bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outdoor play: Creating secret spaces and places
Authors: White Jan
Published: May 2014

Do you find that your children want to go into the small spaces outside, such as behind the shed, that you'd rather they didn't? Do they respond enthusiastically if you give them the chance to create small spaces with chairs and blankets? Did you spend a lot of your own childhood making and playing in dens? When young children play, you can see that small spaces are appealing to them.
Recipe for learning: Minestrone soup
Authors: Stobbs Nicola
Published: May 2014

This soup is great for autumn. Both the beans and the pasta provide slow release energy that will sustain children for longer before they need to eat again. It is also full of vegetables readily available at this time of year, which you will find children are happy to eat because they have made the soup themselves
Making provision for outdoor play
Authors: White Jan
Published: May 2014

You have an important role to play in making sure children have access to good quality outdoor spaces for much of the time they are with you each day, throughout the year, and by enabling your children to learn where it suits them best.
Open-ended role play: the ‘whatever you want it to be’ place
Authors: Broadhead Pat
Published: May 2014

Children are born sociable. Babies and very young children depend on adults close by for social interaction. When a child throws a toy from their pram, they are looking for facial contact and verbal exchanges and are actively constructing their own learning experience. Older children use the resources that adults provide for them to engage with one another and build knowledge and understanding in their world.
Exploring and recording with cameras
Authors: Hart Glenys
Published: May 2014

Using a digital camera helps children investigate objects and materials. Taking close-ups and zooming in encourages detailed observation. Modern cameras have macro buttons or a zoom facility to make this activity easier.
The bigger picture
Authors: Hart Glenys
Published: May 2014

Encourage your child to use a digital camera to record their favourite place. This gives them a chance to explore their world with the camera and share it with you.
Does 3D art mean model making?
Authors: Whiteford Rhona
Published: May 2014

Children are always impressed by size and shape, whether it's a miniature book, a two metre tall teddy or chairs and tables that fi t perfectly. There are so many brilliant shapes in the world today; towering silver offi ce blocks, sweeping bridges that arch over motorway lines. An endless list of fascinating 3D objects. Given construction toys, children usually build upwards and outwards and for them ȁ size matters; the longest train line, the tallest block tower or an abstract shape that is just BIG.
Looking for patterns
Authors: Evans Jean
Published: May 2014

One of the desirable outcomes in mathematics is ‘the ability to recognize and recreate patterns’. It is one of the important aspects of mathematical understanding which help to provide the foundations for numeracy. We can help to develop this understanding by encouraging children to look for patterns in their surroundings and by giving them the opportunities to copy and create patterns of their own through practical activities.
We welcome you!
Authors: Jones Meg
Published: May 2014

One way of welcoming children and parents who speak English as an additional language is to use pictures rather than words.
Getting funding for your setting
Authors: Elkin Susan
Published: May 2014

The good news is that there is probably money available from government departments, charities or sponsors to help you to run your setting better. Even if the sums are small a little can make a big difference.
Preparing for visits from other children
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

Whether you arrange for all the new children to visit together, or just two or three at a time, there are many ways of preparing your children for the sudden infl ux of visitors and what will happen on the day:
Autumn dance ideas
Authors: Sutherland Sue , Maurer Olwyn
Published: May 2014

Sue Sutherland and Olwyn Maurer have put together a few dance ideas based on falling leaves and spinning sycamore seeds
Unlocking creativity in all areas of learning part 2
Authors: Iannuzzelli Paul
Published: May 2014

Trying to find answers can be difficult for children. If they are unsure, they will often gladly look up to those around them for help. Children will naturally display this typical characteristic of creative thinking. They begin their learning lives in a mode of fascinating discovery, and a natural curiosity seems to press them forward into finding answers.
Can they grow it?
Authors: Elkin Susan
Published: May 2014

Connecting young children with nature is an important part of their personal social and emotional development. Children discover that the natural world – in which plants provide food, directly or indirectly – is part of the environment that all humans live in. Finding out about how different sorts of plants grow is part of knowledge and understanding of the world.
Very messy experiments with paint
Authors: Taylor Pam
Published: May 2014

Pam Taylor explains how to let them have fun playing during art activities.
Getting to know the numbers 3 and 4
Authors: Catterall Rona
Published: May 2014

Most nursery children will be familiar with hearing the numbers 3 and 4 as ages are mentioned and birthdays are celebrated, but not all children of this age will know how to read and write number symbols, match the number names to their value, or remember the number order so that they can count accurately.
Incy Wincy Spider
Authors: Davison Shirley
Published: May 2014

If activities are carefully planned and well organised one simple rhyme can provide a whole host of enjoyable activities that not only help develop language and vocabulary but other skills as well. You can promote children's personal and social development through co-operative games. You might also be able to incorporate activities involving periods of concentration and, importantly, independence. If the activity was enjoyable the children will want to go back to it time and time again, often using their problem-solving abilities to adapt it to meet their particular needs or interests.
Working with a play therapist
Authors: Clark Lisa Gordon
Published: May 2014

It is becoming more and more common for a play therapist to work with a child on school premises. This means the relationship between the professionals involved is vital. How well you work together and understand one another may have a bearing on the effectiveness of the therapy. If significant adults in the child's life are supportive the child is more likely to respond and the work has a better prognosis if there is a sense of team commitment.
Keep safe and well!
Authors: Evans Jean
Published: May 2014

To plan an appropriate curriculum for health education you need to know what your children understand about how their bodies work and how to keep safe, says Jean Evans
From the editor
Authors: Hindmarch Sonali
Published: May 2014

Welcome to the 100th issue of Practical Pre-School. A lot has changed in early years education since the first issue of the magazine 10 years ago, from Sure Start centres to Every Child Matters and, more recently, the Early Years Foundation Stage.
Feeling good about art
Authors: Whiteford Rhona
Published: May 2014

Making a model has a special quality that is different to simply drawing a picture. For a start, models are 3D and can be viewed from all sides. They are solid with a weight of their own. Models can be carried carefully for everyone to admire and some models can actually be played with, too.
Child health: First aid and resuscitation
Authors: Hedley David
Published: May 2014

It is important that you know the basics of First Aid. Ideally, everyone on your staff should receive basic training to enable them to give the best possible First Aid treatment in an emergency. This is for your own peace of mind as well as to reassure the parents of the children in your care. Information about First Aid training in your area may be obtained from:
News
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

Medically untrained staff are being asked to carry out complex medical procedures on children in early years provision and schools, Unison, the public services union, has claimed.
Exploring nature
Authors: Coulter Jacqueline
Published: May 2014

Promoting environmental awareness in the early years is not a modern idea says Jacqueline Coulter. She says we can all make sure that children take an interest in the environment
Celebrating special days
Authors: Stocks Sara
Published: May 2014

Self-esteem comes from a huge range of experiences, both good and bad and predominantly family based. Healthy self-esteem starts with the way a new-born baby is handled and responded to and carries on through toddler tantrums, early educational experiences and throughout the growing-up years. No nursery or pre-school activity is ever going to change a life singlehandedly, of course, but you can begin by raising awareness of the importance of self-esteem for your group and their families.
Ballroom dancing
Authors: Blanchard Chrys
Published: May 2014

Most children today are familiar with dancing along ‘disco style’ at social events, but have they ever been to a party or family occasion and seen people dancing together and twirling around the room holding onto each other?
I spy an Autumn Frieze
Authors: Linfield Rachel Sparks
Published: May 2014

Autumn is a good time to produce a group frieze that encourages children to notice that they are all different and all special. This idea involves children painting self-portraits to display in a playground scene
Initial letter sounds
Authors: Davison Shirley
Published: May 2014

The first stage of recognising initial letter sounds must be through hearing them, not the identification of the letter character to match the sound. This will come at a later developmental stage. The first objective should be to ensure that the children can hear, identify and repeat the sound correctly. Other important points to consider are developing the children's vocabulary so that they are able to identify objects that will be used in games and ensuring that the children encounter the activities in a relaxed, stimulating and fun way.
The Christmas Star
Authors: Williams Brenda
Published: May 2014

Jojo and Tiggy were pretending that their robot had just landed in a big spaceship. Hmmmmm and shooooosh! It landed right in the middle of their carpet and settled down next to Bertie, their little dog.
In depth: The Lib Dem's manifesto
Authors: Tweed James
Published: May 2014

The Liberal Democrats want to put education at the centre the party's policies in a bid to change the face of childcare
Getting to know families
Authors: Griffin Sue
Published: May 2014

In the last article on working with parents, Sue Griffin sums up the partnership relationship
Helping your child cope with loss
Authors: Harries Judith , Andrews Ruth
Published: May 2014

It is important to be honest with children about the life-span of pets, especially hamsters and gerbils, as they often only live for two or three years.
Early ‘;messy’ goals
Authors: Harries Judith , Astill Mel
Published: May 2014

Children will happily engage in speaking and listening while gathered together around a particularly messy activity, so absorbed in the process that they will respond by attempting new vocabulary and naturally using it in their play. There are lots of opportunities for mark making with different materials and children will develop narrative skills as they use messy play to make up stories.
All about reflections
Authors: Hartley Karen , Macro Chris
Published: May 2014

You can help children to become more observant by playing alongside them, making comments and asking questions. Help them to see how shiny objects reflect light and that sometimes our images are distorted if the shiny objects or mirrors are curved.
Working with a teaching assistant
Authors: Main Anthea
Published: May 2014

The labels that have been given to support staff working in classrooms have been many and various – classroom assistants, ancillaries, classroom helpers, NTAs and so on. Now we use the title teaching assistants. I will use it to include nursery nurses and staff with equivalent qualifications as well as unqualified assistants.
Messy learning goals
Authors: Harries Judith , Astill Mel
Published: May 2014

Here is the fourth article in this series, tackling gaining knowledge and understanding of the world through utilising all the senses as the children explore a variety of messy mediums
Baby screening can detect early learning problems
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

Screening tests that monitor babies' motor development could help to identify children who will need support with learning in their pre-school years, according to a study.
Numbers as labels in the garden
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: May 2014

Here are four adult led activities for young children aged three-to-five, focused on using numbers as labels in the garden, each activity is based on what may have been observed and is followed up with an idea of how to encourage the children to extend the activity in their child initiated learning
Using their senses
Authors: Harries Judith , Astill Mel
Published: May 2014

All of these activities will help children to respond in a variety of ways to what they see, hear, smell, touch and feel.
Getting boys into writing
Authors: Mort Linda
Published: May 2014

Being rescue heroes in adventurous role play outside will inspire boys - and girls - to write as they save the day, says Linda Mort
Try some transient art
Authors: Mellor Rebecca
Published: May 2014

Promoting creativity and individuality in art is a skill that even the most artistic teacher finds difficult. It is easy to share your passion and enthusiasm for art through the works of Van Gogh or Monet with a paintbrush and some ready mix, but looking at individualism and expressing children's own ideas through the creative arts means allowing children to be free from outcome restraints.
Food for thought
Authors: Goodchild Rachel
Published: May 2014

Many early childhood teachers do not use food as a teaching tool as it can be considered culturally insensitive. However with the growing number of children growing up with poor knowledge concerning nutrition and how to shop for healthy options, focusing on food, supermarkets and eating out can help them develop healthier eating habits.
Autumn gardening
Authors: Harries Judith , Price Emily
Published: May 2014

In the first of a new series on gardening through the seasons, Judith Harries and Emily Price discuss activities that will help to enhance children's sensory skills as well as their appreciation of nature
How to encourage dental health
Authors: Hill Sarah
Published: May 2014

Teaching children oral healthcare early on will pave the way for better dental health in the future. The British Dental Health Foundation explains some fun and engaging tactics
The great outdoors
Authors: Warden Claire
Published: May 2014

Claire Warden talks about the limitless, open-ended play opportunities that nature offers to children, and the equipment that can be used with nature, rather than instead of it.
Food for thought
Authors: Mojica Lorelli
Published: May 2014

Children’s experiences of food will vary, but when eating their favourite meal or snack, just how much do they actually know about where the ingredients originate from, and how their delicious snack came to be?
Stop, look, listen
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

22 - 28 November is Road Safety Week, so there’s no better time to teach children some basic road safety tips and help them start putting them into practice, writes Viv Hampshire.
Carol Rutty
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

A snack café, home visits, and special events; these are some of the things going on at Teignmouth Pre-school in Devon. Karen Hart talks to Carol Rutty about her role as pre-school manager.
Rhymes to mime to!
Authors: Croft Sue
Published: May 2014

Children can have fun pretending to care for a poorly teddy, or helping mum at the supermarket, as you say these rhymes. Sue Croft shares some ideas for related phonic and counting activities.
An Easter egg hunt fun day!
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

The highlight of any Easter celebration, an Easter egg hunt, is one of those timeless activities children never tire of – but why stick to the same old formula? Karen Hart shows you some exciting alternatives.
Separation anxiety
Authors: Doyle Phoebe
Published: May 2014

With so many children starting pre-school for the first time come September, it is worth planning for how to deal with the anxiety that children can feel as a result of their parents saying ‘goodbye’. Phoebe Doyle offers some advice.
A playground of possibilities
Authors: Gowans James
Published: May 2014

It is widely known that play forms a fundamental part of a child's development, so the equipment children use in the playground area should provide them with varied and plentiful opportunities for exploration.
Attachment disorder
Authors: Mountstephen Mary
Published: May 2014

If a child fails to form attachments in their early years, this can have a negative impact on their behaviour in later life, writes Mary Mountstephen, so how can you identify Attachment Disorder?
It's a wide world
Authors: Moutstephen Mary
Published: May 2014

Our ever-changing society is made up of a mix of people from around the world, so it is important that your setting reflects this cultural diversity and creates a positive learning environment, writes Mary Mountstephen.
Head lice: Getting to the root of the matter
Authors: Brown Christine
Published: May 2014

In the following article, Nurse consultant Christine Brown shares her invaluable advice on how to deal with head lice in your setting. Read on for the facts, the fictions, and the treatments.
Snowdrop stories
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

This is a special article in the series to welcome spring, featuring a collection of stories all inspired by the simple snowdrop flower. This flower traditionally heralds the beginning of spring and has been included in many different tales, writes Judith Harries.
Supporting communicaton skills through ICT
Authors: Kniveton Mark
Published: May 2014

Mark Kniveton explains how technical equipment can play a significant role in the development of communication skills.
Getting into the Olympic Movement
Authors: Jones Eileen
Published: May 2014

Young children are quick to accept differences; build on this by introducing the Paralympics. Then follow up with physical activities where the children benefit from working together, suggests Eileen Jones.
Festivals and folklore
Authors: Davies Alison
Published: May 2014

Alison Davies celebrates the month of June with activities that relate to the Roman Goddess Juno, and suggests practical activities that encourage young children to connect with each other.
Raise the bar for everyone
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

Purnima Tanuku explores the impact of recent Ofsted changes. The NDNA chief executive agrees that all provision should be good or outstanding but calls for regular, expert and equal inspections to ensure it.
Long hot summer of '76
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

Platforms and flares, ‘new money’, planes faster than sound and saving water during the hottest summer on record – Viv Hampshire's series gives children a window on to life in the 1970s. What shape will it be?
All the fun of the fair
Authors: Croft Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Croft offers new poems about favourite summer activities. Share with children for some reading and writing activities and be inspired to have a mini summer fair and a strawberry themed tea-party.
Making celebrations count
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

With festivals in many religions and cultures taking place in winter, now is a good time to reflect on how you approach faith and backgrounds with children. In this extract, Karen Hart shares ideas from two settings.
Ready to stand up to bullies
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Stephanie Thornton's series on how we can prepare children for the social and emotional challenges of life at school turns to the all-too-common issue of bullying. Read on for tips on equipping children not to be victims.
Taking the necessary risks
Authors: Stroud Anna
Published: May 2014

In a world where parents are increasingly cautious, practitioners have a ‘duty of care’ to provide opportunities for children to explore the world around them and make their own mistakes. Anna Stroud explains how to do this safely.
Winter Olympic all stars
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

The 2014 Winter Olympics is fast approaching, and with it the opportunity to do lots of physical development activities with a winter sports theme. Get sliding and ‘sleighing’ and work on motor skills with icy crafts.
If my dog could talk…
Authors: Croft Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Croft shares some new poems about pets: from cats and dogs to mice, parrots and pigeons. Read the poems with the children and follow up with activities that focus on letters, sounds and rhyme.
Great learning is out there
Authors: Long Hilary
Published: May 2014

Hilary Long shares her experience running an outdoor kindergarten in Glasgow, in often rainy western Scotland, to explain the benefits of child-led learning in a natural environment and the practical issues to consider.
Switched on at the show
Authors: Wright Caroline
Published: May 2014

We preview the CPD, training and resources for all aspects of early years education on display at the Education Show – free to attend at the Birmingham NEC. This is a vital year to be thinking ahead, says Caroline Wright.
Roar, claw, bones to gnaw
Authors: Williams Brenda
Published: May 2014

Children's natural fascination with dinosaurs provides a great start to capturing their imagination and developing their understanding of a pre-historic age. This month's action poem can trigger many activities.
Going the extra mile
Authors: Cartwright Eva
Published: May 2014

Eva Cartwright discusses the benefits of leading an extra-curricular activity. She gives some pointers on getting started and capturing the interest of your pupils.
Anyone for a slice of Raspberry Pi?
Authors: David Anthony
Published: May 2014

Anthony David considers how the Raspberry Pi device, combined with Code Club lesson ideas, could transform the way IT is taught in schools.
S.A.T.S. are for rats!
Authors: Way Steve
Published: May 2014

Author and storyteller Steve Way explains how some rats outwitted their humans, in a tall tail of cleverness, cunning and intrigue!
A high ability in maths
Authors: Davis John
Published: May 2014

John Davis explains how you can identify, support and extend those children who are able mathematicians, ensuring they remain engaged and enthused.
Bringing language to life: Broadening horizons
Authors: Dion-Jones Danielle
Published: May 2014

In the final part of our stepping stones to language teaching series, Danielle Dion-Jones gives advice on implementing a more intense approach to teaching MFL.
Terrifc transitions: Reception to year 1
Authors: Cosh Jackie
Published: May 2014

Jackie Cosh considers what makes for a good transition into key stage 1 and asks, could the Early Years Foundation Stage Profile be put to better use?
Exploring the magic of folktales…
Authors: Andrews Crispin
Published: May 2014

Crispin Andrews uncovers folklore from the Bristish Isles and provides suggestions for encouraging pupils to create their own tales.
Your voice in training
Authors: Cowley Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Cowley gives some advice on vocal exercises and explains how you can use both verbal and non-verbal communication to impact positively on learning.
How to teach Shakespeare, that is the question…
Authors: Austin Bonnie
Published: May 2014

Bonnie Austin, from Shakespeare Schools Festival, gives some practical advice and activity suggestions for bringing the Bard to life for primary pupils.
Terrifc transitions: Year 2 to year 3
Authors: Cosh Jackie
Published: May 2014

Jackie Cosh considers how the change between key stages 1 and 2 can be mangaged smoothly, to keep pupils engaged and prevent anxiety.
The residential trip!
Authors: White Verity
Published: May 2014

Verity White offers some advice on planning a longer school trip, recommends some locations and reveals why residentials are her favourite part of the school year.
Operation Pig Delivery
Authors: Bryce-Clegg Alistair
Published: May 2014

Former headteacher Alistair Bryce-Clegg recalls the fateful day Betty the pig arrived at his school. You can read his blog at abcdoes.com
How can I support assessment for learning?
Authors: Cartwright Eva
Published: May 2014

Eva Cartwright explains how you can record information during learning activities to help inform the class teacher's future planning and aid pupil self-assessment.
Preparing for the year 1 phonics screenung check
Authors: Newbury Marj
Published: May 2014

The year 1 phonics check, due to take place this June, has courted much controversy. Marj Newbury explains why she believes it will benefit teachers and pupils.
Which path to take? Part 1
Authors: Donohoe Tom
Published: May 2014

Tom Donohoe discusses his journey from NQT to headteacher and explores the different routes open to teachers thinking about career progression.
Hobbits and humans
Authors: Andrews Crispin
Published: May 2014

Hobbits are topical at the moment, thanks to the film of Tolkein's famous book. Crispin Andrews explains how they could inspire lessons exploring our pre-historic ancestors.
The creative curriculum down on the farm…
Authors: Falkingham Jonathan
Published: May 2014

Jonathan Falkingham from FACE looks at the benefits of linking food and farming to various aspects of the curriculum, and how you can bring it all to life through a day trip.
How to provide constructive criticism
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Dr Stephanie Thornton examines different methods of criticism and the importance of maintaining a balance between criticism and praise.
Taking the mystery out of RAISEonline…
Authors: Donohoe Tom
Published: May 2014

Tom Donohoe take a step-by-step approach to explaining this document, so that teachers thinking of moving into a leadership role can understand and talk confidently about it.
Using games to inspire creative writing
Authors: Hewson Claire
Published: May 2014

Claire Hewson provides imagination-sparking activities for inside and outside the classroom to help children write inventive stories, with tips for using online resources.
A Rome around Britain
Authors: Davis John
Published: May 2014

With Roman Britain now written into the key stage 2 history curriculum, John Davis suggests some enriching visits and activities to breathe new life into the topic.
Goals for get up and go
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

How do you feel when you arrive at school each morning? Margaret Adams helps you understand how to find positive motivation and avoid relying on willpower.
Making marking work
Authors: David Anthony
Published: May 2014

A tick list chore with limited meaning for pupils? Not so, says Anthony David. Modern marking can be a powerful tool to drive forward learning improvement.
Supporting EAL Children
Authors: Cartwright Eva
Published: May 2014

How can we help pupils who are not native English speakers to develop language and engage with their learning, and also ensure that they feel part of the class?
What is reflective teaching practice?
Authors: Cowley Sue
Published: May 2014

By consciously thinking about what you do in the classroom and why, what works and what does not, and the strategies and theories you employ, you can improve your teaching and children's learning.
Shaking up carpet time
Authors: Williams Kate
Published: May 2014

Kate Williams suggests a fresh approach for using your carpet area across all aspects of the curriculum, making the most of the different dynamic down on the floor.
Effective group work
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Collaborative activities are great in theory but require social skills that children may not yet have. Clear structure and expectations help, says Stephanie Thornton.
Maths has more answers
Authors: Donohoe Tom
Published: May 2014

Tom Donohoe encourages you to stretch pupils and extend learning with creative maths investigations that allow for different approaches and multiple solutions.
What's new in science?
Authors: Donohoe Tom
Published: May 2014

Over the coming months, we will look at all subject areas in the 2014 curriculum and what has changed. Here, Tom Donohoe summarises the science programmes of study.
Tag the invertebrates…
Authors: Mckeown Sal
Published: May 2014

Using films and activities from science resource Tigtag in conjunction with creative iPad apps enabled one year 6 to make classifying living things an active process.
Extending and stretching
Authors: David Anthony
Published: May 2014

The new Ofsted criteria place increasing empahsis on challenging the most able. How can we help those pupils to progress to work at Level 6 and the equivalent?
Are the basics mastered?
Authors: Donohoe Tom
Published: May 2014

More concepts to be taught to younger children and an emphasis on memorisation to prepare for later study – Tom Donohoe assesses the new maths curriculum.
New faces from the old
Authors: Davis John
Published: May 2014

John Davis summarises the life and work of the less familiar ‘significant individuals’ from different time periods listed in the new curriulum for history at key stage 1.
Rethinking targets for improving behaviour
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Children may be disruptive for many reasons. We should try starting from their individual needs to achieve a better, longer lasting ‘ fix’, says Stephanie Thornton.
Monster idea for phonics
Authors: McKeown Sal
Published: May 2014

A London school is using a free online resource with the whole class and individually – developing early reading as part of cross-curricular learning on a child-friendly topic.
A realistic iPad classroom
Authors: Gibson Poppy
Published: May 2014

Your school might have made the investment and you are aware of lots of worthwhile apps. But how do you successfully make tablets a useful part of day-to-day teaching?
Dust off the microscope!
Authors: Mynard Steve
Published: May 2014

Hands-on, practical activities using real scientific equipment inspire children to want to discover more about the amazing world in which they live, says Steve Mynard.
Collaborate with parents for improved behaviour
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Consulting with families, empowering them as you take a joint approach to dealing with a disruptive child can be hard but is vital. Stephanie Thornton offers some tips.
Twist SPAG with creativity
Authors: Wilcox Alison
Published: May 2014

Results from the first tests were positive, but are pupils able to bring the knowledge into their writing? Alison Wilcox offers ideas for making the skills part of composition.
The future of geography
Authors: Lambert David
Published: May 2014

Geography is often being criticised for not being relevant, or not having enough appeal to students. But it should be seen as one of the most important subjects taught in school, says David Lambert
Hobson's choice
Authors: Greenhough Julie
Published: May 2014

Julie Greenhough is getting word blindness from the number of times “choice” is used in the government's new white paper
Take art
Authors: Ganley Christopher
Published: May 2014

An arts project based at Aberdeen Council has been working with groups of students from local schools who are struggling to engage with the curriculum or lack confidence. Christopher Ganley explains
Money matters
Authors: Brewin Kester
Published: May 2014

Young people need to be increasingly financially aware in today's credit driven society. Kester Brewin explains how to get students thinking about their money
The art of receiving Christmas gifts
Authors: Greenhough Julie
Published: May 2014

Julie Greenhough has taken to hinting what she'd like for Christmas to stem the flow of candles and soap from pupils
Height of fashion
Authors: Smurthwaite Nick
Published: May 2014

Fashion designer Bruce Oldfield tells Nick Smurthwaite about his school days at a grammar school
Above average
Authors: Moriarty Hilary
Published: May 2014

Independent schools are traditionally associated with high achievers, but the good results that they can produce for average students are often overlooked, says Hilary Moriarty.
Out and about
Authors: Mehmet Zia
Published: May 2014

Zia Mehmet explains why some London city learning centres believe the wide-ranging benefits of taking children off-site for trips and visits far outweigh the risks
Getting into the spirit
Authors: Attrill Carole
Published: May 2014

Mention spirituality and most people think of religion. But spirituality is more about self reflection and can be
Tales of testosterone
Authors: Smurthwaite Nick
Published: May 2014

Roy Williams talks to Nick Smurthwaite about his school days in a testosterone fuelled boys school in Fulham
Putting pen to paper
Authors: Smurthwaite Nick
Published: May 2014

Children's author Mick Inkpen fondly remembers art lessons at school, but hated winter swimming lessons in an unheated outdoor pool. Nick Smurthwaite reports
Putting the mother tongue aside
Authors: Kadri Jamel
Published: May 2014

Jamel Kadri explains why English speakers find French so confusing and how French teachers can help students overcome these barriers to their learning with simple exercises and reinforcements
No smoke without fire
Authors: Downs Carolyn
Published: May 2014

Eight out of 10 adult smokers begin smoking before they are 18, so schools are in a prime position to help dissuade young people from starting in the first place. Carolyn Downs explains
New kids on the block
Authors: Clubley Richard
Published: May 2014

The current induction scheme for new teachers in Scotland has been running for four years. But while most teachers appreciate the support they get in their probationary year, many find themselves out of a job at the end of it. Richard Clubley reports.
Interacting with a whiteboard
Authors: sHarrison Val
Published: May 2014

Val Harrison loves her whiteboard. No, not one of those new fangled ones that need electricity, the kind that let you wipe your mistakes off with a board rubber
Historical innovations
Authors: West Jane
Published: May 2014

Jane West meets Patricia McCann whose use of technology is revolutionising history teaching in her Northern Irish school
Going off-timetable
Authors: Sinclair Denise
Published: May 2014

Many schools are fitting off-timetable days into the school year to work on cross-curricular projects. Denise Sinclair explains how her school planned one led by the design technology department
Alternative curriculum: A recipe for success
Authors: Stockman Tina
Published: May 2014

A teacher who takes on the provision of alternative curricula has to approach it with the right mood says Tina Stockman, be it calm altruism, or blind rage
Schools that surf
Authors: West Jane
Published: May 2014

Surfing education is becoming more and more popular with schools in certain parts of the UK. Jane West looks at this new trend in sports education
High stakes
Authors: Downs Carolyn
Published: May 2014

With new laws meaning that more high-stakes gambling machines could soon be available on the high street, gambling education is becoming more important in PSHE and citizenship. Dr Carolyn Downs looks at what resources are out there to help
The real wrap-around day
Authors: Moriarty Hilary
Published: May 2014

The experiment to see if boarding schools can provide a stable environment in which to educate vulnerable children is attracting lots of interest. Hilary Moriarty explains why
Service with a smile
Authors: Toplass Gerard
Published: May 2014

Gerard Toplass from Azzurri Education looks at the issues involved in rolling-out managed services in schools and explains how you can make it work for you.
Technological reflections
Authors: Lowe Andy , Gregory John
Published: May 2014

SecEd asked two teachers who presented at this year's BETT show what the biggest technology event of the year was like and what it offers teachers
Scientific breakthrough
Authors: Silvester Katie
Published: May 2014

Physics may be in decline nationally, but not in Jo Besford's school. The advanced skills teacher is full of ideas on how to get students interested in science, as she tells Katie Silvester.
BSF from a school'
Authors: Smith Steve
Published: May 2014

As the biggest single government investment in improving school buildings for over 50 years, the education sector will experience a transformation under the Building Schools for the Future initiative. Steve Smith looks at the concerns that schools may fac
Fast track to success
Authors: Hunter Melanie
Published: May 2014

The Fast Track teaching programme now has more than 2,000 teachers enrolled. We asked the NCSL's Melanie Hunter for a progress report.
Crisis? What crisis?
Authors: Trafford Bernard
Published: May 2014

The recent PriceWaterhouseCooper report on the future of school leadership champions the introduction of business leaders to help run schools. Head Dr Bernard Trafford is not so sure
The price of modern life
Authors: Despontin Brenda
Published: May 2014

Are all today's teenagers obsessed with price and being socially accepted? Brenda Despontin says we have to nurture self-esteem
A view from the bridge
Authors: Kent Peter , Kay Annabel
Published: May 2014

One group that we consistently fail to ask about the direction of education is the students themselves. After working with their school's student council on the key stage 3 review, Dr Annabel Kay and Peter Kent found that 99 per cent of students did not
Outdoor learning gives '
Authors: Robley Ian , Latham Phil , Exeter David
Published: May 2014

This week we continue our look at the four ‘Deeps’ of education, which have been established by the Specialist Schools and Academies Trust. Ian Robley, Phil Latham and David Exeter outline their progress in providing their students with ‘Deep Experi.
Just the job
Authors: Dunn Carrie
Published: May 2014

Teachers are in demand, but despite this there is fierce competition for every NQT post on offer. Carrie Dunn takes a look at what can be a demoralising slog to find that perfect post
The leadership curriculum
Authors: Wood Alex
Published: May 2014

The world is talking about leadership. But Scottish head Alex Wood is afraid that the most vocal on the subject are the least skilled
The cost of progress
Authors: Lucey Stephen
Published: May 2014

In the next of our series of articles on Becta's best value procurement frameworks, Stephen Lucey looks at technology infrastructure. An area where cost-efficiency is key
Coaching staff
Authors: Holmwood Chris
Published: May 2014

The phenomenon of coaching
Speed is of the essence
Authors: Marshall Tim
Published: May 2014

Since its inception in 1994, the JANET nationwide high-speed network has existed to meet the changing demands of the education community. Tim Marshall explains what the network offers schools when it comes to video-conferencing
Grounds for learning
Authors: Chillman Barbara
Published: May 2014

Barbara Chillman from charity Learning through Landscapes argues that school grounds can be used as a cost-effective way to deliver high quality learning experiences for students
The sky's the limit
Authors: Thomas Alison
Published: May 2014

From a tool for engaging students to an effective revision aid, Alison Thomas looks at the benefits of podcasting
What do you think?
Authors: Barker Ray
Published: May 2014

Is your school close to hitting the learning platform deadlines? Ray Barker wants to hear your views
Tackling the school run
Authors: Osborne Paul
Published: May 2014

Sustrans is working with schools across the UK to encourage students to walk and cycle to school. Paul Osborne explains how they do it
Films for the classroom
Authors: Richardson Mark
Published: May 2014

Films for Learning was developed at the Thomas Hardye School in Dorset. Mark Richardson, who runs the project, recently, visited Writhlington School to deliver a session for students there. Helen Wardlaw explains
The case for the defence
Authors: Blois Mark
Published: May 2014

More and more schools are facing allegations of disability discrimination, but recent case law is likely to help schools to better defend themselves. In his latest article, SecEd education law expert Mark Blois offers some crucial legal advice
How to beat the bullies
Authors: Sangster Richard
Published: May 2014

Richard Sangster discusses the National Healthy Schools Programme's new anti-bullying guidance for schools
I want to go home’
Authors: Dixon Sara
Published: May 2014

More than seven years ago, teacher Matthew Sanyanga fled Zimbabwe after being beaten for standing up against Robert Mugabe's regime. He talks to Sara Dixon about the human rights abuses in his country and his dream of returning home to his family
A post-SATs warning!
Authors: Moriarty Hilary
Published: May 2014

With SATs scrapped, SecEd this week launches a new series of articles called Filling the Void. In the coming weeks, we will be asking what schools can and should do with the extra space freed up by the demise of these tests. We begin with a warning from H
Different things to different people
Authors: Abbott David
Published: May 2014

David Abbott discusses the finer points of successful differentiation
Spreading the word
Authors: Das Prodeepta
Published: May 2014

Prodeepta Das works closely with his headteacher to help promote their school in the local community. He explains here why publicity is such a vital aspect of school life
Are you on top of the job?
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

As you progress through your first year at the chalkface, handling your workload will become more of an issue. Margaret Adams looks at how to achieve work/life balance and to avoid being overwhelmed
Nothing to fear
Authors: Denham Patrick
Published: May 2014

There has been much talk of the Charities Act and the “public benefit test” for independent schools. Patrick Denham, head of Rugby School, believes the challenge ahead is nothing to fear
Someone to lean on
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

School counsellors are becoming a progressively more integral part of the school team. Karen Sullivan explains
A whole lotta teaching
Authors: Abbott David
Published: May 2014

Former teacher David Abbott offers some advice on whole-class teaching
Follow your dreams
Authors: Smurthwaite Nick
Published: May 2014

Rachel Elnaugh rose to fame as one of the fearsome dragons on the popular show Dragon's Den. Nick Smurthwaite finds out about her schooldays
Video killed the blackboard star
Authors: Brewin Kester
Published: May 2014

Maths teacher Kester Brewin argues that the most basic of ICT tool, the video, is a vital weapon in his armoury
Putting on a show
Authors: Bevis Karl
Published: May 2014

Karl Nevis from Youth Music Theatre UK writes about their open-access summer residential programme, called The Studio, which is open to young people aged 11 to 21
An alternative approach
Authors: Ainsworth Paul
Published: May 2014

Deputy head Paul Ainsworth reports from the Melton Learning Hub – one town's answer to alternative education
The death of the classroom
Authors: O'Kill Tom
Published: May 2014

Tom O'Kill looks at the future role technology has to play in the personalised learning agenda
Let's work together
Authors: Holley Graham
Published: May 2014

Graham Holley, chief executive of the TDA, argues that wide consultation and genuine engagement are the keys to providing services that really meet needs
Finding the path to success
Authors: Powell Andy
Published: May 2014

Andy Powell, chief executive of education foundation Edge, writes exclusively for SecEd this week examining the UK's progress in developing an education system that encourages many paths to success and recognises all skills and talents of young people
Believing in yourself
Authors: Smurthwaite Nick
Published: May 2014

Charlie Dark was one of only three black students attending the prestigious Alleyn's School in London. Nick Smurthwaite finds out about his schooldays
Putting languages first
Authors: Peck David
Published: May 2014

Language college headteacher David Peck explains the cultural and professional benefits languages can bring to schools
Double trouble
Authors: Watt Tom
Published: May 2014

The love of football indisputably unites most boys, but what place does it have in education? Tom Watt, ghost writer of David Beckham's autobiography, investigate
Keys to success
Authors: Struthers Dot
Published: May 2014

Dot Struthers shares some thoughts on how to develop your management skills
Don't put your feet up!
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

With the summer upon us, our minds are starting to wander, but Margaret Adams says that when it comes to CPD we need to keep our focus
A new start
Authors: Smith Josephine
Published: May 2014

A middle-management promotion to a new school? Deputy head Jo Smith offers some top tips
Opening the doors
Authors: Eccles Marilyn
Published: May 2014

Marilyn Eccles from Manchester Metropolitan University talks about their work in examining how extended schools can effectively support community cohesion
Learning from the early years
Authors: Gerver Richard
Published: May 2014

Richard Gerver says we can learn a lot from early years and primary education
Schools of the 21st century
Authors: Fleming Ray
Published: May 2014

Microsoft's Innovative Schools programme supports institutions that are challenging the existing view of curriculum and education. Ray Fleming explains more
How to become a lifelong learner
Authors: Struthers Dot
Published: May 2014

Dot Struthers shares some thoughts on how to adopt the mindset of a lifelong learner
Breathing difficulties
Authors: Pattisson Rachel
Published: May 2014

Rachel Pattisson considers a matter of life and death importance
Turning the tables
Authors: Russel Trevor
Published: May 2014

SecEd often looks at the headteacher's view of how they should interact with their governors. This time we have asked chair of governors Trevor Russel to give us his view on this most special of relationships. Unsurprisingly, trust and communication are h
Being kept in check
Authors: Dunn John
Published: May 2014

John Dunn takes a look at the changes to the Vetting and Barring register and offers his opinion on the implications for schools
Doing it right
Authors: Leighton Mark
Published: May 2014

With Becta's deadline looming for schools to be reporting to parents online, assistant head Mark Leighton gives us some practical pointers on how to implement a system successfully
BSF: What does the future hold?
Authors: Cloynes Tiffany , King Vincent
Published: May 2014

How will the recession and next year's election impact upon BSF? Tiffany Cloynes and Vincent King explain
NQTs: Where are you now?
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

We kick off this advice-packed NQT special with an encouraging word from Margaret Adams, who is asking you to look at where you are now, how far you have come, and what lies in store
Bring languages to life
Authors: Jones Isabelle
Published: May 2014

Languages teacher Isabelle Jones discusses the use of online videos in the classroom
What education is really about
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

Karen Sullivan visits the Isle of Dogs in London and the incredible staff of George Green's School, which is a beacon of hope in a community beset with challenges
A hands-on education
Authors: Cornforth Ken
Published: May 2014

Pudsey Grangefield was one of the first schools to open as part of the government's Building Schools for the Future initiative. Intent on pushing the boundaries of teaching and learning, the school invested £1.2 million in advanced ICT solutions. Principa
Global issus
Authors: Chew Rebekah
Published: May 2014

The Thursday Eco-1 club for year 7 to 10 students at Thomas Aveling School knows that going green starts at home. However, since January, the students have been discussing environmental issues with learners around the world. Teacher Rebekah Chew explains