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Dear Colleagues
As we approach the October half term break, I am delighted to introduce the October edition of Education Matters. Whilst we have constant reminders that the COVID-19 pandemic is still present and that the winter will continue to provide a challenge to us all, I am acutely aware of the need to accelerate work on closing the attainment gap between pupils who are disadvantaged and those who are not. This month’s edition provides a further focus on tackling disadvantage which I hope you find helpful. We have also signposted information on the primary headteachers and deputy headteachers’ conference planned for 2022. Please use the link to book now and secure this in your diaries.
I hope that you all get a full break this next week over half term. Finally I would like to thank you all for the significant work undertaken to re-establish routines and an element of normality for all students at the start of this year.
Best Wishes
Paul Wagstaff
Director of Education & Skills
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Leadership 360
The School Effectiveness Team are delighted to be able to share with you Leadership 360: a monthly publication bringing you think pieces, commentary and research articles. This month's edition focuses on disadvantage.
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This month's Focus On article, written by Karen Furse, challenges schools to consider the ways in which they are turning the tide for their disadvantaged pupils.
The same article also includes a thought-provoking 'Start of Year Checklist' for both school leaders and governors.
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Happy and Health Holidays
The following article and short video celebrate the summer Holiday Activities and Food Programme.
For further information about the Holiday Activities and Food Programme, please see the relevant webpage.
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West Sussex 2022 Primary Leadership Conferences for Headteachers, Deputy Headteachers and Senior Leaders
Headteachers, deputy headteachers and senior leaders can now book their place at the West Sussex 2022 Primary Leadership Conferences!
Our theme for 2022 is Restoration, Relationships, Response and Reflection.
For booking links and further information, including the inspiring and much sought after keynote speakers, please see the following letter.
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Are your school emergency contact numbers up to date?
We would like to take this opportunity to remind schools to review their emergency contact information which is held on West Sussex Services for Schools (WSSfS). It is so important that our teams can reach the headteacher and/or key holders for the premises in case of an emergency or safeguarding incident.
We advise this information is reviewed termly or when changes occur that require the information held is updated.
When reviewing the existing list of contacts please consider the following: • Have there been any changes of post holder since the data was last reviewed? • Is your headteacher listed as an emergency contact? • Have your named contacts changed their home addresses, telephone numbers or mobile phone numbers?
For business managers needing to complete any updates to the contacts for the school, the user guide for making these changes or downloading the existing list of contacts can be found on WSSfS.
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Feedback
To provide feedback on the content of Education Matters or to find out more about any of the included topics, please email educationmatters@westsussex.gov.uk.
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