Contents

ASSOCIATION AND EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES

NAHT

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Tel: 0300 30 30 333

Editorial strategy board: Stuart Beck, James Bowen, Tim Bowen, Nick Brook, Mark Cornell, Iman Cornwall, Ruth Davies, Laura Doel, Guy Dudley, David Gilmore (chair), Magnus Gorham, Clare Fisher, Steve Iredale, Helena Macormac, Judy Shaw and Paul Whiteman.

@nahtnews

EDITORIAL TEAM

Editor: Nic Paton.

Publisher: David Gale.

SALES DIRECTOR

Ian Carter.

Tel: 0207 183 1815

Leadership Focus is published on behalf of NAHT by Headlines Partnership Publishing, 51/52 Triangle Building, Wolverton Park Road, Milton Keynes, MK12 5FJ www.headlines.uk.com

Tel: 01908 393303

Email: david.gale@headlines.uk.com

ISSN: 1472-6181

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7 Staying strong collectively

We look at Annual Conference and other ways to become an engaged union member.

18 Hungry for change

How schools are going above and beyond to keep children fed despite the spiralling cost and current infrastructure, labour and supply pressures they face.

26 Disabled Members’ Network

An insight into NAHT’s informal group for members who identify as disabled, where they can share, learn from and support each other.

34 The future of qualifications in England

NAHT head of policy (practice and research)

Sarah Hannafin looks at the possible qualification pathways that lie ahead for students and explains why NAHT is calling for a more balanced and varied approach to assessment.

38 Northern Ireland policy update

NAHT Northern Ireland (NI) director Graham Gault highlights the dire funding situation and crumbling special education needs provision in NI and how your union is working hard to bring about positive change.

39 Wales policy update

NAHT Cymru director

Laura Doel provides an update on the work being done in Wales to protect, support and empower NAHT members.

40 Paul Whiteman

A message from the general secretary.

41 Stay protected in retirement

Paula Porter, solicitor and NAHT director of representation and advice, outlines the type of legal support we offer life members.

45 The Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)

In the first of a two-part series, NAHT head of advice Kate Atkinson explains the framework and background of the LGPS.

46 Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Bill

Neil Todd, a partner in Thompsons Solicitors’ Trade Union Law Group (TULG), discusses the bill.

48 New Heads’ Conference Leading with your head and your heart – the ultimate balancing act.

50 The final word Journalist Susan Young talks to former head teacher turned learning consultant Dave Harris about his mission to change an inadequate process.