New DfE research shows ‘lasting negative impact’ on attainment of children in need

Pupils known to social services lag far behind their less vulnerable peers at GCSE, even if they are no longer classed as being “in need”, the Department for Education has warned.

New research found pupils who had been classed as “in need” at some point between 2011 and 2017 scored an average attainment 8 score of 29 last year, 19 points below the average score of 48 scored by their peers.

And only 40 per cent of children in need – pupils who are looked-after, supported by social services, on child protection plans or young carers –  reached the expected standard at in reading, writing and maths at key stage 2, compared with 64 per cent of their peers.

Read more via Schools Week

Financial Resilience Forum 2018

Over 100 headteachers, governors and school business managers attended Herts for Learning’s (HfL) Financial Resilience Forum. .

The half-day event, building on from the MAT Forum last spring, featured a range of speakers who provided an insight into how schools can effectively make the most of the budget they have, as well as plan for the short-term and long-term future.

Delegates had the chance to listen to Tanya Arkle, Deputy Director of Academies Programme (South) DfE Education & Skills Funding Agency, who spoke about how schools can make sure that they are making every pound count towards improving pupil outcomes.

She looked at the key elements that support good financial health including effective and efficient deployment of staff, strategic financial planning for the longer term (3-5 years) and skilled staff responsible for managing finance.

Read the full article via Herts for Learning

Stevenage students’ positive environmental impact as part of community project

Students have taken part in a community project to help them realise the benefits of social action, as well as develop key communication and teamwork skills.

Pupils from Marriotts School and The Thomas Alleyne Academy in Stevenage took part in litter picking in the town’s Fairlands Valley Park as part of a scheme called Play Your Part, led by education charity Yes Futures.

The charity focuses on personal development programmes which empower young people to make ambitious choices and realise their potential through developing their confidence, resilience and life skills.

Yes Futures coach Nina Koesman said: “Most students had never picked litter before but, because of the tools, working alongside friends and being able to wander about in the beautiful wooded area, most enjoyed the activity. Some students became really competitive and made a game out of who could fill up the biggest bag, or find the strangest item.

Read more via The Comet