bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Signing with children
Authors: Archibald Alison
Published: May 2014

Baby signing is popular in America and the UK, but is there any evidence that it works? Or is it just another fad from across the Atlantic? Alison Archibald finds out
An outstanding setting
Authors: Whiteford Rhona
Published: May 2014

Rhona Whiteford visits a setting in St Helen's, Merseyside, and reports on the good practice going on there
Lights, camera, action!
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

From an early age, children are surrounded by visual culture, and it is surprising what they can learn from it. Angela Youngman describes the benefits of film and how it can enhance communication and concentration.
Spot the signs
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Bullying takes many different forms, and occurs even among very young children. Angela Youngman gives advice on how best to identify, observe, and confront incidents of bullying in your setting.
Let's get moving!
Authors: Sutherland Sue
Published: May 2014

In the first of a series of six articles, Sue Sutherland and Olwyn Maurer consider how movement affects a child's learning and how we can utilise this natural desire and ability in all children to access and fulfil the Early Years Foundation Stage.
Practical potty training
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

An increasing number of children attend pre-school and enter primary school still wearing nappies or struggling to make it to the loo in time. Karen Sullivan explains how to tackle potty training problems.
Getting into the Olympic Movement
Authors: Jones Eileen
Published: May 2014

Just as the 2012 Olympic athletes need to keep fit, so the children must look after their bodies. Use these practical activities to teach them about healthy living, advises Eileen Jones.
Dr. Gummer says…
Authors: Gummer Amanda
Published: May 2014

The importance of play is paramount when it comes to a child's development, writes Amanda Gummer. Here she explains the benefits of learning through play.
All in their own time…
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Time plays a fundamental part in our lives. Stephanie Thornton investigates why the very young have such a struggle with it – and how we can help.
What is free-flow play?
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

Jenny Barber suggests that there is more to free-flow play than just the flow of movement between the indoors and outdoors. In the following article, she defines the term.
The legacy of Jean Piaget
Authors: Smart Julie
Published: May 2014

In the last of her series profiling the pioneers of early learning, Julie Smart explores the work of Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget (1896–1980) who is best-know for his theories on development.
Spotting speech, language and communication needs
Authors: Cracknell Kate
Published: May 2014

In the following article Kate Cracknell talks to communication charity I CAN about young children with speech, language and communication needs, and gets their advice on how to spot the signs.
Supporting EAL children in the early years setting
Authors: Bailey Bianca
Published: May 2014

Bianca Bailey discusses how a positive attitude towards linguistic diversity can make a big difference in your work with children for whom English is an Additional Language (EAL).
Can you reach the ladder?
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

Karen Hart suggests that the required qualifications for a new scheme to help support early years staff through their training, are unrealistic.
Wildlife in winter
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

Viv Hampshire gives us a few ideas for helping children to care for and protect wildlife in the garden during the colder months ahead.
Adolfo from Chile
Authors: Kniveton Mark
Published: May 2014

In the following article, Mark Kniveton explains how children can learn about the people and culture of Chile, by discovering the country through the eyes of a child.
Get ready, set, read!
Authors: Jones Eileen
Published: May 2014

Eileen Jones provides some ideas for using rhymes, stories and the environment around you to start children off on the journey towards learning to read.
My family
Authors: Astill Mel
Published: May 2014

This is the second in a series of four articles aimed at developing children's personal, social and emotional awareness. It aims to encourage children to understand what makes them and their families special.
Little Red Riding Hood
Authors: Davies Alison
Published: May 2014

Alison Davies continues her series about using fairytales to develop communication and language skills, by investigating the characters and symbols involved in a tale of one little girl's visit to grandma's house.
Everything checked out
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

Everyday patterns found all around the setting and home are great inspiration for art and craft activities that also help children think about shape and space. This month, Hilary White looks at checks and florals.
The sounds all around
Authors: Garner Lynne
Published: May 2014

Lynne Garner continues our series on the senses with activities based on hearing and sound that help children think differently about noises they hear every day, and develop listening and attention skills.
My home is on my back
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

Karen Hart continues her series on animal habitats with a look at creatures with shells – snails, tortoises and turtles. Look for real snails, as well as crafting your own and enjoy some tasty themed treats.
Just have a little taste
Authors: Garner Lynne
Published: May 2014

Children may have strong ideas about foods they like and dislike. Lynne Garner taps into their interest in taste to explore this sense and the links to health and self-care. Is anyone in your setting a supertaster?!
Bunting and sunflowers
Authors: Hodgman Liz
Published: May 2014

Summer sunshine and more time outdoors provides great opportunities for developing number, shape and measuring skills. Lynne Garner offers seasonal ideas that help make mathematics more interactive.
Hands, hearts and heads
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

Jennny Barber unpicks the characteristics of effective learning as set out in Development Matters and explains ways to ensure your provision engages children physically, emotionally and intellectually.
It's a bug's life!
Authors: Hewson Claire
Published: May 2014

Claire Hewson uses minbeasts to link children's understanding of caring for the world around with them with maths activities for counting and shape, sequencing, sorting and symetry.
Rough with the smooth
Authors: Garner Lynne
Published: May 2014

Lynne Garner's series on the senses moves on to touch and feel. These activities help children learn the important ways that the human body keeps itself safe and to explore and recognise different textures.
Music to everyone's ears
Authors: rydeR annA
Published: May 2014

You do not need to ‘be able to sing’, have special training or spend lots in order to bring more music into your setting and tap into its developmental benefits. Let children explore and get involved yourself, says annA rydeR.
Spellbinding slitherers
Authors: Davies Alison
Published: May 2014

Snakes have been a source of both fascination and fear for centuries. Use myths from around the world to help children listen and respond to different ideas, and develop speaking skills telling their own snake stories.
An Advent of baking
Authors: Horvarth Judit
Published: May 2014

Rather than the pressure to plan ever more inventive sessions, Judit Horvath suggests using ‘real’ activities like foraging and baking to aid children's physical and holistic development, at Christmas and all through the year.
We are Santa's helpers
Authors: Croft Sue
Published: May 2014

Share Sue Croft's poem about Christmas elves and use as the basis of reading and writing activities, or perform it as a show for parents. Follow up games with elf hats and presents develop the learning across other areas.
Supporting families in crisis
Authors: Hook Elaine
Published: May 2014

With the current economic climate and increase in free places for younger children, more and more practitioners are seeing the problems faced by families, not just the child. Elaine Hook examines the role settings can play.
Hands up for pencils down
Authors: Stroud Anna
Published: May 2014

Getting children to write their name on everything as soon as possible does them no favours, says Anna Stroud. Build motor control and strength with sand, chalk, cars and drums and promote a ‘have a go’ attitude instead.
That was a nice thing to do
Authors: Sharpe Deborah
Published: May 2014

Encouraging kindness in children will promote a happy, caring environment and give them the lifelong gift of compassion for others. Deborah Sharpe offers practical ideas for supporting children to be more thoughtful.
Have fun with feathers
Authors: Sharpe Dee
Published: May 2014

Children love gathering feathers and it is easy to get a reasonable collection together to play with, or they are cheap to buy at craft stores. These creative and physical activities show children their fascinating properties.
Responding sensitively
Authors: Chalmers Debbie
Published: May 2014

Debbie Chalmers explores some of the difficulties faced by children with visual and hearing impairments and the speech delay that can come with auditory problems, and offers ways to ensure the setting is inclusive to them.
The rain doesn't stop play
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: May 2014

Jenni Clarke breaks down some of the barriers to outdoor learning with inexpensive ideas for keeping dry on wet days, building vocabulary with meaningful literacy learning outside and making a big impression with dough.
Let them feel their way
Authors: Stroud Anna
Published: May 2014

Allowing children to explore sticky, squidgy, furry and crunchy textures, plus objects they can smell and taste helps them to use their whole body in activities, building motor control as well as boosting creative thinking.
Meaningful attachments
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: May 2014

The key person approach is now well-established but are you are clear about everything involved in taking on this role in a child's care? Ailsa Chapman explores the principles behind it, what the EYFS says and the practicalities.
Suitable systems in place
Authors: Bland Fiona
Published: May 2014

The updated EYFS clarifies the confusion surrounding disqualification from working with children because of who staff live with. NDNA's Fiona Bland explores how to ensure your practice and policies are compliant.
Investigation in progress
Authors: White Verity
Published: May 2014

Real science means identifying what we already know and what we want to find out. Step into the unknown and guide pupils to scientific insight, says Verity White.
Speak up for vital skills
Authors: Wood Tony
Published: May 2014

Engaging, structured speaking and listening activities are proving popular with pupils and leading to increased attainment across all areas. Tony Wood shares his findings.
Meaningful interactions
Authors: Tofts Pauline
Published: May 2014

An approach to communication used in special schools is being shared with teachers and other staff in mainstream classrooms to powerful effect. Pauline Tofts explains.
Stones, emporers, islands and the first English king
Authors: Davis John
Published: May 2014

John Davis turns to the key stage 2 section of the new history curriculum and explores some of the less familiar people and places that now need to be covered.
Mental maths? I couldn't drive my taxi without it
Authors: McKeown Sal
Published: May 2014

The Yes Programme's short film interviews with real people about their careers bring a buzz to the less appealing aspects of the curriculum and can expand pupil's horizons.
Facing the music
Authors: Moriarty Hilary
Published: May 2014

Lots of children have to drop music at age 14 because they do not play an instrument to a high enough level to continue to GCSE. Why can there not be an alternative music exam that focuses more on the history of music? wonders Hilary Moriarty.
Voice of reason
Authors: Savage Matthew
Published: May 2014

Students' voices have long taken a back seat in British education. A school in London invites students to comment on all aspects of the school's running. Matthew Savage explains
Onwards and upwards
Authors: West Jane
Published: May 2014

Naomi Hennah took advantage of her school's positive attitude to CPD, going on courses as diverse as Duke of Edinburgh leadership and A level marking, which led to her becoming a gifted and talented co-ordinator. Jane West reports.
It's all academic
Authors: Academy Harefield
Published: May 2014

There has been a lot of criticism of city academies. But they are not all bad, says Lynn Gadd – a headteacher who moved from a comprehensive to a new academy.
Looking after the pennies
Authors: Beech David
Published: May 2014

David Beech thinks children should be learning about personal finance from an early age to prepare them for managing their money as undergraduates and workers.
What not to wear
Authors: Webb Emily
Published: May 2014

Should teachers go for classic business suits or trendy high street fashions? Emily Webb considers what constitutes appropriate clothing for the classroom
The appliance of science
Authors: Roben Eva
Published: May 2014

Eva Roben meets a chemistry teacher who's made chemistry “cool” for girls in her school
Change for change's sake
Authors: Fox John
Published: May 2014

John Fox thinks that the white paper proposals are more to do with politicians wanting to make their mark than advancing education
Distance is no object
Authors: West Alison
Published: May 2014

Alison West explains how distance learning can help schools deliver programmes to their gifted and talented students
Preparing for real life
Authors: Allen John
Published: May 2014

All schools now have to offer some element of work-related learning, but some schools have put provision in place more readily than others. John Allen explains
Supporting new science
Authors: Tymms David
Published: May 2014

ICT has to be flexible, not dictatorial, says David Tymms, especially when it comes to the new science curriculum
Fighting stereotypes
Authors: Richards Alan
Published: May 2014

In the next of our series looking at the development of the second five Diploma lines, Pete Henshaw reports on the hair and beauty studies qualification
Smooth transitions
Authors: Cox Bob
Published: May 2014

How can a secondary school ensure that pupils make the best possible academic progress during the first term of year 7? Learning consultant Bob Cox reports on work he has been doing in this arena
If only I'd known…
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

Margaret Adams offers some advice on dealing with your first year at the chalkface
ICT aiding online literacy
Authors: McKay Martin
Published: May 2014

Statistics suggest that the functional literacy level of 17 per cent of the UK population is not sufficient to allow them to interact online. Martin McKay looks at how assistive reading technology can help
Guiding light
Authors: Dunford John
Published: May 2014

Home study guides are big business, with parents spending over Â£210 million a year on them. Dorothy Lepkowska looks at whether they're getting value for money
Question time
Authors: Cavanagh Sam
Published: May 2014

Finding that perfect addition to your school team can be a tricky business. Sam Cavanagh offers some useful advice.
A sound idea
Authors: Sullivan Emmett
Published: May 2014

New text to speech software could help teachers proof documents and correct essays by converting text into MP3 files. David Taylor takes a look at MT1
Keeping up-to-date
Authors: Brewin Kester
Published: May 2014

ICT software can be most useful in the mathematics classroom. We asked Kester Brewin to recommend some of the latest offerings for teachers
The Newtoon army
Authors: Pykett Jessica
Published: May 2014

Can pupils learn physics using their mobile phones? Jessica Pykett from Futurelab, who has been working on a new learning resource for secondary students, explores the question
Conference season
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

Once again the Easter holidays saw a flurry of action as three of the main education unions held their annual conferences, making headlines across the national press. Pete Henshaw and Dorothy Lepkowska were at all three events for SecEd looking behind the
Teaching old dogs'
Authors: Farn Jenny
Published: May 2014

Jenny Farn talks about the benefits and the pitfalls of delivering INSET to colleagues
Learner tools not teaching tools
Authors: Whyley Dave
Published: May 2014

Schools in Wolverhampton have seen an increase in children“s motivation to learn. Dave Whyley, a learning technologies consultant for the city council, explains how handheld devices have helped achieve this.
Opening young minds
Authors: James Lesley
Published: May 2014

The Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce, otherwise known as the RSA, works to remove the barriers to social progress. Lesley James explains about its Opening Minds curriculum.
Cope-ing strategies
Authors: Frank Marius
Published: May 2014

Headteacher Marius Frank explains how the development of an online qualification to grow and accredit a skill set for 21st century learning has transformed his school
Back to her roots
Authors: Smurthwaite Nick
Published: May 2014

Playwright Rukhsana Ahmad has always worked hard and encouraged others to be creative.Her schooldays were spent at a number of different schools in Pakistan. She spoke to Nick Smurthwaite
The pride of east London
Authors: Smurthwaite Nick
Published: May 2014

After coming from a poor, working class background, Josette Bushell-Mingo is now a leading stage performer, famous for creating the role of Rafiki in The Lion King. She spoke to Nick Smurthwaite about her schooldays
Performance management
Authors: West Jane
Published: May 2014

Performance management is coming and the consequences for CPD are wide-ranging. Jane West explains.
London'
Authors: West Jane
Published: May 2014

Jane West meets Ian Warwick, one of the most influential figures for gifted and talented education in England.
Life on the streets
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

Karen Sullivan believes that the streets are no longer safe. Not just for teens, but for anyone straying into the wrong territory. She looks at the culture of inner city gangs.
Spotlight on citizenship
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Citizenship – a key subject or just something that has to be squeezed into the timetable wherever space can be found? Can teaching citizenship really make much difference? Can pupils learn how to become good citizens? Do they want to? Angela Youngman inve
Reducing exclusions
Authors: Qualter Pamela
Published: May 2014

Dr Pamela Qualter from the University of Central Lancashire explains her research into the links between emotional intelligence and exclusion, and introduces a new tool that is hoping to help schools in this area
Planting sustainable ideas
Authors: Ellis Joan
Published: May 2014

Cumbrian school children started the school year learning about different eco-systems and plant life thanks to the new Mike Wilde Eco Centre at Cockermouth School. Joan Ellis discusses how they are benefiting from having a state of the art resource to stu
Working together
Authors: Haigh Gerald
Published: May 2014

The 14 to 19 reforms, especially the new Diplomas, have led to a new emphasis on how schools and other organisations collaborate to deliver education. Gerald Haigh explains
The last hurdle
Authors: Addison-Child Peter
Published: May 2014

Peter Addison-Child, recruitment consultant and leadership expert, outlines practical tips for negotiating that last hurdle to headship – the interview
An e-twinning formula
Authors: Thomas Alison
Published: May 2014

Successful and effective links with Europe have never been easier to find, thanks to the e-twinning phenomenon. Alison Thomas explains
Stepping up security
Authors: Theriault Carole
Published: May 2014

Web 2.0 is causing new security threats for school networks. Carole Theriault explains
Learning from experience
Authors: Elkin Susan
Published: May 2014

Your mentor is the most important person in your NQT year. Susan Elkin analyses the ideal teacher-mentor relationship
Safety first
Authors: Worms Phil
Published: May 2014

Protecting your students from the dangers of the internet is a challenge that schools must tackle successfully. Phil Worms offers his advice
Let the pupils do the work
Authors: Ainsworth Paul
Published: May 2014

Paul Ainsworth asks whether we need to stop over-teaching
Education for all
Authors: Petersen Lorraine
Published: May 2014

At a time when the government announces the 10-year plan to make the school system ‘world class’, teachers’ abilities to educate the whole class could not be a more prominent discussion point in the education sector. Lorraine Petersen offers her view
Examining for CPD
Authors: Smith Josephine
Published: May 2014

Josephine Smith heralds the benefits of taking on examining as a form of CPD
Providing a safety net
Authors: Brennan-Osment Craig
Published: May 2014

Craig Brennan-Osment, is a ‘solution-focused’ coach who is part of an early intervention cluster team in Torbay. He explains here some of the innovative work he is involved with
Employer engagement in action
Authors: May John
Published: May 2014

Schools involved in successful Career Academies are reporting raised aspirations of students and teachers. John May introduces the American-inspired scheme that puts business support at the heart of student development
The cashless revolution
Authors: DiFranco Fran
Published: May 2014

Fran DiFranco from Impington Village College discusses how cashless catering can improve school meal take-up and increase revenue
The challenging road ahead
Authors: Smith Steve
Published: May 2014

Steve Smith highlights the emerging technologies that schools can expect to see as part of BSF, and tackles concerns that heads may have about managed service providers
A positive response
Authors: Doyle Stephan
Published: May 2014

Four million interactive voting systems were sold worldwide in 2007 alone. Stephan Doyle from SMART Technologies looks at how to make them an effective classroom resource
Driving enterprise education
Authors: McMullen Gemma
Published: May 2014

Give three enterprising secondary schools in Cumbria £45,000 and what do you get? Gemma McMullen explains
Decision time
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

As NQTs across the UK near the end of their first year, Margaret Adams looks at how you can start to think about specialising
Stifling innovation?
Authors: Wood Alex
Published: May 2014

The Scottish government's plans to see all young people pursuing a broad general curriculum to the end of S3 threatens the innovations of some schools, according to headteacher Alex Wood
The key to success
Authors: Holley Graham
Published: May 2014

Graham Holley, TDA chief executive, talks about unlocking your staff's potential, the role of support staff, and his vision for the future of workforce development
Football in education
Authors: Dunn Carrie
Published: May 2014

FA Cup champions Portsmouth and recently relegated Reading may have contrasting fortunes on the pitch. However, their education work is top of the league. Carrie Dunn explains
Getting them talking
Authors: van der Schaft Erik
Published: May 2014

Erik van der Schaft, editor in chief of not-for-profit website TrueTube, describes an exciting new way teachers are generating debate in the classroom, and encouraging students to raise their voices to important issues
A varied approach
Authors: Tarleton Ray
Published: May 2014

Headteachers Ray Tarleton and Dr Peter Kent on tackling the challenge of ‘Within School Variation’.
Pastoral problems
Authors: Ainsworth Paul
Published: May 2014

Deputy head Paul Ainsworth discusses pastoral management and solutions to the head of year headache faced by many schools
Getting out and about
Authors: Elkin Susan
Published: May 2014

The Macmillan Academy in the North East of England has ‘outdoor education’ as its specialism. Susan Elkin paid a visit to find out what it is all about
Are you in a rut?
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

Are you missing out on that crucial CPD because you only stick to the tried and tested? Margaret Adams explains
Preparing for the year ahead
Authors: Barker Ray
Published: May 2014

Ray Barker discusses some key developments Scotland's teachers will encounter this year
Everybody needs FRIENDS
Authors: Stockman Tina
Published: May 2014

Tina Stockman has been trialling the use of cognitive behaviour therapy with troubled pupils in her school for more than six months. Here she explains what she has found
Knowledge is power
Authors: McCabe Bernice
Published: May 2014

Bernice McCabe of the Prince's Teaching Institute believes in the importance of subject knowledge and passionate teachers who are inspired by their subjects
New class etiquette
Authors: Dunn Carrie
Published: May 2014

As term begins, Carrie Dunn offers some words of advice when tackling that new class
How many negatives make a positive?
Authors: Dale Chris
Published: May 2014

Suffolk's maths guru Chris Dale reports on the county's innovative work to engage students and wants to hear your ideas as well
Lights, camera, action
Authors: Wall Ian
Published: May 2014

The 13th National Schools Film Week kicks off in England and Wales next month and in Scotland in November. Ian Wall, from organisers Film Education, explains why he believes watching films at the cinema is crucial to young people's social and cultural dev
Teaching parents technology
Authors: Crowne Stephen
Published: May 2014

Parents are key to helping improve the attainment of their children. In the next of his series of articles, Becta's Stephen Crowne discusses how schools can use technology to engage parents
Surviving the new year
Authors: Ainsworth Paul
Published: May 2014

The start of a new year can be tough, but deputy head Paul Ainsworth says it is an ideal time to consider
Breaking down language barriers
Authors: Board Kathryn
Published: May 2014

In the run up to the European Day of Languages this week, Kathryn Board discusses the role of languages in our society
My school days
Authors: Smurthwaite Nick
Published: May 2014

Former teacher and author Caroline Lawrence was full of rage and loathing at school, she smoked drugs and had a crush on her English teacher. She spoke to Nick Smurthwaite about her schooldays
Getting out and about
Authors: Carne Peter
Published: May 2014

Peter Carne explains how recent developments mean that learning outside the classroom can play an important role in filling the void left by the abolition of key stage 3 SATs.
The unteachables
Authors: Stevens Rachael
Published: May 2014

Rachael Stevens is often commended by her head to their school's NQTs as an example to follow when dealing with “challenging” students. Here she gives an insight into her life with her year 11 English group
Seeking student safety
Authors: Bradley Andrea
Published: May 2014

Ex-police officer of 13 years, Andrea Bradley, now heads up an IT forensics team that works with police forces and in education. Here she explains the trends her team is noticing in student internet use
A passion for teaching
Authors: Lewis Greg
Published: May 2014

Gaynor Deacon's passion for vocational education has led to her being named as the Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School in Wales. Three weeks before she contests the UK finals, Greg Lewis went to meet her
Is your glass half full?
Authors: Cranmer Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Cranmer, a senior researcher at Futurelab, considers the recent spate of headlines suggesting that technology can be harmful for learning and urges a more balanced approach
Help is out there
Authors: Morgan Lindsey
Published: May 2014

Times are tough and teachers are not immune, but there are services out there to help educators access financial advice and support. Lindsey Morgan from Elizabeth Finn Care explains
Preparing for the IB
Authors: Hedger Terry
Published: May 2014

More and more schools are turning to the International Baccalaureate. Terry Hedger, principal of Southbank International School, discusses the challenges of switching to the IB
Developing mentoring
Authors: Dobie Emma
Published: May 2014

Emma Dobie explains how one-to-one support has the power to transform lives, raise aspirations, and make a real and lasting difference, and offers her advice on developing mentoring in your school
And the winner is…
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

Next weekend sees the UK finals of the Teaching Awards. This year, an unprecedented seven secondary schools are celebrating having not just one, but two finalists on their staff. Dorothy Lepkowska explains
Off to a flying start
Authors: Taylor Charlie
Published: May 2014

Turton High School Media Arts College has been offering the Extended Project for the past year. Deputy head, Charlie Taylor, reflects on
Including all parents
Authors: McAleavy Tony
Published: May 2014

In an average school at least one parent in nine will be disabled. Tony McAleavy explains how schools can ensure that these parents are not marginalised from their child's school life
It's all about people!
Authors: Moloney Danny
Published: May 2014

George Abbot School is one of many hosting school showcases at the SSAT national conference next week. David Taylor met up with headteacher Danny Moloney to talk school improvement
A year in the life…
Authors: Lee-Potter Emma
Published: May 2014

Oenone Crossley-Holland's compelling account of a year in the life of a teacher at an inner city school is a must read for all NQTs. Emma Lee-Potter spoke to the teacher about her experiences and why she decided to put pen to paper
NQTs: Diary of an NQT
Authors: Connett Matt
Published: May 2014

Our first tale of term one comes from this year's SecEd NQT diarist, Matt Connett. Here is his special one-off diary entry focusing on his year so far
NQTs: A full-time job
Authors: Bertholdt Nick
Published: May 2014

Most teachers look forward to the sound of the school bell on a Friday afternoon. But what if your school doesn't close? Chris Parr spoke to staff at the UK's biggest state boarding school
In the know
Authors: McGowan John
Published: May 2014

With Jim Knight stressing the need for parents to be “fully on board” in their children's education, assistant head John McGowan explains how his school's parents get up-to-date information about their children's behaviour
The future of key stage 3
Authors: Maughan Sarah
Published: May 2014

Sarah Maughan from the National Foundation for Educational Research looks at what assessment regimes we can expect to replace key stage 3 SATs
Helpin pupils cope
Authors: van der Schaft Erik
Published: May 2014

Erik van der Schaft discusses the impact that a death can have in schools, and discusses how teachers can use TrueTube, a free website resource, to help pupils to cope
Grasping the horror of the Holocaust
Authors: Calway Gareth
Published: May 2014

The destruction of each Jew in the Holocaust was to cost just one pfennig. Gareth Calway discusses the challenge of helping students to even begin to comprehend the Nazi atrocities
Keeping up the momentum
Authors: Thomas Alison
Published: May 2014

With 2010 almost upon us, before we know it, every key stage 2 classroom will be ringing to the sounds of a foreign language. Many already are. Alison Thomas asks what secondary schools can do to build on this momentum
Void? What void?
Authors: Fairhurst John
Published: May 2014

Headteacher John Fairhurst tackles SecEd's Filling the Void series, which is looking at what should happen now key stage 3 SATs have gone
Encouraging STEM careers
Authors: Bellingham Kate
Published: May 2014

Former teacher, Tomorrow's World presenter, and qualified engineer Kate Bellingham has been appointed the government national STEM careers co-ordinator. She writes for SecEd, explaining why she is asking teachers to encourage their students to consider ST
The great laptop debate
Authors: Haigh Gerald
Published: May 2014

Gerald Haigh looks at laptops in schools - the pitfalls, the benefits, and the secrets to success
School's out for summer
Authors: King Peter
Published: May 2014

It's prom season! Teacher Peter King looks at the event that has become an end-of-year staple for many schools
Positive about boarding
Authors: Dixon Sara
Published: May 2014

Melvyn Roffe stands down at the end of this academic year as chairman of the Boarding Schools’ Association. The principal of Wymondham College spoke to Sara Dixon about boarding schools and the need to be positive
Open all hours
Authors: Morris Jonathan
Published: May 2014

Jonathan Morris, head at Moorside Technology College, explains their journey to achieving
Celebrating 125 years
Authors: Kaut Helen
Published: May 2014

Birmingham's King Edward VI High School for Girls is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year with several events. With applications on the up, Helen Kaut looks at what makes the school so popular with Birmingham's parents
Combating the digital divide
Authors: Buxton Matt
Published: May 2014

Due to its ICT specialism, Nottingham's Djanogly City Academy is progressing faster than many schools in its ICT offering. But this makes a digital divide for some a real danger. Matt Buxton explores the importance of engaging parents to help tackle this
A new year's ladder
Authors: Ainsworth Paul
Published: May 2014

With a new year upon us, deputy head Paul Ainsworth discusses how you lead your team and differing styles of leadership
Burden of care
Authors: Davis Hazel
Published: May 2014

Dealing with troublesome pupils is par for the course in teaching. But what happens when there is a good reason for bad behaviour or attendance? Hazel Davis looks at resources for young carers
The secrets to iternational success
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

SecEd's international page has been showcasing the innovative international links being set up by schools across the UK. All of these schools have been recognised with the International School Award. Dorothy Lepkowska looks at what schools need to demonst
Twitter: The best CPD around
Authors: Solly Ben
Published: May 2014

More and more teachers are being turned on to Twitter as a free and quick means of accessing lesson ideas, materials and best practice advice. Assistant head Ben Solly explains why.
Year 1 at the chalkface — top five lessons learnt
Authors: Duckling Tomas
Published: May 2014

We now hear from our current NQT diarist — Tomas Duckling. He describes what he has learnt in term one and his priorities for term two.
Talking to FRANK
Authors: Henley Lord
Published: May 2014

Home Office minister Lord Henley explains how the FRANK advisory service can help teachers when it comes to educating teens about substance abuse.
Engaging science
Authors: Brown Olympia
Published: May 2014

The Christmas Lectures and associated schools programme aim to bring science to life. Olympia Brown from the Royal Institution explains how they ensure the lessons are engaging for young people.
Inspire Aspire
Authors: Nicholls Anne
Published: May 2014

The Inspire Aspire programme is using the 2012 Olympic Games to encourage students to consider their own aspirations, values and strengths – and it has just become available UK-wide. Anne Nicholls explains.
The role of self-esteem
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Everyone should have high self-esteem – or should they? Dr Stephanie Thornton asks if we have got the balance between praise and realism right.
Vocational lessons from six of the best systems in the world
Authors: Harbourne David
Published: May 2014

Professor Nancy Hoffman will be speaking at an event this month on the lessons that can be learnt from the world's best vocational education systems. David Harbourne explains.
School uniform policies vs religious practices
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: May 2014

Cases involving clashes between school uniform policy and religious practices can be very difficult for schools to handle. Legal expert Richard Wilkins discusses the issues arising from a recent case involving a student wishing to carry a Sikh blade, known as a kirpan, at school.
How much do you know about foetal alcohol syndrome?
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: May 2014

Would you know how to support a child with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder? The ground-breaking work of the Complex Learning Difficulties and Disabilities project, led by Professor Barry Carpenter, is helping schools to cope with a range of increasingly common conditions.
Climate Week 2013
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: May 2014

Founder of Climate Week Kevin Steele explains how the initiative provides a platform for teachers to engage pupils to take action on climate change. He also introduces the popular Climate Week Challenge.
Are your students afraid of failure?
Authors: Henshaw Pete , Lee-Potter Emma
Published: May 2014

Are children today too afraid of failure, taking risks or thinking for themselves? Professor Tanya Byron says that students need to develop emotional intelligence and resilience if they are to succeed. But how can schools approach this challenge?
When students self-harm
Authors: Aitchison Linda
Published: May 2014

Self-harm is a subject that remains shrouded in stigma with three in four young sufferers not knowing where to turn. Linda Aitchison looks at how schools and school staff should react when a pupil seeks help.
12 writing and literacy competitions to inspire your students
Authors: Durrant Isobel
Published: May 2014

There are a wide range of websites, competitions and initiatives aimed at helping to develop literacy and writing skills. Teacher Isobel Durrant looks at some of what's out there.
Spotlight on American education
Authors: Puntis Ann
Published: May 2014

Continuing her look at education systems across the world, Ann Puntis reports on the introduction of common core education standards across America – a radical and challenging reform.
Advice & guidance for NQTs at the end of term 1
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: May 2014

One term down, two to go — NQTs everywhere will be looking forward to the end of term. SecEd's annual autumn NQT special eight page section offers a wealth of advice to help new teachers reflect on term 1 at the chalkface and prepare for terms 2 a
It's good to talk
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: May 2014

A meeting of neuroscientists and educators marked the launch of a national forum aiming to bring the two professions closer together to further research and improve the education of SEN children. SecEd editor Pete Henshaw was there.
Dyslexia and Dyspraxia
Authors: McKeown Sal
Published: May 2014

SEN expert Sal McKeown offers advice and guidance on how secondary teachers can support children who suffer with dyslexia and dyspraxia , especially when it comes to revision and preparing them for exams.
League table changes will hit most vulnerable, claims head
Authors: White Daniel
Published: May 2014

The government's decision to strip hundreds of vocational qualifications out of the school league tables could hit some of the most vulnerable students, a headteacher has claimed.
Surviving Ofsted in 2012
Authors: Donaghy Lee
Published: May 2014

Assistant headteacher Lee Donaghy's school has just been graded outstanding under the new Ofsted inspection framework. He takes us through the process, looks at how it differs to the old approach, and offers some advice to fellow school leaders.
Managing Change
Authors: Stanley Julian
Published: May 2014

How can you ensure that you manage change in a positive way? Julian Stanley offers some advice.
Shakespeare on your feet
Authors: Banks Fiona
Published: May 2014

We all know that Shakespeare should be taught on your feet. Now a three-year study has yielded teaching approaches learnt from actors that improve achievement and behaviour as well. Fiona Banks from Shakespeare's Globe explains more.
Creative in the kitchen
Authors: Bevan Denise
Published: May 2014

Denise Bevan talks about how giving her students the freedom to innovate is helping them to develop a passion for cooking.
April Fools!
Authors: Whitwham Ian
Published: May 2014

It is April Fool's day, although in education these April Fools jokes seem to have been going on for the whole month…
A note for your NQT briefcase
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

SecEd's CPD expert Margaret Adams offers her advice on how you can prepare for year number two.
All change for A levels?
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: May 2014

The exams watchdog has proposed a major overhaul of the structure of A levels. Pete Henshaw delves into the consultation document and gauges the reaction from the education sector.
Stretching their horizons
Authors: Parks Nick
Published: May 2014

Nick Parks, an international ski and mountain guide and former head of outdoor education at Marlborough College, discusses how travel can be used across the curriculum and the work of the Stretching Horizons network.
Resources to support EAL students
Authors: McKeown Sal
Published: May 2014

ICT can play a key role in supporting students who have English as an additional language. SEN expert Sal McKeown recommends some of her choice resources.
Linking up
Authors: Ainsworth Paul
Published: May 2014

School leader Paul Ainsworth looks at the professional benefits and practicalities of using the popular LinkedIn social network.
You're hired!
Authors: Cosh Jackie
Published: May 2014

An Apprentice-style scheme in Inverclyde is helping young people to learn business skills and find employment. Jackie Cosh explains.
On the right careers path
Authors: Buccella Christine
Published: May 2014

Schools now have a legal duty to provide year 9 to 11 students impartial and independent careers advice. Christine Buccella looks at some free web resources that might help.
You create the weather in your classrooms!!
Authors: Lovewell Kathryn
Published: May 2014

How can you create the right climate for learning in your classroom and make it a place your students look forward to coming to? Kathryn Lovewell offers some advice.
Student Council Summit – developing pupil voice
Authors: Almond Danni
Published: May 2014

All Saints Catholic School recently hosted its first Student Council Summit involving nine local schools. Danni Almond explains why the school decided to create and host the event and discusses the importance of pupil voice.
The changing rules for academy funding
Authors: King Vincent
Published: May 2014

Academies are currently dealing with complex and changing funding rules. Vincent King looks at how some schools have been coping.
The emerging new SENs of students born prematurely
Authors: Carpenter Barry
Published: May 2014

In an average class, there will be four children who have been born prematurely. Many of these students have emerging special needs that are different to what teachers have known before. Professor Barry Carpenter is leading work to help schools better support these children.
Changes to rules on disclosure and barring
Authors: Durbridge Dai
Published: May 2014

Safe recruitment is a constant concern for schools and an ever-changing statutory regime and lack of guidance don't help. With new changes in force since September and more expected this spring, Dai Durbridge offers his advice.
Avoiding the pitfalls of Bring Your Own Device
Authors: Wright Caroline
Published: May 2014

Recent research into tablets in schools shows that adoption continues to rise. Caroline Wright and Michal Stein consider the implications of the findings, including legal pitfalls for schools.
Closing the gender gap by empowering female students
Authors: Raffray Sarah
Published: May 2014

The gender gap is still a major issue in today's workplaces. Headteacher of an all girls' school, Sarah Raffray, says giving girls the confidence to break through the glass ceiling begins at an early age. She shares her five tips for empowering your female students.
Alcohol: Let's talk about it
Authors: Dawson Anneka
Published: May 2014

PSHE has been branded not good enough at informing young people about alcohol, but there are proven ways to put that right. Anneka Dawson explains.
Active approaches to Shakespeare in the classroom
Authors: Banks Fiona
Published: May 2014

Practical, active approaches to studying Shakespeare can have a notable impact on achievement. Fiona Banks from Shakespeare's Globe has just written a book on practical Shakespeare and offers some ideas.
SEN training for every teacher?
Authors: Petersen Lorraine
Published: May 2014

The Every Teacher campaign wants all teachers to receive training to support students with special needs and is targeting both politicians and headteachers. Lorraine Petersen explains.
Using PE to teach vital skills
Authors: Solly Ben
Published: May 2014

Government cuts and an obsession with competitive sport is not helpful as schools try to create a true Olympic legacy. Ben Solly looks at how we can engage every pupil in PE and teach wider skills at the same time.
Talking tablets in school
Authors: Noonan Luke
Published: May 2014

Do the educational advantages outweigh the potential technical difficulties of tablets in schools? Luke Noonan asks the question.
How can we continue to raise the quality of our teaching?
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: May 2014

Sharing your ‘butterfly’ practices, good behaviour management, evidence-led CPD and nurturing teacher expertise were listed as some of the keys to raising the quality teaching during a “Tweet-Up” debate featuring Sir Tim Brighouse and Professor Dylan Wiliam among other experts.
Developing a social media strategy for your school
Authors: Begg Jennifer
Published: May 2014

Should schools embrace social media? Expert Jennifer Begg argues they should, but says that a clear strategy is needed
10 steps to Bring Your Own Device
Authors: Smith Steve
Published: May 2014

Steve Smith details his 10 tips for schools which are planning to allow students to bring in their own handheld devices.
Busting the theatre myths
Authors: Elkin Susan
Published: May 2014

Students who want to work in the theatre are often put-off their ambitions for fear it is too tough an industry. Susan Elkin's new book aims to help schools better advise young people.
Case study: Regional education federations
Authors: Palmer Dick
Published: May 2014

A federation of schools and colleges in Norfolk has become the first sub-regional federation of its kind in England. Dick Palmer explains.
Tracking pupil progress in English and maths
Authors: Hall Katharine
Published: May 2014

Senior leader Katharine Hall discusses her work to develop an effective system for tracking pupil progress and monitoring her school's intervention strategies.
What are your school's values?
Authors: Peck Amanda
Published: May 2014

You may associate ‘branding’ with the business world, but Amanda Peck looks at why and how schools should consider their own brand and values as an organisation.
The hunt for LGBT equality in schools
Authors: Maddock Paul
Published: May 2014

What can schools do to meet their legal requirements and ensure staff are treated equally, irrespective of sexuality. Legal expert Paul Maddock advises.
Using Facebook groups to engage your students
Authors: Begg Jennifer
Published: May 2014

Using Facebook with your students can be an effective teaching tool – but what issues must you consider? Jennifer Begg offers her advice.
Supporting students' mental health – a case study
Authors: Parnell Sara
Published: May 2014

Arthur Mellows Village College believes strongly in supporting student mental health. SENCO Sara Parnell discusses their variety of approaches.
Where next for secondary school sport?
Authors: Andrews Crispin
Published: May 2014

Despite all the talk of Olympic legacy, funding for secondary school sport runs dry this September. Former PE teacher and sports coach Crispin Andrews looks back at two years of sporting cuts and asks what next?
Ofsted good to great in seven steps
Authors: London Simon
Published: May 2014

In February, Ofsted graded Hall Mead School as outstanding across all categories. Headteacher Simon London takes us through seven steps on their journey from good to great, all connected by a relentless focus on teaching and learning.
‘Giving it a Go’ to improve lesson quality
Authors: McCrae Ian
Published: May 2014

When Ofsted feedback prompted his school to develop and improve teaching practice, deputy head Ian McCrae created ‘Give it a Go’, a scheme to allow teachers to experiment and take risks with their teaching.