding Monday morning meetings. I share them with my deputy and then email them to staff so they can then spend Monday morning preparing or chatting about their weekends. I prepare an assembly too because that’s how I begin the week in school. Monday I spend the morning with the admin officer or business manager and associate headteacher. We share diaries and talk about any staffing issues, forthcoming meetings, staff development that’s going to happen and the effect it’s going to have. It’s a management meeting as opposed to a leadership meeting. I also hold an assembly with the whole school and it has a well-worn format where I tell the children a story. It’s usually about something we’re thinking about during the week or something that’s happened the week before so the children can relate to a real situation. It could be to awaken their curiosity, make them reflect on something, or to remember something and it’s a part of the week that I know the children look forward to. On Monday afternoon I pop into classrooms, seeing children working and seeing what’s on display. Tuesday It’s a monitoring morning. Depending on what’s happening it could be a lesson observation, discussions with staff about performance management or progress, a look at children’s books, talking to children about what they’re doing, or just sitting in the classroom while children are working. In the afternoon I try to fit in governors’ business, so there might be meetings about curriculum or building issues – this is a PFI (private finance initiative) school which sees private companies carry out construction and maintenance work, so there may be issues to be dealt with in relation to the maintenance managers of the school. I regularly visit the dining room at lunch time, talking to children about their 50
dinner and good eating habits, table manners and anything that crops into mind about healthy eating. If I’m really fortunate the cook finds me a bowl of fruit salad. She makes the best fruit salad in Liverpool, and towards the end of lunch I often sit with a group of Year 6s to eat it. Wednesday I go into Liverpool Learning Partnership mode. The associate head takes over and I attend a meeting with the partnership’s executive board or one of its strategic groups. As a CEO my role involves leading partnership activity, promoting the partnership to different organisations and making sure schools have their priorities promoted across the city and nationally. Arriving back at school, I pick up any issues from the associate head. It’s also time to prepare for a meeting after school. Thursday I keep Thursday mornings as free as possible because, usually every fortnight, the local heads meet. As a member of their steering group I like to keep in touch with schools across the city and share what’s going on at Springwood. It’s a great opportunity to network and find out about resources and services that are available. Thursday afternoon is, again, spent catching up on events. It’s a time when my admin staff can make appointments with parents, reps, and people who want to look around or use school facilities. Friday In the morning we have an achievement assembly. We look at starred work from each class, and children talk about something they’ve been proud of during the week. Then we present the Springwood Star Award to two pupils from each year and they get a red, green, yellow or blue badge. The rest of Friday is catching up, planning for the next week and in the afternoon we have golden story time. If I’m free I’ll read a story to a group of children who have won the right to come to golden story time as a reward. It’s a lovely way to end the week.
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Give your child a head start with one-to-one or group tuition either at our Academy or in the comfort of your own home. Courses are also provided for adults. Places are limited
What did you do this summer?
Anthony Lowton Education Recruitment Consultant for Liverpool
First thing, welcome back! Did you enjoy your summer break? For me, it is one of the most fun times of the year and not just because I get to go on holiday and work less hours! The summer is a chance for me to meet new staff, find out about their individual strengths and needs, then see how I can help them come the Autumn term. Last summer, I met a qualified teacher who had over 15 years teaching experience and was looking for a change in career direction. When she arrived in our office, she was apprehensive about being on supply and not in a full time role. As I always tell my new members of staff, our main priority is finding the type of work you want, not just “any teaching job”. Within weeks of working for Connex, she called to say how much she loved the challenge of going to different schools and meeting new pupils. They are now planning to stay on supply next academic year to further take advantage of the freedom supply gives them. This is what September is all about for me; seeing my new staff get over those initial nerves and start to appreciate supply for all its’ positives. It is this that makes my fourth academic year at Connex just as exciting as my first. I look forward to placing my new staff into schools and seeing them progress in their careers over the next academic year. It almost makes going back to working from 7:30am – 6:00pm worth it… almost.
Compton House, School Lane, Liverpool L1 3BT (off Hanover Street) TEL: 0151 329 2727 FAX: 0151 329 2728 liverpool@connex-education.com
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Viewpoint
Choosing the right secondary school for your child Starting the secondary school application process and feeling a bit clueless? A survey of parents has revealed that parents’ top criteria in choosing a school for their child is its academic performance, followed by how close the school is to their home. But that's not all... Also key to their decision making are less tangible criteria – the right “feeling” or a good “fit” – and parents emphasised the importance of impressions made when visiting. We quizzed the experts to find out what you should look out for when touring schools.
Barry Bridden
Barry Bridden, headteacher, Lord Derby Academy Parents/carers looking for a suitable secondary school often firstly look at a school’s achievement and distance from home. Secondly to this there are usually three areas of expressed interest: firstly, enrichment – what the school can offer their child in development outside the classroom; secondly a good gifted and talented policy that ensures children will find their niche; and finally a robust SEND policy that will support every child aspiring to reach their potential irrelevant of their need. However underpinning all this is parents/carers knowing their child is safe in school so when visiting schools they are generally comforted by an orderly environment with positive interactions and good behaviour. Anne Pontifex, headteacher, St John Bosco Arts College Visiting a prospective school is the ideal way to understand its culture and ethos. Browsing the brochure and website will reveal important Ofsted reports and exam results, for example. However, a visit allows you to look at facilities such as classrooms, the gym and IT suites. Open days offer a great opportunity to meet teachers and ask questions. Recommended discussion topics include; the provision of extra-curricular events and any business and university links the school may have. You could also ask about any technology the schools are utilising for interactive learning.
Anne Pontifex
Graham Morgan
James Beaton
Graham Morgan, school governor and parent As I know from both personal experience and through my role as a school governor choosing the right secondary school is one of the most major decisions parents will have to make for their child. I would advise any parent in this position to attend the open evenings of the schools they’re considering as they provide a great opportunity to chat with staff and current pupils. I’d also advocate speaking with families who already have children attending the school to find out what they have to say in terms of whether their children are happy there, do they look forward to going to school and do they speak enthusiastically about what they’re doing at school. Then go with your instincts.
Making the move to secondary school is a milestone in every child's life. As with any change it needs to be prepared for in advance. Even if you have your heart set on one school, try to visit at least three to compare and contrast. Throw in one wild-card, as well: this is particularly important if your preferred schools are oversubscribed. For most families, preparation will start in the final year of primary school as soon as your child returns to school following the summer holidays. For some the preparation may need to start sooner. From finding the right school to meeting the deadline for submitting your preference form, waiting to hear the outcome and submitting any appeals that may be needed if you do not get your preferred school can be a worrying time.
James Beaton, headteacher, Fazakerley High School The choice of secondary school is one of the most important decisions a parent has to make for their child. At Fazakerley High School we recognise this. Our comprehensive transition programme starts in Year 4 and aims to support both pupils and parents in making the decision that is right for them. The criteria by which a school is chosen should be influenced by one thought; “is this school right for my child?” There are many factors that will help influence this choice such as performance, reputation and how the school feels; if all of this comes together and you as a parent are happy and the child is happy; then you have made the right choice.
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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Challenging the brightest
According to Sir Michael Wilshaw, HM chief inspector of Ofsted, the founding principle of comprehensive education is that “all pupils and students should be given the opportunity to achieve their full potential”. It’s a principle which, he says, can be fulfilled by having the “highest expectations of the most able children in non-selective schools”. But are pupils’ strengths being recognised and challenged right across the board? And is enough being done to narrow the gap between those deemed ‘most able’ and their peers to truly ensure that the talents and skills of all children are given the maximum opportunity to thrive? Words by Natasha Young
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Challenging the brightest
In June last year, Ofsted delivered findings of its landmark survey entitled ‘The most able students: are they doing as well as they should in our non-selective secondary schools?’. The survey came to a conclusion that “too many of our most able children and young people are underperforming in our non-selective state secondary schools,” with key findings centering on children considered to be “high-attaining” pupils as they had left primary school with Level 5 achievements in English and maths, and then measuring their success by whether they went on to reach an A*, A or B grade at GCSE level in those subjects. The report went onto prompt concerns over whether enough of these ‘more able’ pupils had made the grade and were being equipped with what is needed to secure places at leading Russell Group universities, and whether progress was being made towards the UK’s PISA rankings – a global league table compiled as a result of 15-year-olds around the world taking tests in key subjects of reading, maths and science. However, whilst English and maths may well be core subjects, is there too much focus on them when it comes to measuring the success of pupils and schools as a whole? And could such a dominant focus therefore be hindering the chance of all children reaching their highest potential? After all, the education on offer in England is a well-rounded one, opening up opportunities to succeed in a variety of subject areas from horizon-broadening languages, knowledge
“
There is a real risk that the measurable parts become more important than the whole. And we compound the problem by having an unimaginitive exam system, little changed from Victorian times, which obliges students to sit alone at their desks in preparation for a world in which, for much of the time, they will need to work collaboratively.
”
Tony Little headmaster at Eton College
enhancing humanities, creative arts and technology, and competitive sports. This summer the National Society for Education in Art and Design (NSEAD) presented its Art, Craft and Design Educator Survey Report 2014, for which 172 members considered the position and value of the subject of schools over the last three years from 2011-2014, and suggested that not enough time and resources are being invested into the creative subject area. On releasing the results, NSEAD’s general secretary Lesley Butterworth explained: “From the findings we have been able to draw five main conclusions, all of which reflect the negative impact of policy changes on our subject and on our community. These are: Performance measures continue to erode provision at key stage three and four; fewer specialists are being trained and there is a paucity of subject specific professional development; learning opportunities for pupils both in school and within the cultural sector have diminished; and the subject lacks value, especially in the state school sector.” Meanwhile the methods of which young people’s abilities are actually assessed have led to the suggestion that some childrens’ potential may be being overlooked. In recent years professionals from inside the education sector to business leaders have hit the headlines by voicing concerns over schools becoming ‘exam factories’, and the use of test result data as a means of measuring success of both individuals and entire schools has been brought into question. Recently, a letter sent to pupils at Lancashire’s Barrowford Primary School accompanying their
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Challenging the brightest
end of key stage two test results went viral across social media and caught the attention of national press, as headteacher Rachel Tomlinson wrote: “We are concerned that these tests do not always assess all of what it is that make each of you special and unique. The people who create these tests and score them of not know each of you the way your teachers do, the way I hope to, and certainly not the way your families do. They do not know that many of you speak two languages. They do not know that you can play a musical instrument or that you can dance or paint a picture.” Responding to the widespread reaction to her letter, Tomlinson told The Guardian that she wasn’t playing down the importance of results but simply telling pupils “we want you to know that they’re actually just a small part of you”. And away from state schools, the letter’s “many ways of being smart” sentiment was also supported by Eton College’s headteacher Tony Little who, in a comment piece for the Radio Times, said in August: “Measuring only the easily measurable, such as exam results, can be misleading. There is a real risk that the measurable parts become more important than the whole. And we compound the problem by having an unimaginitive exam system, little changed from Victorian times, which obliges students to sit alone at their desks in preparation for a world in which, for much of the time, they will need to work collaboratively.” So maybe a broader focus on all subjects and skills is needed to ensure that children
“
If we are serious about improving social mobility we must narrow the gap in educational opportunities outside of school as well as within the classroom. Offering low-income families vouchers to spend on extra-curricular activities or private tuition would be a step towards this.
”
Conor Ryan director of research at the Sutton Trust
are given the greatest opportunity to achieve through their strengths, no matter where they lie, however there is still reason to believe there are other barriers preventing all children from reaching their full potential. Office of National Statistics data has recently been analysed by The Sutton Trust – a think tank which aims to improve social mobility through education – and suggests that parents from the richest fifth of households are four times more likely to pay further tuition and extra-curricular activities outside of school. The trust is now calling for a portion of pupil premium – the extra funding given to state schools to help raise the attainment of disadvantaged pupils – to be spent on giving vouchers to low income families for more extra-curricular activities. Conor Ryan, director of research at the Sutton Trust, says: “Inequalities in education don’t stop after the school bell has sounded. They extend to the range of private tuition and extra-curricular activities available to children whose parents can afford to pay for them. While many schools offer a range of sporting and other activities outside regular school hours, there is still a substantial advantage available to those who can afford it. “If we are serious about improving social mobility we must narrow the gap in educational opportunities outside of school as well as within the classroom. Offering low-income families vouchers to spend on extra-curricular activities or private tuition would be a step towards this.”
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News
Programme expands Three new schools set to be built Contracts worth £28 million have been awarded for the construction of three new schools in Liverpool as part of Mayor Joe Anderson’s Schools Investment Programme. A report to the cabinet recommended that new homes for Northway Primary School in Childwall and New Park Primary School in Kensington are built by Morgan Sindall at a cost of £5.5 million per school, and Willmott Dixon constructs Archbishop Blanch Church of England High School for £17.5 million. Both primary schools have reached the end of their natural life and are deemed to be unsuited to modern teaching methods, with classrooms that are undersized and insufficient quality space for teaching. Northway is more than 80 years old
with the highest backlog of repairs of all primary schools in Liverpool, while New Park does not have a grass playing field at present. Both schools will be rebuilt on the playgrounds of their existing sites. Archbishop Blanch will move from its old and outdated building on Mount Vernon Road near the city centre to a new purpose-built site on Earle Road, off Smithdown Road in Picton. It has been earmarked because it is in close proximity to the existing school and has good transport links. It will educate 900 girls aged 11-16 and have a mixed sixth form. Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson said: “This is a much-needed investment in three schools which desperately need it and is part of my commitment to deliver
The proposed Archbishop Blanch Church of England High School
at least 12 new schools for pupils in the city. “The new buildings will be a tremendous boost for thousands of present and future generations of school children and ensure they get the most out of their learning.” Archbishop Blanch headteacher Jane Griffiths said: “We are all greatly excited by having the chance to plan a new building from the ground up, enabling us to create a brilliant, modern learning environment for our students.” Northway Primary School headteacher Paul Anderson said: “As the plans have progressed for our new school, so the excitement has grown. “Being actively involved in the process has helped us appreciate that this is a once in a generation opportunity, to make a significant difference for current and future Northway pupils”. New Park Primary School headteacher Karen Hutchings said: “Every member of our school community is thrilled at the prospect of a new building. “It really will enhance learning even further and bring our facilities into the 21st century, and all of the children and staff are so excited and can't wait to watch their new school go up.” Work will start later this year on all three schools and they are expected to open in September 2015.
Hats off to young graduates! Graduates as young as five donned their mortarboards and gowns to mark the end of another successful summer for Knowsley Children’s University. More than 1,900 young people aged 5-14 took part in the fourweek long Children’s University programme this year. The scheme organises fun and educational activities for children, designed to help them broaden their knowledge and skills while trying new hobbies and making friends. At the end of the programme the young people enjoyed a graduation ceremony, hosted at Liverpool Hope University’s Childwall Campus. This year, children from 30 of Knowsley’s schools took part in the Children’s University, which started in 2008 and has grown 58
in numbers every summer. More than 5,000 children have now graduated in total. Participating children receive different awards based on the number of hours of activity they take part in. The highest award presented this year was a silver degree to Charli Clarke of Eastcroft Park Primary School in Kirkby for 360+ hours of extracurricular learning. Charli has attended Children’s University for a number of years, enabling her to achieve this incredible amount of additional learning. Children’s University is a national programme that aims to recognise and reward additional learning outside the classroom. At the heart of its work is the ambition to raise aspirations, boost achievement Young graduates from this year’s Knowsley Children’s and foster a love of learning. University
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Secondary News
Exciting future New St Julie’s plan unveiled A proposal to rebuild St Julie’s Catholic High School largely on its existing site in Liverpool is being unveiled. Just five percent of the neighbouring open space (part of Woolton Woods) will be affected, and none of the woodland or trees will be disturbed. A meeting was held at St Julie’s for local people, parents and pupils who were presented with the preferred option. Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson said: “This scheme will deliver a fantastic new school for the area, benefiting hundreds of families who live in and around Woolton, as well as the wider community. “We have listened to the school and local residents to come up with a workable solution which means the school can stay where it is and minimise the impact on the surrounding area. We believe we have developed an exciting and workable compromise for everyone. “The proposal we have come up with means 95 percent of the neighbouring field and all of the woodland will be completely untouched, leaving plenty of open space for the local community. “This is a chance for the local community to come along to the meeting, learn the facts about what we are proposing and see our plans for a fantastic new facility which will benefit generations of young people and the local community.” Headteacher of St Julie’s, Tim
The new design for St Julies’s Catholic High School
Alderman, said: “We are pleased with the latest proposal that the council has come up with for St Julie’s and our students. “It will provide a 21st century learning environment that includes the latest technology as well as cutting edge resources which are becoming increasingly difficult and expensive to deliver in our current school building. “We are all really excited at the prospect of seeing the proposals become reality, delivering real benefits for pupils now and in the future and for the wider local community, particularly young families.”
Sailing ‘Maybe’ around the Scottish Isles During the summer holidays staff and students from Broadgreen International School embarked on a week of sailing the tall ship ‘Maybe’ around the Scottish Isles. They had an intensive training course in sailing and all students received fantastic feedback from the skipper so much so that they were invited back again at the end of the summer holidays to sail the ship again from Liverpool to Falmouth! Everyone had an action packed week with highlights including racing in the Clyde regatta from Greenock, around the Isle of Bute into Portavadie. This included sailing through the night on a four 60
hourly watch duty. The team from Broadgreen International School came first in their class and second overall. They caught glimpses of seals and porpoises, attended a hog roast party at Portavadie marina for the opening of the Commonwealth Games. Students also gave a live interview for BBC Breakfast on board the Maybe and sailed up the river Clyde as part of the Commonwealth flotilla, berthing for the night alongside the BBC Scotland studios and attending the BBC at the Quay live music event. Right: Pupils gain first hand experience on the tallship Maybe
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A complete rebuild on the existing footprint of the St Julie’s site is not considered feasible due to tight site constraints, and a comprehensive survey has shown there are no other suitable sites nearby which would deliver a large enough building or provide safe access”. Existing access points will be used during construction of the new school. There will be no change to vehicular access to the school site. An original plan to move St Julie’s to the former Lower Lee Special School on Beaconsfield Road in Woolton was withdrawn in June following concerns from residents over traffic.
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take a closer look at Carmel
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News
New Ofsted chair Passionate about education Secretary of State for Education Nicky Morgan has appointmented David Hoare as the next chair of Ofsted. Mr Hoare, ex-chairman of the Teenage Cancer Trust, took up his post earlier this month. His background in leading successful organisations and his experience in driving change made him the outstanding candidate. He has replaced Baroness Sally Morgan, who has been chair since 2011. Education Secretary Nicky Morgan said: “I am delighted to appoint David to this important role. “He is a proven business leader who has the expertise in leadership and governance crucial to helping Ofsted through a significant period of change and reform. “He is also passionate about education and his work with academies across the country shows he shares my commitment to ever higher standards in our schools, for all children but particularly the most disadvantaged. “I am confident that his strong track record in business and the passion he demonstrated throughout the interview
David Hoare, new chair of Ofsted
process will be of huge benefit to Ofsted. He and Sir Michael Wilshaw will make a superb team. David Hoare said: “I am very happy to be taking up this appointment. “I look forward to working closely with Sir Michael Wilshaw to raise quality in children’s services and standards in our schools and colleges - especially for disadvantaged pupils. “Ofsted has a key role helping to improve the leadership of our schools and the performance of our pupils. I look forward to being part of the team.”
MERSEYSIDE GOES BACK TO SCHOOL Merseyside is preparing to go back to school as part of a national campaign to inspire current students to success. Former state school students across the region will take part in Back to School Week run by the education charity Future First between October 13th to 18th which will highlight the role volunteers can play in motivating state students to academic success and career confidence. Future First is asking Merseyside’s workers – from plumbers to musicians, photographers to nurses, lawyers to accountants - to sign up to support their old school. Future First works in more 62
than 10 per cent of state secondary schools and colleges across Britain, including many in the Merseyside area, enabling schools to harness the talents of former students as mentors, work experience providers, career and education role models and as volunteer governors, donors and fundraisers. Private schools and universities have harnessed the talents of alumni for many years, but the idea has never been embedded in the state sector until now. To register your school with Future First or to sign up to support your old state school Back to School Week runs from October 13th to 18th 2014.
Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils
UK Educators join forces The Education Foundation, Facebook and education leaders from institutions across the UK have worked together to build a new toolkit for teachers interested in the application of social media in and around the classroom. The toolkit, hosted at Edusocial.info, contains a range of practical guidance and advice built from over two years of work in UK schools, colleges and universities to apply social media to learning. The kit includes: • A series of ‘How to’ guides for teachers looking to use Facebook Pages and Groups • Subject specific case studies – for example, using Facebook Pages to host scientific research, and using Facebook Groups to run sports teams • Tips on managing privacy, safety and security • Facebook in the real world – examples of Facebook in use in a range of institutions. The guide includes a series of case studies exploring the use of Facebook in schools for collaborative learning, as well as step by step guides for teachers and educators new to the platform. For further information log onto www.edusocial.info
Next generation could be life-savers In a recent St John Ambulance Health and Safety Laboratory report of school employees, 97% of respondents rated providing pupils with an appreciation of health and safety risks as ‘important’ or ‘very important’. A survey in 2011 also showed that 73% of schoolchildren wanted to learn how to resuscitate someone and give first aid. Despite this, first aid in schools is still not as high up the agenda as it should be. As well as empowering staff with the confidence to respond in an emergency, extending first aid training to pupils teaches them to care for others, equipping them with skills to be the difference between a life lost and a life saved, inside the school gates and beyond. Graham Ellis, regional training manager for the St John Ambulance, said: “Most teachers would like to equip their students with first aid skills but cite lack of time 38%, staff training 38% and cost 17% as barriers to introducing lessons into the classroom. “Furthermore, 53% believe it would take first aid training to be a national curriculum requirement in order for more schools to take it seriously. “At St John Ambulance, we believe that first aid should be as much a part of growing up as learning to cross the road. St John Ambulance has resources which can be downloaded for free on its teaching resource website Teach the Difference (www.teachthedifference.org.uk).
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News
Full line up for Educate Awards An esteemed panel of judges are now confirmed for this year’s Educate Awards. The new additions to the judging line up include the city’s immediate past Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Gary Millar. He will be joined by Chris Walker, regional managing editor of Trinity Mirror North West and North Wales, Lesley Martin-Wright, chief executive of Knowsley Chamber, Mark Beedles, managing director of Connex Education, Andrew Pimbley of Claremont Farm and Wirral’s Farm Feast, and the education team at the respected Everyman and Playhouse Theatres. Now in its third year, the Educate Awards aims to shine a spotlight on innovative education in Merseyside, celebrating the dedication of teachers, students and schools. Organisers are
hoping this year’s ceremony, taking place on November 21st in Liverpool Cathedral, will be the best yet. Entries for the Awards are welcome from schools and colleges in all six Merseyside boroughs. The categories include individual acknowledgements such as ‘Teacher of the Year’ to the ‘Community Partnership’ award, which celebrates the schools community involvement. The closing date for nominations is Monday 15th September and Kim O’Brien, executive editor of Educate Magazine urges schools to get their nominations in before it’s too late. Kim says: “Each year, we receive more and more entries, all of which are increasingly strong and inspiring in their content. We’ve already received a large number of entries this year and we’re expecting this to increase further after
Councillor Gary Millar
the school summer holidays. Merseyside is an area known for its outstanding education, so we’re eager to acknowledge all the hard work and creative energy that goes on inside the school gates.” The award categories, contact information and entry forms can be found at www.educateawards.co.uk
Twittering schools in the spotlight Twitter is fast becoming one of the most important tools for educators and Merseyside schools are leading the way, according to a series of reports this summer. And Educate’s managing editor Kim O’Brien has been instrumental in highlighting the exciting and innovative ways schools in the region are making use of the social networking site. Educate joined Twitter in early 2013, aiming to become a ‘hub’ for all things education. But Kim also saw the potential between twitter and schools. So much so, she has become an opinion leader in this field, sharing her thoughts and ideas of how schools can embrace Twitter and witness the incredible collaborations that come from a 140 character tweet. Kim has almost become an ambassador for ‘twittering schools’, through Educate, she is championing the new way schools are connecting and paving the way for schools to follow. School networking has broken out of the school grounds in to the digital realm and Kim sees no signs of it slowing down. She says, “Thanks to Twitter, schools are now learning from each other. Education is all about the sharing of ideas and schools are now starting to see the potential in online collaboration and conversation. It’s still a relatively new 64
idea and it’s exciting to watch new schools join and learn for themselves, the possibilities really are endless.” In June, Kim was asked to write a piece for the Telegraph website, explaining why the use of Twitter in schools can instigate massive change and help establish dialogue between students, parents and educators. This was hugely successful, received a positive reception and was shared 369 times, 313 of these were shared directly to Twitter, which is the perfect example of why she is actively encouraging Twitter interaction; it is a broadcasting
Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils
tool that can create massive impact. Following on from this success, in July, Kim was invited to be a guest on Radio Merseyside, providing her opinion on why schools should be embracing Twitter. With over 48,000 listeners a day from around Merseyside, this was a great way for Kim to shine a spotlight on Merseyside schools that are leading the way on Twitter. From this broadcast, schools and listeners got involved online, by tweeting their thoughts, endorsing Kim’s ideas and collectively discussing why they use Twitter. The power of this online tool was seen first-hand. Later this month, a Guardian article written by Kim will be published online, discussing how the initial apprehension surrounding twitter and schools is finally slipping away. She argues how in its place, is a new wave of communication; how an active education community is forming online and how easy it is for schools to get involved. Only time will reveal the future of Twitter and schools, but Kim thinks all the tools are already in place to make it a promising one, saying, “Twitter allows schools to broadcast messages that can resonate instantly, build relationships and connect with people they never even imagined possible, I think that’s pretty amazing.”
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CLARENCE HIGH SCHOOL “we seek to provide a safe and caring environment in which young people with emotional, behavioural and social difficulties are encouraged and enabled to fulfil their potential ”
Living and learning within the Clarence High School community Our school and Children’s Home is set in tranquil surroundings in an area of natural beauty and conservation Our Children’s Home accommodation has recently been upgraded and offers comfortable living accommodation with private gardens and access to excellent leisure facilities Our facilities are set in extensive grounds and include: a sports hall, an all weather basketball pitch, theatre, beauty salon and playing fields which include a full size football pitch.
We welcome visitors. If you would like to come along and see our facilities and meet the staff please contact: The Principal, Paul Boulton on 01704 872 151 If you require a copy of our prospectus please email: clarencehighschool@nugentcare.org
www.clarencehighschool.co.uk Clarence High School is part of Nugent Care. Registered Charity Number: 222930 Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils
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EDUCATE PLUS Sponsored by Greater Merseyside Learning Providers Federation (GMLPF)
GMLPF sponsored apprentices successfully complete tall ship sail Five apprentices sailed into the Albert Dock in July after being sponsored by GMLPF to participate in a week-long sail from Whitehaven to Liverpool on a tall ship. The apprentices were in good spirits, looking tanned and windswept after several days at sea. The week-long voyage on the Class A tall ship, Pelican of London, formed part of the ApprenticeShip Cup regatta, hosted and managed by Merseyside Adventure Sailing Trust (MAST). The apprentices who successfully completed on the Pelican were Michael Gibbons (apprentice with Wirral Metropolitan College), Ellie Gardam and Lauren Monroe (apprentices with Lite Ltd), and Bradley Stead and Matt Watkinson (apprentices with Riverside College). During the voyage, the apprentices were trained in all aspects of running a ship, including steering, setting sails, keeping watch, navigating and climbing the
rigging. The Pelican sailed from Whitehaven to Liverpool via Belfast with a circuit of the Isle of Man. The apprentices will receive the internationally recognised RYA Competent Crew qualification and other recognition for their participation. James Glendenning, CEO of GMLPF said: “The Apprentice Ship Cup was a unique chance for local apprentices to apply the skills they have been developing on their apprenticeship in a new and challenging environment – skills like team work, communication and leadership. “GMLPF is proud to have supported these five apprentices in this exciting venture. I have no doubt that completing the voyage will lead to significant personal growth, which will benefit both themselves as individuals, and their employers. I’d like to congratulate them all for their commitment and achievement.”
Build My Future Festival for students Year 12 students at Life Sciences UTC attended the college’s ‘Build My Future’ festival and took their first steps toward landing the job of their dreams. The three-day festival focused on how to prepare for university, apprenticeships and employment. Students were invited to participate in various lectures and seminars, with each day emphasising the importance of different aspects of employability. With core career areas ranging from medicine, veterinary science and dentistry through to engineering and drug discovery, an expert from the sector delivered each session. Vice principal Ian Parry was extremely pleased with the progress being made
thanks to the help of external partners and academics, he said: “Our students have had an exceptional experience. Their work has been truly inspirational and will provide them with further opportunities to explore their chosen pathways and ultimately, give them unique advantages to source the careers that they aspire to.” The event included students creating their own personal LinkedIn profiles, with assistance from social media experts helping them craft a powerful online presence. Mr Parry maintained: “This is somewhat distant from the traditional careers support given to students, but doing so creates a direct channel of communication with thousands of employers looking to Students recieved one-to-one sessions hire young graduates and apprentices.”
10 YEARS CHAMPIONING PROFESSIONAL LEARNING ON MERSEYSIDE
www.gmlpf.net
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Designs on life Student scoops city’s prestigious architecture prize Aspiring architect and St Helens College student, Natalie Heywood, has scooped a prestigious prize awarded by the University of Liverpool School of Architecture. The Access to Higher Education student applied for a place at the worldrenowned School of Architecture which was established in 1894 after she completed a year-long course at St Helens College. After receiving a conditional offer from the university, the London-born student welcomed the excellent news of being shortlisted for the impressive Elmes Prize. The prize, which is in memory of Harvey Lonsdale Elmes, a prominent city architect and designer of St Georges Hall, was established to encourage ‘the
study of architecture or the fine arts within the University of Liverpool School of Architecture’. It is awarded to the student who submits the highest standard of work in their portfolio as part of their application to the university. Natalie scooped the recognised award and £1000 prize after impressing the university with her application and portfolio submission for a place on the university’s BA (Hons) programme. The budding architect received the award at the highly-anticipated Degree Show in the School of Architecture in June 2014. Natalie, 24, said: “I have always had a desire to go to university and thanks to the Access course at the college I am now able to fulfil my ambition. I have always had
Natalie Heywood
a keen interest in architecture and the course I studied at the college has
enhanced my creativity and desire to succeed within the creative industry.”
APPRENTICESHIP SUCCESS IN SEFTON Apprentices at Sefton Council have been praised at a special event to highlight the work and contribution they make. Cllr Paul Tweed, cabinet member corporate services and performance recently met with some of the apprentices currently on one of the programmes to get feedback and comments. Currently there are more than 50 young people on an apprenticeship scheme in Sefton, learning through a combination of on and off the job training and education from a wide range of different career opportunities. This includes electrical engineering, finance and administration assistants as well as a ranger working on Sefton’s coast and countryside. Through the scheme they get to work for a real employer, earn a real salary, gain a real qualification and most importantly gain valuable knowledge, skills and experience that they will be able to use in the future. A number of apprentices have recently had success which will support their personal and professional development: Apprentice Dylan Jones, from Springwell Park Primary School, Bootle who is training as a facilities management assistant caretaker, recently won the prestigious Sefton Apprentice of Year 2014, from the Liverpool City Region Annual Apprenticeship Awards, held at
Cllr Paul Tweed, cabinet member, corporate services and performance meets some of the apprentices at Sefton Council
Knowsley Hall. The aim of the awards was to recognise and celebrate the city region’s many fantastic apprentices. Apprentice Ben McNally, who is currently doing an apprenticeship in electrical engineering, based at Bootle Leisure Centre, was recently selected to represent Sefton in the inaugural event of the apprentice ship cup on board the Tall Ship, Lady of Avenel. The ship, which was crewed by apprentices from all over the North West raced from Oban, in Scotland to Liverpool’s Albert Dock, via Douglas, Isle of Man.
Educate Plus sponsored by GMLPF
Cllr Paul Tweed, said: “Sefton’s apprenticeship programme, and others like it, provides a valuable opportunity for young people to gain knowledge and experience while gaining a qualification that they can develop and build on in the future. It is great to see our apprentices with enthusiasm for their roles. “Today’s employers are looking for people who can demonstrate experience and knowledge in a working environment and those on our apprenticeship programme can certainly do that which will give them an advantage when applying for employment in the future.”
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Students fall in College joins forces with Army
Helping young people get their first job tpm has launched Access to Employment, an exciting new course for school leavers and other young people aged 16 to 19 looking for their first job. The course is specially designed to help young people into a job or a paid apprenticeship and is packed full of all the skills employers want from new recruits. Not only that, students also get real work experience in the industries they want to work in. By the end of the 12 month course, students will be proficient in essential workplace skills like creative thinking, project management, team-working, budget planning and presenting information. They will also develop communication and interpersonal skills, and receive maths and English training if they need it. Successful graduates of the course will receive level 2 qualifications in Developing Skills for the Workplace, and Employability Skills, and will be guaranteed an interview with a local employer.
A new partnership between Merseyside’s Hugh Baird College and the Army Reserve, the new name for the Territorial Army, has been unveiled. It offers students of all ages the chance to sample a wide range of military trades, education and activities, and boost their transferrable job skills. The project will initially offer a one day introduction course to students on the Bootle-based college's uniformed services courses which prepare students for either the armed or civilian public services. However, organisers believe the tasters will offer something for everyone and appeal to students on many other courses. The short courses will highlight army career specialisms including catering, logistics, engineering, mechanical, signals, medical and physical fitness work. Lieutenant Colonel Bill Busby, the Army’s Merseyside Garrison Commander, is one of the new partnership organisers. “We wanted to build closer links with Hugh Baird College because of its huge range of courses and the diversity in students and staff,” he said. Hugh Baird College public service course manager Clarke Pinnington said: "Our department benefits from excellent experience, skills and contacts, which help students with work visits, networking and employment.” Mr Pinnington said courses are aimed mainly at 16 to 19-year-olds leaving school or sixth form but some students are aged in their early and late 20s. Above left to right - Lt Col Bill Busby RLC, student Lauren Rogers, student Caleb Molloy and Hugh Baird College tutor Conrad Ainsley
Masquerade hair show success Congratulations went out to students and staff from Greenbank College’s Hairdressing Department for staging a magical masquerade show at the World Museum, Liverpool. Students were tasked with recruiting models and then creating their own interpretation of a masquerade theme. The stunning results were enhanced by the costumes loaned from LIPA. An enthusiastic audience, including Louise Ellman MP, were impressed by what they saw and hairdressers and models were encouraged to do an encore of their catwalk show. Tutor Katherine Pullman, said: “I am very proud of what our students have achieved and it’s a fantastic way to end the year. “Hopefully by our hairdressers demonstrating their skills we will encourage people to come into Salon HQ to try our services, or even enrol as a student”.
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College’s future plans Government approves capital funding bid for new campus Knowsley Community College, highly commended by OFSTED in recent reports, has received approval for capital funding that will enable it to develop the former Christ the King Centre for Learning building on Stockbridge Lane, Huyton as its new campus, after approval by the Skills Funding Agency. A decision was taken in July 2013 to close the school at the site, and the building has been empty since the school closed. In September 2013, the College started discussions with Knowsley Council about a possible relocation to the site. Since then the college has conducted a feasibility review and consultation with staff, students, prospective students, parents and other local stakeholders. The college plans to significantly adapt the building to create world class technical and professional facilities for further and higher education, based around a series of ‘enterprise zones’, reflecting the knowledge and skills priorities of the Liverpool City Region. Sheena Ramsey, chief executive of Knowsley Council, said: “We’re really pleased that Knowsley Community College can now proceed with the plans to relocate into the former Christ the King Centre for Learning building.
The former Christ the King Centre for Learning building
“Since the school closed last year, the council has been working hard on proposals to continue with educational provision on the site, and we know local residents have shared our passion to make this happen. “Knowsley Community College’s commitment to the area is great news for local students who are considering their further education options. Their relocation to Christ the King allows them to offer the kinds of courses that equip
local young people with the skills they will need for the jobs of the future.” As well as the educational provision on the site, both Knowsley Council and Knowsley Community College are committed to retaining the popular community use of the facilities at Christ the King. These include the hiring of meeting rooms and sports pitches to local groups, and the opening of the gym facilities to local residents.
GMLPF pledges funds for innovation to boost local skills Greater Merseyside Learning Providers Federation (GMLPF) has announced a funding pool for innovative project ideas that will enhance training provision for young people in the Merseyside area and boost the region as a whole. Applications for the GMLPF’s Challenge Investment Fund are welcomed from members of the federation with two strands of funding available. The Key to Apprenticeships (K2A) Investment Fund will support individual projects up to £25,000 and is open to members who are currently contracted to GMLPF to deliver the K2A programme. The Member Investment Fund, with funds of up to £10,000 available, is open to full GMLPF members. Both strands of the funding focus on enhancing the training provision which is currently available to school leavers and other young people in the Merseyside region. GMLPF is encouraging applicants to consider the gaps or hindrances in current provision and propose an original solution which will deliver clear and measurable benefits to the learner, the training provider and Merseyside as a whole. Examples of projects which might be tackled by Challenge Investment Fund include the launch of new provision in industry sectors that are economically significant to Merseyside, transport-related access issues, innovative marketing and engagement techniques, money management for learners and the improved use of technology.
Educate Plus sponsored by GMLPF
GMLPF chief executive, James Glendenning, said: “The GMLPF Challenge Investment Fund forms part of our drive to invest in the long term future of our members in the Merseyside area, and also our commitment to support the development of our region’s young people. “We’re particularly looking for bids which show the spirit of innovation and can really help us improve the quality and performance of training provision, so raising the level of skills in our region.” Successful applications will be announced on 6 October 2014
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Job vacancy Advertising sales executive Salary ÂŁ14k + very attractive bonus package with on going sales incentives. Due to rapid expansion CPMM Ltd has a position available for an advertising sales executive within their highly successful sales team. Working using a mixture of telephone and face to face contact, your role will consist of negotiating optimal advertising packages across our portfolio of publications including Educate Magazine, and associated events. You will develop existing accounts whilst also proactively establishing new business sales. Previous sales experience is desirable although candidates without this experience will be considered. More importantly, you will be able to prove yourself to be a highly driven, hard working individual with a natural drive to succeed. Impeccable customer service skills are essential as is a strong work ethic, punctuality, reliability and an excellent telephone manner.
If you think you have something to bring to this successfull sales team please send your cv to andy@merseymirror.com
Key To Apprenticeships Helping 16 to 18 year olds into Apprenticeships www.key2apprenticeships.co.uk /key2apprenticeships
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TRAINING PROVIDER EXPANDS North West Community Services Training Ltd who have been an established training provider for nearly 30 years; have recently opened another training centre in the Knowsley area. The centre is based in Huyton Hey Road, offers a variety of opportunities for people of all ages from 14-16, 16-18, 19-24 and 25+. They deliver apprenticeships in the following vocational areas: • Childcare • Health and Social Care • Business Administration • Customer Service
• Team Leading • Teaching Assistant They deliver traineeships and study programme, which provide an excellent opportunity for young people who are not ready to access apprenticeship provision due to confidence and skills. Both programmes are innovative and provide a stepping stone approach for young people to develop skills, confidence and work place opportunity. Learners work towards gaining the skills to access apprenticeship in their chosen area.
Planners approve new Wirral campus The new Wirral Met College Campus at Wirral Waters took another step forward with the approval of the project by Wirral Council planning officials. The approval comes as The Peel Group, the developers behind Wirral Waters, reveal the new designs for the waterfront campus. The campus will be the first capital building on Wirral Waters, one half of the Mersey Waters Enterprise Zone, and will be a dedicated built environment, skills and enterprise centre. Peel and Wirral Met have been collaborating for some time in order that the college courses are aligned to the workforce needs of Wirral Waters and the wider economy, with courses in the renewable energy and construction sectors. Richard Mawdsley, project director at Peel said: “Wirral Met College will be the first new building within Wirral Waters. “Since we received planning permission for Wirral Waters back in May 2012, we’ve been focussed on site preparation, remediation and infrastructure – all of which take time and all are needed to enable us to start delivery. “The new College is all about putting skills and training at the centre of Wirral Waters. Wirral Met are an exemplar FE college and will be training young adults with relevant skills aligned to local industries.” The campus will be developed in partnership between Wirral Met and Peel with funding from the Skills Funding Agency (SFA), the College and Peel. It marks a step forward for Wirral Waters, a 30+ year vision to transform 500 acres of Birkenhead dockland. ‘Wirral Waters is an exemplar scheme within Peel’s Ocean Gateway regeneration strategy for the North West which features more than 50 projects with £50 billion of private investment over the next 50 years.
Sue Higginson, principal of Wirral Met College said: “The College delivery programme is challenging as we are targeting to have the building completed for students in September 2015. “We have worked very closely with Peel’s design team – who established the detailed needs of the College early in the process. We are delighted with the end result – a building that is in essence ‘an essay in construction’. We want the building itself to teach students about construction techniques”. Phil Davies, Leader of Wirral Council, said: “I am proud to see the hard work by the Council, Peel, Wirral Met College and our other partners is starting to pay off.
“This is an extremely important and positive development. Wirral Waters can be the catalyst for huge growth in the construction and advanced manufacturing sectors not just in the region but across the entire north of England. “Making sure that Wirral people have the skills to play a role in this growth is vital for both the local economy and for the businesses that will be creating jobs here. “It is absolutely fitting that the first building on the Wirral Waters site will be the one that is used to create the skills which will ensure the rest of the development fulfils all of our hopes and expectations.”
www.gmlpf.net
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Agents get a CIC out of training Social enterprise aimed at young marketers Agent Marketing has launched a new social enterprise; Agent Academy CIC – a community interest company designed to help young people enter the marketing industry. Agent, which has offices in Liverpool’s Baltic Triangle and London’s Hoxton, has worked with a range of industry leaders to co-create the sister enterprise. The full service marketing agency, which celebrated its eighth anniversary in May 2014, is looking to recruit 10 young people from across the Liverpool city region to take part in this, the first innovative training programme. Agent Academy CIC is the first of its kind in Liverpool and, indeed, the country. The programme, which will run up to four times per year, will allow specially-selected students the chance to take part in a curriculum designed to combine hands-on experience and action-based learning. Agent Academy CIC is a social enterprise, therefore the programmes are fully funded with investment coming from Agent Marketing’s profits. The 10 week programme aims to educate students on the fundamentals of marketing and expose them to a whole host of expert witnesses and
The Agent Marketing team
leaders from different sectors, industries and backgrounds. Students will also tour a number of key organisations across the wider city region, aiding their development and helping them expand networks. Managing director of Agent Marketing, Paul Corcoran, said: “Agent is very much a value-led business - we always make sure we are doing more than our fair share to benefit the communities we work with and within. “Agent Academy CIC has grown out of a need to give young people who can’t afford to go to University, or those who have been to University and need commercial skills, an unrivalled opportunity to get into the communications industry. “This is not an internship, nor is it work experience or a
placement – this is a programme designed by marketers for the next generation of marketers and we can’t wait to see the
results.” So far, the initiative has garnered support from a wide range of leaders both in Liverpool and London.
College celebrate 15 years As the new term gets underway, Myerscough College are celebrating its 15th anniversary of successfully delivering courses at its Merseyside campus at Croxteth Park. Since 1999, thousands of students, both from the Liverpool area and across the country, have graduated from the centre with qualifications in a large number of subject areas including animal care, equine, sport, horticulture, landscape, floristry and arboriculture. The college offices, learning support centre and teaching facilities are situated in the Victorian walled garden and are surrounded by over 500 acres of parkland. This provides a unique setting equipped with excellent practical facilities to study land-based subjects and sports. Recently, the college has worked with partner organisations to regenerate the park and its grounds, ensuring a long term future as a centre for rural education for students for many years to come.
Recognising teachers From 16 to 20 June, National Supply Teacher week was celebrated across the country and for the second year running Connex Education were proud to support the cause. The Connex team launched a campaign with the aim of highlighting the importance of supply teachers within schools; encouraging people to show appreciation to supply staff and their hard work. Paul Massey, area manager at Connex Education Liverpool said: “At Connex, we truly appreciate the resilience, enthusiasm and passion that our supply staff show every day which is why we couldn’t let the opportunity of supporting National Supply Teacher Week pass.” “One of the aims of our campaign was to give
Educate Plus sponsored by GMLPF
Colin McNulty - Connex Liverpool
recognition to all teachers, TAs and education staff that work on supply and praise them for their efforts.” Carla Gonzalez, marketing assistant at Connex Education explained. As a token of appreciation, the name of every member of supply staff
Jessica Grant - Connex Warrington
at Connex was entered into a draw with the chance to win a selection of gift vouchers. “We wanted to give something back as a thank you and hopefully the winners will enjoy their vouchers.” Carla added.
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Record achievers Gold standard rankings have risen Nationally, the proportion of GCSEs awarded a C or higher has risen for the first time in three years, but national figures also show large swings in English and maths results. Results for England, Wales and Northern Ireland showed a sharp drop in English grades, with 61.7% of entries scoring A*-C, down 1.9% from last summer - believed to be the biggest drop in the qualification’s history. Maths saw an opposite result, with 62.4% of entries gaining an A*-C grade, up a massive 4.8% on 2013. Early indications show that the number of pupils getting five good GCSE’s including English and maths has risen in Liverpool. Councillor Jane Corbett, cabinet member for education, said: “Well done to all of our GCSE students for their amazing achievements and to teachers, parents and carers for supporting them over the last couple of years. “Our schools should be congratulated for delivering such a great education for our young people.”
In Knowsley St Edmund Arrowsmith Catholic Centre for Learning in Whiston has seen the number of students passing five GCSEs including English and maths at grades A*-C rise to 60.1% - their highest number ever. Lord Derby Academy in Huyton was also celebrating, with an 7.3% increase in the number of students passing five GCSEs including English and maths at grades A*-C.
“
I am so proud of our students, for coping so well with such significant changes throughout their studies
”
Cllr Gary See, cabinet member for children and family services, added: “I have written to every pupil to congratulate them and wish them the very best for the future.” The proportion of St Helens students gaining 5 GCSEs at A*-C grades, including English and mathematics, remain broadly stable, at 54.7%.
Councillor Sue Murphy, cabinet member for schools and lifelong learning said: “Last year the proportion of St Helens students gaining five GCSEs (including English and maths) was 55%, and in a year of change St Helens schools have delivered broadly the same proportion. However more needs to be done to improve our performance in future years.” University Academy Birkenhead saw GCSE English passes (A*-C) increase by 10%. The school also secured a 4% increase in GCSE maths passes. Chesterfield High School in Sefton were celebrating their GCSE results for this this year which are above the national average in both maths at 64% and well above the national average in English at 77%. Simon Penney, headteacher, said: “We are also delighted that 69% of examination entries were graded A*-C which is also above the increased national average for this year. There are many outstanding individual performances”.
A happy Jessica Muirhead from Bellerive FCJ Catholic College who gained 2A* and 7As
A big well done to Broughton Hall pupils who achieved 63% for 5A*-C in English and maths
Students from Litherland achieved 58% 5A*-C including English and mathematics
Proud parents as St Edmund Arrowsmith Centre for Learning posted their highest number of passes ever
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Students from St Margarets; Church of England Academy whose overall results were 82.6% 5 A*-C
Niamh Ireland, Scarlett O’Toole, Daisy Lamb, Jessica Parry, Gabby Evans, and Sophie Duckworth from Holly Lodge Girls’ College
Annie Dunn (right) from St Julie’s Catholic High School is stunned after discovering she got 4 A* and 4 A grades
Taylor Fowlis from Calderstones School looks relaxed as she opens her envelope
University Academy Birkenhead saw English passes (A*-C) increase by ten percentage points as well as securing a 4% increase in its maths passes.
Congratulations Lathom High School class of 2014
Gateacre School students Anne-Louise O’Neill and Callum Muies were thrilled with their results
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Formby High School pupils are delighted with the performance
Jessica Mackin and Stephanie Gamble from St John Bosco Arts College are overjoyed with their results
Yvonne Liew from Hope Academy who recieved A, A*s
Rainford High pupils celebrating GCSE success Robert Mawdsley – 4A*, 5A; Ffion Brown – 7A*, 3A; Anna Considine – 8A*, 1A; Lucy Harrison – 9A*, 1A; Olivia Powell – 6A*, 5A; Angharad Powell – 8A*, 3A and Natasha Powell – 8A*, 3A
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Amazing results for Joe Harvey and Michael Cooke from Halewood Academy with over 20 A* and A grades between them
Alex Heywood, Shea Cassidy, and Daniel Hamilton from West Derby School
Lord Derby Academy headteacher Barry Bridden and chair of governors Graham Morgan with star pupils Ben Spencer 13 A*-C; Stephen Callaghan 13A*-C; Connor Simpson 13A*-C; Emily McGovern 12A*-C and Ellie Welsh 10A*-C
Knowsley Park CfL have achieved the best ever results for the school
Students from Broadgreen International School celebrating their fantastic and well earned GCSE results
Merchant Taylors’ Boys’ School 98% of the boys have achieved 5 or more A*-C grades
Fazakerley High School headteacher James Beaton congratulates pupils
Merchant Taylors’ Girls’ School 100% of the girls have achieved 5 or more A*-C grades
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Closing the gap Tributes paid to hardworking pupils Students from across the region celebrated their A level success in style. Nationally figures published on A level results day revealed that 26 per cent of exam papers were graded at least an A this year, down from 26.3 per cent last summer, following a shift towards tougher subjects. However, despite these figures, it emerged that a record proportion of papers had been awarded an elite A*. A level results in Liverpool have improved again, according to provisional figures. Councillor Jane Corbett, cabinet member for education, said: “Congratulations to all of our students whose work, passion and commitment to their studies has paid off following two years of really hard graft. Anyone who has done A levels knows how incredibly testing they are, and it is no mean feat to get good grades. It is also a tribute to the support they have received from brilliant teachers and supportive parents and carers.” Students in Knowsley picked up their A level results with a record number of passes reported. Compared to the provisional results this time last year, there has been an increase of 3% in the number of A level passes in the borough, bringing the provisional pass rate to 99.5%. The provisional number of passes at
Charlotte Johnson, Ashleigh Owens and Laura Turney from Holly Lodge Girls’ School open their envelopes
grades A*-C was 60.1%, in line with a provisional figure of 61.3% last year. Cllr Gary See, Knowsley’s cabinet member for children and family service, said: “Congratulations to all the students in Knowsley who have collected their results. “Within these numbers are so many individual success stories, and each and every pupil should be proud of their personal achievement.”
“
Within these numbers are so many individual success stories, and each and every pupil should be proud of their personal achievement
”
Students across St Helens celebrated their A level results after it was revealed that the provisional A*-E pass rate for the borough is 97.9% - in line with the national average of 98% for A level results. Carmel College has once again reported outstanding results, with an excellent performance at A* to B and A*-E where pass rates are above the national average. Councillor Sue Murphy, cabinet member for schools and lifelong learning said: “I am pleased that so
many of our students have done so well and I wish them every success in the future. Whilst in Sefton staff and students at St Mary’s College are celebrating an A level ‘full house’ after candidates achieved a 100 per cent pass rate in the key examinations, up from 98 per cent in 2013. Students at Formby High School are celebrating another successful year of A level results. Almost half of Formby High School students gained top grades (A*to B grades). Headteacher, Dominic Mackenzie, said: “Once again, we are delighted with the performance of our students across Years 12 and 13. There have been some outstanding individual successes and we wish all students the very best for their futures, wherever that may be.” In Halton there was much to celebrate for St Chad’s 6th Form when they came in for their examination results. Headteacher Andrew Keeley said, “I am very proud of and pleased for all the students in achieving excellent results. “In a year where it has been widely acknowledged that exam boards have been told to raise A level grade boundaries to make it harder to pass, St Chad’s students have achieved highly, including gaining the rare A* grade.
Jack Blakemore from West Derby School got an A* in maths, a B in physics and a B in further maths
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Cowley International College, St Helens
City of Liverpool College students celebrate
Julieta O’Flaherty of St Julie’s Catholic High School looks shocked with her A*AA success
Rachel Ball from West Lancashire College celebrates two A’s and a B in her results
Students from Formby High School celebrate success
Wirral Grammar School for Girls
Winstanley College celebrate students gaining A/A* grades.
Gateacre School pupils celebrate a successful year
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A 100% pass rate for students from St Mary’s College, Crosby
Students from North Liverpool Academy have seen another successful year of A level results
High achievers Matthew Hogan, William Griffiths and Mohammed Hussain from Birkenhead Sixth Form College
Students Helsby High School Sixth Form who achieved at least 3 A level grades at A* or A
Rainford High enjoy continued A level success with Danny Jones, Jess Best, Jack Rowlands, Elle Walker, Ryan Phillips, Jonathan Bennett, Elise O’Neale, Sam Ward, Luke Molloy, Joe Mackay, Alasdair Robertson and Fergus Powell.
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100% pass rate for all Year 13 leavers at Birkenhead High School Academy almost a third of all grades being A*-A.
Carmel College celebrate a 99.2% pass rate with 56.7% of grades at A*-B and 81.1% at A*-C
Celebrations from Christ the King Catholic High School, Southport
Merchant Taylors’ Girls school celebrate a pass rate of 74% A*-B
All A level students passed Range High School, Formby celebrate with more than half the grades at A*, A or B, a record for the school
100% pass rate for A level students from Knowsley Community College, pictured is Theresa Forjoe who gained a B and two C’s
A 2.3% increase in A*A grades being achieved by pupils from St Edwards College
Lauren Bundu from Calderstones School who gained A* and two B’s
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A CHANCE TO SAY THANK YOU Schools celebrate their achievements Students from across the region have been celebrating in true Hollywood style after their exams. The proms were a chance for pupils to celebrate their achievements and to mark an end to a special phase in their lives. For many students this was also their last school event. It was an opportunity for the pupils to say farewell to their teachers, staff members and their class mates. The young ladies and gents donned their finery and headed to such venues as Aintree Racecourse, Sefton Park Palm House and the Isla Gladstone Conservatory. It was an opportunity for staff to dust off their DJs and frocks too.
Bebington High School
Archbishop Beck Catholic Sports College
Calderstones School
Broadgreen International School
Childwall Sports and Science Academy
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Gateacre School
Christ the King High School
Halewood Academy
Merchant Taylors’
Kirkby High School
Notre Dame Catholic College
St John Bosco Arts College
St Ambrose Barlow Catholic High School
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The full cast during the finale
THE SUN COMES OUT FOR ALSOP A sparkling performance of Annie proves a hit Alsop High was proud to invite over 300 members of the local community to school in July to watch matinée performances of their summer production of ‘Annie’. The event began with lunch for the local pensioners followed by a fabulous performance from over 40 exceptionally talented students. The show received outstanding reviews. The students surpassed themselves during the evening performances, with a ‘full house’ on each occasion. Headteacher Mr Mangan was delighted with the response to the performance and said: “It is fantastic to focus on the local community and welcome so many people to the school, giving students the opportunity to showcase their amazing talents.”
Stephanie Fitzpatrick was a great “Annie”
Great dance performances supported the show throughout!
A great rendition of “East Street”
Outstanding performances from Jamie Forbes, David Russell and Joseph Tilling
The “Boylan Sisters”
The poor “Orphans”
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Open Evening Thursday 25th September 2014 4.30pm - 7pm
Please come and look around and meet our staff and students Year 4, 5 & 6 pupils and parents welcome Queens Drive, Walton, Liverpool, L4 6SH I Telephone: 0151-235 1200 I Web: www.alsophigh.org.uk
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CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENT Anglican Cathedral gives Year 6 a special send off Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral welcomed over 2,500 Year 6 pupils for their Diocesan School Leavers’ Services over three days from 23 – 25 June. The services were created to help commemorate the children’s time in school and were led by Bishop Blackburn, Bishop Cyril Ashton and Dean Pete Wilcox. Each service began with a magnificent procession from the west end of the cathedral to the high altar with each school processing their colourful school banners. In each service the Bible reading and prayers were led with great confidence by Year 6 pupils. A number of schools also took part in workshops at the Cathedral, including drama performances. Bishop Blackburn highlighted the importance of the days by stating that ‘these services and workshops mark the occasion in a special way’.
Bishop Cyril Ashton
Prayers and readings by children
The special Prayer Tree
St Luke’s, Halsall
The lighting of candles by all schools
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ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR AT HOLLY LODGE GIRLS’ COLLEGE Sept 2013
Oct 2013
Nov 2013
Dec 2013
Exam success including 99% A level Pass Rate.
Year 13 students celebrate Nuffield success Audrey Mberezenga elected as Young Lord Mayor.
Staff and students visit Naples take place in a European project involving 11 schools.
Big Bang Science competition winners visit Guangzhou in China to compete in the All Teenagers Science Competition.
Jan 2014
Feb 2014
Mar 2014
Apr 2014
Holly Lodge welcomes Stephen Twigg MP and Mayor Joe Anderson to the official Turf Cutting ceremony marking the start of the new build.
13 Duke of Edinburgh students visit the Palace to accept their Gold awards.
Holly Lodge achieves the ROQA quality award for Life Skills.
92nd school birthday celebrations take place on 26th April with over 800 guests.
May 2014
Jun 2014
Jul 2014
Aug 2014
Year 8 mathematicians win bronze, silver and gold awards in the UK Junior Mathematical Challenge.
Congratulations to former students achieving 1st class Honours degrees this year:
Year 13 student Charlotte Johnson selected to exhibit in the 2014 National Student Art Exhibition in London.
Jennifer Page - Zoology Abbie Peacock - Bio-medicine Jade Scott - Psychology Neil Bennett - Biology Jake French - Television Production
Year 8 students compete in the national EEP Space Challenge. Commended by the judges for their independence and resilience.
A level results: 100% pass, 67% A*- B grades, 60 BTEC Distinction & Distinction* – 73% of all entries!
COME TO SEE MORE AT OUR ADMISSIONS EVENING 18TH SEPTEMBER 2014 3.30PM – 6.00PM HOLLY LODGE GIRLS’ COLLEGE
www.hollylodge.liverpool.sch.uk @HollyLodgeLiver HollyLodgeGirlsCollege
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WHAT IS ‘NORMAL’?
Marie Morgan with students from South Sefton College
Dramatic approach to youth engagement Drama students from South Sefton College have been working with local Mojo Theatre Company and One Vision Housing to create a drama performance about ‘what is normal’; approaching the issues of the ‘social norm’, tolerance and acceptance of people being different. Marie Morgan, youth engagement officer at One Vision Housing, said: “We chose to work with South Sefton College because it’s situated in the heart of our community and is a partner college of the majority of the schools in the local area. When working with the drama students it became apparent that they themselves had faced experiences of bullying and isolation during their own time at secondary school. They used these experiences to bring the performance to life.” The play was made up of three different stories, about issues including sexuality, learning disabilities and physical appearance. It conveyed how society generally deals with people who “don’t fit in” and how people’s attitudes can have tragic consequences.
Students provide a thought provoking performance
A time for reflection
Question and answer time
Pupils discuss ‘what is normal’ with teaching staff
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SPORT IS THE REAL WINNER Secondary Schools’ Athletics Championships Wavertree Athletics Centre played host to dozens of the city’s finest athletes for two days’ worth of sporting drama at the Liverpool Secondary Schools’ athletics finals for 2014. Under stunning blue skies and a blazing sun, pupils from Years 7-10 battled it out for the honour of being crowned city champion. Stand-out performers included Childwall’s Patrick Auplish, who took home three gold medals after a faultless all-round display in the boys section, whilst Anna Rowe from St Hilda’s captured the headlines for her sprinting prowess in the girls competition. Sport, however, was the real winner after an unforgettable event and the spirit shown was nothing short of exemplary.
Eva Fox-Ford, St Edwards sprints to victory in the Y7 70m hurdles
Sprint sensation Patrick Auplish from Childwall Sports and Science Academy
Anna Rowe leaves the opposition behind
Girls’ shot putt Amber Adamson, St John Bosco Arts College, secures a PB in the 100m
Calderstones’ double sprint winner David Jones powers to victory
Adam Gilboy, St Margaret’s
Fidel O’Rourke (SFX) pips Benjamin Hodgson (Cardinal Heenan) in the Y7 70m hurdles
1500m Y7 champion, Bobby Carroll, Calderstones School
ESLA’s Michael Madeloso destroyed the field to win the Y9 Javelin St Hilda’s Elizabeth Henshall reigned supreme in the high jump
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Fazakerley High School A Specialist Engineering and Creative Arts College
Where every day is open day
BOOK YOUR OW N R U O T L O O H SC Tel: 0151 524 4530 www.fazakerleyhigh.org Email: admin@fazakerleyhigh.org
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There’s nothing to separate these runners
STARS SHINE AT ATHLETIC MEET Primary Schools’ Athletics Championships The athletes shone as brightly as the blazing sun as the finals of the Liverpool City Schools’ Athletics Championships were held at Wavertree Athletics Centre on a barmy summer evening in July. The competition was fast and furious as pupils from Years 5 and 6 battled it out for the honour of being called city champion, and the championship organisers were hugely impressed with the exceptionally high standard of competition. Star performer of the day was undoubtedly Corinthian’s Tamzin Dentith, who added the 800m city crown to a host of other titles to cap an unforgettable season. Running her close, however, was Belvedere Prep’s Mia Morrisroe who could also be proud of her efforts on both track and field as she bagged two gold medals.
Lewis Harding from Gilmour, city champion at 135 metres (Year 6)
St Austins’ Harry Burnell (left) and Cameron Cowley Stockton Wood) fought a brilliant battle in the 135 metres final Florence Melley’s Y6 Marica Mieazczakowska, silver medalist in the 70m hurdles Rudston Junior School Runners battle for position Athletes from Liverpool College
A St Paul’s pupil leaps for glory in the long jump
Tamzin Dentith, the running sensation from Corinthian School, added the 800m title to her trophy cabinet Belvedere Prep’s brilliant double champion Mia Morrisroe, in action in the long jump
High jump competitors Grace Drummond (Childwall) and Nui Thongbua (Rudston) shake hands after the high jump final
Charlie Teare, 800m champion
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PROMOTING SPIRITUAL, PHYSICAL & MENTAL HEALTH
YEAR 4, 5 & 6
OPEN EVENING Thursday 18th September from 4.30pm - 7.00pm (Headteacher’s talk from 6pm) Free Barbeque and iPad Prize Draw Everyone welcome to attend A taster of some activities to take part in including Cookery, ICT, Fitness, Mountain Biking, Science, Music, Technology and Art Free uniform for all year 7 students
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In school samba drumming band
WOWBRAZIL IN MERSEYSIDE A day full of colour and sound from Kensington Kensington Primary School were celebrating all things Brazilian last term over a week long event entitled WowBrazil, over 450 children took part along with over 50 staff and hundreds of parents. WowBrazil was planned and organised by a team of twelve Years 5 and 6 children with the assistance of staff, and they had worked on the project since September 2013. The entire school participated with all regular lessons dropped for the week to focus on Brazil themed lessons and activities, total immersion in all things Brazil. Learning Mentor, Chris Evans, said: “This was a truly amazing week involving the whole school community and a range of great businesses and organisations, who delivered a fantastic learning experience and wonderful memories for all the children who participated.” You can view their website on www.wowbrazil.biz Year 4 pupils performing song ‘Happy’
Children on parade
Staff member Rick Harris
Pupils had their own photography team to record events
Reception children all sat with masks on
Giant hummingbird and toucan made by pupils
Balloon drop finale to closing carnival
Giant toucan
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ST JULIE’S EXPLORE SCIENCE Pupils embrace the science experience Students at St Julie’s Catholic High School embraced the spirit of the inaugural Liverpool Science Festival with a whole host of STEM related activities including visits to the Big Bang Fair and Royal Society in London, as well as some fiery school based activities. Head of Science, Kate Doran, said: “Having held our own really successful science week earlier in the year, it was wonderful to be able to take our students out to experience some large scale science events, as well as following the footsteps of such giant historical figures as Sir Isaac Newton and Sir Ernest Rutherford at the Royal Society. The support of the Ogden Trust has been a huge help to our work.” One of the highlights of the week was the naming of Year 13 student Olivia Kingston as Ogden Trust North West School Physicist of the Year in a ceremony at the University of Liverpool.
Young scientists from St Julie’s and Holly Lodge collaborate on a huge STEM themed chalk drawing
Things hot up in the chemistry lab during science week Right: Year 13 student Olivia Kingston, Ogden Trust North West School Physicist of the Year
Year 7 students Ellie, Amy and Tyler celebrate success in the Science Spelling Bee
Left: Year 8 scientists show their steady hands with a buzzwire circuit they built at the Physics Olympics
Students from Woolton Primary School build and launch bottle rockets at St Julie’s
The completed chalk drawing
A Year 9 student glides into STEM with the Smallpeice Trust
Students visit the Summer Science Exhibition at the Royal Society in London
Year 10 students enjoy toffee ice cream made using liquid nitrogen
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St. Julie s Catholic High School Serve the good God well, with much liberty of Spirit
Open Evening Thursday 25th September 3.30pm - 6.00pm
Parents, carers and pupils have outstanding confidence in the school. Archdiocesan Inspection, 2012
I thoroughly enjoyed this visit and I am very impressed! An excellent insight into the school. Our guide was brilliant! Quotes from parents at our Open Evening, July 2014
www.stjulies.org.uk
St. Julie s Catholic High School Speke Road Woolton Liverpool L25 7TN t. 0151 428 6421 email info@stjulies.org.uk
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INSPIRATIONAL PERFORMANCES Liverpool City Schools’ Athletics Championships The Summer Festival of the Sainsbury’s School Games in Merseyside took place in July at Wavertree Sports Park in Liverpool. County level competitions took place in a variety of sports where young people represented their school or borough. 86 Schools from across Merseyside were able to take part in this event which followed a range of intra and inter schools competitions, set up by the Merseyside School Games Organisers. Over 1,000 young people took part in the summer festival which is organised by the Merseyside School Games Operations Group. Teams were also rewarded for demonstrating fair play with a spirit of the games trophy. The spirit of the games values were: determination, honesty, passion, respect, self-belief and team work. Olivia Jeffery from St Ambrose Barlow Catholic High School in Netherton, won the competition to name the mascot with more than 650 entries submitting designs for the Merseyside School Games mascot competition.
Freestyling at the opening ceremony
The Games’ mascot, Jigstar
The athletes warm up
Action from hockey between St Aidan’s (red) v Lister (purple)
The new Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Erica Kemp, with some tennis stars
Excellent sportsmanship was shown throughout the day
Phoebe Mitchell and Erin Scott, Rainford Brook Lodge
Churchtown Primary School
Lucy Horman, Our Lady Star of the Sea Primary School, is all smiles in the pool
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Leonie Pascall, St Michael’s in the Hamlet, throws for glory
St Bridget’s Grace McFarlane (left) just pips Great Crosby’s Alice Bird to the gold medal in the 600m
Lap one in the 600m race
One competitor gives her thumbs up
Park Brow, Kirkby
Rainford Brook Lodge School
Our Lady of Lourdes prepare for a netball semi final
Students from The Heath School with Jigstar
Pewit Hall’s netball team
Sophie Dowdswell, De La Salle, bursts through to score in tag rugby
The Games’ helpers played a vital role
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ART FOR ARTS SAKE Rave reviews for Gateacre School Art Exhibition This year’s art exhibition at Gateacre School featured work from all year groups, including exam work from the schools GCSE, AS and A level students. Many different types of media were used, clay, photography, fabrics, as well as pastels and paints. The school was visited by Liverpool’s current Lord Mayor, Cllr Erica Kemp who said the exhibition was “inspirational” and is looking forward to exhibiting some of the pieces in the town hall later this year. The exhibition was a great opportunity for the parents, friends and local community to see the hard work the students have put in throughout the year. A lot of the work that wouldn’t look out of place in a high end gallery!
The standard of work was exceptionally high
One of the artworks on show at Gateacre School
Leah Bacon (right) with mum Ruth and sister Sarah
Year 7 pupil Noah Kinvig discusses his work
Headteacher Gerard Lonergan (right) with Roy Smyth
Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Erica Kemp, with art teacher Rachel Woods
Gateacre staff Cath Smith, Shelly Matthews, Julie Sampson, Rachel Woods and Steph Pruden
Reece Jones and Eve Prior (Year 11) pose by their work
Emily Kelly in front of her display
Guests enjoy refreshments
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23rd September 2014
24th September 2014
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MISSION ACCOMPLISHED Pupils celebrate with a ‘Rainbow of Hope’ Students at St John Bosco Arts College marked the end of an era with three days of fantastic activities and events. The school moved into a new building in September and the Mission Week event was held to celebrate the move. Activities included photography lessons, a whole school liturgy and performances from rap group Vital Signs and mime artist Steve Murray. There was also a talk by Margaret Mizen, the mother of London school boy Jimmy who was tragically killed in May 2008 when he was just 16 years old. Mrs Mizen spoke about the importance of forgiveness. The theme of the week was Rainbow of Hope and the school was joined by The Salesian Youth Ministry and Cafod for the event.
Paige MorganWoodward
Jasmine Langley, Taylor Nichols and Livy Moore
Laura McMahon, Cara Gore and Grace Humphrey Selene Agbaba, Amelia Binczycka, Georgia Baum and Bethany Patterson
Chloe Robinson, Amy Whitehead and Eden Rothwell
Hannah Young
Rosie Ward
Leah Williams, Hannah Sergeant and Paige Morgan-Woodward
Stephanie Senior, Terrell McCabe, Mr Gaffney, Ellie O’Driscoll and Lauren Matthews
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READING FOR PLEASURE Schools celebrate Reading Quality Mark Twenty schools were given special awards as part of a programme to get more children in Liverpool reading for pleasure. In partnership with the National Literacy Trust, the Liverpool Reading Quality Mark has been developed to focus on promoting reading for enjoyment. Pupils from primary and secondary schools across the city who have gained the award attended a special celebration event in Liverpool Central Library. The successful schools included Whitefield Primary in Everton, which recently also scooped a national award from the Institute of Education’s Reading Recovery Programme. It was named the winner in the ‘developing practice to enable all children to read with enjoyment’ category. Councillor Jane Corbett, cabinet member for education, said: “I am delighted that our schools have embraced the Liverpool Reading Quality Mark. We have made tremendous progress over the last few years improving standards of literacy in schools, but we know we can do more.” A second group of 30 further schools have joined the project and will be accredited at a later date.
Whitefield Primary School
The Trinity Primary School
St Christopher's Catholic Primary School
Holly Lodge Girls’ College
Holy Family Primary School
Broadgreen International School
St Hilda’s CE High School
The Beacon CE School
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Alsop High School
Our Lady’s Bishop Eton
Fazakerley Primary School
Lister Infant School
St John Bosco Arts College
St Paul & St Timothys Catholic Infant School
Springwood Primary School
St Cecilia’s Catholic School Windsor Community Primary School
Secondary Education Centre
St John’s Catholic Primary School
Millstead School
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LEST WE FORGET
Veterans and school children remember the fallen in a minutes silence
School remembers the fallen heroes War veterans shared their memories with over 120 Year 2 pupils from St Margaret Mary’s Infant School, Huyton. The service which took place in July and was held in the school hall saw pupils placing a wreath and small wooden crosses commemorating those who died in the war. They also joined the veterans in singing songs from the war years. “It’s really moving to hear the children singing with the old soldiers,” said Jayne Dunn, headteacher at St Margaret Mary’s Infant School. “It’s a beautiful service and it’s wonderful that we have this chance to be part of it. It’s important that all generations remember the human cost of war and hear the stories of those that survived.”
Baden Burnip, Vice Chairman and Standard Bearer of the Korean Veterans Liverpool Branch
Ken and Mary Sellers, with grandson Jamie
Pupils joined in the service with prayers of remembrance
Members of the Korean Veterans Liverpool Branch, Baden Burnip (Vice Chairman and Standard Bearer), Vincent Maloney (President) and John Smith (Chairman)
Pupils lay a wreath
Stanley Thomason (235 Squadron RCT, Standard Bearer) and Norman Blower (2 Squadron RCT, Aden)
Bill Jones (Royal Military Police Association) and George Hughes (Welfare Officer of the Grenadier Guards Association, Liverpool Branch)
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A YEAR OF READING FOR ALL Pupils go super-size for reading display The Federation of St Cuthbert’s and St Sebastian’s Primary Schools decided to make 2014 their ‘Year of Reading’, during which they have attempted to raise the profile of reading for pleasure, by getting involved in a variety of activities, events and competitions. Both schools within the federation are also working towards achieving the Liverpool Reading Quality Mark. One of the aims of both schools was to work to improve the physical appearance of their buildings to more emphatically reflect their love of books and of reading. The pupils produced some large scale 3-D reading displays. The finished models, made using a variety of media, resemble pop-up books reflecting aspects of some of the children’s favourite stories – The Gruffalo, Alice in Wonderland, Harry Potter, The Cat in the Hat and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Left -right Katie Hill, Toby Aduroja, Libby Murphy, Olivia Murphy, Dempsey Ager, Chloe Valentine, Erin Davies, George Noble, Joshua Lee and ex-headteacher Charlie Coyne
Mia Hood tells pupils about her favourite book
Christopher Bedward
Anthony Kizyma and Tyrone Manhart Anthony Kizyma with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Marcus Ryan talking with parents
Taylor McCarthy and her favourite read
Left-right Linda Robert, Sharna-Kay Grant, Harrison Hanley, Phoebe Anderson and Fleur Hackett
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Your last chance to enter this year’s awards!
closing date for all entries
Monday 15th September 2014 Open to all schools in all six Merseyside boroughs Associate sponsors
Part of the First Art Group
@EducateAwards
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Book Review
In association with
5-8 Years Fortunately, the Milk ... by Neil Gaiman, Chris Riddell £5.99 You know what it's like when your mum goes away on a business trip and Dad's in charge. She leaves a really, really long list of what he’s got to do. And the most important thing is don't forget to get the milk. Unfortunately, Dad forgets. So the next morning, before breakfast, he has to go to the corner shop. Return of the Padawan - Jedi Academy 2 by Jeffrey Brown £6.74 After surviving his first year at Jedi Academy, Roan thought his second year would be a breeze. He couldn't have been more wrong. Roan feels like he's drifting apart from his friends, and it's only made worse when Roan discovers he's not the amazing pilot he thought he'd be. When the school bullies take him under their wing, he decides they aren't so bad after all - or are they? The Dinosaur That Pooped the Past by Tom Fletcher £5.99 Danny and Dinosaur are back in their third adventure and they're about to make history! When they accidently go back through history on a time-travelling swing, Danny and Dinosaur meet some new dino friends. But soon there's a rumbling noise; it's a volcano about to erupt! Can Dinosaur save the day by pooping them back to the future?.
9-12 Years Fiction The Girl Who Walked On Air by Emma Carroll £5.99 Louie, who was abandoned at Chipchase’s Travelling Circus as a baby, dreams of becoming a ‘Showstopper’, but Mr Chipchase keeps her hidden, tucked away in the ticket booth. No Death-Defying Stunts for her. But Louie has been secretly practicing her act; the tightrope and dreams of being the ‘Girl Who Walked on Air’. Rooftoppers by Katherine Rundell £5.99 Katherine Rundell's Rooftoppers merges fantasy and historical fiction with sophisticated lyrical prose and vivid imagery that will delight middle grade readers, tweens, teens, and parents and teachers alike. Join plucky heroine Sophie, her eccentric guardian Charles, and her intrepid orphan allies on the rooftops of Victorian Paris, as they encounter suspense and adventure that will keep kids of all ages on the edge of their seats. Percy Jackson and the Greek Gods by Rick Riordan £10.00 "If you like horror shows, blood baths, lying, stealing, backstabbing, and cannibalism, then read on...Who could tell the origin stories of the gods of Olympus better than a modern-day demigod? In this whirlwind tour of Greek mythology, Percy Jackson gives his personal take on the gods and goddesses of ancient Greece and reveals the truth about how they came to rule the world.
Teenage Fiction If I Stay by Gayle Forman £6.39 I open my eyes wide now. I sit up as much as I can. And I listen. 'Stay,' he says. Everybody has to make choices. Some might break you. For seventeen-year-old Mia, surrounded by a wonderful family, friends and a gorgeous boyfriend decisions might seem tough, but they're all about a future full of music and love, a future that's brimming with hope. The Wall by William Sutcliffe £6.39 Joshua is a troubled boy who lives with his mother and stepfather in a divided city, where a wall and soldiers separate two communities, and the rubble-strewn residue of their broken world gives hints of the old life before the wall was built. Joshua discovers a manhole, which leads to a tunnel, which leads in pitch darkness under the wall and across to the other side. Shadow and Bone - The Grisha 1 by Leigh Bardugo £5.99 Lonely orphan Alina discovers a power that could be the key to saving her kingdom. But can she trust the seductive, powerful Darkling? And what about Mal, the childhood best friend she can’t quite forget? Irresistible. Epic. This is glorious sweeping fantasy and the romance to end all romances. Are you a librarian, teacher or purchasing manager? Do you buy books for your business or institution? 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
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WHERE CAN WE GO? Our pick of what’s happening out & about in the region
Not to be d misse
Tour of the Universe 23 October - The Epstein Theatre, Hanover Street, Liverpool 24 October The Atkinson Theatre, Lord Street, Southport Tickets from £15 www.touroftheuniverse.co.uk
Rocket Scientist Neil Phillipson is teaming up with some of the UK’s most renowned astronomers to put on a show with a difference in Merseyside – Tour of the Universe! Neil says: “It’s a night like no other – we take our audience on a whistle-stop journey through space and time – showing the incredible nature of the Universe in a humorous, passionate and inspiring way. “We’ll give people a real feel for the scale of the Universe – from the Earth and Sun to the Galaxy beyond, with plenty of incredible concepts to make you gasp. Suitable for adults and children aged over 8, regardless of their knowledge, this is a truly galactic getaway, a topical comedy chat-show where the Universe provides both the challenge and the inspiration! This is one physics lesson you really won’t want to miss.”
Transmitting Andy Warhol
Not to be d misse
07/11/2014 - 08/02/2015 Tate Liverpool, Albert Dock, Liverpool, L3 4BB Tel: 0151 702 7400 Transmitting Andy Warhol is the first exhibition to explore Andy Warhol’s (1928 1987) role in establishing new platforms to disseminate art, and his experimentation with new approaches to art reception that redefined artistic practice and distribution. The first solo exhibition of Warhol’s work in the north of England, Transmitting Andy Warhol brings together over 100 pieces from Tate’s collection and collections across the world and rethinks Warhol’s pivotal role in re-defining the access to culture and art as we know it today. Highlights of the exhibition include major paintings loaned from international collections as well as films, drawings, prints and photographs, augmented by a rich display of documentation.
Saturday 18 October
Little Red Riding Hood Aw e re lcome pantturn to o Ever at the yma n
The Rock ‘N’ Roll Panto comes home to the Everyman! With more music, mayhem and water than ever before! You think you know Red Riding Hood who ventured in to the deep dark wood? Well, this time she's gone right off the path She's totally prepared! She's got her cape, she's all tooled up, It's the wolf who should be scared! Boogie on down to the Everyman, to a clearing in the wood There's bound to be a shower so make sure you bring a hood! 116
Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils
A November Day Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park Longview Drive, Huyton, Liverpool, Merseyside L36 6EG. Tel: 0151 443 2200
FUTURE EVENTS
Saturday 29 November Saturday 17 January Liverpool Everyman Theatre 5-11 Hope Street Liverpool L1 9BH 0151 709 4776
To mark this year’s 100th anniversary of the outbreak of World War One, Thingumajig Theatre proudly present the re-launch of their acclaimed production – A November Day. In forgotten boxes in an attic, a woman discovers the story of her grandfather, a survivor of the First World War, and his unexpected encounter with a stray dog who knew no boundaries. With evocative puppet characters, live music and an ever-changing set, Thingumajig Theatre presents a timeless fable on war and the miracle of friendship when all else seems lost.
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Friday 26 September
Sunday 28 September
FILM and APP REVIEW
Through the Leaves of the Green Tree Edge Hill University St Helens Road, Ormskirk, L39 4QP. Tel: 0151 443 2200 Tickets £10 / £8 concessions A new play celebrating the 100th anniversary of Etty Hillesum's birth, a remarkable Jewish woman who died in Auschwitz aged 29. Her diaries and writings have become a touchstone for many. Saturday 11 October
Ghost Stories in the Great Hall Speke Hall, The Walk, Speke, Liverpool L24 1XD 0151 728 5850 Feel a chill? Hear a bump? Are you brave enough for spooky tales after dark in the Great Hall? Speke Hall was featured in Most Haunted which was broadcast on Living TV. Wrap up warm and don't forget to bring your bravery - you'll need it!Adult £10, Child £6
Billy Elliot The Musical Live The Brindley Theatre, High Street, Runcorn, Cheshire WA7 1BG 0151 907 8360 Live Broadcast Screening from the West End. This special performance brings multi awardwinning Elliot the Musical to cinemas for the first time. Set in a northern mining town, against the background of the 1984/’85 miners’ strike, Billy’s discovers a passion for dance. 23 to 26 October
War Peace Remembrance The Floral Pavilion, Marine Promenade, New Brighton 07433 643 633 This is a community festival of new writing inspired by WW1 reflecting the themes of war, peace and remembrance. Includes poetry, prose, drama and music four days of events from schools, local groups and artistists. An exhibition will be displayed in the foyer along with a wall of poppies.
17 to 19 November
20-21 November
Miracle on 34th Street Southport Theatre The Promenade, Southport Merseyside PR9 0DZ 0844 871 3021
Silent Night Liverpool Cathedral, St James Mount, Liverpool L1 7AZ 0151 709 6271
One of the most popular films of all time comes to the stage in this dazzling new production of Miracle on 34th Street The Musical. Kris Kringle takes on the non believers in an all singing, all dancing adaptation of this festive favourite. One for all the family.
Silent Night tells the incredible story of the Christmas Eve truce of 1914, through the experiences of a group of Cheshire soldiers and the families they left behind. Against a backdrop of archive images, original music and popular songs from the era, Silent Night portrays the historic moment when the guns stopped.
The Boxtrolls Directors: Graham Annable, Anthony Stacchi Release date: 26 September 2014 Verdict: ★★★★✩ By Andy Kelly A family event movie from the creators of "Coraline" and "ParaNorman" that introduces audiences to a new breed of family - The Boxtrolls, a community of quirky, mischievous creatures who have lovingly raised an orphaned human boy named Eggs (voiced by Isaac Hempstead-Wright) in the amazing cavernous home they've built beneath the streets of Cheesebridge. When the town's villain, Archibald Snatcher (Ben Kingsley), comes up with a plot to get rid of the Boxtrolls, Eggs decides to venture above ground, "into the light," where he meets and teams up with fabulously feisty Winnifred (Elle Fanning). Together, they devise a daring plan to save Eggs' family.
The Human Body by Tinybop iPad/iPhone/Android, Price: £1.99 Verdict: ★★★★★ By Andy Kelly The Human Body, is a real charmer that intuitively guides children and adults alike through the weird, wonderful, and gross workings inside everyone. This is a fabulous way to investigate the systems of the human body. Your children can interact with the organs and see how they relate to each other. They will get to explore the basic human anatomy through the skeletal, muscular, nervous, circulatory, respiratory, and digestive systems. This app also makes use of the camera tools on the iPad when examining the eye and sight! It’s well worth having on school tablets to compliment topics on the human body. Younger kids can simply use freeplay to see what happens when they tap, swipe, or move different elements on the screen - for example, eating food and brushing teeth. More advanced learners can read and learn formal names of body parts (like red blood cells and white blood cells) and record audio questions and observations.
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My School Days Bill Kenwright - Theatre impresario and Everton Football Club chairman
My schools: I attended Booker Avenue County Primary School and Liverpool Institute High School for Boys, an all-boys grammar school. My favourite teacher: That would be Alan Durband, he was a wonderful teacher.
music every chance I get on my radio show, he has always been a favourite of mine. My favourite extra-curricular activity: My two loves, Goodison Park home of Everton Football Club and The Cavern home of the Beatles. Do you remember your first school crush? It was an all boys grammar school, enough said! My favourite book: Sons and Lovers by D H Lawrence, a true classic which I never tire of reading
Favourite subject at school: I would have to say, without a doubt it was English Literature. I am a lover of the English word. Were you streetwise or a bit of a geek? I was definitely streetwise. My favourite childhood band/singer: Elvis! It goes without saying as I play his
School dinners: All I can say we used to sneak out to Lewis’self service of a lunch time. My ambitions at school: I always wanted to be Everton football player Dave Hickson or actor Alan Ladd in ‘Shane’
Bill Kenwright is one of the UK’s most successful theatre producers, best known for the longrunning West End hit Blood Brothers and the record breaking tour of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. As a young man he became an actor. His early successes included a role in Coronation Street, as Gordon Clegg who was introduced in April 1968. Kenwright left the show after a year to pursue his producing career in March 1969. Kenwright is the current chairman of Everton Football Club, whom he used to watch as a boy at Goodison Park. He has been on the Everton board since 1989. He received an Honorary Fellowship from Liverpool's John Moores University and is an Honorary Professor of Thames Valley University in London. In 2000, Kenwright was awarded the CBE for his services to film and theatre. He was also awarded an Honorary degree of Doctor of Letters from Nottingham Trent University in recognition of his outstanding contribution and commitment to British theatre.
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Myfuture
If you're leaving school or college this year and aren't sure of the next step – take a look at the full-time courses available at Myerscough College, Liverpool.
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