Feed Editor 27 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT Bringing you up-to-date with what's new on the Hertfordshire Grid for Learning web site. Resources, guidelines, jobs, good practice... http://www.thegrid.org.uk en http://www.thegrid.org.uk/images/interface/hertsdirect.gif http://www.thegrid.org.uk HGfL logo All young people face big changes when they leave school and need to make plans for their future, so it is never too early to start planning for life after school. This guide produced by Hertfordshire's Youth Connexsions team, aims to help young people with additional needs navigate their way through transition as they move from childhood to adulthood 15 May 2013 09:53:47 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/sen/guidance/statement/index.shtml#guide 8F8F06B1-4D2E-4D9F-A91D-45DE1487E869 SITSS would like to advise primary schools using the HCC AM7 reports that new versions of the AM7 and Essential Toolbox reports are now available to download on our AM7 page. Major improvements have been made to the reports with the addition of Pupil Premium as a vulnerable group, and the ability to select multiple vulnerable groups for analysis. Some new reports have been added, and extra analysis and features have been added to some existing reports. Full details can be found in document reference W084 on the AM7 page. For more details on Pupil Premium in SIMS please see documents W086 and W087. 15 May 2013 09:53:10 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/traded/sitss/assessment/pri_ass_mgr/am7/ 18610DDC-D8AA-4461-8E56-3CB0CCA7CC7B A visit to the Harry Potter experience at Warner Bros (like the recent Royal visit!) and and opportunities to meet inspirational Olympic and Paralympic athletes are just some of the exciting free prizes schools can win as part of the Education Pledge Competition. Why not enter your school into the competition for a chance to win some prizes?. Closes this Friday 17th May 2013. 15 May 2013 09:52:53 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/pe/olympics/index.shtml#pledge 83964C80-B8E3-499E-97CE-03DE36649E4A iPads are becoming more and more widespread in Hertfordshire schools and beyond, and are making a real impact on learning. This free hands-on session from Toucan Computing will introduce you to this engaging technology, and give you an opportunity to hear how they are being used in schools 15 May 2013 09:51:51 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/ict/training/?panel=new 8EE4D8C3-FCBA-4565-95D9-8DEDEACDA03F The Certificate in Educational Business and Administration is an accredited level 3 qualification in educational administration which is suitable for support staff looking to extend their skills or develop a career in business management. The programme run by ELC is seven months long and includes two training events at Hertfordshire Development Centre in June and September. 15 May 2013 09:51:26 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/schoolworkforce/supportstaff/administrators.shtml#cert B13F2C29-4454-4167-857D-A85959CBF930 Dave Parry, an independent consultant for design and technology and author of an number of books and CDs is delivering two D&T courses for primary and secondary schools this term. 'Design Technology in the Secondary Classroom' on the 5th June Book online: course code 13DET/001S. 'Subject Leader Development Day for Primary Schools' on the 19th June 2013. Book online: course code 13DET/002P 7 May 2013 11:34:57 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/actweb/WDC/sseo/template_001.cfm?pageID=5&template=courseListing CB8227E1-E0A4-43FA-A41B-21830F6D4A68 Hertfordshire Quality Standards Celebration Event - HQS is a county led quality improvement scheme which supports childcare and early education providers to improve and develop their practice through a process of supported self evaluation Are your Ready for Gypsy, Roma, Traveller History Month? - Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month (GRTHM ) takes place in June and gives everyone the chance to celebrate and raise awareness of the unique history and culture of Traveller communities. www.hertsforlearning.co.uk 3 May 2013 13:20:09 GMT http://www.hertsforlearning.co.uk 4D9E75CF-4E91-4713-AA34-F494F8E8381A A Learning for Living and Work Summer Conference has been arranged for the 19th June 2013. This conference will explore practical ways in which we can support young people currently working at Level 1 and below to gain employment, live as independently and healthily as they are able to and become active members of their communities. 3 May 2013 13:19:42 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/1419/news/index.shtml#new D9065046-5B57-4FE7-9644-6D1FB6711D29 The National College for Teaching and Leadership has made available targeted scholarship of up to £1,000 for teaching staff who are ready to complete the National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL). This is a new qualification that provides national recognition of your leadership development and professional achievement as a senior leader. Applications need to be submitted by 7 June 2013. 3 May 2013 13:18:42 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/leadership/strategy/promoting_leadership/professional.shtml 05EF4894-6C7B-44C9-92D3-D77D03A8CA09 It is important to encourage and develop the next cohort of special school leaders as current demographics suggest many heads will retire in the next few years. This event will be a chance to hear from current special school Headteachers about the realities of the role. arrowBook online : Course code 13MAN/047A 2 May 2013 12:39:34 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/actweb/WDC/sseo/template_001.cfm?pageID=7&template=courseDetails&courseID=13MAN/047A&eventCode=13MAN/047A D9E0F330-B311-4939-BAF8-8DF599BEF422 This months summaries include : Investigation of Key Stage 2 Level 6 Tests, Higher Education in England, Summer Schools Programme for Disadvantaged Pupils, Early Years Inspection Outcomes and Findings from the 2012 Language Trends Survey 2 May 2013 12:38:46 GMT http://www.intra.thegrid.org.uk/info/bristol/ 2D74B0E8-4261-443F-A48E-CFD1A7DC4B35 2 May 2013 12:38:44 GMT 2 May 2013 12:39:24 GMT 2 May 2013 12:38:39 GMT This May and June, Hertfordshire’s Alcohol Campaigns Group is encouraging parents to talk to their children about alcohol. In a recent survey in schools in Hertfordshire, data shows that children, who drink in year 10, mostly get their alcohol from home and 25% of secondary aged pupils said they have had an alcoholic drink in the last week. Schools are being asked for their support in reaching parents by highlighting the campaign in their newsletters 2 May 2013 12:37:58 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/bulletin/campaigns.shtml#alcohol 33EB0445-250C-4496-96EB-971B53C127A3 In order to help sustain the Olympic and Paralympic values and legacy, members of the Hertfordshire Olympic and Paralympic Legacy Partnership Board have pledged a number of rewards for schools such as tickets for local tourist attractions and opportunities to meet inspirational Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Why not enter your school into the competition for a chance to win some prizes? 29 Apr 2013 13:05:39 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/pe/olympics/index.shtml#pledge 20C4CD42-DEB5-4138-806B-7337EB6A6035 A patch will be released today to amend the MFG calculation. Please refer to page 11 of Bulletin FPS13, link below, for guidance concerning the proxy address for updates. Please note that the proxy address for your school may be different to that shown. Please check with your technician if unsure.A supplementary bulletin available on the grid for schools with nursery intake 29 Apr 2013 09:12:54 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/traded/financial/manuals/fps_advance/ 3E094AE2-6A09-4EF8-9F21-356891842BF5 This inspiring course is designed to support teachers in planning and delivering an inclusive multcultural curriculum to engage all pupils. It offers practical ideas enhanced by the use of culturally relevant resources to improve pupils knowledge and understanding of their school community. 26 Apr 2013 08:37:07 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/actweb/WDC/sseo/template_001.cfm?pageID=5&template=courseDetails&courseID=13BME/002P&eventCode=13BME/002P The local authority has a statutory duty to carry out monitoring visits to ensure that the Key Stage 2 National Curriculum Tests (SATs) are administered consistently and in accordance with the published guidance. Headteachers have a statutory duty to cooperate with monitoring visits, as they help to build public confidence in the security of the National Curriculum tests and provide headteachers with a formal opportunity to demonstrate how the tests are administered in their schools. 26 Apr 2013 08:37:00 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/assessment/updates/index.shtml 4EFFA43A-50BD-431B-A882-FFCECB7BACEC Information to assist school staff if they are asked for information or have concerns about the employment of school aged children in paid or unpaid work or the licensing of children to take part in TV / theatre / radio or modelling and paid sporting activity. 26 Apr 2013 07:43:52 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/welfare/employment/index.shtml 992152D9-184B-42E9-B777-9912A71ADEB9 iPads are becoming more and more widespread in Hertfordshire schools and beyond, and are making a real impact on learning. These free hands-on sessions from Toucan Computing will introduce you to this engaging technology, and give you an opportunity to hear how they are being used in schools. 26 Apr 2013 07:43:18 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/ict/training/?panel=new 6E0FCF7B-9694-4DDC-B945-703B60EE0B0E The small schools annual update is hosted by the Small Schools Network Committee. All small school heads are invited to the next meeting on the 23rd May at Newgate Street Village Hall. 25 Apr 2013 14:09:06 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/leadership/schoolimprovement/small_schools/index.shtml 1D2C8CA4-0365-474C-BEFD-1BA358E14375 SITSS have provided two video guides for the SIMS Homepage and SIMS Student teacher view that will be activated with the SIMS Spring 2013 upgrade that has just been released to all schools. 25 Apr 2013 14:08:45 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/traded/sitss/data/sims/index.shtml#tips 97748131-0A13-41C0-B87D-CE130017763C The latest updates bring to your attention information regarding statutory assessment across the primary phase and to update you on other developments in assessment and school performance data.. 23 Apr 2013 09:01:46 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/assessment/updates/index.shtml 9CD8AA6E-F92A-445A-B6E1-B7CC6540EA9E This course to start in Autumn 2013 meets the criteria for the National Scholarship Fund for SEN support staff for which applications close this thursday on the 25th April 2013.. 23 Apr 2013 07:23:19 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/sen/news/index.shtml#ast 5795F0BD-7FA5-453D-87BB-D478292E2D8D Profiles for the new Herts for Learning Directors are now available. The Board held its first meeting on the 17th April 2013 for the shadow board to formally hand over to the new Board members. 23 Apr 2013 07:22:54 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/schoolimprovement/hlt/index.shtml#results 0EAA8F07-CEA7-40C6-8D2C-7AB9759146FE An update for RM Finance has been placed on the grid for schools to download to fix the error. This must be done before producing the RM Finance export. If you have already exported the data from version 7.98 please run the update and re-export 23 Apr 2013 07:22:31 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/traded/financial/manuals/rm/#software 0874A6C3-7275-4BE3-9341-F8167EC9D685 Win £150 for your school plus other exciting prizes! Herts Show organisers, the Hertfordshire Agricultural Society, are inviting school children to take part in an art competition with a Futuristic/Technology theme. Closing date: Friday 3rd May 2013 23 Apr 2013 07:21:58 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/art/news/countyshow.shtml E9CFFB1F-4AA1-47CB-BB73-CB467906CEB7 Places are still available on this half day course which is designed to support middle and senior leaders who will be conducting appraisal meetings with support staff as part of the performance management review cycle. arrow Book online: Course code 13MAN/055A (10th May) or Course code 13MAN/054A (17th May) 18 Apr 2013 09:07:29 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/actweb/WDC/sseo/template_001.cfm?pageID=5&template=courseListing&phase=A 79F8E51D-ED46-406D-AD12-08E44854521B The theme for this years conference for primary deputies and assistant heads in Hertfordshire is 'Performing Beyond Expectation'. With the rapidly changing national and local context, delegates will have the opportunity to reflect on their leadership and to hear different perspectives on the changing expectations and future developments in education. 17 Apr 2013 12:10:20 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/leadership/programmes/conferences/deputies.shtml#primary2013 AC384D06-C353-411B-9C11-D8A7ECF44B8E An ebulletin updatingHertfordshire schools on the latest issues in design and techology. Contents include updates on the new national curriculum; health and safety; school accountability and funding 17 Apr 2013 10:33:35 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/dandt/news/index.shtml B243427C-DF1F-4537-BE9C-B6B3F8DF2D75 2012 Key Stage 4 validated data is due for release shortly. Substantial changes have been made to the Key Stage 4 data management functionality in RAISEonline. The Assessment Team have outlined the key changes for secondary schools and academies. 16 Apr 2013 15:45:17 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/assessment/updates/index.shtml A3FD1B36-F141-47C5-87E8-6CC7C9C0096E A problem has been identified with the LMS4 on the export file being submitted via anycomms. RM is creating a library patch to deal with this, which will need to be tested before release. It is hoped that this will be avaialable for release on thursday Please do not submit any returns via anycoms until the ‘library’ patch has been applied and you have confirmation that all is ok. 16 Apr 2013 14:57:14 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/traded/financial/manuals/rm/index.shtml 3DBC78F3-774A-4238-9B82-7FE9D9353286 If not then book a staff training session or half day workshop for children! Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month (GRTHM ) takes place in June and gives everyone the chance to celebrate and raise awareness of the unique history and culture of Traveller communities. 16 Apr 2013 14:56:47 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/bme/traveller_refugee/grtm.shtml 716345FC-94F4-4859-A076-06D5B331DB70 Schools using RM Finance MUST do the upgrade BEFORE rolling forward into Period 1. Please check the RM Systems page on the Grid for the upgrade and guidance 15 Apr 2013 13:03:51 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/traded/financial/manuals/rm/index.shtml D232C464-AA9E-47C3-BD02-EEDEC7E3D3B4 A half day course with lots of practical ideas to show how Traveller cultures can be reflected and embedded in the inclusive curriculum. The course will also examine how Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month (GRTHM) can be celebrated in school during the month of June and provide an opportunity to raise awareness of the unique histories and cultures of Traveller. arrow Book online: Course Code 13BME/010A 5 Apr 2013 14:41:00 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/actweb/WDC/sseo/template_001.cfm?pageID=7&template=courseDetails&courseID=13BME/010A&eventCode=13BME/010A D9B5937E-3F42-4785-BC61-7C0C15C042E7 The count for the election of non-executive directors in Herts for Learning Ltd was held on 3rd April 2013. In total across all categories (primary, secondary and special / ESC academies) 166 schools voted. The count was verified by an independent scrutineer, Michael Scandrett. A full report will be presented to the Board at the next meeting. Find out who the successful candidates are 4 Apr 2013 09:13:08 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/schoolimprovement/hlt/index.shtml#results 0252FBE9-2DFF-4929-9AB7-BAEB05109E33 Guidance, exemplars and forms in relation to the changes to new SEN national funding requirements and the impact those changes will have in Hertfordshire 3 Apr 2013 13:28:58 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/sen/guidance/index.shtml#exceptional 5F87A0FA-94FD-43D0-8DA1-FD9D21CC90AF This months summaries include Ofsted reports on: key findings from the latest report on maintained schools’ performance: Pupil Premium; and outstanding physical education provision 3 Apr 2013 12:52:02 GMT http://www.intra.thegrid.org.uk/info/bristol/ 6FAAE848-C4E9-47B0-ADDF-20E4F9F6CE5C If you would use it to cycle to work it may be much cheaper than you think. Hertfordshire County Council is launching the cycle to work salary sacrifice scheme again between 1 - 28 April, to help with the cost of new bicycles and cycling equipment, up to a maximum of £1,500 28 Mar 2013 11:10:06 GMT http://www.intra.thegrid.org.uk/schoolworkforce/human_resources/benefits/salary_sacrifice/ EFA37D8E-506B-47C2-A5EE-A4AA0D672DD1 Hertfordshire ICT Scheme of Work in Demand - The Hertfordshire ICT scheme, written by the Hertfordshire Primary ICT Advisers, offers a creative framework for teaching and assessing discrete ICT in the primary phase. Able, Gifted and Talented Conference 2013 - The recent Able Gifted and Talented Conference provided a day for delegates to reflect about their provision for highly able children in their schools. 28 Mar 2013 11:09:38 GMT http://www.hertsforlearning.co.uk/ C9AED5E5-F787-4593-B3F9-D8C36581CDA2 The non-statutory scheme of work for Primary Religious Education is undergoing some revision to be in line with the statutory requirements set out in the new Hertfordshire Agreed Syllabus of Religious Education 2012-2017. The summer term units are now available 26 Mar 2013 13:27:22 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/re/general/sow_primary.shtml CF3FC9A2-98CC-433A-A43C-0691040CB78D David Laws speaks at the ATL conference on the pupil premium. 26 Mar 2013 12:14:09 GMT http://bit.ly/10JlGks 5C329525-A942-42B4-8090-52B5A7CA1898 To help you with your budget planning, Financial Services for Schools (FSS) are running a workshop on FSPadvance on 25th April 2013. Book online: Course code 13FSS/019A 25 Mar 2013 15:04:26 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/actweb/WDC/sseo/template_001.cfm?pageID=7&template=courseDetails&courseID=13FSS/019A&eventCode=13FSS/019A BBE39DC0-7D83-406D-904B-0CDCB390F67C The National Autistic Society and Axcis Education Recruitment have produced a series of one-hour webinars to help teachers understand how they can support children with autism effectively. This webinar given by HMI Janet Thompson, will examine the new Ofsted inspection framework, how it has changed and what inspectors will be looking for. In particular, it will help teachers and SENCOs to understand how it applies to SEN in schools and how they can best prepare for inspections 25 Mar 2013 08:08:30 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/sen/news/index.shtml#new 00977DBA-FB40-4069-8EFE-6887ED51A797 As we experience another bout of severe weather please make sure you are familiar with the procedures for school closures and the closure notification system. Severe Weather Guidance 25 Mar 2013 08:07:37 GMT http://www.intra.thegrid.org.uk/info/snowline/index.shtml CA23F215-485F-44BB-AF2C-7B4C4ED80507 Youth Connexions Hertfordshire welcomed careers guidance professionals from across Hertfordshire to a major event earlier this month. LEP Chair John Gourd presented the key note speech at this year’s Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) conference ‘Enabling young people to succeed’ organised by Youth Connexions Hertfordshire 25 Mar 2013 08:07:04 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/1419/news/index.shtml#careers 6735D36A-3C2B-4FED-80B5-58CEAECE5FE2 Free financial advice seminars available to all HCC staff, including those in schools on a range of topics including retirement, investment, wills and probate, taxation. The next one on protection, wills and probate is on April 3rd 2013 at Apsley. arrow 22 Mar 2013 12:49:09 GMT http://www.intra.thegrid.org.uk/schoolworkforce/human_resources/benefits/financial/ifas.shtml 31ED7415-0C76-42DB-8590-1E92C3C54241 Easter comes towards the end of the heating cycle; however having just seen the weather forecast it may be as cold as Christmas. Good management of your schools energy use during Easter will deliver savings and help you establish your baseline 22 Mar 2013 09:46:09 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/premises/energy/news.shtml 559DB933-4794-4D70-A56B-2A54FF941497 Updates for schools on anti-bullying policy and guidance; online and cyber-bullying; autism and bullying; homophobia and the latest bullying surveys 20 Mar 2013 10:06:10 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/hwb/bullying/news/bulletins/index.shtml 05B5B261-DED7-4CE8-B054-C61FA3DBB85B Updates on Key Stage 2 level 6 accountability and problems accessing the pupil registration section of the NCA website with Internet Explorer. 20 Mar 2013 09:20:14 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/assessment/updates/index.shtml 23C8718D-EFF2-4920-ABBE-E332D9C3FD29 The latest version of the budgeting software is now available to download from the Grid. Please make sure you read the installation guide before attempting the installation. Please read Bulletin FPS13, which is also available to download. There have been significant changes to the Section 251. 20 Mar 2013 09:19:25 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/traded/financial/manuals/fps_advance/index.shtml 02E7D8BF-2FB5-4EC1-B254-E3680088DF4B Teachers and Teaching Assistants (TAs) working in school can apply for funding for accredited SpLD courses from a range of course providers. Details of the accredited training courses and application process are now available. 19 Mar 2013 15:43:57 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/sen/news/index.shtml#SPLD F9786D4A-02C1-42CE-99EA-5BA1831D0347 Year end financial information and timetables have are available on the School Funding Unit section 18 Mar 2013 11:24:54 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/sfu/index.shtml 93095EE3-2169-448A-BE9E-93D108552798 The financial planning software will be available later this week. An update will be published on this page once the software is available. 18 Mar 2013 10:29:42 GMT http:// 83497080-13C5-44A0-8A02-16B2A9DE834B Voting for the HfL non-executive directors is open between Monday 18th March and 5pm on Thursday 28th March 2013 (please note that this is a day earlier than previously notified due to 29th March 2013 being Good Friday). As governing bodies are the legal shareholder in a schools’ company, Chairs of Governors will receive an electronic copy of the green voting paper by Monday 18th March 2013. Voting Process and Candidate Details 18 Mar 2013 10:29:10 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/schoolimprovement/hlt/index.shtml 4299C441-3CFB-4E9C-ABEF-23E1B049E9E1 The Shakespeare Schools Festival, is a national arts-education project backed by the Department for Education working with primary, secondary and special schools. They are a charity that gives schools the opportunity to perform abridged Shakespeare plays in professional theatres. They are keen for more Hertfordshire schools to be involved. Registration closes on the 20th March. 15 Mar 2013 16:22:53 GMT http://www.ssf.uk.com/howitworks A68875D6-3144-4989-A7F8-6ADE14585F62 From 1st Aril 2013, schools will need to pay invoices related to works carried out by Mouchel. This replaces the current arrangements whereby Mouchel forward payment requests (including those of sub-contractors) to Herts County Council who then process invoices through the 'Biscuit' system. A detailed description of the new arrangements is provided in the letter from Mouchel. Please note, this notification is only relevant to those schools who contract with Mouchel to provide building works. 15 Mar 2013 15:46:24 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/premises/property.shtml 7B2FEDE2-3881-427A-A0C5-95550D0A96D3 Win £150 for your school plus other exciting prizes! Herts Show organisers, the Hertfordshire Agricultural Society, are inviting school children to take part in an art competition with a Futuristic/Technology theme. Closing date: Friday 3rd May 2013. 12 Mar 2013 13:25:25 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/art/news/countyshow.shtml AE644B45-5961-4C08-A8B5-53F13E238D86 The September amendments to the January 2012 framework included changes to the names of grades awarded, the profile of inspectors and the introduction of new look reports. This feature article outlines the main differences and shares experiences from Hertfordshire schools. 12 Mar 2013 11:26:33 GMT http://www.hertsforlearning.co.uk/news/ofsted-new-grades-names-new-inspectors-new-reports 4A200705-DE22-45F6-B615-3EB6ACBCE5E0 The Herts Show organisers are offering 35 complimentary child tickets per school to Hertfordshire primary schools on a ‘first come, first served’ basis (children under 5 are free). 8 Mar 2013 14:02:48 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/geography/news/index.shtml 3F6C4A0E-2482-42E4-B4B3-32923DE0BE0F Ofsted’s Chief Inspector has this week launched a new online tool to support governors to hold their schools to account. It provides a snapshot of performance, in terms of assessment, exams and attendance, for Key Stages 1, 2 and 4. However, Hertfordshire Primary schools using SIMS Assessment Manager 7 are able to provide current information for all year groups 7 Mar 2013 10:59:36 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/traded/sitss//leadership/governors/ 6B41416F-983E-4348-9D79-0AED9E64F2F9 In the Autumn term Killigrew Primary and Nursery School in St. Albans purchased 16 Toshiba AT300-101 tablet computers for general cross-curricular use in all classes. This case study looks at the management and use of the tablets in school 6 Mar 2013 11:37:12 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/ict/research/casestudies/killigrew.shtml A93BF944-E762-4B87-B1D2-8F5734286C21 The young people of Hertfordshire have twelve new young politicians to represent them and bring about change on issues important to them. The outcome of the 2013 UKYP election was announced on Saturday 2 March at County Hall, Hertford 5 Mar 2013 10:47:10 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/citizenship/voice/index.shtml#ukyp DB130391-6EF7-4FC7-B8EB-88843CA695B4 Comic Relief Day is on the 15th March 2013 and the County MFL Adviser has put together some suggestions for integrating jokes in different languages into your MFL teaching at KS2, KS3 and KS4 5 Mar 2013 09:18:19 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/mfl/news/index.shtml#new B86CCDFD-3365-4625-A194-03F74CE77F7F All Hertfordshire schools and academies buy at least one service from Standards and School Effectiveness and schools will be receiving a copy of their traded contract for 2013/14 this week. Details of the services available are contained in a brochure which is being sent out with the contract 4 Mar 2013 09:54:34 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/traded/sse/contract.shtml 3411601D-FC36-4219-ABB3-2F55BB2B8BE5 The Schools' Commissioning Toolkit has been updated including some of the appendices and templates 28 Feb 2013 15:56:59 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/office/commissioning/index.shtml 09EAA87B-EEDD-4E90-BE99-27A315AD99D1 CPD brochures for the Spring term will be in schools during the week commencing 4th March 2013. Download the latest brochures or search our online database. 28 Feb 2013 11:53:05 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/schoolworkforce/training/courses/booking.shtml 85654CB1-2F56-4933-9CED-1A32EB154B64 The presentations from the Spring Term Headteacher Update on 27th February 2013 are now available on the Grid 28 Feb 2013 10:00:38 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/leadership/programmes/briefings/index.shtml 8019929F-C9DE-48AB-BBD1-66D52C7FD8E3 Podcasting (publishing sound recordings to the internet) and working with digital sound in the classroom offers an engaging and alternative way of working, with particular emphasis on speaking, listening and creative use of ICT. his course is aimed at teachers or teaching assistants who would like to learn to make podcasts and/or digital recordings with their pupils/students, using the free software 'Audacity' 27 Feb 2013 11:20:56 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/actweb/WDC/sseo/template_001.cfm?pageID=7&template=courseDetails&courseID=12ICT/041A&eventCode=12ICT/041A D94BC6E0-19E6-4C74-AFF4-E49D38DEE353 The Festival is for all school staff and provides many different opportunities for delegates to explore new and innovative ICT for teaching and learning. There will be a large supplier’s exhibition showcasing software and peripheral devices, with plenty of time to ask questions and try out the latest resources. To really make this afternoon valuable for busy staff there will be a number of Litebite taster sessions. Details are now available 26 Feb 2013 14:42:02 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/ict/research/conferences/2013/index.shtml#litebite 688DD485-94A5-4545-8A05-CD29EE29FC62 Most Hertfordshire maintained schools and academies have been successfully using Microsoft’s Live@Edu email application for nearly two years. Microsoft has now developed a new email application which includes more functionality called Office 365. Office 365 is being offered to all its existing and new email customers (both business and education) and Microsoft wish to have all existing users of Live@Edu migrated to Office 365 by end 2013 25 Feb 2013 09:51:30 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/eservices/email/news/index.shtml 93DCC5C6-1373-44FD-B0AA-6A621DFBED1C Numicon - a quality first teaching approach to numbers - The Hertfordshire Mathematics team are pleased to offer bespoke Numicon training sessions, tailored to your needs. Numicon is a quality first teaching approach designed to give children the understanding of number ideas and number relationships that is essential for success in maths. 22 Feb 2013 14:59:27 GMT http://www.hertsforlearning.co.uk/news/numicon-quality-first-teaching-approach-numbers 1960BF7F-8FFC-4F11-AA02-41E6C838CA42 The Hertscam Network has set up a new website to share what they have learned with anyone interested in teacher leadership and its power to transform school development 19 Feb 2013 12:53:44 GMT https://www.hertscam.org.uk/ F9ED274E-B062-4245-917E-0C7C8D8DCD6D Artsmark application is an effective way to demonstrate that your school provides a well planned arts education that supports the cultural development of all of its pupils and can be good evidence to provide and discuss at an Ofsted inspection. Round 13 of Artsmark, managed by Trinity College London, is now open for application 18 Feb 2013 11:53:13 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/art/news/index.shtml#artsmark B86E924B-FAE7-4083-9416-E0B81EBAD2A8 Read for my School' is a national schools reading competition from The Pearson Foundation and Booktrust, with support from the DfE. The initiative enables all primary schools in England who have access to the internet to enter into a free, secure digital literacy competition that promotes and encourages reading for pleasure. It also rewards participants with the opportunity to win prizes for themselves and their school by reading books and recording their progress online. There is still time for schools to register 15 Feb 2013 16:11:26 GMT http://www.readformyschool.co.uk/ C9D032FC-D131-4C16-8F4B-2C2A63F56679 WasteAware on behalf of the Hertfordshire Waste Partnership (HWP) is again able to help schools with another opportunity to safely recycle old and unwanted electrical and electronic equipment. With new collection dates set for the end of March 2013 we are hoping to get even more interest this year. 14 Feb 2013 11:39:25 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/geography/general/recycle.shtml 19781BE4-14FC-4572-9F77-F96AC871246B An update on the Government's plans to make foreign languages a compulsory subject within the National Curriculum at Key Stage 2 from September 2014; implications for languages in the national curriculum proposals and changes to secondary school accountability 13 Feb 2013 08:16:21 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/mfl/news/index.shtml#new 44DEFADC-D676-4A1E-B476-7610677A5FC1 Last week was the first chance Hertfordshire schools had to demonstrate their support for Herts for Learning by expressing an interest in buying a share in the new schools' company. The next stage will be the nominations for non-executive directors for Herts for Learning Ltd which opens on the 25th February 2013 and closes on 1st March 2013. The search has also started to appoint a Managing Director for Herts for Learning Ltd 13 Feb 2013 08:15:59 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/schoolimprovement/hlt/index.shtml 6F866D9C-1F1D-4CBE-B4F0-64DCCB301C69 Over 200 schools managed reduce their energy consumption over the Christmas and New Year Holidays. Now another opportunity is here with half term fast approaching 13 Feb 2013 08:15:43 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/premises/energy/news.shtml 09CA6121-46B0-435C-B74B-201B2299B479 Hertfordshire adopted a multi agency approach to transition planning by using the Learning for Living and Work Framework (LfLW) to ensure that the process is a more consistent, person centred and holistic experience for young people and their families. The LfLW Framework has now been evaluated and revised to align with the SEND proposals. 12 Feb 2013 09:38:35 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/sen/guidance/statement/#lfl 3F61FE0F-2E15-4817-A92C-699AACDF742A Due to demand we are holding two further courses to support middle and senior leaders who will be conducting appraisal meetings with staff as part of the performance management review cycle. Stevenage: Monday 25th February 2013. Apsley: Monday 11th March 2013. 11 Feb 2013 15:42:54 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/actweb/WDC/sseo/template_001.cfm?pageID=7&template=courseDetails&courseID=12MAN/193A&eventCode=12MAN/193A 5F75C762-F925-49F7-BFAE-87A76DAC8D4E Due to demand we are holding two further courses to support middle and senior leaders who will be conducting appraisal meetings with staff as part of the performance management review cycle. Stevenage: Monday 25th February 2013. 11 Feb 2013 15:42:54 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/actweb/WDC/sseo/template_001.cfm?pageID=7&template=courseDetails&courseID=12MAN/194A&eventCode=12MAN/194A 5F75C762-F925-49F7-BFAE-87A76DAC8D4E The Big Pedal is a massive cycle and scoot to school event. In the 2012 event, over 890,000 Big Pedal journeys were made by pupils on bikes and scooters at nearly 1,000 schools across the UK. 5 Feb 2013 15:56:53 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/roadsafety/news/big_pedal/ D73891DE-98E8-4BF1-A315-81F3B42F916F A free half day event. It is important to encourage and develop the next cohort of special school leaders as current demographics suggest many heads will retire in the next few years. This event will be a chance to hear from current special school Headteachers about the realities of the role 5 Feb 2013 15:08:06 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/leadership/whatsnew/index.shtml A61368BD-9AE1-4F99-AAB4-B783474FFA58 One of our schools has reported a call claiming to be from their Internet Service Provider who asked to be allowed to remotely access a computer in order to perform a software update. 5 Jan 2013 13:31:30 GMT http://www.intra.thegrid.org.uk/eservices/technical/index.shtml#bogus EEC977E3-5586-4662-8149-4BAA32ADD54B The latest summaries are now available including: Reading Achievement in England; Mathematics and Science Achievement; National Curriculum Assessment at Key Stage 2; Outcomes for Looked-after Children; and a Teacher Survey on the Government’s Education Policy 31 Jan 2013 16:08:49 GMT http://www.intra.thegrid.org.uk/info/bristol/ 02748E20-9BF7-451F-8F8F-B91BA0E1343C The latest edition focuses on the Local Offer, which aims to enable disabled young people and their families to see more clearly what services are available in their area and how to access them 31 Jan 2013 12:23:22 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/sen/news/index.shtml#pathfinder FF5CDF1E-2787-4164-A548-EB89CEA0964F We will be running a training course aimed at Caretakers that have responsibilty for carrying out or supervising cleaning . 30 Jan 2013 16:10:06 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/schoolworkforce/supportstaff/premises.shtml#caretaker 474690E1-1582-4EE6-B399-F6EEECF4E32B The latest eBulletin is available online now. Features include learning from serious case reviews, partnership case reviews and audits, multi-agency training, local safeguarding forum dates for 2013, partnership projects and much more...!. 30 Jan 2013 09:35:27 GMT http://hscbebulletin.hertssafeguarding.org.uk/ 8AC24D8E-6B5C-448F-BB4B-8CCE43B081B0 Do you have a budding Spielberg at your school? It's not too late to enter the Herts School Film Challenge for 2013. We are looking for groups or individuals to make a short film around the themes of Healthy Travel in all it's aspects; physical, mental, emotional. social and environmental. Closing date is 28th February 2013. 29 Jan 2013 14:57:59 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/roadsafety/news/film_challenge/ 5EE5A7F2-2999-4AAE-9F10-DB7994BF50AB There will be a total of 30 schools involved in this national project and we want to make sure that Hertfordshire schools have as much opportunity as possible to be involved if they would like to. 29 Jan 2013 11:43:01 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/hwb/ewb/prp/thrive/#briefing 71AE3CA7-B188-4278-BA9F-037DE4BB680C Analysis of electricity consumption across the school estate shows that many schools could benefit from an upgrade to their lighting system. HCC has the means and the money to make this happen 29 Jan 2013 09:36:30 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/premises/energy/news.shtml 427F9AB1-E7A2-46A9-8A5A-FD4DB46219FF A competition for 5-13 year olds with a category for under 9s and 10-13s. The teacher's pack looks brilliant and well worth a look even if you don't intend to enter the competition. It includes video and audio tips from well known authors, as well a slots of activities. On the website you can also access last year's winning stories - they look really good 28 Jan 2013 16:08:15 GMT http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/500words/2013/ F75FCFC6-15B5-4B94-A2CD-FB644B5A8CE3 Communication is a vital skill for young scientists to develop. Experiences within science lessons can provide rich contexts for creative and other forms of writing. While using talk in science helps children explore ideas and develop their thinking. This course will explore research and techniques for supporting pupils literacy development within science lessons. 28 Jan 2013 10:30:49 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/actweb/WDC/sseo/template_001.cfm?pageID=7&template=courseDetails&courseID=12SCI/017P&eventCode=12SCI/017P C836635D-AB8E-43EA-858F-5FEE554AD9FC Information detailing the procedures for expressing an interest in buying a share in the new schools' company - Herts for Learning Ltd and nominating and voting for a non-executive director will be sent out to headteachers and chairs of governing bodies week beginning 28th January 2013 or Download the Pack and Forms Now 25 Jan 2013 15:08:15 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/schoolimprovement/hlt/index.shtml EFFC0E9F-A4F0-41F3-A52E-D99C24BB67DC The 2013 Dux Awards Scheme aims to encourage the recognition and reward of top performing pupils in Year 9 (14 year olds). One high-performing pupil is chosen as the Dux for their school. The prize is a visit to a Russell Group university for the Dux and their teacher. Registration opens on 28th January 2013 for two weeks 23 Jan 2013 12:01:33 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/gifted/news/index.shtml#dux 97F5436E-23B6-4F6A-B731-0100267A75E5 Do you know someone who does a fantastic job promoting safe and sustainable travel at your local school? Nominations are still being taken for HCC’s 2013 School Travel Awards which celebrate good practice and promote safe and sustainable travel. Due to earlier technical issues, the closing date has been extended to 8th February 2013. 4 Jan 2013 11:38:07 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/roadsafety/news/travel_awards/ AFF13B12-E107-4367-B9D2-16C8CCF6C377 The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Framework was revised in September 2012 to make it clearer and easier to use, with more focus on the things that matter most. 21 Jan 2013 14:54:57 GMT http://www.hertsforlearning.co.uk/news/revised-early-years-foundation-stage-framework FB951BF4-C301-4159-8A5E-973D09458D75 The National ICT Festival will once more be hosted by the Hertfordshire ICT team, at the Hertfordshire Development Centre in Stevenage. The event focuses on learning and teaching in the classroom and exhibitors will be showcasing software and peripheral devices for use within the curriculum. There will be the opportunity to see a wide range of innovative and leading edge resources and ICT Litebite sessions, designed to update and provide CPD to delegates across a wide range of ICT topics. 21 Jan 2013 11:41:50 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/ict/research/conferences/2013/ 50128862-701F-46C4-9B0A-D577ADE00E5F A reminder that Safer Internet Day this year will take place on 5th February, and this will be the tenth anniversary of the event which will focus on Online Rights and Responsibilities with the slogan “Connect with Respect”. There are a range of primary and secondary resources, including posters and lesson plans, that schools can download and start using now 18 Jan 2013 16:47:04 GMT http://www.saferinternet.org.uk/safer-internet-day AF487AAE-15A2-4AA8-B06F-C5B85D69F8A0 Focus on the Behaviour and Safety of Pupils - Under the current Ofsted framework Behaviour and Safety plays a more significant part than ever before in a school’s inspection outcomes. 17 Jan 2013 13:17:36 GMT http://www.hertsforlearning.co.uk/news/focus-behaviour-and-safety-pupils 3E0722F4-5344-41A8-B672-306028620811 Prior to Christmas schools were informed of actions they could take to reduce their costs associated with heating, and to aim to see how low they could go. Preliminary analysis of schools within the Hertfordshire estate shows that over 220 have made significant savings to their heating costs by ensuring their management system was set up for Christmas week 15 Jan 2013 16:18:35 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/premises/energy/news.shtml 1C40BBB7-55A4-499E-928E-ADC29DF6CC9A This year's Feelin' Good Week will be celebrated during the last week before half term: 11-15 Febuary 2013. It is a Hertfordshire wide event delivered in schools and the wider community by a range of services and organisations. This is an opportunity to promote emotional wellbeing, raise awareness of mental ill health and where to access support with your school community. 15 Jan 2013 14:23:11 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/hwb/ewb/feelinggood/ 8E351427-5A92-49FF-B5A0-AFD1F52E02D9 The Bribery Act became law on 1st July 2011. It is designed to address bribery and corruption in the public and private sectors and will mean that any incorporated organisation, potentially including schools, could be liable to severe penalties if they fail to implement adequate procedures to prevent bribes being paid or received on their behalf. The Shared Internal Audit Service, has produced a model Anti-Bribery policy which can be adapted and adopted by Schools to help them fulfil the requirement of 'adequate procedures'. M 14 Jan 2013 16:04:58 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/schoolworkforce/human_resources/policies/#b 902D63C5-A5A6-4B39-90BD-8CFB50B2CC8B Who are our gifted and talented scientists? What criteria should we use to identify them? How can we plan to meet their needs and continue to excite them about the world of science? And where can we find the answers to all their challenging questions? Book Online 12SCI/016P 14 Jan 2013 16:04:18 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/actweb/WDC/sseo/template_001.cfm?pageID=7&template=courseDetails&courseID=12SCI/016P&eventCode=12SCI/016P 200FCF83-7DAD-4B1A-ABAD-A0A3AB75E6CC The pupil premium is allocated to children from low-income families who are currently known to be eligible for free school meals (FSM) in mainstream and non-mainstream settings and children who have been looked after (CLA) continuously for more than six months. For further information and resources visit the pupil premium page. 14 Jan 2013 15:31:17 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/pupil_premium/ 292000D7-3997-4518-BABB-18BDE7D02D05 Free financial advice seminars available to all HCC staff, including those in schools on a range of topics including retirement, investment, wills and probate, taxation 10 Jan 2013 15:47:18 GMT http://www.intra.thegrid.org.uk/schoolworkforce/human_resources/benefits/financial/ifas.shtml 8EDF3C15-3BCC-4E6E-B777-B9C61FC40230 Hertfordshire's transport team have produced this very helpful poster to clarify everyone's roles in ensuring safety on home to school transport. Please display them, share them with pupils, parents and staff. They are a timely and helpful addition to your positive behaviour strategy and your preparation for Ofsted. 10 Jan 2013 10:08:00 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/behaviour/news/documents/home_to_school_poster_nov12.pdf C7B8C1F3-362D-4B0B-BAD2-3AD97D0C3463 SEN and Ofsted Webinar - 11th April 2013 The National Autistic Society and Axcis Education Recruitment have produced a series of one-hour webinars to help teachers understand how they can support children with autism effectively. This webinar given by HMI Janet Thompson, will examine the new Ofsted inspection framework, how it has changed and what inspectors will be looking for. In particular, it will help teachers and SENCOs to understand how it applies to SEN in schools and how they can best prepare for inspections 9 Jan 2013 13:25:16 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/sen/news/index.shtml#new 7F47EAB1-8F0D-40AD-906C-FAC01B2687E9 Feature article - Pupil premium: the facts SITSS help schools reduce absenteeism www.hertsforlearning.co.uk, is our one stop school improvement support website for Hertfordshire schools. 9 Jan 2013 12:12:36 GMT http://www.hertsforlearning.co.uk 0FD455DB-D869-4A15-9A6F-7BAA32ED701E Hertfordshire County Council is launching a Cycle to Work salary sacrifice scheme to help with the cost of new bicycles and cycling equipment. The scheme, which initially runs just for the month of January, is part of the Government’s Green Travel Plan, to encourage employees to cycle to work. It means you spread the cost of a bicycle over twelve monthly payments through a hire agreement. 8 Jan 2013 14:28:52 GMT http://www.intra.thegrid.org.uk/schoolworkforce/human_resources/benefits/salary_sacrifice/ D6DC15FD-5A4F-4573-B6D4-F68D674A1479 A free 1 day conference to enable you to reflect on the distinct contribution you would bring to school leadership and how that will be reflected in headship. 8 Jan 2013 14:27:33 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/leadership/whatsnew/index.shtml D3C5FDBB-567B-4F4E-9F34-5EAE13E8E745 To show our commitment a new Legacy Board has been created and has approved funding for 5 projects and is looking to support more in 2013: The Herts Youth Games, establish 4 new handball clubs, delivering an inclusive sports programme, supporting the coaching bursary scheme and a canoe club forum. 7 Jan 2013 10:43:29 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/pe/olympics/newsletter/ 270E9F6A-0B9D-4346-B884-93E6DF946312 In January a letter will be sent to all schools with primary age children detailing the arrangements for statutory assessment across the primary phase (EYFS, KS1 & KS2) this year, as well as providing information about some non-statutory aspects of assessment. 7 Jan 2013 09:59:28 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/assessment/updates/index.shtml 48B0770F-1663-4112-B7C5-850E22A97019 The Collection has recently been relocated from New Barnfield to its new home in Welwyn Garden City. However, the project to transfer the catalogue and loans management to a new computer system has taken longer than originally anticipated. We aim to resolve these issues during the Spring Term 2013 but the service will remain suspended for the time being. Please do not place any orders on the website as requests for items cannot currently be processed 3 Jan 2013 15:40:58 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/elearning/content/countyart/index.shtml D7C05116-4748-4DB1-B71E-137E51F3F99A The Single Service Request Form has been replaced by two separate forms: one for child protection referrals and one for service requests from another agency. These new forms are now approved and ready for use by all organisations and partners from 1st January 2013. 28 Dec 2012 12:39:36 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/welfare/referral.shtml 32E0D13D-6778-43FE-A870-CCA878051DE3 The Hertfordshire UK Youth Parliament elections open for voting at 9am Monday 28th January 2013. Supported by Youth Connexions, twenty candidates are now starting to campaign for votes though their schools and local communities as well as using social media to increase awareness of what issues are important to them 21 Dec 2012 14:12:42 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/citizenship/voice/#ukyp 188F0E0A-D654-4925-BBBE-C9CED0849ECE 83 year old Zigi (Zygmunt) Shipper, a Holocaust survivor, born in Poland and now living in Bushey, Hertfordshire will be describing his experiences of life during the second World War under Nazi German rule and his incarceration in concentration camps, including Auschwitz-Birkenau, with Hertfordshire pupils in late January 21 Dec 2012 13:28:42 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/re/news/index.shtml D843AB32-2255-4BAB-9E8A-FCF6D347CA66 Update on the latest national MFL news: DfE consultation, Mandarin in schools, reform of KS4 exams, spring CPD courses and french gangnam style! 20 Dec 2012 16:09:43 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/mfl/news/newsletters/index.shtml C749693B-7DA6-47B2-8486-48D152C1EBF8 Welcome to two bumper issues of Herts and Minds from 2012 - Winter 2012 and Summer 2012. This unique newsletter provides information on the education of children and young people and also has current news and stories that help and inspire you in your work! 20 Dec 2012 10:17:18 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/welfare/virtualschool/news/index.shtml A1DE7D94-F611-4B6D-9B6F-B7E086BF935C Following the change to the funding arrangements for maternity pay in schools, the following calculator will provide an estimate of the cost of each maternity case for your school. Please bear in mind this is intended as an estimate only 20 Dec 2012 09:26:14 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/payroll/index.shtml#maternity 81FE47F8-9DF6-4169-A204-6750B57FDE6E The non-statutory scheme of work for Primary RE is undergoing some revision to be in line with the statutory requirements set out in the new Hertfordshire Agreed Syllabus of Religious Education 2012-2017. Units for Spring Term planning are now available to download. Herts Primary Scheme of Work: Nursery to Year 6 Units. 18 Dec 2012 13:06:54 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/re/general/sow_primary.shtml BDD9A316-09EB-4E39-81B8-AFBE32648E83 The latest summaries are now available including: Annual Report of the Chief Inspector of Schools; Training to Teach Early Language and Literacy; Dealing with Allegations of Abuse against Teachers and Other Staff; The Richard Review of Apprenticeships and Sign language poetry. This link is only available from within a Hertfordshire School. 18 Dec 2012 13:05:54 GMT http://www.intra.thegrid.org.uk/info/bristol/ BAC51DBF-03C8-4461-8BD5-91A823195B55 The National College is making available, via Leadership East a number of scholarships for the National Professional Qualification in Senior Leadership (NPQSL) and the National Professional Qualification in Middle Leadership (NPQML). 13 Dec 2012 13:09:52 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/leadership/strategy/promoting_leadership/professional.shtml 9D3E3390-8DFC-473C-99CD-C5D87F781A59 Christmas is just around the corner and residents across Hertfordshire are being urged to get out and take part in community activities as part of a countywide campaign being led by Hertfordshire County Council and HertsHelp. 13 Dec 2012 13:08:58 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/bulletin/campaigns.shtml#christmas 6E37BC5D-82EC-42F4-A5AB-54FD8AB570AF The Eastern Leadership Centre is running its first annual conference in the East region to provide school leaders with valuable insight into critical developments in school business management. 12 Dec 2012 13:40:56 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/leadership/whatsnew/index.shtml 612D9182-847E-44CB-A6DB-69281FE1149A Latest News on the 'Herts for learning' Website - 13th December 2012 Introducing a new action research project with Ros Wilson Another successful Hertfordshire governors' conference www.hertsforlearning.co.uk, is our one stop school improvement support website for Hertfordshire schools 11 Dec 2012 16:23:55 GMT http://www.hertsforlearning.co.uk/ 3DC07316-7E51-4E47-8EEE-CB300100638A This half day course is designed to support middle and senior leaders who will be conducting appraisal meetings with staff as part of the performance management review cycle. Will be held at Stevenage on Wednesday 16 January 2013. 11 Dec 2012 13:40:05 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/actweb/WDC/sseo/template_001.cfm?pageID=7&template=courseDetails&courseID=12MAN/177A&eventCode=12MAN/177A FA08063E-33A3-460B-B0C2-2F5D0CCB50E1 This half day course is designed to support middle and senior leaders who will be conducting appraisal meetings with staff as part of the performance management review cycle. Apsley on Wednesday 23rd January 2013. 11 Dec 2012 13:40:05 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/actweb/WDC/sseo/template_001.cfm?pageID=7&template=courseDetails&courseID=12MAN/178A&eventCode=12MAN/178A FA08063E-33A3-460B-B0C2-2F5D0CCB50E1 The County Council is leading a project in order to provide superfast broadband access in areas which currently have no access or suffer very slow speeds. As part of this campaign we are asking schools in areas where suppliers are not currently planning to make superfast broadband available to help, and are sending out a package of letters to be distributed to parents and staff to encourage them to register their interest online 7 Dec 2012 12:27:21 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/bulletin/campaigns.shtml#broadband/ F0B323A3-52BE-4DD7-B626-16D262EA6345 The latest news about Hertfordshire's SEND pathfinder trial which has now recruited 58 families to work with. The newsletter explores how young people can be prepared for transition into further education 6 Dec 2012 07:39:09 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/sen/leadership/herts_guidance.shtml B2B4327D-D156-404E-A80A-A50F58169D99 Revisions to the School Admission Code published in February 2012 necessitated changes to the categories of children that fall within the scope of the Fair Access Protocol (FAP). This presented an opportunity to establish a single FAP to apply across the county, a primary version of which has now been published 5 Dec 2012 08:21:26 GMT http://www.intra.thegrid.org.uk/admissions/index.shtml#fap 22EC3E8D-88E1-492A-B83A-C54238C59C2C Christmas falls after the main heating cycle has started in schools. It offers a major opportunity for schools to adopt good habits and to establish their winter baseline energy use for both electrical and heat energy. Below are standard actions which can be employed to reduce energy consumption over the Christmas break 4 Dec 2012 11:30:29 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/premises/energy/news.shtml 3454E40B-1D52-48CB-9AE3-97E7FDAA1E5A Spotlight: Focus on Ofsted: safeguarding children in the online world - esafety Your feedback - CPD evaluation results 3 Dec 2012 15:39:31 GMT http://www.hertsforlearning.co.uk FE244A32-F848-440D-89D1-3D9176BB2DA3 Why not come along to an informal workshop to begin the process of completing the SFVS? You can spend some time out of school to begin the process of completing this new document. There will be experienced staff from FSS there to help you with any questions that you may have. The 23 questions will be set out on a template, so bring along a memory stick to copy your responses onto; this will facilitate completion at a later date, if necessary 30 Nov 2012 15:14:11 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/traded/financial/sfvs/index.shtml#workshop F980CC31-B047-4804-84D4-CAFBBC40E407 The Severe Weather Plan for Schools has been updated. As the weather turns colder please make sure you are familiar with the procedures for school closures in the event of snow and the closure notification system 29 Nov 2012 10:16:38 GMT http://www.intra.thegrid.org.uk/info/snowline/ 94E33421-D747-4378-872E-A3BBFAA3521E Update on KS2 National Results 2012 www.hertsforlearning.co.uk, is the one stop school improvement support website developed for schools by Standards and School Effectiveness (SSE), Hertfordshire’s school improvement service 26 Nov 2012 14:45:37 GMT http://www.hertsforlearning.co.uk/news/update-national-ks2-results-2012 EE83F9C4-A283-429D-B4C3-76CD02E087E9 The latest summaries are now available including: Entry Requirements for Computer Teacher Training; Ofsted's Report on Maintained Schools Inspections and Outcomes; Ofqual’s Position on Extra Time for Candidates; and Statistical First Release GCSE 26 Nov 2012 13:28:23 GMT http://www.intra.thegrid.org.uk/info/bristol/ 6F26C4C0-95FA-476D-A928-6D28EC9F65E2 Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS), Trading Standards and Resilience have launched their ‘Be Safe and Enjoy Winter’ campaign and are urging people to take care this winter. As part of the campaign, they have produced their ‘Be Safe and Enjoy Winter’ booklet; a comprehensive guide on how to stay safe while having a good time. To download a copy of the booklet and find out more about how to protect yourself and others this winter, please visit 26 Nov 2012 11:47:01 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/wintersafety 068D2A7E-D7B0-4A26-B00C-09F34604D1E2 This half day course is designed to support middle and senior leaders who will be conducting appraisal meetings with staff as part of the performance management review cycle. It's being run on two dates before Christmas, and will be rolled out in January when more dates will be available. The course is also available to be delivered locally either exclusively for staff conducting appraisals in your school or for a cluster of schools. Book online: course code 12MAN/176A or 12MAN/175A 23 Nov 2012 10:07:31 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/actweb/WDC/sseo/template_001.cfm?pageID=5&template=courseListing&phase=A D97E18B7-C83F-42AC-BC8B-FED7F8A3F275 23 Nov 2012 10:07:26 GMT The University of Hertfordshire, in partnership with Herts Aid, invite schools to attend a preview screening of 'Undefeated', a short film based on the real life stories of young people living with a question and answer session afterwards. This may be of interest to schools running A' Levels is subjects like philosophy and ethics. 23 Nov 2012 09:42:36 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/hwb/news/#film E0EA7927-F4CB-4E0C-8B64-11196AAE86C6 23 Nov 2012 09:42:30 GMT Open to primary and special schools winners of the competition will receive £50 worth of high street vouchers AND £100 for their school. The winning entries will also be used on HSCB bookmarks, raising awareness about where children and young people can go if they fear that they or someone they know is being abused, bullied or neglected. Closing date 30th November 2012. 22 Nov 2012 09:41:23 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/leadership/safeguarding/news.shtml D0D1348D-5585-49BF-97B7-27E6856BEE2D Nominations for the 2013 School Travel Awards are now being taken. Closing date is 25th January 2013. 21 Nov 2012 15:23:32 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/roadsafety/news/travel_awards/ 86258E70-253B-4305-9197-B72B31F5D113 The 2013 Film Competition is now open, fliers have been sent out to all schools and are also available to download. Closing date is 15th February 2013. 21 Nov 2012 15:22:41 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/roadsafety/news/film_challenge/ 81C3DE21-4ED6-4BF5-8769-0E31A5319BB8 Behold the turtle’ - primary headteacher’s conference a great success 20 Nov 2012 17:13:41 GMT http://www.hertsforlearning.co.uk/news/%E2%80%98behold-turtle%E2%80%99-primary-headteacher%E2%80%99s-conference-great-success 67088B43-7307-4C0C-8E4B-3A370D4BBCC0 John Henry Newman School receive an outstanding judgement for all aspects of their PSHE provision 20 Nov 2012 17:12:57 GMT http://www.hertsforlearning.co.uk/news/john-henry-newman-school-receive-outstanding-judgement-all-aspects-their-pshe-provision D6F4D202-88EE-4E3A-9B6C-91FFBBD45C30 Feature article: A new schools' company - education excellence together 20 Nov 2012 17:12:26 GMT http://www.hertsforlearning.co.uk/news/new-schools%E2%80%99-company-education-excellence-together 63014F90-65EB-4F16-AE6B-0855C8BF280B This is the major science event of the year. You can listen to key speakers, participate in workshops, review the resources exhibition and, as always, have some time to network and share ideas with colleagues from others schools across the LA. Science Conference 19 Nov 2012 17:08:10 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/science/news/index.shtml#events 8702E560-115F-4A7D-A7CA-049B33D95F5C At the Governors' Conference on the 17th November 2012 we discussed putting together a 're-presentation kit' to help you when you deliver the presentation to other Governors at your school 19 Nov 2012 11:18:13 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/schoolimprovement/hlt/index.shtml 9EF677D3-F7C7-4134-827B-E2AB61F8D83F This new Hertfordshire guidance has been written to enable schools to support pupils with learning disabilities and developmental disorders who may also have mental health problems and to work effectively with families, and all agencies/professionals to ascertain a best course of action and treatment for the children/young people in their care and strategies to consider based on real life case studies 16 Nov 2012 10:57:38 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/learning/hwb/ewb/resources/index.shtml#gps 9F42DBBE-8DF7-4FDA-BB4A-42A4EE64E913 CEOP, the Child Exploitation and Online Protection centre, has warned that there is a link to a child abuse image currently being distributed via Blackberry Messenger. It is also being distributed via social networking sites. The message asks users to pass the link on to 'help the victim'. If it comes to your attention that children and young people have received this link please advise them not to share it. Please advise them to delete it. Please emphasise to them that it is illegal to download, possess or share indecent images of children 15 Nov 2012 16:27:08 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/eservices/safety/news/index.shtml#new 2ED82562-1B71-4951-B23A-C5300C426DBC New HSCB courses: Safeguarding children with disabilities; Witchcraft and spirit possession abuse lite bite; Working with resistant and reluctant parents lite bite; Serious and partnership case reviews and audits lite bite: what have we learnt nationally and locally? Can we do better?. 13 Nov 2012 10:50:47 GMT http://www.hertsdirect.org/actweb/WDC/sseo/template_001.cfm?pageID=47&template=courseListing BD97BF2F-69E8-4905-B7DF-4B9BE34C2E56 Due to demand we are holding two further courses to support middle and senior leaders who want to develop their understanding of the performance management implications in the new support staff terms and conditions for Hertfordshire community and VA schools. Stevenage on Tuesday 20th November or Apsley on Monday 26th November. Book online 13 Nov 2012 10:30:04 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/schoolworkforce/training/courses/booking.shtml 6516665D-C2DA-4B74-8AF4-8C0A9E0945C2 The problems schools were experiencing with solero last week have now been fixed. We apologise for the disruption to schools and thank you for your patience 12 Nov 2012 10:31:33 GMT http://www.intra.thegrid.org.uk/solero/index.shtml BA1DBEAE-A57D-42E3-82FC-1A882FDB5D2F Please note that the DfE have issued a slightly amended Privacy Notice for Secondary Schools. It is not necessary to issue new copies to all parents\students. Please edit the Privacy Notice where applicable for your school and post this version on your website. Please inform parents of this update via the next scheduled newsletter or communication. The updated version should be issued to new students joining your school from this point on 12 Nov 2012 10:31:09 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/dataprotection/index.shtml#fair 94BAF32A-B159-45BE-86B8-DFA9A4615388 We are seeking your views on aspects of the proposed changes to the future service provision by Hertfordshire Catering. We have published a consultation document with a link to an online survey for responses, along with details of the consultation process. Closing date: Friday 23rd November 2012 9 Nov 2012 09:37:32 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/traded/herts-catering/index.shtml 5545F141-B26E-4F1C-8179-804E744F2331 Schools are currently experiencing problems accessing Solero. After logging in users are presented with a scrambled page instead of the usual menu options. Updata, the schools' network provider, are working urgently to understand and fix this fault. We apologise for the disruption it is causing and we will let you know, when the problem is fixed. 8 Nov 2012 09:34:27 GMT http://www.intra.thegrid.org.uk/solero/index.shtml 1517747E-D674-4E2D-A8FF-14C5D7921946 CPD brochures for the summer term will be in schools during the week commencing 19th November 2012. Download the latest brochures or search our online database. 7 Nov 2012 16:24:07 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/schoolworkforce/training/courses/booking.shtml A9742EB3-EC55-4BF1-8CC6-6459CC09F5D4 Your local county council is joining forces with British Gas to encourage residents to get free loft and cavity wall insulation which will help drive down gas and electricity bills. As well as a great way for Hertfordshire residents to save money on energy bills, the countywide 'Keep Warm, Stay Well' campaign (which supports vulnerable residents - young and old) will benefit financially each time a resident signs up for free insulation 7 Nov 2012 11:27:55 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/bulletin/campaigns.shtml#warm 0E7BECA7-11A9-4107-86ED-F1D39B754207 Do you know of a child or young person who is living in a private fostering arrangement? Private fostering is when a child or young person under 16 (under 18 if they have a disability) lives with an adult who is not a close relative for 28 days or more. We are urging childcare and education professionals to get in touch if they become aware of any private fostering arrangements to help us ensure the safety and well-being of children not living with a direct relative 6 Nov 2012 16:27:52 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/welfare/fostering.shtml 69F53DE7-FDFD-4949-91A3-5F43995C297C Spotlight - New support service available from the Financial Services for Schools team - workshops and support for SFVS www.hertsforlearning.co.uk, is the one stop school improvement support website developed for schools by Standards and School Effectiveness (SSE), Hertfordshire’s school improvement service. 6 Nov 2012 10:39:00 GMT http://www.hertsforlearning.co.uk/news/new-support-service-available-financial-services-schools-team 9CA04F59-BA1E-44DF-A2BB-622FA9D49601 6 Nov 2012 10:38:56 GMT The aim of this course is to demonstrate the use of SIMS Assets & Depreciation and its integration with FMS6 to produce accounts information and manage assets. 5 Nov 2012 10:56:55 GMT http://www.thegrid.org.uk/info/traded/financial/courses/?panel=new 70C5E4B4-F5C9-475C-8EFD-6714A4822AA4