Interpreting National Reading and Numeracy test results – animated guide for parents/carers

We have produced a short animation to talk parents/carers through the National Reading and Numeracy Test reports. A link to the animation is included on the pupil results sheet, but you may wish to share the following link on your school’s website.  

National Reading and Numeracy Tests – Key dates for 2016

The 2016 test window has been extended for primary schools to take into account next May’s Assembly Elections, when some schools may be used as polling stations. Primary schools will now be able to start testing on 3 May up until 10 May. Please note that the test period for Secondary Schools remains 27 April up until 10 May 2016.

How is my child doing in the Foundation Phase and How was School today…Primary and Secondary? 

New guides for parents and carers are on their way!

Primary schools are due to receive delivery of all 3 guides for distribution early July.  How they’ll need to be distributed:

• Year 6 parents/carers will need to receive their copy of How was school today…? before the end of term.
• Each pupil entering key stage 2 will need to receive a copy of the How was school today? Primary Guide as they start in September. 
• Each pupil entering the Foundation Phase will need to receive a copy of the Foundation Phase Guide as they start in September.

How was School today…? 

If you would like the guide provided in a specific community language, please email dfesenquiries@wales.gsi.gov.uk by 8 July to request an order form.

Lead Creative Schools Scheme – Has your school applied?

The Arts Council of Wales is now receiving applications from schools to enter into the Lead Creative School Scheme.  You still have time to apply to enter the Scheme for the 2015/16 academic year if you haven’t already done so.  The closing date for applications is 17 July 2015.  More information and how to apply

Toolkit for Schools - Parental Engagement

Following the launch of the Family and Community Engagement (FaCE) toolkit we have produced an online “Education begins at Home” campaign information pack for schools to use in their communications with parents.  It includes downloadable PowerPoint presentations, logos, and templates for posters and a limited supply of resources can be ordered.  All schools will be receiving postcards in early July.

Video case study - effective collaboration

In this video practitioners from four primary schools in the Vale of Glamorgan share their experience of school to school working and discuss the impact that this has had on their professional learning. 

Application deadline – International Professional Learning Community – Hong Kong

Don’t miss out on a new opportunity to ‘work collaboratively’ by sharing experiences and expertise with practitioners across the globe through the International Professional Learning Community (IPLC) Programme.  Submit an application for an IPLC visit to Hong Kong during October half term by 10 July 2015.

New ‘Collaborative Working’ Topic – Professional Learning Pack

This week sees the launch of a new topic within the Professional Learning Pack, exemplifying a range of collaborative approaches to improve learner outcomes.

Professional Learning Resources – Hard copies available

Copies of both the Reflective Practice and Coaching and Mentoring Practice-based Information Booklets are now available.  Please contact PLM@wales.gsi.gov.uk with the number of copies you require and we will send them on to you.

School Sport Survey 2015

Schools have until the 20 July 2015 to take part and qualify for an individual Estyn-recognised report that can be used for self-evaluating attitudes towards physical activity and well-being.

School Term Dates for 2016-17

The 2016-17 school term dates for all maintained schools in Wales have been published.  Written Statement -  Huw Lewis, Minister for Education and Skills

Consultation - Draft revised guidance on disciplinary and dismissal procedures for school staff

This consultation seeks your views on amendments to the disciplinary and dismissal guidance for school staff.

Female genital mutilation (FGM)          

Schools need to be alert to the risks of FGM. Victims are often thought to be taken abroad at the start of the holidays for there to be sufficient time to recover before returning to school. Guidance on identifying potential victims and safeguarding girls from FGM is in Keeping learners safe (page 45).  

FORWARD launch “Needlecraft”

On 12 June London based African women’s charity FORWARD launched Needlecraft, the first animated short film of its kind addressing female genital mutilation (FGM) in the UK.  Needlecraft is the first of three animated films on FGM to be released by FORWARD 

Ministry of Defence Education Support Fund –  2016-2017 BIDDING ROUND NOW OPEN!

The fund is open to any maintained school which has service children whose parents are subject to frequent mobility or deployment.  To apply please find the application pack, in addition to advice and further information on the website.  If you would like to discuss any ideas for an application, please contact Deborah Campbell on 02920 825807 or deborah.campbell@wales.gsi.gov.uk.  Closing date for applications is 16:00 on 30th September 2016.

PLRS Cymru 2015/16

Premier League Reading Stars Cymru 2015/16 is now open, please click here to sign up. PLRS Cymru is a 10 week literacy intervention designed to stimulate reading and improve literacy skills for those children who are disengaged with learning but passionate about football. PLRS Cymru has been specially adapted for use within the Welsh educational setting with content in line with current curriculum development, football news and reading recommendations.

Band Ieuenctid Cymru 2016

A new competition for wind, brass and jazz bands for those aged 18 years and under on 31.08.2016.  The emphasis is on an entertaining and quality presentation in order to win the first prize of £1,000.  The competition is organised by Rondo and the final round will be broadcast on S4C.

Following a series of auditions across Wales, 4 bands will be invited to appear at Theatr y Parc a’r Dâr, Treorchy on 21.05.2016 call 029 2022 3456 or email bandcymru@rondomedia.co.uk