bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Number 3 and number 4
Authors: Catterall Rona
Published: May 2014

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

You may well use your noticeboard for posting information, but have you thought what else it could be telling people? Your newsletters may well be a convenient way to tell parents what you want them to know but are they getting the real message? You have the opportunity to gain support, earn praise, reassure, develop relationships, support others, stay legal and much more - all from your noticeboard and newsletters!
Working with an autistic child
Authors: Griffin Kate
Published: May 2014

Take a moment to imagine what it would be like to live in a world where words, gestures, facial expressions and displays of emotion mean almost nothing to you. This is the isolating experience of more than 500,000 families in Britain whose lives are touched by autism.
Developing fine motor skills
Authors: Evans Jean
Published: May 2014

Providing appropriate opportunities for children to develop their manual dexterity, or fine motor skills, is an important aspect of the planning of your physical development programme. Children need to develop their manual dexterity in order to cope with their personal needs, such as dressing and keeping themselves clean. Children who have enjoyed activities involving exploration of a wide selection of tools and materials are also more likely to approach directed activities related to drawing and writing with confidence.
Making tiles and mosaics
Authors: Hickman Gill
Published: May 2014

You could start your work on tiles with a project about shapes in the environment. Point out tiles as part of a tour of the nursery. Ask children to look at the tiles carefully. What shape are they? How do they fit together? What colour are they? Ask them if they have tiles at home and if so, where are they, what colour are they? Why do they think we have tiles in bathrooms and kitchens? They might like to do some drawings of tiles. Is it easy or hard to draw them? You could introduce rulers as a way of making it easier. Ask them what they think tiles are made of. Be supportive of all their ideas then, if no-one knows, explain that they are made of clay and that if they would like to they could even make some themselves.
Number 9 and number 10
Authors: Catterall Rona
Published: May 2014

Before you move along the number frieze to nine and ten make sure that individual children are confident with the numbers to eight, that they know the names, recognise the symbols, remember the order, and can give the correct amount consistently.
Stamp, clap and shout!
Authors: Catterall Rona
Published: May 2014

As you know, most children love making a noise. In this game they are encouraged to do just that! It is also intended to provide an opportunity to read the symbol zero and experience its ‘nothingness’
The value of teaching colour
Authors: Hickman Gill
Published: May 2014

Many studies have been done on how babies see and what they choose to look at. In the name of science, researchers have subjected some very tiny babies to some quite peculiar tests! As you would expect, a baby's first interest is their mother's face, especially her eyes and mouth, indeed, they can imitate their mother's mouth from a few days after birth. In one test (to prove that they can perceive difference) young babies were presented with a certain pattern until they ignored it, then the pattern was changed or turned upside down and the babies showed renewed interest.
Supporting children's play
Authors: Fisher Julie
Published: May 2014

Most early childhood educators would agree that play should have a central role in the early years curriculum. But increasingly, many feel that play is being squeezed out of children's experiences and that it is harder than ever to justify play as a significant part of the educational day.
From scribble to drawings
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

Put out pencils, wax crayons and coloured pencils in the child’s own pencil pot. Keep a supply of paper handy so that your child can draw whenever he or she wants to. Start off with the chubby pencils and crayons - they are easier for the little hand to hold. Paper doesn't have to be expensive. At this very early stage, you can give the child scrap paper although do keep a supply of fresh paper for special drawings, particularly as the child gets older.
Collecting leaves
Authors: Kennett Sue
Published: May 2014

This is an activity that allows each child to achieve and feel successful - they will all have the opportunity to take some leaves home and perhaps continue their exploration of leaves in the nursery (collage, rubbings with wax crayons, and so on).
Learning what bodies can do
Authors: Evans Jean
Published: May 2014

Children need to know what their own bodies are capable of and to learn to control them.
The value of circle time
Authors: Stocks Sara
Published: May 2014

In adult therapy circle time is used in many counselling arenas. It offers a safe space for adults who have suffered abuse or addiction to talk about the issues they have faced in a non-threatening and supportive environment. The security is established by agreeing rules of behaviour within the group beforehand and by having a named leader who will maintain the smooth running of the session.
Dealing with child abuse: what to do
Authors: Wilcock Liz , Collins Sheila
Published: May 2014

If you are uneasy about anything you see or hear, discuss it with your colleagues/line manager/local authority adviser. Often your own instincts or reactions - ‘gut feelings’ - are right. Children in your care may not have reached the stage where they can vocalise, or may not have the ability to express themselves if they have a special need.
The value of problem-solving
Authors: Hartley Karen
Published: May 2014

There are a number of definitions of problem-solving which all link the ability to solve problems to the development of thinking skills. The Curriculum Guidance for the Foundation Stage places much emphasis on children solving problems. This follows research into the way in which thinking skills are developed.
Learning to rhyme
Authors: Sparks Linfield Rachel , Mead Rosemary
Published: May 2014

Being able to detect and to make rhyming sounds and words are valuable skills that aid the development of reading. These activities and games will help children to identify rhyming words. As children enjoy joining in these rhyming activities they will be encouraged to listen, to distinguish sounds and to become more ready to learn, and to enjoy, reading.
My word - how you have grown!
Authors: Garrad Barbara
Published: May 2014

Parents and carers are in an ideal position to be able to develop a child's understanding of the language of length, height, and width. As children grow and there is the need to compare and replace their clothes, it is a first class opportunity for discussion.
Working with a teaching assistant
Authors: Main Anthea
Published: May 2014

The labels that have been given to support staff working in classrooms have been many and various - classroom assistants, ancillaries, classroom helpers, NTAs and so on, so I welcome the DfEE's move to use the title teaching assistants. I will use it to include nursery nurses and staff with equivalent qualifications as well as unqualified assistants.
Headlice - the facts
Authors: Davies Jonathan
Published: May 2014

problem in this country. They rarely, if ever, cause physical health problems other than itching of the scalp. The main responsibility for the identification, treatment and prevention of headlice in a family has to lie with the parents/carers, if only for reasons of practicality. However, they need to be kept informed of any outbreaks and given advice on how to identify and treat any infestation.
Promoting a sense of time
Authors: Grant Alison
Published: May 2014

Developing a concept of time with very young children needs to begin with something that is meaningful to them. Discussing abstract events that have happened or are going to happen is difficult for a young child to comprehend.
Dealing with prejudice and discrimination: the issues
Authors: Lane Jane
Published: May 2014

Do some young boys really believe that they are superior to girls? Can some young white children think that they are superior to black children? Are there some young children living in affluent parts of our towns who feel that they are superior to children living on a local authority housing estate? If young children believe they are superior to others on these grounds they are beginning the process of learning to be prejudiced - pre-judging, basing their attitudes on false or no information.
Cleversticks
Authors: Stevens Judith
Published: May 2014

Things that we take for granted, such as doing up buttons, threading needles and tying shoelaces all need to be learned. These type of skills are part of children's fine motor development and it's important that we make learning them as much fun as possible.
How to use large equipment
Authors: Heald Chris
Published: May 2014

You should always be aware of the crucial role you play in enabling children to learn from using large equipment.
Tricky concepts
Authors: Iannuzzelli Paul
Published: May 2014

I remember being taught ‘probability’ at school. I could do all the computations but I could never grasp how it worked underneath and therefore struggled when it came to more complicated applications. This stunted my growth in this area of mathematics, where as in other areas I found no diffi culty. Why is this? It had to do with the underlying concepts.
Let's explore wool and fabrics
Authors: Prince Jean
Published: May 2014

Being creative is an essential part of the whole education process, but as practitioners we need to be aware that being creative involves two distinct and different processes.
The chickenpox virus
Authors: Stevenson Jane
Published: May 2014

Chickenpox affects most young children, particularly those under four-years-old. Jane Stevenson explains what it is and how nurseries can cope with an outbreak
The benefits of block play
Authors: Smith Sharon Paul
Published: May 2014

What opportunities for learning are there in block play? There are probably more than you think. Sharon Paul Smith explains
Teddies on the shelf
Authors: Croft Sue
Published: May 2014

The words of the rhyme below can be sung to the tune of Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush. For the last line of each verse, you will need to adapt the rhythm a little.
Percy and the iceberg
Authors: Williams Brenda
Published: May 2014

It was a hot day and Tiggy and Jojo were camping in the garden. They had a little tent and sometimes they pretended it was night-time and they were sleeping on their sleeping bags inside. Then they would suddenly wake up and go outside the tent to cook a pretend breakfast.
ICT in role-play
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: May 2014

You do not need real ICT equipment to develop children's knowledge of ICT in everyday life. If you make these resources with the children, they will be developing many other skills too.
St Patrick's Day
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

St Patrick's Day falls on March 17. To celebrate, why not hold your own mini St. Patrick's Day celebrations and try some of the following activities with your children? Karen Hart tells you how.
Practical picture books, part 5
Authors: Davies Alison
Published: May 2014

Picture books are a great tool for physical development and introduce actions through words and pictures. The rhythmic pattern of the words gives a sense of movement, and encourages little ones to listen to the sounds and match them with actions, writes Alison Davies.
Celebrating RE
Authors: Vasey Gill
Published: May 2014

Religious Education for early years pupils is often associated with exploring festivals. While this is a worthwhile and valuable approach, Gill Vaisey explains how RE can be much more than that.
Northlands Park Nursery
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

Nursery manager Katie Pilgrim discusses free play, partnership work and special needs provision as Karen Hart investigates another ‘outstanding’ Ofsted-rated setting.
Sure Start: Too good to lose?
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

Sure Start children's centres are under threat of closure. Karen Hart wonders, will this potential cut-back be nothing but a set-back for the early years?
Pirates and treasure
Authors: Sharpe Deborah
Published: May 2014

A ‘pirates and treasure’ theme provides a fun opportunity for role-play and encourages
Beyond the Walls Nursery
Authors: Learner Sue
Published: May 2014

At Beyond the Walls Outdoor Nursery, the children's learning is enveloped by the outdoors, which not only builds their knowledge of the natural world, but raises self-esteem, too. Sue Learner investigates.
Take the driving seat
Authors: Mojica Lorelli
Published: May 2014

In the following article, Lorelli Mojica suggests ways in which to encourage boys to take the driving seat and follow the road towards developing a love for literacy.
Effectively enabling outdoor play spaces
Authors: Turner Nick
Published: May 2014

Nick Turner, national manager at playground equipment supplier, Schoolscapes, considers what the revised curriculum's focus on physical development means for play spaces in early years settings.
Discovering shapes in the environment
Authors: Stroud Anna
Published: May 2014

In part two of this series, Anna Stroud gives us some ideas on how to make mathematics, numbers, shapes, and size fun in your setting.
Boom bang-a-bang!
Authors: Sargent Marianne
Published: May 2014

Fireworks and bonfires are great stimulus for expressive arts and design. Marianne Sargent suggests some active and large-scale creative activities inspired by gunpowder, treason and plot.
Teams work for everyone
Authors: Griffin Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Griffin starts a new series on getting the most from working as a team by exploring the different roles found in settings, and the benefits of collaborating for children and their families as well as all staff.
Which witch is wicked?
Authors: Davies Alison
Published: May 2014

Alison Davies follows the trail of breadcrumbs to help children understand good and bad through the safe medium of stories, while building their vocabulary and making up rhymes. And creating their own ‘edible’ houses!
Providing for two-year-olds
Authors: Hook Elaine
Published: May 2014

Is your setting gearing up for more places for twos as part of the government funded offer? Elaine Hook offers tips on the particular needs that this age group can bring and how you can ensure you meet them.
A childcare funding jigsaw
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

How will tax-free childcare work in practice? Purnima Tanuku of the NDNA explains the latest proposals and calls for a simplified system with lessons learned from the employer-supported voucher scheme.
Taking the right turn
Authors: Sharpe Deborah
Published: May 2014

Learning that sharing and taking turns is fair and can help build friendships is an important part of children's social development. Dee Sharpe offers activities that can link to many aspects of your routine.
Eat and pay at our café
Authors: Stroud Anna
Published: May 2014

Anna Stroud suggests using a café role-play to inspire lots of activities that build number skills and familiarity with money, while reinforcing children's knowledge of healthy eating and why it is important.
Commotion in the ocean
Authors: Hewson Claire
Published: May 2014

Claire Hewson takes inspiration from a rhyming tale about sea creatures for lots of reading, writing and speaking activities that link to other learning areas. Go fishing for letters and sounds to build simple words.
Panto time…oh yes it is!
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

Take children to watch a seasonal pantomime for a fun way to enjoy the spectacle and magic of theatre and see humorous twists on stories they know, says Viv Hampshire. With no danger of getting shushed!
The magic of melting
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

Karen Hart starts a new series of activities that can be done in the home, based on the concept of opposites. This month, explore hot and cold by experimenting with ice and jelly and making warm or cool artwork.
Pensions are changing…
Authors: Naylor Anne
Published: May 2014

The Government's shift to an ‘auto-enrolment’ system for pensions will affect many nursery staff and small business owners if you manage your setting. NDNA advise on what it will mean for employers and employees.
Engines roar as we rise high
Authors: Williams Brenda
Published: May 2014

Use this month's action rhyme as part of a topic about transport. Cross-curricular work can encompass making flying machines, counting at sea, talking about travel and exploring familiar and unfamiliar experiences.
What does multiculturalism mean for today's practice?
Authors: Griffin Sue
Published: May 2014

Continuing this series reflecting on best practice for inclusion, equality and diversity, Sue Griffin considers planning around festivals, foods and cultural life and making it appropriate for your particular setting.
At last! A lovely rainbow
Authors: Williams Brenda
Published: May 2014

Every spring day can bring a new weather surprise for children, and rainbows are a wonderful opportunity to liven up the setting with brightly coloured artwork, while developing language and observational skills.
Branch out with maths
Authors: Croft Sue
Published: May 2014

‘How many of us have to hold hands to reach around this tree?’ There are loads of measuring and counting activities you can do with trees and a few resources. Use your outdoor area or find a suitable spot in a park.
Seeds and scarecrows
Authors: Croft Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Croft shares a tale about exploring the garden with ideas to help children think about the structure of stories and describe what happens, plus some simple segmenting, decoding and writing activities.
It's a pre-school paradise
Authors: Bence Andrew
Published: May 2014

How often do you take children to the local library? Andrew Bence encourages you to join in activities, spark children's interest in a wider range of books, engage with the community and get inspiration for a host of topics.
Poetry made for performing
Authors: McKeown Sal
Published: May 2014

Sal McKeown explores a new resource which takes the idea that children should learn poems by heart and makes it a fun, active process that helps builds language skills and self-esteem, with links to other areas.
As crunchy as crisps
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

Continuing this series on using leaves for activities that cover all areas of learning and development, Hilary White offers literacy ideas that encourage children to have fun with words and language and create rhymes.
Follow the paper trail
Authors: Croft Sue
Published: May 2014

It can be easy to take paper for granted – it's everywhere! Go on a paper hunt around your setting and try the activities inspired by these poems, encouraging children to explore new ways of constructing with the familiar.
NQT diary: End of year 1
Authors: Donohoe Tom
Published: May 2014

As the academicyear draws to a close,two newly qualified teachers share their thoughts on the past few months and their goals for the future.
But can they type?
Authors: Dyson Greg
Published: May 2014

Teachers are increasingly expected to embed ICT across all subjects and the new draft curriculum emphasises computer science. Are the basic skills being forgotten?
We know how to do it…
Authors: Wilson Charlie
Published: May 2014

Crack out the songs, dance, drama and games to teach tricky grammar concepts, says Charlie Wilson. Kinaesthetic strategies embed learning and make it fun.
We don't water it down
Authors: Youngman
Published: May 2014

The dangers of lack of sanitation and environmental damage related to water mean a topic on water covers multiple subjects, and beyond in the form of charity projects.
Improve social thinking
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Can a teacher help an unpopular child? Stephanie Thornton looks at research that views social problems as a learning difficulty and offers practical things you can do.
Think bricks, not straw
Authors: Wright Caroline
Published: May 2014

The new curriculum inevitably means major spending decisions. How do you recognise 'quality' resources and CPD and ensure good value for money?
Leading their learning
Authors: David Anthony
Published: May 2014

Be ambitious for your pupils, stimulating their curiosity for the new. Anthony David explains how to establish what they already know and go beyond the basics.
Historical developments
Authors: Davis John
Published: May 2014

Our assessment of the new curriculm moves on to history. The DfE have certainly listened to debate and there are laudable aims, but it is still a lot to get through.
Compose, craft and swim
Authors: Donohoe Tom
Published: May 2014

Tom Donohoe turns to the final pages of the new national curriculum to explore the changes in music, art and design, and PE and what impact it may have on teaching.
Ships, stocks and sailing: a New World of maths
Authors: Bullock Charlie
Published: May 2014

Charlie Bullock finds a creative way to inspire lower ability pupils to confidently engage with maths. She shares her ‘real life’ project based on the Tudor explorers.
Ready for the real world
Authors: Flinn Jon
Published: May 2014

Embedding enterprise education and the spirit of entrepreneurship throughout school life can pay huge dividends for pupils and the community. Jon Flinn reports.
Travel can help you go far
Authors: Keeling Anne
Published: May 2014

Teaching abroad can be invaluable for professional development. With opportunities for British teachers in the Middle East increasing, Anne Keeling explores the options.
One term down'
Authors: Tomkinson Ruth
Published: May 2014

The first year of teaching can be tough for a newly qualified teacher. Ruth Tomkinson offers some advice
Expanding students' horizons
Authors: Glover Will
Published: May 2014

English teaching is often too formulaic, says William Glover. There is a lack of imagination in how we approach our writing across the curriculum
Making space for IT
Authors: MacLeod Andy
Published: May 2014

Schools that are being rebuilt need to have provision for information and communications technology equipment at their heart, says Andy MacLeod
SEF SOS
Authors: Scott Heather
Published: May 2014

Schools should be updating their self evaluation form on a continual basis, says Heather Scott
Counsel for the accused
Authors: Webb-Jenkins Chris
Published: May 2014

Allegations of abuse in schools are an emotive and traumatic issue, as tragically demonstrated by the recent suicide of an accused teacher in Wales. Christian Webb-Jenkins, examines the legal landscape for schools facing accusations
The little people
Authors: Ray Vanessa
Published: May 2014

Vanessa Ray's school is encountering year 7s for the first time. They're refreshingly sweet and enthusiastic but also tire rather easily, she's discovered
The emperor's new clothes
Authors: Clubley Richard
Published: May 2014

Richard Clubley has been hearing about all the PAs and caretakers teaching classes, while the real teachers are on their PPA time
Geography in the news
Authors: Ellis Louise
Published: May 2014

Louise Ellis explains how her department planned a scheme of work based around Hurricane Katrina, making use of interactive whiteboards
Letting students take over
Authors: Knowlton Nancy
Published: May 2014

For the last 14 years, schools all over the world have been introducing interactive whiteboards into the classroom. Nancy Knowlton looks at how teachers have moved from novices to advanced users of the technology.
Maths takes shape
Authors: Brewin Kester
Published: May 2014

Interactive whiteboards can be of enormous benefit in maths lessons, as the subject contains some very visual topics. Kester Brewin explains.
Retaining good staff
Authors: Adams Carol
Published: May 2014

Too many teachers drop out of the profession after just a few years and less than one in 10 aspire to be heads, says Carol Adams
Tabloid fodder
Authors: McNeilly Ian
Published: May 2014

When teachers find themselves mentioned in the press in connection with a negative story, they are often shocked to see their address printed and may read untrue claims about themselves, particularly if there is a court case involved. Ian McNeilly – at
Mark my words
Authors: Moriarty Hilary
Published: May 2014

Marking is central to what a teacher does and must be approached with care, argues Hilary Moriarty
Lord of the dance
Authors: Smurthwaite Nick
Published: May 2014

The performer Jonzi D was popular at school, but never joined a gang. He spoke to Nick Smurthwaite about his schooldays
Head in a book
Authors: Ainsworth Paul
Published: May 2014

There are so many management books out there that you often don't know where to begin. School leader Paul Ainsworth offers some pointers
The future of learning
Authors: MP Jim Knight
Published: May 2014

In his latest piece for SecEd, we asked schools minister Jim Knight to give us his vision for the new diploma qualifications
Looking ahead
Authors: Tobin Lucy
Published: May 2014

Final year students in schools across the country will already be thinking about and preparing for university life. Lucy Tobin looks at how schools and teachers can help.
Playing second fiddle?
Authors: Dunn Carrie
Published: May 2014

With pressure to improve results in core subjects, music is becoming marginalised, leading musical children to seek tuition outside school. Carrie Dunn explains.
Race against time
Authors: Fyson Emily
Published: May 2014

This summer you could join 10 teachers who are cycling the length of Britain in support of an education project that is fighting the South African HIV/AIDs epidemic. Emily Fyson explains.
The trouble with TV
Authors: Moriarty Hilary
Published: May 2014

When teachers spend much of their day trying to prevent bullying behaviour in their students, it can be infuriating to switch on the television only to witness brutality, rudeness, and public humiliation. Hilary Moriarty comments
Emotional rollercoaster
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

In the modern classroom teachers are more and more involved with the emotional wellbeing of their children. Dorothy Lepkowska explains
Fighting the cyber-bullies
Authors: Aitken Will
Published: May 2014

ICT teacher Will Atkin recently organised what is thought to be the first cyber-bullying conference for students in the country. Here he explains why
The running man
Authors: Williams Jack
Published: May 2014

English teacher Jack Williams is in agony as he prepares to take on the London marathon this weekend. But the thought of the work of the Joint Educational Trust is spurring him on
Integrated communities
Authors: Todman Dave
Published: May 2014

ICT integration is a complex business. Dave Todman looks at maximising the value of ICT investments in schools
Charity begins at school
Authors: Kaut Helen
Published: May 2014

Charity work in schools is not restricted to events like Comic Relief. Pupil-initiated fundraising can have a vital role throughout the year. Some schools even support charities hands-on.Helen Kaut reports
Is it safe?
Authors: Haigh Gerald
Published: May 2014

This is a question often associated with school activity and in the days of internet access and new technologies it has become especially important. Gerald Haigh explains how you can be sure it is safe
From the valleys to Villiers
Authors: Silvester Katie
Published: May 2014

With the regional finals for the 2007 Teaching Awards kicking off next week, Katie Silvester spoke to deputy head Dai Jones who scooped one of last year's awards for his outstanding work at Villiers High School. But he's a little uncomfortable at find
Playing it for laughs
Authors: Smurthwaite Nick
Published: May 2014

Author and comedian Rhona Cameron had to deal with a number of issues during her schooldays, not least her sexuality. She spoke to Nick Smurthwaite.
Testing times
Authors: Trafford Bernard
Published: May 2014

Can we ever escape exams, testing, politicians, the media, and the minister for education? Will education professionals ever be trusted? Dr Bernard Trafford dreams a seemingly impossible dream
A vision for Africa
Authors: Birke Sarah
Published: May 2014

A chance meeting in a Ugandan hostel led to the creation of St Janan's School, which now educates 1,000 African children. It is hoped three more schools will open in February. Sarah Birke speaks to the two men behind Promoting Equality in African School
Linking with the law
Authors: Andrews Crispin
Published: May 2014

More and more schools are recognising the value of developing closer links with the police in tackling violent crime among young people. Crispin Andrews looks at some of the most successful projects
New year, new technology
Authors: Barker Ray
Published: May 2014

In the first of his monthly ICT and advice articles for SecEd, Ray Barker is preparing for the annual BETT extravaganza
Davy Jones's Locker
Authors: Pattisson Rachel
Published: May 2014

Rachel Pattisson makes a drama of nutrient deficiencies
Examining the facts
Authors: Moorhouse Richard
Published: May 2014

Becoming an examiner brings with it a number of professional benefits. We asked Richard Moorhouse from the National Assessment Agency to describe the benefits of taking on this key position
Facing the challenge
Authors: Smith Josephine
Published: May 2014

Josephine Smith and her school were recently involved in a successful application for the NACE Challenge Award for gifted and talented provision. Here's how they did it
The art of the impossible
Authors: Quelch Eva
Published: May 2014

Can you really compare a challenging inner city school where 40 per cent of students have English as a foreign language to a middle class comprehensive in a leafy market town? Eva Quelch is sick of the league tables putting her students down
Linking the workforce
Authors: Eccles Marilyn
Published: May 2014

Every Child Matters calls for schools to work more closely with the wider children's workforce. Marilyn Eccles from Manchester Metropolitan University has been working on a project to support these inter-disciplinary links
Tackling the real issues
Authors: Smith Jo
Published: May 2014

Taking on a Research Associate project can lead to transformation, not just in your school, but for others as well. Andy Coleman explains
Care in your community
Authors: Wadsworth Dave
Published: May 2014

After reading two articles in SecEd on innovative pastoral care, assistant head Dave Wadsworth got in touch with us and we were happy to ask him to share his school's approach
Education for all
Authors: Feltham Roger
Published: May 2014

Roger Feltham from Surrey County Council explains his work in using ICT to engage Traveller children in the education system
Supporting pregnant teenagers
Authors: Brady Geraldine , Brown Geraldine , Wilson Corinne
Published: May 2014

Dr Geraldine Brady, Geraldine Brown and Corinne Wilson, from Coventry University, discuss how schools can help support teenage parents with their education
Mastering the SEF
Authors: Ainsworth Paul
Published: May 2014

Deputy head Paul Ainsworth tackles the self-evaluation form, and offers his advice
Changing communities
Authors: Thomas Alison
Published: May 2014

All too often the teaching of community languages, as they are known, is left to complementary schools run by the communities concerned. But this is changing. Alison Thomas explains
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.
Coming to a school near you
Authors: Byles Tim
Published: May 2014

We asked Tim Byles from Partnerships for Schools to update us on the progress of the Building Schools for the Future programme
Moving in the right direction
Authors: Barker Ray
Published: May 2014

In the next of his regular ICT advice columns, Ray Barker looks at research into resources and funding in English schools and what they need to think about for 2008
The power of music
Authors: Kaut Helen
Published: May 2014

Alan Simmons believes that music can be used to teach children a range of skills and subjects. Helen Kaut meets the maestro
Reach for the sky
Authors: Holley Graham
Published: May 2014

Graham Holley, chief executive of the Training and Development Agency for Schools, looks at linking extended schools and school improvement planning, and how his organisation can help
Under the spotlight
Authors: Dunn Carrie
Published: May 2014

Lesson observations are now a common part of a teacher's professional life. Carrie Dunn looks at handling what can be a stressful experience
Meet the mentors
Authors: Mercer Cath
Published: May 2014

They are supportive, responsible and trustworthy. Cath Mercer meets the peer mentors
The spirit of Wellington
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: May 2014

Karen Sullivan takes a look inside the country's most improved independent school, and talks to the inspirational headteacher who has transformed its academic fortunes
Enquiring minds
Authors: Moseley Steve
Published: May 2014

Steve Moseley's school is in an area where traditionally children leave at age 16 to work in the local economy. However, a new project has been engaging his students by giving them the freedom to lead their own learning
Making life easier
Authors: Murdock Michael
Published: May 2014

Teachers often feel overwhelmed by the volume of administrative tasks which confront them. Michael Murdock shows how managed learning environments can ease
A Moodle moment
Authors: Cooch Mary
Published: May 2014

Ofsted praised the virtual learning environment at Mary Cooch's school nine times in the space of 12 pages. Here she explains their secrets to success
When 2 become 1
Authors: Kaut Helen
Published: May 2014

Amalgamating two schools into one poses a challenge and is fraught with difficulties. However, when Sweyne School and Park School in Essex merged a few years ago, the new headteacher used the ethos of the Investors in People standard to help inspire staff
Get a piece of the action
Authors: Stockman Tina
Published: May 2014

Scottish Teachers for a New Era is an exciting venture involving classroom teachers in innovative educational research. Aberdeen teacher Tina Stockman explains
Talking the right talk
Authors: Hamode Emad
Published: May 2014

Positive use of language by both teachers and students can create an environment of success and encouragement in schools, argues Professor Emad Hamode
Closures: The legal view
Authors: Blois Mark
Published: May 2014

School reorganisations and closures can be a complex and painful process for all involved. Education law expert Mark Blois looks at the difficult choices facing local authorities and schools within the context of a changing legal landscape
Keep it in the family
Authors: Uttley Simon
Published: May 2014

The traditional parents' evenings are disappearing into the shadow of modern day education. The digital age has brought about the birth of e-style parental involvement. Headteacher Simon Uttley explains
A sporting chance
Authors: Andrews Crispin
Published: May 2014

Eleven years ago the very first sports colleges came into being. Crispin Andrews looks at the progress that these schools have made
Jed's successful ascent
Authors: Smurthwaite Nick
Published: May 2014

Having gone from RAF pilot to doctor, Jed Mercurio is now one of our nation's most successful writers. He talks to Nick Smurthwaite about his schooldays
Instrument of crime or educational tool?
Authors: Oikonomou Andreas
Published: May 2014

Dr Andreas Oikonomou and Ben Partridge examine the issues and impact of video gaming for young people
Are you pushing water uphill?
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

Are you trying to push water uphill? Margaret Adams discusses the challenges of leading change in your school
The law is on your side
Authors: Blois Mark
Published: May 2014

Mark Blois, an education law expert, looks at workplace harassment in schools, and considers the legal implications for heads and teachers
Working together
Authors: Tonge Ken
Published: May 2014

After two terms of working in a pathfinder Trust schools partnership, strategic head Ken Tonge reports on their progress
It's just not cricket
Authors: Andrews Crispin
Published: May 2014

The nation is recovering from Wimbledon pandemonium and the cricket season is upon us. Crispin Andrews takes a look at these two quintessential English sports and asks what is being done to inspire youngsters and develop the next generation of sporting st
Taking on extra responsibility
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

Margaret Adams looks at becoming a CPD co-ordinator and what this role can offer you as a teacher
A matter of life and death
Authors: Morris Laura
Published: May 2014

The death penalty is a controversial issue and a topical subject for Scottish classrooms right now after the case of Kenny Richey. Laura Morris explains
Confiscation and use of force
Authors: Durbridge Dai
Published: May 2014

One of the perennial challenges facing education professionals is maintaining discipline and good order in schools. Education and child protection lawyer Dai Durbridge looks at the powers available to teachers to do just that
Help is out there
Authors: Kaut Helen
Published: May 2014

Teaching is one of the most stressful professions, but there are things you can do to keep stress levels under control and seek help when stress takes over your life, as Helen Kaut found out
Rewarding excellence
Authors: Ainsworth Paul
Published: May 2014

Deputy headteacher Paul Ainsworth talks about the importance of rewarding your staff
Thinking outside the PE box
Authors: Beavan Peter
Published: May 2014

Students and staff at Norton Hill Secondary School has created and launched an innovative resource for secondary schools exploring how to improve physical activity. Peter Beavan explains
Are we sending out the right messages?
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

Margaret Adams offers her advice when it comes to keeping staff on message
Learning without frontiers
Authors: Harrison Bob
Published: May 2014

Teacher and ICT expert Bob Harrison reports from the recent Handheld Learning 2009 conference
The warning signs
Authors: Harvey Heather
Published: May 2014

Violence against women and girls is a very sensitive subject and tricky to broach in the classroom. Amnesty International's Heather Harvey argues that it is an essential issue to discuss and offers her advice
Bringing the world into Carlton Digby
Authors: Nicholson Audrey
Published: May 2014

Can children attending special schools get as much from international work as their mainstream peers? Audrey Nicholson says most definitely yes!
NQTs: Protecting your rights
Authors: Keates Chris
Published: May 2014

The NQT year is tough – no arguments there. However, it is absolutely essential that in your bid to impress and do the best you can, you remember your rights as an NQT. Chris Keates explains
The year ahead
Authors: Barker Ray
Published: May 2014

Ray Barker asks whether schools are set to become cautious spenders in 2009
Writing his own script
Authors: Smurthwaite Nick
Published: May 2014

Like many students, Derek Landy left school not knowing what to do with his life – that was until a witty, wise-cracking zombie detective popped into his head. He spoke to Nick Smurthwaite about his schooldays
The challenge ahead
Authors: Wright David
Published: May 2014

Professional teachers, trained to assess, must be at the heart of any new system to replace key stage 3 tests, says David Wright
The future of governors
Authors: Dunn Carrie
Published: May 2014

With the government's ‘root and branch’ review of school governance, Carrie Dunn looks at what the future holds
Where do you stand?
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

Where exactly are you in your career? Margaret Adams asks the question
Smoothing the way
Authors: Wright Dave
Published: May 2014

Moving up to ‘big school’ can be a daunting prospect for any child. Dave Wright explains why his school's transition programme has been attracting a lot of praise
Masters of retention
Authors: Fairhurst John
Published: May 2014

Head John Fairhurst argues that a school-wide, leadership-backed approach to Master's qualifications can help you to retain staff, improve results, and boost morale
Education for all
Authors: Dunn Carrie
Published: May 2014

After the celebrations earlier this year marking the 200th anniversary of Louis Braille's birthday, Carrie Dunn visits the Royal Blind School in Edinburgh to find out about the teaching of this crucial skill.
Words, words, words
Authors: Moriarty Hilary
Published: May 2014

Teach your students to talk says Hilary Moriarty. Really talk. Like Obama!
Doing the business
Authors: Mullaney Heather
Published: May 2014

Head Heather Mullaney and her school business manager Stephen Dewhurst explain how his role has made her headship more sustainable, while also improving teaching and learning.
Helping pupils with autism
Authors: Smith Jacqui Ashton
Published: May 2014

The National Autistic Society's Helen Allison School in Kent is celebrating a recent “outstanding” Ofsted judgement. We asked principal Dr Jacqui Ashton Smith to talk about best practice when it comes to educating autistic students in mainstream settings
Keeping the home fires burning
Authors: Davis Hazel
Published: May 2014

Hazel Davis reports on the launch of Becta's Home Access scheme in Oldham and Suffolk, which aims to ensure home computers and online connections are available to all state pupils
The ICT evolution
Authors: Gliniecka Alix
Published: May 2014

Alix Gliniecka from Weydon School discusses how ICT in secondary education is evolving, and why it is now vital to bring those in year 11 up-to-date with the technology that many year 7 students seem accustomed to
A new approach
Authors: Balukiewicz Richard
Published: May 2014

Headteacher Richard Balukiewicz talks about his school's approach to whole-school CPD and its involvement with the Teacher Learning Academy
Meet the scientists
Authors: Wardlaw Judith
Published: May 2014

Judith Wardlaw explains her school's work to engage pupils in science and engineering careers, and we also hear about a similar scheme run by the Institute of Physics
The SEAL of approval
Authors: Mills Emma
Published: May 2014

Schools have been working with the SEAL agenda for over a year now, and it is starting to take effect. But with a complex set of criteria to follow, how have schools managed to ensure it is a programme tailored to their specific needs? Emma Mills reports
Web of protection
Authors: Griffiths Sally-Ann
Published: May 2014

Sally-Ann Griffiths highlights the most common threats to children online and looks at what schools can do
Lessons that save lives
Authors: Rafferty Frances
Published: May 2014

Most school children would feel helpless if someone they knew was taken ill, but first aid training can make the difference. St John Ambulance hopes its first aid lessons and resources in schools will empower and develop young people. Emma Sheppard explai
Access all areas
Authors: Crowne Stephen
Published: May 2014

In the second of a series of five articles, Stephen Crowne discusses the vision behind Becta's Home Access pilot and updates us on its progress to date
Global success
Authors: Thomas Alison
Published: May 2014

Alison Thomas reports from Chafford Hundred Campus, which has truly embraced the concept of international linking.
Apprenticeship FAQs
Authors: Robinson Nic
Published: May 2014

One of the main vocational pathways available to young people is the Apprenticeship. With VQ Day approaching, Nic Robinson answers the common Apprenticeship FAQs
The global community
Authors: Thomas Alison
Published: May 2014

Rafi.ki is an online global learning community, facilitating school links and undertaking global projects involving school children from all corners of the planet. Alison Thomas looks at the organisation in action and we also focus on three case studies
In the eyes of the law
Authors: Blois Mark
Published: May 2014

Academies are an anomaly in the education sector – schools funded by the state yet operating outside local authority control. Legal expert Mark Blois takes us through how the law views academies
A fresh and sunny start
Authors: Barker Ray
Published: May 2014

Ray Barker looks at BESA's recent leadership forums and what they have revealed
Up to the challenge
Authors: Hanner Jude
Published: May 2014

Jude Hanner, principal at Sir Charles Lucas Arts College, which is currently on the government's controversial National Challenge programme, discusses some of the fantastic work taking place at the school, including the progress being achieved with the
All change for careers advice
Authors: Nicholls Anne
Published: May 2014

Schools are to take on responsibility for providing face-to-face careers guidance in England, but without any additional funding. Anne Nicholls looks at what is happening.
Involving the parents
Authors: Palfrey Martin
Published: May 2014

Learning platforms have helped to increase parental engagement but schools still need to focus on providing data-rich and contextualised information for parents. Martin Palfrey looks at how they have approached this at his school.
Attitudes and attendance
Authors: Williams Glen
Published: May 2014

Around 450,000 children are classed as persistent absentees. Dr Glen Williams looks at how attitudinal surveys can help pinpoint the reasons pupils become disengaged and help schools to turn things around.
Improving progress through AfL
Authors: Goodman Joanna
Published: May 2014

Dr Joanna Goodman reflects on the role and application of Assessment for Learning.
Budgets and BETT
Authors: Smith Josh
Published: May 2014

Josh Smith will be at BETT 2012 selling his wares alongside more than 650 other exhibitors. He considers the current education ICT market where schools are trying to do more with less.
Human rights: Campaigning for change
Authors: Woodhouse Alice
Published: May 2014

With more than 500 Amnesty Youth Groups now active in schools across the UK, Alice Woodhouse looks at why students are engaged by human rights campaigning.
Supporting BME students
Authors: Tanner Linda
Published: May 2014

Are schools doing enough to meet the needs of their increasingly diverse population? Linda Tanner reports on programmes that have been proven to make the difference for Black and minority ethnic children.
Five approaches that will make our schools world class
Authors: Henshaw Pete
Published: May 2014

The Whole Education Network champions and shares innovative practice in education. David Crossley considers five key approaches in areas including assessment, accountability and teacher creativity that will help our schools to become world class.
Innovative secondary language projects
Authors: Djouadj Imke
Published: May 2014

The European Language Label recognises innovation in the teaching of languages across the continent. This year, seven UK secondary projects were among the winners. Imke Djouadj and Eva Oliver take a look.
Developing successful music partnerships
Authors: Reading Michelle
Published: May 2014

Malcolm Arnold Academy makes effective use of external musical partnerships. Michelle Reading, head of music, explains how they have achieved success with their provision.
Helping gay students who come out at school
Authors: Aitchison Linda
Published: May 2014

School for students who are gay can be a difficult time – especially if they decide to come out. The right support can play a crucial role in helping teenagers through this difficult period. Linda Aitchison looks at best practice for teachers and schools.
Teaching students leadership skills
Authors: Brighouse Tim
Published: May 2014

The Learning to Lead project teaches students crucial leadership skills. After visiting two of the first schools to adopt the scheme, Professor Sir Tim Brighouse discusses the importance of student involvement in school life.