bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Finding families of flat shapes
Authors: Catterall Rona
Published: May 2014

Two-dimensional shapes are often called flat or plane shapes. They have no thickness. You can draw a two-dimensional shape, such as a circle, but as soon as you cut it out, it becomes three-dimensional. However thin the paper, that circle now has two circular faces and a thickness: it is a cylinder.
The value of mathematical talk
Authors: Williams Helen
Published: May 2014

Talk is an important link between doing something and knowing something. Talking helps us make sense of what we see and hear. Through talking, new ideas become integrated with established ideas. But we all need something to talk about! Engaging in rich hands-on activities underpins children's developing vocabulary and communication skills.
Encouraging mathematical talk
Authors: Williams Helen
Published: May 2014

Talk is a two-way business - it depends upon interaction with others. Adults are not the only talk partners for children. Setting up situations in which children interact with each other, and some mathematics, is as important as children talking with adults about mathematics.
Learning to jump
Authors: Heald Chris
Published: May 2014

Young children need exercise to develop strong hearts and lungs and to increase the density of their bones. Some children take little exercise as part of their normal day so this makes the opportunities they get to exercise with you all the more important. Build them into your daily routine - perhaps as an exercise or keep-fit session, through dance, or you could focus on certain skills.
Staff induction and retention
Authors: Wildeboer Bev
Published: May 2014

You want to make sure that a new member of staff becomes effective as quickly as possible. An induction programme is good personnel practice. It will keep you, the employer, on the right side of employment law, and make sure that your new employee is aware of your policies, practices and procedures.
Closing down the play area
Authors: Hall Nigel
Published: May 2014

In the UK, those who work with young children are generally excellent at setting up a socio-dramatic play area. They discuss it with the children, take them on a visit, and involve them in the development and making of the area.
Using the floor
Authors: Heald Chris
Published: May 2014

Children love to move in different ways, but sometimes need an adult to give them ideas which they can then take further. Faced with a large empty expanse of floor, some children will run and throw themselves around, while others are perhaps unnerved by the space available. As always, with young children you should start with what they already know and can do and base your planned activities on natural play.
Using action songs and rhymes
Authors: Heald Chris
Published: May 2014

Action rhymes are one way to provide active learning for children in a fun way. It is important, therefore, to plan for them and build them into your day, not just in movement sessions, but as a regular daily activity. This could be as part of a circle time or story time, but also as part of planned focused activities with an adult, to reinforce learning. For instance, any mathematical activity about numbers to five would be enhanced by singing ‘Five little speckled frogs’ and pretending to jump into the pool one at a time.
Developing ball skills
Authors: Stevens Judith
Published: May 2014

Children need lots of opportunities to investigate and explore different kinds of small equipment, with access to outdoor spaces for as much of the session as possible. But it is not enough simply to provide the resources. You need to plan activities that offer appropriate physical challenges and enjoyment.
The value of self-appraisal
Authors: Marsh Lin
Published: May 2014

Self-appraisal is a process of review, reflection and evaluation through which you become aware of the strengths and weaknesses in your provision, your skills and abilities and your goals for the future. It is a way of assessing, prioritising and planning improvements in your practice and your provision.
Using film and television
Authors: Thompson Philippa
Published: May 2014

Research suggests that children use similar skills when watching television to those used when looking at or reading a book. The text may be different – televisual (TV/video) rather than printed (books, comics, environmental print) but the techniques the children use have many similarities.
Make your own number frieze
Authors: Jarvis Karen , Jarvis Matthew
Published: May 2014

Make a fun number line frieze with your child, one which they will love to have on their wall
When children are confused about right and wrong
Authors: Lindon Jennie
Published: May 2014

Two Early Learning Goals under the strand of ‘Behaviour and selfcontrol', in Personal, Social and Emotional Development within the English Foundation Stage, can raise problems for practitioners. These goals are that children will:
Planning your outdoor play area
Authors: Arnold Derek
Published: May 2014

The design of a playground is important. You want children to interact in situations outside, to share the sensation of crunching through leaves, to touch raindrops falling, make nests with grass cuttings, watch ants and shout in the wind. A well-designed playground will enable you to take learning outside and enrich the experience.
Ways to improve singing time
Authors: Stobbs Nicola
Published: May 2014

Each term, plan up to eight songs that you will sing every day. They might fit in with your current topic, for example, if you're learning about colours, you could sing 'The rainbow song', 'Baa baa black sheep' or 'Ten green bottles'. This will give children the pleasure of completely knowing a variety of songs.
Interactive storytelling
Authors: Hendy Lesley
Published: May 2014

Storytelling is an important strategy for practitioners working in the early years. When children are told rather than read a story they can engage with the teller in the immediacy of it and create pictures in their heads. Playing out stories brings them to life. Children can live through the events and find new meanings.
Introducing numbers in a practical way
Authors: Cox Anna , Moore Jane
Published: May 2014

Calculating is one of three areas of Mathematical Development in the Curriculum Guidance for the Foundation Stage. For young children, calculating is about using numbers in a practical context. It involves comparing numbers of objects, combining numbers of objects and sharing objects. All of these skills can be introduced or developed through small world play.
Reasons for writing
Authors: Stevens Judith
Published: May 2014

It is really important to give children lots of opportunities to explore writing. If you give a child a piece of blank paper, however large or small, or whatever shape, they will generally draw. But if you provide forms, postcards, greetings cards, coupons or lined paper, they will often explore with writing-like marks.
Using tyres outside
Authors: White Jan
Published: May 2014

Do you want to develop your outdoor provision, but have limited funds? Settings across the UK are making great use of a versatile resource – and it's free!
Every Child Matters: Making a positive contribution
Authors: McKenna Kate
Published: May 2014

The development of self-esteem, self-confidence and resilience are essential if we are to enable children to make a positive contribution to their world now and as active and effective citizens of the future
Dig it!
Authors: Heald Chris
Published: May 2014

Children do not have many opportunities for walking or running any distance built into their day, and can risk not getting enough exercise to develop strong hearts and lungs. Aerobic exercise, where the body gets out of breath and the heart beats fast, is necessary for children every day for at least an hour (not all at once).
The value of visitors
Authors: Bruton Pat , Thornton Linda
Published: May 2014

We welcome all kinds of visitors into our setting to meet and talk to the children. We believe that everyone benefits - your child, staff, the visitors and our local community. Heres why...
Christmas crafts to make
Authors: Whiteford Rhona
Published: May 2014

Decorations, greetings and gifts can be the end products of some useful learning experiences: sharing a work table space and equipment, comparing ideas about choices of colours, textures and materials, talking together and learning about the fun of each seasonal activity.
The value of small world play
Authors: Bromley Helen
Published: May 2014

How do you define small world play? Think back to your own childhood. Did you enjoy playing with a farm, a train set, toy cars or other miniature environments? Perhaps you enjoyed creating your own model buildings from cardboard boxes, or maybe you were an avid fan of Blue Peter, and copied their ideas for Tracy Island or a Turtle Sewer!
Your role in supporting learning
Authors: Stobbs Nicola
Published: May 2014

When children choose their own activities, they are already interested in the learning that is going to take place and will concentrate for long periods of time. Your role is not to charge in and direct the play but to observe and try to tune in to children's thought processes.
Using ICT to promote literacy
Authors: Hart Glenys
Published: May 2014

ICT tools, such as software and digital media, allow children to interact with each other, negotiating plans and activities and taking turns in conversation.
Free-flow access to the outdoors
Authors: Ryder Richardson Gail
Published: May 2014

In recent years there has been a strong move towards offering children opportunities to simultaneously access and enjoy their indoor and outdoor play environments. This article explores why early years practitioners should consider this issue, and it highlights the benefi ts and common features of settings that are already successfully offering a free-flow approach to indoor and outdoor play
Finding and appointing new staff
Authors: Cox Ray
Published: May 2014

Many people involved in selecting staff often have none or very little experience or knowledge of what is involved. A bad appointment can have repercussions for years to come – not just in terms of the cost of the advert and the time spent appointing, but also in terms of the salary paid out and/or the cost of ridding yourself of the person. It can also have repercussions if a person who wasn't appointed feels they weren't given a fair chance. If you follow a few simple steps, it can all be much simpler.
Improving coordination with ball skills
Authors: Taylor Pam
Published: May 2014

By the time they are five children are expected to have had experiences that enable them to use a range of small and large equipment with increasing skill and confi dence. (Desirable Outcomes 1996). A skill is a ‘learned ability to reproduce specifi c patterns of movement which achieve desired outcomes’ (Lee 1991). As teachers of young children we need to provide plenty of opportunities for children to master new skills using a ball in various ways. What is a simple straightforward skill to us will need to be broken down into many stages before a child will become competent at it.
Taking a walk down memory lane
Authors: Iannuzzelli Paul
Published: May 2014

The activities on this worksheet will encourage your child to explore and find out more about the world around them.
Get them to make some music!
Authors: Cruickshank Sarah
Published: May 2014

Singing is an integral part of the day in most early years settings, but how can you extend what you already offer to challenge children, meet the requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and prepare the children for the key stage 1 music curriculum?
Settling new children
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

The following list provides a model for the kind of points you should aim to cover:
Playing with words!
Authors: Wybrant Pam
Published: May 2014

Research has shown that children’s early knowledge of nursery rhymes and their awareness of whether words sound the same is a good predictor of their later acquisition of reading and spelling skills (Lynette Bradley and Peter Bryant).
Thinking and learning in pre-school
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

Jenny Barber describes why this area of childrens development is so important for every child in all areas of their lives.
Finding out about forces
Authors: Creary Carole , Wilson Gay
Published: May 2014

Forces play a huge part in our lives. We can’t see them but we can certainly see their effects and we would definitely know if they weren’t there! Walking relies on the friction between our feet and the ground. Without gravity we would float off into space. We wouldn’t be able to make footprints in the snow!
Green fingers!
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Flowers, soil and digging are guaranteed to appeal to any child. This makes gardening an ideal pre-school activity, says Angela Youngman
Midsummer magic
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

June 21 marks the longest day of the year – midsummer's day. Angela Youngman shares some ideas of things to do with children on this theme
A strong foundation
Authors: Commin Jenifer
Published: May 2014

The new Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) has been viewed by many early years professionals as the natural ‘next stage’ for the sector, consolidating the Welfare Standards, Birth to Three Matters and statutory Curriculum Guidance for the Foundation Stage frameworks.
How to control head lice in the setting
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Angela Youngman talks about what to do if any children in your care get head lice, how to spot them and explains the difference between different treatments
Looking after yourself
Authors: Griffin Sue
Published: May 2014

Baby human beings are born more dependent that most other newborn creatures, and they have to learn all aspects of how to take care of themselves and be independent. These are not skills which will naturally emerge as part of development, like learning to sit up or walk, but need adult input and support to enable them to be learned.
All about shape
Authors: Button Lesley
Published: May 2014

Introduce children to the basic shapes, look at them and keep naming them. Gather some together - lids, toy wheels, large buttons (make sure that they are not swallowed - count them all out and all in!) Talk about the properties of the shapes, that is, how many sides or corners do they have? Do the sides have straight lines?
A letter hunt in the world of outdoor play
Authors: Cowan Georgie
Published: May 2014

Gross motor skills can be developed through a variety of fun and exciting activities and can ultimately lead to a child developing sophisticated fine motor skills.
Make a simple parachute
Authors: Evans Jean
Published: May 2014

Parachute play is a big favourite in some nurseries. It helps the children learn to work together as well as developing the large muscles in their arms, chest and shoulders. At home you can improvise and have fun with a simple sheet. Follow the directions below to make your own parachute canopy.
news
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

Governments need to spend more money on children in the first six years of their lives in order to reduce social inequality and ensure all children have happier lives, says the OECD.
Learning about fire safety
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Angela Youngman talks about ways you can teach children about fire safety
Learning all about old and new
Authors: Graham Jo
Published: May 2014

What is old, what is new? One of the confusions that often arises when young children look at historical objects is caused by different meanings of the words old and new. While we may use ‘old’ to mean historical (referring to how long ago it was made and used), children may already know that the same word means broken, tatty or worn.
News
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

Gordon Brown has announced he wants to scrap tax relief on employer-supported childcare and redirect the money to pay for free childcare places for 250,000 two-year-olds.
Make a fan
Authors: Davison Shirley
Published: May 2014

Photocopy this sheet, stick it to card and cut out the picture cards. Hold them together with a brass fastener or piece of string so that children can hold them easily and fan them out
Ideas for parents
Authors: Dolya Galina
Published: May 2014

The following activities are written by Galina Dolya. They offer some useful activities to do with your child at home
Early Years Single Funding Formula to be delayed
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

Early years and teaching organisations have welcomed Government plans to delay the introduction of the Early Years Single Funding Formula (EYSFF) by a year.
Egg box maths
Authors: Garrad Barbara
Published: May 2014

These activities are based around a 3-d picture of three differently sized crocodiles made by mounting egg boxes on a large sheet of paper. On a table in front of the picture, place three differently sized nests cut from egg box trays, and away you go!
Trucks and trains
Authors: Garrad Barbara
Published: May 2014

Don't throw away old egg boxes - they're a valuable mathematical tool!
Colour in art
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

Colour is all around us – and it's an important element in art. Try these activities to help your children explore colour through a variety of different art and craft techniques
Action songs
Authors: Croft Sue
Published: May 2014

See the song on page 2. Sing the song, and do the actions. Try and invent more verses by changing ‘nod your head’.
A dressing up relay
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

Dressing up in outsized or unusual clothes is always fun. This simple relay activity for the over-threes encourages children to take turns, make choices, put on and fasten their own clothes and work together as a team. Whether it is run as a competitive race or just for fun, it is perfect for either indoor or outdoor play, for summer events and sports days and can be a great way of involving parents too
Get them moving
Authors: Goodchild Rachel
Published: May 2014

Here are a range of activities that help children develop both their gross motor and fine motor skills as well as helping them develop a greater sense of how their body moves and works. Physical development is closely linked to children developing an understanding of early literacy and numeracy.
From Our Readers
Authors: Rees Nick
Published: May 2014

The debate that surrounds licensed products can be summarised thus:
Back to school
Authors: Williams Brenda
Published: May 2014

It was the first day at school after the summer holidays, and Tiggy and Jo-jo were having breakfast with Grandpa.
‘Sing up’ to support transition
Authors: Partington Julia
Published: May 2014

Simple songs, music-making activities, movement, puppets and storytelling can prepare and support children in the transition from early years settings to school, writes Julia Partington.
Practical picture books, part 1
Authors: Davies Alison
Published: May 2014

Picture books are the hidden gems of the storytelling world. Not only do they bring the story to life with colourful images and easy to follow language, but they can also be used on many different levels, depending on what you want to get across. Think of them as an essential part of your early years toolkit, not simply for reading, but for inspiring, and combining fun activities that help to develop key skills.
Exploring windy days
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

Viv Hampshire shares some fun outdoor activities for investigating the weather, that parents and children can try out together on even the blowiest of days.
Choosing a Pre-school
Authors: Doyle Phobe
Published: May 2014

Phoebe Doyle provides some pointers for parents, to guide them through what to look for and the questions to ask before deciding upon the right pre-school for their child.
Bear's Winter House
Authors: Harries Jude
Published: May 2014

The second article in a pair inspired by this book features the specific areas of the new EYFS – Mathematics, Understanding the World and Expressive Arts and Design, with a special focus on Literacy.
Learning by friendship
Authors: Astill Mel
Published: May 2014

In the penultimate article of this series, Mel Astill uses the theme of friendship to explore how we can develop children's personal, social and emotional awareness.
Learning to concentrate?
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Today's children seem to find it harder to pay attention for sustained periods of time. Stephanie Thornton explores the problem and suggests ways to help even the youngest understand and develop self-control.
Time to calculate costs?
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

National Day Nurseries Association chief executive, Purnima Tanuku OBE, looks at the new childcare funding proposals, urging the government to make the most of this opportunity to revolutionise childcare.
Friendly things we do
Authors: Croft Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Croft has a new story about making new friends and being welcoming. Read aloud and use as a springboard for activities that explore relationships, understanding others' feelings and self-confidence.
I do like that smell!
Authors: Garner Lynne
Published: May 2014

Lynne Garner continues her series of sensory activities with an exploration of smell and how the nose works. Have fun talking about favourite and unpleasant smells, and understand how they link to memory.
Let the good times roll
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

Viv Hampshire moves through the decades with activities this month for children to compare their world with the 1950s – an optimistic time with a new Queen, rock and roll, early TV, and free health care.
‘If you eat your peas…’
Authors: Harries Jude
Published: May 2014

Jude Harries uses this tale of a reluctant vegetable eater to inspire lots of reading, writing, counting and speaking games. It can also introduce children to new foods and and understanding of how plants grow.
Get ready for ‘big school’
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

The step up to primary school can be daunting for children – and their parents. Karen Hart offers ideas to make the process as smooth as possible for all, keeping in mind the changes children worry about most.
Administering medication
Authors: Cracknell Kate
Published: May 2014

Giving the children in your care prescribed drugs for long-term health conditions, emergency treatment or medicines left by parents can cause some anxiety. Kate Morrow explores the issues and offers these tips.
Which palette to pick?
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

This series on using picture books for children's art activities concludes by looking at colour – the bright primaries of Miffy; pastels in Polly Dunbar's Tilly books; a yellow, green and orange 60s classic; and a flash of precious silver.
Just political correctness?
Authors: Griffin Sue
Published: May 2014

Continuing this series on going back to the principles behind inclusive practice to ensure it is implemented in a meaningful way, Sue Griffin considers why we should be conscious of the significance of the language we use.
What is selective mutism?
Authors: Cracknell Kate
Published: May 2014

Children who are able to talk with family or close friends but are silent in the setting aren't generally choosing not to speak; fear and anxiety make it impossible in unfamiliar situations. Kate Cracknell explores how to help.
Big Ted's buttons
Authors: Croft Sue
Published: May 2014

These poems by Sue Croft – based around numbered buttons on a friendly bear – can initiate counting, sorting, sequencing, comparing and activities that also help children to practise representing numbers.
Support and aspiration: A new approach to SEND
Authors: Petersen Lorraine
Published: May 2014

Lorraine Petersen outlines the proposed reforms to special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) support and explains why she is positive about the future.
A guide to planning your first school trip
Authors: Grewcock Lucy
Published: May 2014

So, you have decided to organise an outing? Lucy Grewcock offers 10 pieces of no-nonsense advice on what to think about before taking the plunge.
Classroom layouts
Authors: Watson Fiona
Published: May 2014

Fiona Watson explains how you can arrange your classroom to meet the individual needs of your class and to give your children an engaging learning experience.
Year two is coming…
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

Your second year in teaching will be quite different from your NQT year. Are you ready to deal with the changes you will face in September?
Sit down at the back!
Authors: David Anthony
Published: May 2014

Anthony David takes a closer look at negative behaviour and its impact on learning. He explains some strategies he is putting into place in his school.
The play's the thing!
Authors: Andrews Crispin
Published: May 2014

Crispin Andrews suggests some ideas for making writing and performing in a school play a creative and exciting learning experience for pupils.
The act of thinking…
Authors: Lenton Dot , Vidion Barbara
Published: May 2014

Dot Lenton and Barbara Vidion, from Philosophy4Children, ask: What exactly is thinking? Can it be seen? Once ideas are formed, can they be changed?
Getting the right job!
Authors: Donohoe Tom
Published: May 2014

Headteacher Tom Donohoe draws on his experience of recruiting to offer advice on applying for the right position and effective interview techniques.
The new EYFS framework: What's changed?
Authors: Staynes William
Published: May 2014

William Staynes from 4Children refects on some of the changes set to be introduced in September 2012, such as an increased emphasis on parent/teacher relationships.
What's in the soil?
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Angela Youngman provides ideas for experiments which involve investigating earth, the creatures which call it home and the secrets contained within its layers.
Grounds for success: The outdoor resource
Authors: Williams Kate
Published: May 2014

Kate Williams visits one primary school to find out how they have transformed their outdoor space and put it right at the heart of their curriculum.
Setting the scene for child-initiated learning
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: May 2014

Jenni Clarke starts a new series on CIL with setting up the classroom, and explains how to involve the children in planning their own learning environment.
Blogging for victory!
Authors: Cosh Jackie
Published: May 2014

Blogging is just a modern way of encouraging children to pick up a pen. Doing it regularly can be a huge boost to grades, grammar, and general confidence.
A tablet to BETT on
Authors: David Anthony
Published: May 2014

Among all the iPads, Anthony David picks his standout exhibitors at BETT 2013 and offers some advice for those navigating the tablet maze.
Singing while we work
Authors: McKeown Sal
Published: May 2014

Sal Mckeown visits a school using the Sing Up resource to bring songs to unexpected areas of the curriculum and school day, with inspiring results.
Parents as partners
Authors: Cole Louise
Published: May 2014

Louise Cole tackles the sometimes thorny issue of working with parents and shares her experiences helping families enjoy and engage with children's learning.
Philosophical questions
Authors: Cosh Jackie
Published: May 2014

Jackie Cosh explores the growing use of philosophy in the primary classroom and extra-curricular clubs to extend children’s thinking, listening and participation.
High rewards offered
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Children cannot always see the point to school activities. Stephanie Thornton explains how to tailor motivation to the individual with different types of reward.
Full points for grammar
Authors: Aitken Liz
Published: May 2014

Debate around the new curriculum puts grammar firmly on the agenda. Liz Aitken explains why we need to teach children ‘the rules’, but make them meaningful
Ensuring school is for all
Authors: Pester Dawn-Francis
Published: May 2014

Dawn Francis-Pester describes the obstacles between Traveller children and the school system, and suggests ways to tackle prejudice and integrate Traveller pupils.
Relish maths challenges
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: May 2014

Jenni Clarke's series continues with ideas for grouping resources and posing real-life problems that develop pupil's understanding of number, shape and measure.
All fired up for cricket!
Authors: Andrews Crispin
Published: May 2014

The upcoming Ashes tournament can be used to teach good sportsmanship and look at changes in society. Crispin Andrews explains, and sets out a simple game.
Coachloads of support
Authors: Cartwright Eva
Published: May 2014

Schools are now extending the benefits of peer to peer coaching to teaching assistants. Eva Cartwright advises on stucturing an effective, empowering process.
What can NQTs expect?
Authors: Keates Chris
Published: May 2014

As a new teacher, you are entitled to specific support in your first year. Chris Keates explains these rights and how the NASUWT works to help protect all teachers.
Summer holiday checklist
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

The end of term is near! Margaret Adams advises on finishing off the year, making good use of the summer and thinking ahead – while ensuring you take a break.
Stories make us hungry for language learning
Authors: Dion-Jones Danielle
Published: May 2014

Translations of familiar tales are the perfect vehicle for building confidence and finding enjoyment in MFL. Use them with drama to develop pupils' speaking skills.
Taking maths outdoors
Authors: Hewson Claire
Published: May 2014

Kinaesthetic activities in your outdoor space can engage even the most reluctant reception and year 1 children with numbers, shapes, measuring, pattern and time.
Put yourself in demand
Authors: Basset Lynis
Published: May 2014

Supply teaching can be an option at many career stages. Stay true to your ‘philosophy’, build strong relationships and keep up to date with CPD to make the most of it.
Go beyond the ‘situation’
Authors: Cartwright Eva
Published: May 2014

Teaching assistants can play a powerful role in supporting children's emotional development by helping them think about the reasons behind their behaviour.
Music to my ears
Authors: Smurthwaite Nick
Published: May 2014

Marc Jaffrey, the man in charge of the government's Music Manifesto, speaks to Nick Smurthwaite
Dusting for prints
Authors: Owen Rachel
Published: May 2014

Rachel Owen uses fingerprinting to teach scientific enquiry skills
American dream
Authors: Gadd Deborah
Published: May 2014

Deborah Gadd explains how teachers and schools can benefit from the Fulbright UK/US teacher exchange programme
Time for change
Authors: Evans Maria
Published: May 2014

Too many think of Shakespeare as a byword for boredom. Teaching Shakespeare: Time for Change is the new campaign from the Royal Shakespeare Company aimed at changing this. Maria Evans explains
Tackling stress
Authors: McCormack Paul
Published: May 2014

We asked Paul McCormack from the Health and Safety Executive to explain what is being done to tackle work-related stress in education
Pushing the boundaries
Authors: Andrews Crispin
Published: May 2014

It's been a hard year so far for the many cricket fans in PE departments up and down the country. But it's not all bad. Crispin Andrews looks at what is happening in Bedfordshire to inspire youngsters at the crease.
Market forces
Authors: Barnes Mike
Published: May 2014

Three secondary students from Bradford Girls' Grammar can now boast the creation of a live marketing campaign on their CVs thanks to a unique awards scheme. Mike Barnes explains.
Juggling work and family
Authors: Smith Josephine
Published: May 2014

Josephine Smith asks if you agree with this cynical staffroom definition of work/life balance: work hard during term time - have a life in the holidays
China comes to Scotland
Authors: McClure Judith
Published: May 2014

The Scotland China Education Network was created in 2006 and has been going from strength to strength. Dr Judith McClure explains
Maths in the real world
Authors: Jones Victoria Neumark
Published: May 2014

Victoria Neumark Jones looks at a new set of exciting maths materials that will soon be winging their way to every school in the country
Survival of the fittest
Authors: Deane Andree
Published: May 2014

The fitness industry has a lot to offer schools when it comes to encouraging youngsters to become more active. Andree Deane, from the Fitness Industry Association, looks at two programmes in particular
Exams vs education
Authors: Moriarty Hilary
Published: May 2014

You mean you still want us to educate people? Why didn't you say so?! Hilary Moriarty reacts to the recent claim by universities that students reaching them are not fit for their courses
Schools with eastern promise
Authors: Butler Mike
Published: May 2014

Only a handful of UK schools have been granted Confucius Classroom status by the Chinese government. Mike Butler from one of these schools – Djanogly City Academy in Nottingham – explains what it is all about
The Welsh revolution
Authors: Lightman Brian
Published: May 2014

Penarth head Brian Lightman discusses the quiet qualifications revolution in Wales – the Welsh Baccalaureate
Keeping up to speed
Authors: Barker Ray
Published: May 2014

In his latest article for SecEd, Ray Barker talks about the evolving role of a modern teacher when it comes to using ICT in the classroom, and the continuing need to invest in effective CPD for the future
Making a difference
Authors: Tobin Lucy
Published: May 2014

When it was first introduced, the Teach First scheme was met with some scepticism. Lucy Tobin meets a graduate of the scheme and discusses its impact
Leading Diplomas
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

The challenges of Diploma delivery to school leaders are wide and varied. Margaret Adams offers her insights
Just visiting
Authors: Hamode Emad
Published: May 2014

Are visiting teachers too often treated as material supplies? Professor Emad Hamode discusses
Once in a lifetime
Authors: Evans Anne
Published: May 2014

Anne Evans from the HTI acknowledges the pressure on schools to get BSF right, but believes it can be at the heart of transforming teaching and learning practice and is an opportunity of a lifetime
Inclusive technology
Authors: Walker Leila
Published: May 2014

Leila Walker looks at a few modern technologies that could help to engage all student voices
Inspiration for all
Authors: Mooney Phil
Published: May 2014

Headteacher Phil Mooney explains how his school has embarked on a programme designed to create a culture that inspires pupils, teachers and the community
An enterprising education
Authors: Cain Scott
Published: May 2014

Scott Cain looks forward to Global Entrepreneurship Week, which he says is an opportunity to engage students in enterprise activity, developing ideas, and making them happen
A different view
Authors: Lambert David
Published: May 2014

Is geography a subject, a discipline, a resource, an idea, a human creation, a lens, or a list of facts? Professor David Lambert of the Geographical Association introduces its new manifesto for school geography
Talking e-assessment
Authors: Sainsbury Marian
Published: May 2014

Dr Marian Sainsbury from the National Foundation for Educational Research reviews the
Ask what the internet can do for you
Authors: Picardo José
Published: May 2014

Teacher José Picardo discusses what the many and varied applications on the internet can bring to your classroom
Playing it safe
Authors: Buxton Matt
Published: May 2014

Matt Buxton from Djanogly City Academy discusses the issues relating to the implementation and security of online reporting, and looks at the problems to be avoided
Staying safe online
Authors: Miner Vanessa
Published: May 2014

Vanessa Miner discusses the dangers of the internet and how schools and parents must pull together to ensure children are educated about staying safe online
Defending the code
Authors: Bartley Keith
Published: May 2014

Last week, the NASUWT wrote about its campaign to have the new Code of Practice for England's teachers scrapped. We asked Keith Bartley, chief of the body which created the code, to defend the controversial document
In the zone
Authors: Turner Susan
Published: May 2014

Susan Turner on how the Britvic Learning Zone programme is helping schools give their students a better understanding of business.
Olympic linking
Authors: Thomas Alison
Published: May 2014

Alison Thomas explains how the Olympic Games 2012 has helped inspire one Scottish school's international links.
The Google approach
Authors: Bebbington Matthew
Published: May 2014

Inspired by Google's model of freeing up 20 per cent of employee time for creative thinking, Matthew Bebbington introduced the concept at his school.
When an inspector calls
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

One of the most stressful experiences for new teachers is that first Ofsted inspection. Dorothy Lepkowska offers some survival advice, particularly for trainee teachers who will start their NQT year in September.
Our Money, Our Future
Authors: Wood Sophie
Published: May 2014

The National Children's Bureau and financial education charity pfeg are helping young people to campaign for financial education to be taught in their school and have released a new toolkit. Sophie Wood explains.
The pros and cons of academy conversion
Authors: Chambers Peter
Published: May 2014

In the first of a four-part series, Peter Chambers looks at the benefits and disadvantages, as seen by school leaders themselves, of academy conversion.
The 10 steps to Implementing tablets in your school
Authors: Cornish Hylton
Published: May 2014

More and more schools are introducing tablets into their classrooms and teaching strategies. Hylton Cornish outlines 10 practical steps to get you started.
Raising attainment using data-driven ‘assertive’ mentoring
Authors: Allen Deb
Published: May 2014

Challenged to raise English and maths attainment at her school, Deb Allen focused on improving their data systems and introducing ‘assertive mentoring'. She explains more.
Pensions – How to avoid the Lifetime Allowance cuts
Authors: Downie David
Published: May 2014

Yet more changes are afoot when it comes to your pensions. The latest cuts to the lifetime allowance could affect more teachers than you'd think. Expert David Downie explains more and offers 10 key questions that you should be asking.
The secrets to positive behaviour management
Authors: Solly Ben
Published: May 2014

Behaviour management remains one of the key skills that all teachers need to master. School leader Ben Solly offers his advice on adopting a positive approach to your pupils’ behaviour.
NQT Special: Meeting the needs of all pupils
Authors: Stockdale Sean
Published: May 2014

With official statistics indicating that as many as one in five pupils in the UK have an SEN, every NQT must be prepared to teach pupils with a range of conditions. As part of SecEd's NQT special edition, Sean Stockdale looks at how you can meet the needs of these pupils as part of your classroom practice.
Three simple steps to whole-school literacy
Authors: McGuigan Shaun
Published: May 2014

The impact of Shaun McGuigan's very simple literacy policy on his school and its students and teachers has been highlighted by Ofsted as an example of good practice. It is based on three fundamental premises, as he explains.
Starting an alumni network for your school
Authors: Shapland-Howes Alex
Published: May 2014

Alumni networks can bring huge benefits to schools, but not many spend the time to develop them. Alex Shapland-Howes argues why schools should, and offers some advice.
Ideas for teaching students leadership skills
Authors: Stannard Kevin
Published: May 2014

The Girls’ Day School Trust recently held its national Young Leaders Conference. Dr Kevin Stannard discusses some of their schools’ approaches to teaching leadership skills.
The misuse of international studies in UK education
Authors: Burdett Newman
Published: May 2014

The misuse and oversimplification of international surveys and comparisons can lead to misleading statements being made about English education. Dr Newman Burdett looks at how we should be interpreting international data.
Managing pupil behaviour
Authors: Stanley Julian , Stanley Julian
Published: May 2014

With a small rise in general abuse against Scottish secondary teachers being reported, Julian Stanley explores what schools and teachers can do to improve poor behaviour.
Safer Internet Day 2014
Authors: Broadbent Hannah
Published: May 2014

Next month, Safer Internet Day offers an opportunity for schools to engage students and families with online safety. Hannah Broadbent offers some ideas for taking part.
The coldest journey relived at Bett 2014
Authors: Fiennes Ranulph
Published: May 2014

Ahead of his appearance at Bett this week, world-famous explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes explains why he and his team decided to set up an education programme alongside his latest adventure to the Antarctic.
Teaching the Holocaust
Authors: Fuller Ben
Published: May 2014

Next week's Holocaust Memorial Day is an occasion when we remember the victims of the Holocaust, as well as of other genocides around the world. Teacher Ben Fuller discusses how teachers can approach this challenging subject.
Using mentoring to raise student aspirations
Authors: Alexander Annalisa
Published: May 2014

The Brightside mentoring programme helps to raise students’ aspirations when it comes to careers and higher education. One of its early supporters was Imperial College London, which still embraces the vital role of mentoring today. Annalisa Alexander explains.
Action research fellowships
Authors: Dawes Maria
Published: May 2014

Maria Dawes argues the case for teachers taking on classroom research and looks at how the 21st Century Learning Alliance Fellowships could offer vital guidance and support for your project.
Are your recruitment processes up to scratch?
Authors: Solly Ben
Published: May 2014

Recruitment season is upon us and it is vital that your processes are robust, exacting and clear. School leader Ben Solly highlights the dos and don'ts of a successful recruitment process.
Effective school to school support
Authors: Coskeran Sarah
Published: May 2014

When asked to support colleagues in other schools with their CPD, how should you go about it? Sarah Coskeran offers three key steps to ensure your work is effective, sustainable and has a long-term impact.
Boosting literacy to transform outcomes for low-achieving students
Authors: Garfield Deborah
Published: May 2014

White working class students are some of the lowest achievers in our schools and it is often a lack of reading ability that is holding them back. Senior leader Deborah Garfield discusses her work to tackle this issue.
The secrets to vocational success
Authors: Halliday David
Published: May 2014

Earlier this year, West Lakes Academy was ranked second in the country in the league tables for post-16 vocational qualifications. David Halliday discusses the key steps on their road to vocational success.
How to implement a new strategy as a middle leader
Authors: Smith Ann-Marie
Published: May 2014

Implementing a new strategy is a common challenge for middle leaders. Ann-Marie Smith discusses how she successfully embedded, monitored and evaluated a new approach to giving student feedback
What lessons can we learn from the primary approach?
Authors: Toit Isabel du
Published: May 2014

Introducing a themed approach to learning in the middle years is challenging but could better support students through transition. Isabel du Toit offers some advice.
Fundraising: Balancing the school books
Authors: Reid Julia
Published: May 2014

A group of 20 school leaders from both state and private schools recently met to discuss the role and future of income generation in schools. Julia Reid discusses some of the ideas and issues that were on the table.
Preparing for ‘Progress 8’
Authors: Solly Ben
Published: May 2014

The new Progress 8 performance measure is on its way, bringing with it new benchmarks, floor standards and new challenges for schools. Ben Solly looks at what we know so far.
The Pupil Premium&Ofsted: Ensuring Successful Outcomes
Authors: McKeown Sal
Published: May 2014

SecEd's inaugural Ofsted and the Pupil Premium conference – Ensuring Successful Outcomes – took place last month. Sal McKeown looks at what advice the experts and case studies there had to offer.
Who's interested in the Pupil Premium?
Authors: Gilliford Kate
Published: May 2014

Figures from The Key show that ‘requiring improvement’ schools are least likely to be asking about the Pupil Premium. Kate Gilliford explains.
Lesson Study: The power of three
Authors: Weston David
Published: May 2014

The Japanese Lesson Study approach to teacher enquiry is gaining popularity in the UK. The technique sees three teachers working collaboratively to tackle specific barriers to learning. David Weston explains.
Manuka honey: an effective wound healing environment
Authors: Hollis Georgie
Published: May 2014

Honey has been used for over 4000 years making it one of the oldest recorded therapies for treating wounds. Routinely and independently used over many different continents it was clearly a reliable method for wound management that had stood the test of time.

The suggestion of honey for wounds today can still be looked upon as somewhat ‘alternative’. But in only a couple of years the use of honey, particlulary Activon Manuka Honey (Dechra Veterinary Products Ltd, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, UK) has become a popular and successful treatment for all manner of veterinary wounds. This product focus explores some of the science behind honey, why manuka is preferential and how it has been used to date in veterinary patients.
Educating veterinary nurses for professional competence
Authors: Clarke Patricia
Published: May 2014

Professional competence for veterinary nurses today is not just a matter of being skilled in technical tasks such as processing a blood sample or placing an intravenous catheter. As members of a profession which is evolving rapidly in a changing world, it is vital that veterinary nurses also possess the personal attributes necessary for developing effective professional relationships. With the advances in veterinary medicine and its accompanying technology, educators too must not lose sight of the ‘human side’ of veterinary nursing; educating caring professionals as opposed to trained technicians. Therefore, it is important that a veterinary nurse model of professional competence emphasizes the emotional aspects of their practice as well as the technical skills and an ability to problem-solve. Veterinary nursing/veterinary technology curricula internationally have embraced this ethos. Hence the development of personal attributes such as empathy is regarded as pivotal in producing veterinary nurses who are able to meet the expectations of employers, clients and society today. This paper will explore some of the personal attributes that are integral to the veterinary nurses' professional competence and the implications this has for veterinary nursing curricula.
Legal, ethical and professional issues for veterinary nurses
Authors: Abbitt Gemma
Published: May 2014

This article takes a case-based approach to a scenario that occurred in a veterinary practice. The actions of the veterinary nurse are looked at from a legal, professional and ethical perspective, with recommendations for practice suggested.