bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nurse practitioner or physician's assistant?
Authors: Sharkey Jane
Published: May 2014

Is the new role established by the nurse practitioner one which complements or competes with that of the doctor? Jane Sharkey examines the debate.
How do you measure performance?
Authors: Jones Robert Treharne
Published: May 2014

The proposals to introduce performance-related pay for practice nurses does more than simply regenerate the annual debate about increments and seniority. It once again focusses attention on the variability of the relationship between doctors and nurses within the practice team.
The write style
Authors: Luft Sarah
Published: May 2014

As more nurses undertake academic modules so the demands for an academic writing style have to be considered. Sarah Luft guides would-be writers.
Getting into print
Authors: Breed Simon
Published: May 2014

The nursing profession could benefit greatly if more practice nurses published their work. Simon Breed gives a fool-proof guide on how to write for publication.
Management of Fungating Wounds
Authors: Williams Clare
Published: May 2014

Fungating wounds are unpleasant, and dressing them can be a complex business.
Holding Chambers in Asthma
Authors: Booker Rachel
Published: May 2014

Holding chambers improve the efficiency of inhaled drugs. Rachel Booker reviews the evidence.
Suffering from Autumnal Allergies
Authors: Cormack John , Neill Sarah
Published: May 2014

As the days get shorter, the nights longer and the temperature cooler, people begin to spend more time inside. Central heating is turned on, windows are closed and the family pets are brought in. People who start to develop coughs and sneezes presume this is due to the common cold but this diagnosis should be made with caution as this could be an allergy. The summer is over and the hay fever sufferers rejoice, but lurking within the house are a multitude of autumnal allergens.
COPD: The Importance of Patient Review
Authors: Blatt Barry
Published: May 2014

COPD is one of the biggest killers in the UK, and unfortunately it is incurable and irreversible. But with proper treatment the quality of life of sufferers can be vastly improved. Barry Blatt reports.
Get Yourself Connected
Authors: Richards Sue
Published: May 2014

What will practice nurses get for Christmas? A chance at the top jobs? Only if we go and get them ourselves says Sue Richards.
Human Lice: Busting the Bugs
Authors: Ibarra Joanna
Published: May 2014

Lice are parasitic insects with an egg stage, from which the six-legged louse hatches, passing through three nymphal stages before becoming adult. The legs end in claws used to climb through the hair or clothing of the host. There are three human lice: the head louse, Pediculus capitis, which infests head hair; the body or clothing louse, Pediculus humanus, which lays its eggs on cloth fibres and visits the body to feed; and the crab louse, Pthirus pubis, which can infest any body hair, including arm hair, beards and eye lashes, and can also be found on the scalp hair, particularly around the edges. Pediculus humanus, now rare in the UK, is usually found in association with vagrancy. This article centres on the head and crab lice which the practice nurse is more likely to encounter as they affect all social classes. Pediculosis (infestation with lice) is commonly referred to as nits, which are strictly-speaking the eggshells, found firmly glued to the hair shaft or cloth fibre.
The patient's voice in primary care
Authors: Tennant Ruth
Published: May 2014

The NHS National Plan (Department of Health, 2000) envisages a major shift in the relationship between the patient and the health professional he or she consults. Many health professionals have been working hard to refocus service delivery on the needs of patients rather than the needs of service providers. Others have yet to be convinced that patients may have valuable insights and ideas to contribute, fearing that stronger patient involvement may lead to additional pressure on doctors (Camm, 2000).
The difference practice nurses can make
Authors: Fordy Carol
Published: May 2014

Colorectal cancer is a largely preventable disease but remains the second commonest cause of death from cancer in the UK. Carol Fordy argues that practice nurses can play an important role in raising public awareness of this costly form of cancer
Traveller's thrombosis: Myth or reality?
Authors: McIntosh Iain
Published: May 2014

Iain McIntosh assesses the evidence for travel-induced deep vein thrombosis and recommends advice that practice nurses can give to intending travellers to help prevent the condition, especially in high-risk groups
Women's Health
Authors: Bayliss Jane
Published: May 2014

Jane Bayliss addresses the medical and lifestyle issues that face a woman such as Marjorie as she approaches the menopause, and discusses the health advice that practice nurses can provide at that time
Japanese encephalitis
Authors: Howell Karen
Published: May 2014

The ‘plague of the Orient’, otherwise known as Japanese encephalitis (JE), is a mosquito-borne infection and the main cause of viral encephalitis (DoH, 1996). JE is caused by a flavivirus of the Flaviviridae family of arbo-viruses, recognized for their clinical affect on the central nervous system (Cook, 1996). JE appears in temperate and tropical regions. It is generally endemic in rural areas, especially on pig farms and in rice fields. Epidemics occur in both rural and urban areas (DoH, 1996).
The benefits of medicating less often
Authors: Sutcliffe Anne M
Published: May 2014

Osteoporotic fractures are occurring more frequently in the UK because of changing demographics and a marked increase in the elderly population (Royal College of Physicians, 1999). In 1997 the Government spent an estimated £940 million on treating fractures related to osteoporosis and providing social care for those disabled by the disease (Dolan et al, 1998). This expenditure is now estimated to have risen as high as £1.7 billion (Torgerson et al, 2001). Government is starting to recognize the importance of tackling the problem of osteoporosis and several national initiatives have recently been launched, including guidelines published by the Royal College of Physicians (RCP) and the Bone and Tooth Society. Patient-friendly, effective treatments are essential to the approach to osteoporosis recommended by both these bodies.
A guide to common thyroid problems
Authors: Tan Tricia , Hurel Steven
Published: May 2014

Thyroid disease is a common problem, especially in the elderly. Tricia Tan and Steven Hurel discuss the signs and symptoms of common thyroid problems and the variety of diagnostic tests.
BCG vaccination
Authors: Driver Carolyn
Published: May 2014

The prevention of tuberculosis (TB) requires a multidimensional approach. This is because the available vaccination is not universally protective and the treatment regimens for infected individuals are lengthy and may therefore create cost and compliance problems. This review of the preventive strategy adopted in the UK will focus on how to advise travellers about the risks of TB.
Irritable bowel syndrome as emotional expression
Authors: Read Nicholas W
Published: May 2014

Professor Nicholas Read argues for a psychosomatic approach to understanding irritable bowel syndrome
Food allergy:The nurse’s role in prevention
Authors: Peate Ian , Gault Christine
Published: May 2014

Ian Peate and Christine Gault look at how allergic reactions to food occur and suggest ways to help patients with severe food allergies avoid reactions
On the rewards of skill mix: Lynn Young
Authors: Young Lynn
Published: May 2014

Lynn Young has just been awarded a Fellowship of the Royal College of General Practitioners. She spoke to Lucy Jolin
Managing risk in atherothrombosis
Authors: Foxton Julie
Published: May 2014

Julie Foxton considers changing attitudes to atherothrombosis and the experience of Mr D, who was unaware of his risk of a stroke after having a bypass operation
Transferring patients to non-CFC inhalers
Authors: Scullion Jane
Published: May 2014

Some CFC-propelled Atrovent and Oxivent inhalers will be discontinued on 31 May. Jane Scullion argues that this provides an opportunity for a thorough review of those COPD patients who are using these inhalers.
Gatekeeping part 2: Data collection design
Authors: Cullen Julie
Published: May 2014

The aim of this study is to investigate the practice nurse’s role in triage, or gatekeeping patients’ access to same-day appointments. Its objective is to generate a theory that identifies the features necessary for effective gatekeeping, identifies any barriers that may prevent gatekeeping, and informs the commissioning of high-quality same-day health care. A qualitative approach was adopted, guided by the methodology of modified grounded theory. Data was collected and analysed concurrently from tape-recorded, semi-structured focus group interviews with practice nurses in Portsmouth.

The report of this study is presented in three parts to reveal the process of undertaking research in more detail. In Part 1 (Cullen, 2003) it was argued why this research is needed to gather more evidence to support the practice nurse’s gatekeeping role. In Part 2 the design of the data-collection process is explained. Part 3 will comprise a report of the results in relation to the published literature and multi-professional opinion, with a discussion of how they can be applied in practice.
Fitness for work 1: Advice and certification
Authors: Williams Nerys
Published: May 2014

Nerys Williams looks at the effects of worklessness on health and at ways to help people return to work after illness or disability
Delivering on promise
Authors: Martin Jeannett
Published: May 2014

The Workforce Development Confederation (2003) estimated that by 2007/8 10% of GPs' work could be transferred to nurses. The Working in Partnership Programme (WiPP) was established as part of the new GMS contract to develop systems to enable this to happen. Recognizing the importance of the general practice nursing team, the WiPP has made a significant investment in a project called ‘General practice nursing: Getting it right for patients and public health’.
How to find evidence to reliably inform practice
Authors: Carrier Judith , Brassey Jon
Published: May 2014

Judith Carrier and Jon Brassey reveal some useful ways to find evidence-based information quickly with the confidence that it will be reliable
Separating fact from fiction
Authors: Rowden Ray
Published: May 2014

People with bipolar disorder are often misdiagnosed and face stigma at work. Dr Ray Rowden reports
A bio-behavioural approach to obesity
Authors: Croghan Emma
Published: May 2014

Emma Croghan outlines a motivational approach for people who want to lose weight and recommends some useful resources for nurses
Revisiting hypoglycaemia
Authors: Phillips Anne
Published: May 2014

Glycaemic control is critical to effective management of diabetes, and hypoglycaemia can have serious physiological effects. Anne Phillips revisits how to teach patients to recognize and manage ‘hypos’
Effective management of venous leg ulceration
Authors: Vowden Peter
Published: May 2014

Peter Vowden outlines key recommendations for effective leg ulcer assessment and management with reference to recent international consensus statements and guidelines
Exeter practice nurses ask questions about commissioning
Authors: Greenfield Gillian
Published: May 2014

Much is printed about ‘GP’ commissioning and changes to the NHS in the mainstream media but what are the implications of the changes for nurses in general practice?
Influenza: epidemiology and prevention
Authors: Willcox Adrienne
Published: May 2014

Influenza is a viral infection with the potential to cause widespread morbidity and mortality. It has a substantial impact on the work of nurses in general practice. Adrienne Willcox investigates
The importance of assessing constipation
Authors: Kyle Gaye
Published: May 2014

Constipation is common and may have serious implications for a person’s quality of life. Gaye Kyle explains how to conduct a thorough assessment
Susan Kennedy: Learning on the job
Authors: Kennedy Susan
Published: May 2014

Susan Kennedy outlines the new education programme that is being launched for practice nurses in Scotland
Identifying neuropathic presentations of diabetes
Authors: Masson Ewan
Published: May 2014

Ewan Masson encourages practice nurses to inquire about neuropathic presentations during the assessment of people with diabetes and outlines how these complications are caused and how they present
HPV test of cure after treatment for CIN
Authors: Cadman Louise
Published: May 2014

Louise Cadman discusses the introduction of HPV as test of cure and the protocol for follow-up assessments
Applying HCA resources to general practice
Authors: Hand Tanis
Published: May 2014

Tanis Hand outlines two resources for health care assistants and discusses how they can benefit practice nurses through appropriate skill mix
Working in partnership to treat skin complications of diabetes
Authors: Phillips Anne
Published: May 2014

Anne Phillips outlines the main skin-related complications associated with diabetes, and how to recognize and treat them individually through partnership working with patients in general practice
Invasive pneumococcal disease and prevention
Authors: Beckett Gail
Published: May 2014

Gail Beckett reviews the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, Prevenar 13®, which is recommended in the child vaccination schedule to further reduce invasive pneumococcal disease
Generic prescribing for asthma: costs and benefits
Authors: Haines Erica
Published: May 2014

Generic prescribing offers the possibility of cost savings to the NHS, but may result in people with asthma receiving inappropriate medications. Erica Haines investigates
Sarah Stimpson: Not quite a doctor
Authors: Mary Williams Lynette
Published: May 2014

In a career that has taken many turns, Sarah Stimpson has found satisfaction combining practice nursing with academic study
Cost effective prescribing in cardiovascular disease
Authors: Bostock Beverley
Published: May 2014

As pressure to find efficiency savings rises in the NHS, Beverley Bostock argues that being able to prescribe from the full range of lipid lowering therapies should be every prescriber's right and responsibility, providing that decisions are based on good evidence
Shelly Ibbotson: A holistic approach
Authors: Ibbotson Shelly
Published: May 2014

Shelly Ibbotson commends the holistic approach of practice nursing which helps build trust and understanding with patients
The younger traveller: BGTHA conference report
Authors: Willcox Adrienne
Published: May 2014

The health of the younger traveller presents unique problems to practice nurses. Adrienne Willcox highlights the key findings from the 14th annual British Global and Travel Health Association (BGTHA) conference
Latest guidelines: Blood pressure management
Authors: Thomas Susan
Published: May 2014

The 2011 NICE guideline has changed the way health professionals diagnose and treat blood pressure. Susan Thomas discusses the key recommendations for the management of high blood pressure
Practice nurses enjoy update and debate on professional issues
Authors: Jeffrey Paul
Published: May 2014

From immunization to incontinence, over 100 practice nurses took the opportunity to learn and debate a wide range of topics at the third annual conference for practice nurses in Cornwall. Paul Jeffrey reports
The whooping cough epidemic: prevention and treatment
Authors: Oakley Simon , Kilcoyne Adrian
Published: May 2014

Large scale outbreaks of whooping cough are occurring in Australia, the US and the UK. Simon Oakley and Adrian Kilcoyne review changes in the incidence of pertussis and look at treatment and prevention
Lesser known symptoms of the menopause
Authors: Perry Margaret
Published: May 2014

Menopause is widely associated with hot flushes and poor sleep patterns, but there are other lesser known symptoms. Margaret Perry investigates some of these less well published symptoms which can be equally distressing
Atrial fibrillation 2: assessment and diagnosis
Authors: Cottrell Christine
Published: May 2014

Christine Cottrell details the epidemiology of atrial fibrillation and considers the associated causes and risk factors
Atrial fibrillation 3: management
Authors: Cottrell Christine
Published: May 2014

Christine Cottrell outlines two approaches that underpin the management of AF: assessment and management of stroke risk and the management of rate and/or rhythm
Avoiding vaccination errors: learning from reports of ‘misuse’
Authors: Smith Janette
Published: May 2014

Janette Smith reviews data on vaccination errors collected by Sanofi Pasteur MSD over a 1-year period and considers what can be learned about how to ensure patient safety during the complex process of vaccine administration
Using practice-level data to improve health
Authors: Battersby John
Published: May 2014

John Battersby identifies the importance of reviewing and comparing health information to improve the health of the population, and how the national general practice profiles can be used to achieve this
Angela McLernon: Team work gets results
Authors: McLernon Angela
Published: May 2014

The Acting Chief Nursing Officer for Northern Ireland believes team work is the key to a successful primary care practice
Understanding allergic disease and atopy
Authors: Bostock Beverley
Published: May 2014

Beverley Bostock identifies the causes of allergic disease, the importance of considering allergen avoidance, and the alternative treatment options available
Highlights from the SPNA 2012 annual conference
Authors: McGeoghegan Carolyn
Published: May 2014

The Scottish Practice Nurses Association annual conference, held in Glasgow, once again proved to be an informative event. Carolyn McGeoghegan reviews the packed programme
An improved experience for dementia patients
Authors: Elkins Zoë
Published: May 2014

Visiting a general practice may be a disorientating experience for someone with dementia. Zoë Elkins outlines the benefits of applying the SPECAL method when treating dementia patients
Angela Reed-Fox: Encouragement is vital
Authors: Reed-Fox Angela
Published: May 2014

Angela Reed-Fox, newly-appointed Queen’s Nurse, pinpoints encouragement and support as the fuel required to strive forward
Practice nurse elected to CCG role in New Devon
Authors: Champion Gillian
Published: May 2014

Gillian Champion has been elected as the co-chair and clinical lead for Exeter to represent her constituent practices on the Eastern Locality Board of the New Devon Clinical Commissioning Group
Pre-registration nurse placements in general practice: an evaluation
Authors: Sykes Christine , Urquhart Caragh
Published: May 2014

The Nursing and Midwifery Council’s pre-registration nursing curriculum reflects an increasing focus on primary care provision and the need to prepare nurses for working in primary care. However, nursing students have traditionally had limited access to practice placements outside acute trusts, which presents a barrier to recruitment of future practice nurses as the current workforce ages. Another barrier is a reluctance by practice managers and GPs to accommodate students because of the perceived cost. Aim: The aim of this project was to evaluate the existing use of general practice as a learning environment for pre-registration nursing students. Nine practice nurses who support pre-registration students in practice participated. Findings: Participants found placing students beneficial. While time was needed for teaching and assessing, this was offset by perceived benefits to students, mentors and patients. Conclusions: Despite the difficulties, there are clear benefits to placing nursing students in GP practices. Wherever possible, practices should provide a ‘hub’ placement, which allows more time to address assessment issues.
Julie Phipps:Believing in nursing
Authors: Phipps Julie
Published: May 2014

Julie Phipps, recently appointed Queen’s Nurse, continues to demonstrate the importance of patient-centred care
Understanding the effect of the menopause in diabetes
Authors: Prasad Pothina Narayana , Jennings Paul
Published: May 2014

The relationship between diabetes and the menopause is complex. Narayana Prasad Prothina and Paul Jennings outline special considerations that practitioners should be aware of when delivering diabetes care
Reducing the risk of antibiotic-related ADRs
Authors: Fleming Naomi
Published: May 2014

Naomi Fleming discusses the role of antimicrobial stewardship in reducing the high risk of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with antibiotics
Using the Romberg's test to evaluate dizziness
Authors: Thomas Susan
Published: May 2014

Romberg's test is an invaluable bedside test that can pinpoint a sensory deficit. Susan Thomas outlines the procedure of the test and the causes of a positive result
The link between diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Prasad Pothina Narayana , Jennings Paul , Phillips Anne
Published: May 2014

Approximately 27% of premenopausal women with type 2 diabetes have polycystic ovary syndrome. Narayana Prasad Pothina and Paul Jennings outline the various diabetes therapy options available for women
Supporting women with a negative body image
Authors: Veerman Esther
Published: May 2014

Esther Veerman discusses how practice nurses can provide support to women concerned by a negative body image or suffering from life-threatening clinical eating disorders
Oligomenorrhoea: looking at the treatment options
Authors: Perry Margaret
Published: May 2014

Margaret Perry gives an overview of oligomenorrhoea, a common menstrual irregularity that can be distressing. She looks at causes and treatment options to help practice nurses give women appropriate advice
Yellow fever vaccination during pregnancy or breastfeeding
Authors: Driver Carolyn
Published: May 2014

Assessing the risk of yellow fever for pregnant or breastfeeding women planning to travel abroad is complex. Carolyn Driver discusses considerations for yellow fever vaccination in these women, and considers four case studies
Diagnosing diabetes: getting it right from the start
Authors: Holmes Patrick , Phillips Anne
Published: May 2014

General practice is increasingly becoming the main provider of diabetes diagnosis and care. Patrick Holmes explains how it is imperative to be aware of different forms of diabetes if optimal care is to be maintained
Managing vaginal dryness in menopause
Authors: Abernethy Kathy
Published: May 2014

Kathy Abernethy gives an overview of the less frequently discussed symptoms associated with menopause
Child safety: the practice nurse's scope of care
Authors: Batley Katherine
Published: May 2014

Katherine Batley provides an overview of current guidelines for safeguarding and highlights the important role practice nurses play in protecting children from abuse and neglect
The importance of teamwork
Authors: Rodd Jillian
Published: May 2014

The importance of teamwork in the early years has been embodied in the creation of the Early Years Childcare and Development Partnership (EYDCP), the body through which early years services are funded and supported locally.
Learning through cooking
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

Before you do any cooking, check if any of the children have any food allergies – especially to nuts – and make sure that all the children remember to wash their hands. Talk in general about taking turns, being patient and listening carefully to instructions.
Printing and stencilling
Authors: Price Jean
Published: May 2014

Printing and making marks with paint is a very natural activity for young children. Printing is concerned with making multiple copies of the same image. Early printing is often a very tactile experience, with young children using their hands and fi ngers to make marks on a surface.
An ‘outstanding’ setting
Authors: Whiteford Rhona
Published: May 2014

Rhona Whiteford takes a look at the pre-schools that have been rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted in the North Western region of England, starting with Ramsden Infant School, Cumbria.
New year, new beginning…
Authors: Trundle Holly
Published: May 2014

The New Year is a time for new beginnings and building on past successes! It is an opportunity to help your child reach the next stage in his/her development and also, where necessary, turn over a new leaf and work on behaviour and skills that you wish to encourage, writes Holly Trundle.
Puppets and soft toys
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: May 2014

In the following article, Jenni Clarke explains two adult-led activities for young children aged three to five-years-old. Each activity focuses on developing personal and social skills, using puppets and soft toys.
Practical picture books, part 4
Authors: Davies Alison
Published: May 2014

This month, Karen Hart has selected picture books to enhance children's knowledge and understanding of the world around them.
Education Show 2011
Authors: Pal Anita
Published: May 2014

Education is on the brink of change. So how can practitioners keep abreast of the latest teaching methodology, policy initiatives and resources to meet the needs of the children in their care? The following article gives you a round-up of what is going on at this year's Education Show.
Hickory dickory dock
Authors: Trundle Holly
Published: May 2014

As the clocks spring forward, make time for maths through cross-curricular exploration around the nursery rhyme Hickory Dickory Dock, writes Holly Trundle.
Balancing bodies
Authors: Sutherland Sue , Maurer Olwyn
Published: May 2014

In the second of the series, Sue Sunderland and Olwyn Maurer explain how movement can help meet the requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage, this time focussing on knowledge and understanding of the world.
St David's Day
Authors: Hart Karen
Published: May 2014

St. David's Day falls on March 1, and is the day given to the celebration of Saint David, the patron Saint of Wales. Karen Hart guides you through some apt activities.
Positive relationships
Authors: Mort Linda
Published: May 2014

Positive relationships between children and children, and children and adults, are at the heart of helping children to develop empathy, writes Linda Mort.
The Easter story
Authors: Smith Sharon Paul
Published: May 2014

The Easter story can be difficult to relate to children of a pre-school age. In this article, Sharon Paul Smith sets out an accessible and fun-filled way to communicate to young children what the festival entails.
Step into spring!
Authors: Astill Mel
Published: May 2014

Spring – the season of growth and new life – is a fitting theme on which to base physical development activities, writes Mel Astill.
Come rain or come shine
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

Unfortunately, the unpredictable English weather is an all-too-familiar story. The good news is, it provides a varied range of subject matter for classroom creations, writes Hilary White.
Making sense of our senses: Taste
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

In the last article of the series on the senses, Viv Hampshire introduces some fun and flavourful activities to try with your children, so that they can fully explore what their taste buds can do!
Get creative with camouflage concepts
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Whether learning about the environment or building on social skills, there are many benefits of using camouflage in the classroom, writes Angela Youngman.
Literacy: The communication game
Authors: Whiteford Rhona
Published: May 2014

In the first of a new series, Rhona Whiteford discusses the different ways to approach the topic of literacy with children, in all its forms. This month, she focuses on communication.
The logic of learning through play
Authors: McAdam Colin
Published: May 2014

Dr Colin MacAdam, managing director at Playforce, the UK leader in curriculum-linked play environments, examines the educative benefits of allowing a child to get stuck into play.
The Early Intervention Grant: What it means for you
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

Purnima Tanuku OBE, chief executive of National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) shares an insight into the Early Intervention Grant (EIG) and highlights what you can do to influence its expenditure.
When right is wrong
Authors: Cracknell Kate
Published: May 2014

General tasks and activities can be a struggle for left-handed children, writes Kate Cracknell, and can affect their development and confidence. In the following article, she suggests how to overcome these hurdles.
Creative cooking: Colour
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

In the following article, shares activities to stimulate creative development in the kitchen, this month focusing on cooking and colour. Look out for next month’s article on the theme of cooking and texture.
My mini garden
Authors: Baker Charlotte
Published: May 2014

Enhance your children's knowledge and understanding of the world and take advantage of the beginning of spring with the following gardening activities, writes Charlotte Baker.
The tale of the little half-chick
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

In the following article Judith Harries tells the tale of the little half-chick from Spain, just in time for Easter, and suggests some related activities.
Incy wincy spider
Authors: Sharpe Deborah
Published: May 2014

The well-known nursery rhyme Incy Wincy Spider teaches children important lessons about the idea of perseverance, writes Deborah Sharpe.
What is Pervasive Developmental Delay?
Authors: Mounstephen Mary
Published: May 2014

Mary Mountstephen investigates Pervasive Developmental Delay and suggests how to support children with the disorder, should you recognise the signs.
The Legend of the Wooden Shoes
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2014

In the final article of the series exploring stories from around the world, Judith Harries takes The Legend of the Wooden Shoes from Holland as her inspiration.
Animals of Australia
Authors: Taylor Anna
Published: May 2014

In her fifth article focusing on animals from around the world, Anna Taylor discusses the animals of Australia and how you can use this topic to develop communication, language and literacy skills.
At the cafe
Authors: Trundle Holly
Published: May 2014

A cafe theme provides a great opportunity to feast on Problem Solving, Reasoning and Numeracy in its varied forms, writes Holly Trundle.
Getting to grips with gender identity
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Stephanie Thornton suggests that social construction plays a significant part in the development of children's gender identity.
The revised EYFS: What it means for practitioners
Authors: De Bruin Eleanor
Published: May 2014

In her second article of the series, Eleanor De Bruin considers the impact that the new Early Years Foundation Stage will have on the practitioners.
Minibeasts: Shape, pattern and symmetry
Authors: Moran Jane
Published: May 2014

Jane Moran gives you some practical advice on how to investigate shape, pattern and symmetry through the theme of minibeasts.
Exploring the roots of outdoor learning
Authors: Joyce Rosaleen
Published: May 2014

Have you ever wondered why there is so much interest in outdoor learning today? Where has this interest come from and why now? Rosaleen Joyce investigates.
Be busy in the garden
Authors: Trundle Holly
Published: May 2014

Holly Trundle shares her ideas for gardening-inspired fun. Read on for tips on making your own digging pit, and even partaking in a garden Grand Prix!
Celebrating sounds
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

Learning to link letters with the sounds they make is an important step on the road to reading, writes Viv Hampshire.
Beside the seaside
Authors: Stroud Anna
Published: May 2014

In her new series, Anna Stroud uses children's real-life experiences outside the setting as a theme for practical activities linked to problem-solving. This month, you are invited to the seaside!
The element of water
Authors: Astill Mel
Published: May 2014

In her new series on the natural elements, Mel Astill suggests how to combine your physical development lesson planing with teaching children about the wonders of water.
Minibeasts: Nice or nasty?
Authors: Moran Jane
Published: May 2014

In the following article, Jane Moran shares ideas on using a variety of baking activities to explore why we find some minibeasts more attractive than others.
Give the Bookstart in life
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

As Bookstart celebrates its twentieth birthday, Viv Hampshire looks back at the history of the programme and asks: what can we do to inspire a new generation of readers?
Festivals and folklore
Authors: Davies Alison
Published: May 2014

Alison Davies draws on the lesser known festivals from around the world, this time identifying those which have a link to construction, on which you can base practical activities and develop discussion.
Shopping for shoes
Authors: Stroud Anna
Published: May 2014

This month Anna Stroud encourages you to get thinking about how you can bring children's life experiences into the home corner of your setting.
Alpha from Malawi
Authors: Kniveton Mark
Published: May 2014

In his new series, Mark Kniveton ventures ‘around the world’, outlining a day in the life of a child from a different country each month. This time, we meet Alpha from Malawi.
Keeping our little ones safe and sound
Authors: Hook Elaine
Published: May 2014

In the first of a new series on safeguarding in an early years setting, Elaine Hook provides an overview of policies, procedures and laws in relation to childcare.
Classic picture books
Authors: Harries Jude
Published: May 2014

This is the first in a pair of articles focusing on ‘Room on the Broom’ by Julia Donaldson. Jude Harries provides some related activities focusing on the prime areas of learning and development.
Sunita from Nepal
Authors: Kniveton Mark
Published: May 2014

In the following article Mark Kniveton offers some ideas for teaching children about Nepal, by discussing the country through the eyes of a child.
Wintery days…
Authors: Croft Sue
Published: May 2014

Here are some shivery, wintery rhymes to enjoy with your children. The rhymes will help you to add several aspects of literacy to your seasonal planning.
Keeping fundraising fun!
Authors: Wilson Laura
Published: May 2014

With Red Nose Day just around the corner, Comic Relief's Laura Wilson explains how early years groups can organise events that are both fun and fuss-free.
Learning the moves: Early physical development
Authors: Griffin Sue
Published: May 2014

In the first of a short series about supporting the development of babies, Sue Griffin focuses on physical development, looking at gross and fine motor skills, self-care and the role of the practitioner.
Basic ball games
Authors: Hodgman Liz
Published: May 2014

Liz Hodgman suggests some fun activities for enhancing hand-eye coordination, while keeping the spirit of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games alive in your setting.
The two-year-old offer
Authors: Tanuku Purnima
Published: May 2014

Purnima Tanuku outlines the rationale behind the new two-year-old offer and discusses what she thinks needs to happen to make it work for disadvantaged children and the nursery sector.
Planned group times
Authors: Lindon Jennie
Published: May 2014

Jennie Lindon reflects on group sessions she has observed that have worked particularly well. She looks at what makes them a positive experience for children and provides pointers for practitioners to consider.
Picture this: A learning journey with a difference
Authors: McCusker Sean , Cottiss Kerry
Published: May 2014

Dr Sean McCusker discusses one teacher's approach to recording children's progress in the areas of learning identified in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).
A little cluck and courage
Authors: Peach Claire
Published: May 2014

Bringing chickens into the playground is a good way of connecting children to the natural world while teaching them confidence and a sense of responsibility. Claire Peach sets out the options.
An oriental adventure
Authors: Joyce Rosaleen
Published: May 2014

Have you ever considered how children are educated in different cultures? Rosaleen Joyce reports on how the Japanese have adapted a Swedish outdoor teaching programme.
Depression affects all ages
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: May 2014

Symptoms of depression can be evident in the youngest children and babies. Stephanie Thornton looks at the extent of the problem, explains how to spot the warning signs and how practitioners can help.
Helping the highly able
Authors: Hook Elaine
Published: May 2014

Gifted and talented young children need thoughtful care to support their talents and understand their needs and behaviour. Elaine Hook explains how, and gives advice to avoid labelling and misdiagnosing.
Princess and the pea
Authors: Davies Alison
Published: May 2014

Alison Davies continues her series reminding us that fairly tales are not only enjoyable stories but can be made relevant for today’s children with imaginative activities that develop communication skills.
Feet, fingers and paws!
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

Making and examining the marks made by hands, feet and paws can be great fun and will help children to explore the finger and footprints that help to make each of us unique. Viv Hampshire has some activities.
A route map for changes
Authors: Sharpe Deborah
Published: May 2014

Pre-schoolers may go through many transitions before they have much life experience or the language to express feelings. Deborah Sharpe suggests ways you can help children face the new with positivity.
A mystery at midnight
Authors: Davies Alison
Published: May 2014

Alison Davies continues her series reminding us that fairly tales are still fun for today's children with elf-related activities that really help develop vocabulary and the communication skills for organising thoughts and ideas.
Ensuring ‘good’ practice
Authors: Barber Jenny
Published: May 2014

Will the Ofsted proposals affect your setting's next inspection? Jenny Barber discusses the impact on the process and shares tips from recent inspections to help you confidently present quality and excellence.
Painting to the beat
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: May 2014

Music and sound are great for encouraging children's creative expression. Jenni Clarke offers some imaginative activities, with follow-up ideas for child-initiated play and ways to show their art is valued.
Give me five minutes
Authors: Harries Jude
Published: May 2014

Jude Harries delves into this much-loved tale to find lots of early reading and writing inspiration, plus activities to get children to think about what families do for each other and what it means to relax.
All about the give and take
Authors: Griffin Sue
Published: May 2014

Sue Griffin's series on teamwork turns to how to support and give feedback – both positive and negative – to colleagues and be open to accepting it yourself, as well as dealing with conflict and disagreements.
Toughest Tom in town
Authors: Hodgman Liz
Published: May 2014

Liz Hodgman takes inspiration from a doggy tale with activities to help children's listening for rhythm and rhyme, recalling and retelling its very scary end and thinking about how we communicate without words.
Out of this world maths
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: May 2014

As the nights draw in, children will see more of the moon. Use its changing appearance as a springboard for activities looking at relative shapes and sizes, positions and how we measure periods of time and distance.
Moulding more from dough
Authors: Pandit Kalpana
Published: May 2014

Kalpana Pandit explores how the sensory properties, texture and reworkability of play dough make it a powerful tool for developing children's speaking skills, vocabulary, letter formation and confidence.
Spotlight on Scottish policy
Authors: OBE Purnima Tanuku
Published: May 2014

The white paper for an independent Scotland made headlines with its proposals to put childcare at the heart of social policy. This importance is welcome but a review of funding will be needed, says NDNA's Purnima Tanuku.
Splash, spray, splodge
Authors: White Hilary
Published: May 2014

Focusing on the pictures in favourite books, Hilary White finds inspiration for textured art that children can really get stuck into and compare the results with those by the real artists. Take a closer look at Eric Carle and others.
Independent learners
Authors: Durrant Sue
Published: May 2014

In this extract, Sue Durrant shares some ideas that show how outdoor play, with its opportunities for space, fresh air and freedom, is essential for children's development and emotional, social and personal well-being.
Sound out the options
Authors: Hoad Elizabeth
Published: May 2014

Elizabeth Hoad explains how speech and language therapy works in schools, looking at the practicalities of identifying children who need help and ways to deliver it to them.
Chocolate-coated lessons
Authors: Youngman Angela
Published: May 2014

Reversible changes, climates, historical settlements and societies, acting as responsible citizens – there is a lot to learn from many children's favourite treat!
Cutting out the jargon
Authors: Smith Josephine
Published: May 2014

The new performance management regulations came into effect this term. Are you up to speed? Or do you feel a little lost and anxious about what it all means? Teacher Josephine Smith explains the basic facts
Charting history
Authors: Whitehead Emma
Published: May 2014

Taking the recent US elections as an example, Emma Whitehead explains how following history in the making can fuel your students’ interest and engagement in politics
Lessons of the past
Authors: Archbold Chris
Published: May 2014

Chris Archbold explains how teachers can approach sensitive subjects such as genocide and hate crime in the lead up to Holocaust Memorial Day in January
Learning in focus
Authors: Dunn Carrie
Published: May 2014

Carrie Dunn looks at the challenges for schools when it comes to visually impaired children, and the work of the Actionnaires clubs, which support these students when it comes to PE
Planning for MLEs
Authors: Murdock Michael
Published: May 2014

The government has set a target for all schools to introduce an integrated learning and management system by 2010. So what should senior management teams be thinking about as they plan for the next generation of education? Michael Murdock offers his view
A balancing act
Authors: Struthers Dot
Published: May 2014

Dot Struthers offers more quick and easy CPD tips
Recognising your talents
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

During your NQT year, your priority is usually basic survival. But it is vital that you find time to think about your future and identify what you are good at. Margaret Adams offers some advice
You can't afford not to
Authors: Naisbitt Michael
Published: May 2014

According to Michael Naisbitt, the writing is on the wall – higher education partnerships are becoming increasingly vital for all schools
Consumer confidence
Authors: Barker Ray
Published: May 2014

The British Educational Suppliers’ Association (BESA) demands that all its members adhere to a stringent code of practice. This offers schools certain guarantees when shopping in the education market. Director Ray Barker explains
Platform or Gateway?
Authors: Jones Mike
Published: May 2014

Mike Jones discusses the differences between learning platforms and learning gateways, and offers advice to schools looking to implement one
A smooth transition
Authors: Cosh Jackie
Published: May 2014

Jackie Cosh reports on an innovative transition project achieving success in Buckinghamshire
What a performance
Authors: Dunn Carrie
Published: May 2014

The Society of London Theatre will once again run its Kids Week this August. Carrie Dunn finds out what it is all about
Bringing careers alive
Authors: Kuveljic Tanja
Published: May 2014

Tanja Kuveljic explains how an increasingly popular free website is helping schools keep up-to-date when it comes to careers guidance
Personalising the pastoral system
Authors: Smith Carl
Published: May 2014

Having been inspired by a previous article on pastoral leadership, vice principal Carl Smith offers his views
Where are the next generation of scientists?
Authors: West Edmund
Published: May 2014

With growing fears about fewer students choosing science, Edmund West looks at the state of the nation and discusses how we can engage the next generation
Uneven money
Authors: Read Paula
Published: May 2014

Supply teachers and pension entitlements – an uneven playing field? Paula Read asks the question
Books, books and more books
Authors: Elkin Susan
Published: May 2014

Being a former English teacher, we asked SecEd columnist Susan Elkin to give her opinion on the ending of SATs for our Filling the Void series
Brain training
Authors: Rubery Peter
Published: May 2014

Do you know how the brain learns? Peter Rubery explains why you should
The exclusion debate
Authors: Phipps Sam
Published: May 2014

The recent exclusion figures for Scottish schools showed promising progress. However, many educationalists are still concerned about the problems that teachers are facing. Sam Phipps analyses the figures
Did the earth move?
Authors: Nicholson Jim
Published: May 2014

The Thomas Hardye School seismometer has proved an invaluable tool in the classroom. Jim Nicholson and Judith Wardlaw explain
Overcoming prejudices
Authors: Davis Hazel
Published: May 2014

Hazel Davis asks whether initiatives to get more Black and minority ethnic teachers into leadership roles are working and speaks to two teachers who have made the climb
Are you experienced?
Authors: Ainsworth Paul
Published: May 2014

Are you going for your first middle leadership post? Worried that you lack experience? Deputy head Paul Ainsworth offers his advice
Holiday? What holiday?
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

With the holidays approaching, you may well be troubled by all that you have not managed to do this year. If so, heed Margaret Adams’ words of advice
A military ethos
Authors: Mackintosh Neil
Published: May 2014

Former solider Neil Mackintosh is now a geography teacher whose school has operated a Combined Cadet Force for several years. He discusses a Fellowship he has won to research the impact such initiatives can have.
First year of teacher — First-term triumph
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

As December approaches, you will be thinking about how you have done in your first term at the chalkface SecEd's resident CPD expert Margaret Adams offers her advice
BETT 2012: A round-up
Authors: White Daniel
Published: May 2014

After 20 months in post, Michael Gove has finally delivered a speech in which he espoused the importance of ICT in education. Daniel White reports on this and his other highlights from BETT 2012.
The power of burns
Authors: Phipps Sam
Published: May 2014

Burns Night is next Wednesday (January 25), but the revamped Ayrshire museum that is devoted to the Bard's memory has plenty to offer pupils and teachers all year round. Sam Phipps paid a visit.
Supporting bereaved students
Authors: Aitchison Linda
Published: May 2014

It thought that 22,000 children suffer the loss of a parent every year in the UK – one every 22 minutes. Mother-of-two Linda Aitchison, whose husband died in May, reports on how secondary schools can best meet the needs of these pupils and families.
After term one, are you an A* NQT?
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

SecEd CPD expert Margaret Adams helps new teachers to reflect on their first term at the chalkface.
The seven levels of NQT success
Authors: Adams Margaret
Published: May 2014

As this year's NQTs embrace the arrival of the summer, SecEd's CPD expert Margaret Adams offers her advice on reflecting on your first year at the chalkface.
Creative thinking
Authors: Mills Gareth
Published: May 2014

Engaging teachers in research to inform best practice can unleash untapped creativity and sustainable improvement, says Gareth Mills.
Homework: To set, or not to set…
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: May 2014

The pros and cons of homework have long been argued in the staffroom. Now that the government has scrapped the official homework guidelines, Dorothy Lepkowska considers both sides of the homework debate.
Effective teacher mentoring
Authors: Coskeran Sarah
Published: May 2014

Teacher mentoring can be a powerful tool for CPD and school improvement – if it is done properly. Sarah Coskeran offers guidance for schools.