December 2015

The know zone

  • Preventative measures
    The new Counter Terrorism and Security Act 2015 places a significant responsibility on schools and colleges and leaders need to ensure they have plans in place to help carry out their duty, says Anna Cole. More
  • Outstanding performance
    Expecting parents to show up out of a sense of duty to your open event no longer cuts the mustard. Every classroom has to be an ‘experience’ and the head’s speech must be a show-stopper, says Carl Smith. More
  • Laws of attraction
    The government has pledged to train an extra 17,500 maths and physics teachers over the next five years. Here, ASCL members share their views on what would work best to make this happen. More
  • Leaders' surgery
    Hotline advice expressed here, and in calls to us, is made in good faith to our members. Schools and colleges should always take formal HR or legal advice from their indemnified provider before acting. More
  • Know your options
    Stephen Casey explains the new laws on freedom and choice in pensions and highlights what you can do to boost your pension at retirement. More
  • A common purpose
    Much of the philosophy of ASCL’s Blueprint applies to both independent and state schools so we should join forces to deliver it, says Barbara Stanley. More
  • Quick CPD wins
    Ten top tips to help you plan and refresh your continuing professional development (CPD) curriculum for staff. More
  • Providing direction for the next generation
    Careermap is a leading new website for 16–24 year-old’s looking for a pathway into apprenticeships and early careers. Since its launch earlier this year, the website is rapidly becoming the go-to place for young people seeking new opportunities in all career sectors. More
  • Professional Learning
    When describing your school’s professional learning, how many of these points can you say yes to? More
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When describing your school’s professional learning, how many of these points can you say yes to?

Professional Learning

  • It is based on detailed needs analysis from reliable data sources.
  • It is easy to manage and administer.
  • It is easy to analyse its impact.
  • It promotes a shared vision and responsibility for your school or trust priorities.
  • It identifies expertise so you can share best practice within school.
  • It supports collaboration across your staff and with other schools.
  • It has a clear and positive impact on teaching and learning.

How BlueSky can help

BlueSky supports the whole of your professional learning programme, from understanding colleagues’ development needs to promoting the training you offer to other schools. If you work across a partnership of schools, you can analyse needs and strengths across them.

Ensuring effective collaboration

BlueSky Projects connect colleagues, from one or more schools, so they can collaborate and work on professional development activities away from formal sessions. Once connected, they can share best practice, take part in action research and share resources all within BlueSky. Why not talk to BlueSky about how they can support your professional learning and collaboration on 01483 880004 and ascl@blueskyeducation.co.uk Visit www.blueskyeducation.co.uk for more information.

ASCL members receive a 10 per cent discount.

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