CONNECTING TEACHERS, STIMULATING DEBATE | MAY 2010 | ISSUE 35 THE GENERAL TEACHING COUNCIL FOR SCOTLAND
Protection of vulnerable groups How it affects your registration Scottish Learning Festival Latest news on 2010 event
Radical transformation or natural evolution? Looking at CfE from different perspectives
Also inside:Professional Recognition,Coaching tips,CPD opportunities WWW.GTCS.ORG.UK Updating your details is child’s play
Moving house? Please don’t forget to tell us! We’ve worked hard to make it as easy as possible for you to update your details. You can: • email [email protected] •write to GTCS, Clerwood House, 96 Clermiston Road, Edinburgh EH12 6UT •register on My GTCS via www.gtcs.org.uk So, go on – we realise moving house is a busy time – but telling us about it isn’t difficult, is it? If you are no longer a registered Tell us what you think.Please email:[email protected] teacher and do not wish to receive this magazine, please email [email protected] Hello is the magazine of the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTC Scotland). GTC Scotland is the The work of the pupils from Coatbridge at the new curriculum from a variety of sources. independent professional body which High School on their magazine, Rare Beast, led Additionally, we have the usual mix of stories maintains and enhances teaching to a worthy prize at the 2009 School Magazine and features tackling the key issues affecting standards and promotes and regulates the teaching profession in Scotland. Awards. Part of their reward was to write a the profession just now. We strive to be a world leader in feature for this issue of Teaching Scotland. Following your feedback, we will be refreshing professional education issues. GTC Not frightened of a challenge, they interviewed Teaching Scotland in the new academic year. Scotland aims to promote equality MSP Mike Russell and LTS, as well as carrying There will be more views and opinions from and diversity in all its activities. out their own research, to provide a unique stakeholders, as well as more practical solutions MAIN OFFICE and fascinating perspective on Curriculum to help your practice, whatever stage of your GTC Scotland, Clerwood House, 96 for Excellence. career you are at. Clermiston Road, Edinburgh EH12 6UT T: 0131 314 6000 Their feature forms part of an extensive look In the meantime, enjoy the summer!
Teaching Scotland is written, designed and published by Connect Communications (Scotland) Ltd on behalf of GTC Scotland. Inside W: www.connectcommunications.co.uk
EDITORIAL OFFICE 04 :Dispatches 28 :CPD Connect Communications, Headline news from Your thoughts on CPD provision, Studio 2001, Mile End, GTC Scotland and the wider plus a host of current Paisley PA1 1JS E: [email protected] education community opportunities available Editor-in-Chief: Glenise Borthwick Editor: Daniel Lambie 10 :Development 28 :Your perspective E: [email protected] Using Professional Recognition to Constant improvement is a Design and production: Page 6 Mark Davies, Paul McGinnity. keep your CPD going at the hallmark of excellence Advertising sales: Clare Stebbing beginning of your career T: 0131 561 0024, F: 0131 553 1198, E: [email protected] 12 :Your registration
The views expressed in Teaching Scotland How the Protection of Vulnerable On the cover… are those of invited contributors and not Groups scheme will affect your necessarily those of GTC Scotland. The teaching registration CfE,its opportunities information contained in Teaching Scotland is of a general nature and is not to be taken and challenges as advice on any individual situation. GTC Page 10 24 :Events Turn to page 14 for more Scotland does not endorse any goods or Details of the UK’s largest services advertised, nor any claims or representations made in any advertisement education event, the Scottish in Teaching Scotlandand accepts no liability Learning Festival 2010 to any person for loss or damage suffered as a consequence of their responding to, or placing reliance upon, any claim or 26 :Research representation made in any advertisement Using the great outdoors is a appearing in Teaching Scotland. Readers should make appropriate enquiries and natural way to teach children a satisfy themselves before responding to any Page 26 variety of skills such advertisement, or placing reliance upon any such claim or representation. By so responding, or placing reliance, readers accept that they do so at their own risk. © GTC Scotland, 2010. ISSN: 1469-3054. Teaching Scotland is printed on 100% Elsewhere recovered paper with FSC accreditation.
THE GENERAL WWW.GTCS.ORG.UK TEACHING COUNCIL Keep an eye on our FOR SCOTLAND E-NEWSLETTER website for the latest news from GTC Scotland. Join more than 5,000 There are also subscribers to our EVENTS information sections e-newsletter. Go to: For information on upcoming to help you at every www.teachingscotland events, including details of Annual stage of your career. .org.uk/subscribe Lecture: www.gtcs.org.uk/events
Thanks www.teachingscotland.org.uk 3 Heads upDispatches If you have news to report,please email:[email protected]
Healthy eating An inclusive approach Denny school kids support he A recent publishing project, supported by publisher Franklin Pupils at a Denny primary Watts, is hoping to help inclusivity in school have signalled their support to the schools by including more images health benefits of eating seafood by of disabled children in educational taking part in a successful trial where reading books. Scottish mussels took a starring role on the The publishers said: “The plan is lunch menu. not that disabled children should Children at Head of Muir Primary School be the focus of the books. The idea participated in the trial as part of the is that they should simply be there, Scottish Government’s healthy eating often in one scene, as a natural part campaign, and according to head teacher of the landscape. Otherwise Daniel Barrie, the mussels went down children as young as three can form a treat. prejudices against someone who is He said: “The response from the different. They are more likely to children was excellent. feel comfortable around disability if “They loved the taste of the mussels they see images of disabled and enjoyed the whole process of pulling children from an early age. them out from their shells. “The inclusion of images of “We decided to feature the mussels on them should also help the the school lunch menu as part confidence of disabled children of the major drive throughout Scottish themselves. One young disabled schools to provide healthier choices and girl said it helped her self-esteem promote the benefits of eating certain and gave her the feeling she was no types of foods.” longer alone. In the same way as The mussels, which were supplied by pictures of different ethnicities the Scottish Shellfish Marketing Group, have become the norm in were sourced from farms on the west educational children’s books, so it is coast of Scotland and Shetland. Healthy eating this is why children adore them so much.” hoped will images of disabled Stephen Cameron, managing director helps Denny Over a four-week period the mussels children.” of SSMG, said: “Mussels are packed full pupils come out were cooked in a variety of different ways, of protein and essential minerals and of their shells! including in a sweet and sour sauce, For more: www.franklinwatts.co.uk vitamins, yet are very low in fat. which won particular praise from the “They also have a lovely sweet taste and schoolchildren.
Professional Recognition Enterprising educators recog
Teachers who have used their skills Scottish Youth Business Trust, authors and dance companies to and knowledge and apply them in to promote Enterprise in Education Firstport, Scottish Institute of hold events in schools, charity days school, while showing a clear were recognised by GTC Scotland Enterprise, a number of MSPs and to support awareness and impact on the learning of their and Determined to Succeed at an schools from across Edinburgh. encouraging global learning. pupils as a result. event in Holyrood in May. The awards were given for Our CEO, Anthony Finn, said: “Encouraging enterprise in Around 25 teachers were enterprising projects including “Professional Recognition allows education is clearly crucial to the awarded Professional Recognition in establishing young enterprise teachers to focus their CPD in future development of the Scottish Enterprise Education. They were companies in schools, liaising with a particular areas of interest and gain Economy, it can help develop the joined at the event by Scottish wide range of local and national recognition for enhancing and business talent of tomorrow. Business in the Community, The employers to promote the four sharing knowledge and experience. “This brings the total number of Royal Observatory, The Scottish capacities of Curriculum for To gain Professional Recognition, teachers in Scotland with Social Enterprise Academy, Princes Excellence, working with local teachers need to develop their skills Professional Recognition to more
4 The General Teaching Council for Scotland HeadsDispatches up althy eating Keynote
Anthony Finn CEO GTC Reflecting on Scotland major changes for the profession
Some very important issues abound in the Of course, it is hoped that this anxiety may be education world that give us cause for careful relieved by the forthcoming availability of new thought at present. information and resources, including a National Teachers will be aware that the former Senior Assessment Resource offering exemplification Chief Inspector of Education, Graham of assessment standards. GTC Scotland can use Donaldson, has been asked by Government to Teaching Scotland to offer support to teachers undertake a wide-ranging review of Teacher on the development of CfE, including discussion Education in Scotland. He will look at all aspects of professional issues and the highlighting of of teacher education from qualification to examples of good practice. Schools or retirement and his findings, which he will present authorities which are happy to share information to the Cabinet Secretary by the end of the year, about their work on CfE are therefore could be very significant for the profession. encouraged to contact our Editor. We have also GTC Scotland will, of course, engage with the been asked by teachers for guidance on the Review Group but it would be helpful if teachers implications of CfE for subject teaching and we The Foods Standards Agency also took time to contribute their ideas. Graham have recently posted some preliminary advice recommends that people should eat Donaldson has called for evidence by 31 May about this on our website. at least two portions of seafood a week. and you can find out more on page 8. Last but not least, there are big challenges ahead for GTC Scotland and we have been More information on mussels at: Our commitment is to looking carefully at the tasks which we need to www.scottishshellfish.co.uk speak up for teaching, complete before new powers are granted to us recognise the quality of by Government. This is part of the process of working towards a fully independent GTC teachers, promote Scotland which we expect to complete towards professionalism and the end of the year. maintain and improve Our commitment is to ensure that we deliver standards a new Council which speaks up for teaching, recognises the quality of our teachers, promotes nised It is appropriate that the main focus of this their professionalism and seeks to improve the edition of Teaching Scotland should be on opportunities they have to maintain and improve than 500, covering areas as diverse as preparation for Curriculum for Excellence (CfE), standards. In these difficult financial times, we literacy, sustainable development, the most significant curriculum change in must also be careful to keep costs under control global education and health decades. As we know, the Cabinet Secretary and, above all, to remain in touch with the promotion.” recently accepted the advice of the CfE thinking of the profession. Consequently, we aim Determined to Succeed is at the Management Board that the implementation of to take account of your views as we move forefront of a long-term drive to build the programme should proceed next year. forward; and we will be taking every opportunity an enterprise culture in Scotland. It aims Although many schools have made excellent to listen to teachers, trade unions, educational to give young people a better chance of progress in developing plans which build on stakeholders and other partners before we make realising their full potential and, in turn, current good practice while taking account of any significant changes to current practice. provide the Scottish economy with the the key principles of CfE, it is clear that some In short, our Council members will continue to skills, new ventures and entrepreneurs anxiety remains about elements of the work in consensus with those who make up the needed for growth. programme. teaching profession in Scotland.
www.teachingscotland.org.uk 5 Dispatches If you have news to report,please email:[email protected]
GTC Scotland National Lecture
Annie Lennox to raise MORE ONLINE For more on SING,go to awareness of HIV/AIDS www.annielennoxsing.com Annie Lennox is delivering the GTC to promote this incredibly She will hear the extent of the Scotland National Lecture on August worthwhile cause. international work teachers and 19 at the Scottish Parliament. “Working in partnership with the pupils across the schools in the For the first time, the lecture will Festival of Politics, we are helping to city complete through their be held as part of the Festival of encourage teachers and their pupils global citizenship activities. Politics. to consider their role as global Showcasing their work to Annie will cover issues relating to citizens.” Annie, teachers will share with her her work raising awareness of HIV Presiding Officer of the Scottish their passion to make a and AIDS in Africa. Parliament, Alex Fergusson MSP, difference through their Annie started the SING campaign said: “We are delighted to welcome international educational values after witnessing Nelson Mandela back Annie to the Scottish and commitment to describe the African HIV pandemic Parliament's Festival of Politics again helping others across the as a genocide, with women and this year as she discusses the SING world, bringing about children becoming the frontline Campaign - one year on. We look support and change. victims. forward to an update from Annie on The money raised by SING helps the positive developments SING prevent the spread of HIV in South and the Treatment Action Africa, and also supports those Campaign (TAC) continue to have currently living with HIV. on people living with HIV.” Head of Communications at GTC Annie will also meet with For more details on how to book tickets Scotland, Glenise Borthwick, said: teachers from across every for the lecture, see our “We’re delighted to be able to use secondary school in Edinburgh advert on the back page or go to www.gtcs.org.uk/events our lecture to give Annie a platform on August 20.
News in brief Teacher glows through cloud Step Ahead Step Ahead Tutoring and Many schools were hit with staff Spelling of the Educational Services has launched absences due to the recent flight Icelandic volcano is a franchise scheme, with the aim restrictions. However, not to be unlikely to be part of of reproducing their standards in deterred, one innovative Stirling future assessments one-to-one tuition services teacher found that she could still nationwide. provide learning activities for her class through Glow, despite being For further information visit stranded in Portugal. www.stepaheadtuition.com Bernadette Cassidy, of St Mary’s Primary school in Bannockburn, Numbers drop Stirling, realised that she could still The annual census of independent provide support for her class and schools has revealed a fall of 218 in let them know which activities pupil numbers since 2008. There they should be doing, by using the would do if they were stranded in Andrew Brown, Head of Glow were 30,507 pupils in independent class Glow Group. a foreign country and write a list of at LTS, said: “It’s fantastic to see schools in Scotland in 2009. Bernadette accessed the Glow advice to be uploaded onto Glow. teachers like Bernadette utilising There were a total of 3,418 Group from Portugal to update They were also tasked with Glow and showing the benefits it teachers working in independent the pupils on her situation and set writing to the airline and creating can have. This proves what a schools, with about 85 per cent of them tasks for the week ahead. a Powerpoint report on what powerful tool Glow is and how them being registered with the The pupils were asked to volcanoes are and why they erupt technology can connect teachers GTC Scotland. discuss with a partner what they when they do. and learners.”
6 The General Teaching Council for Scotland Dispatches
Festival of Politics Expert panel to discuss philanthropy in schools
GTC Scotland to host a National Panel Head Teacher of Cardinal Newman at the Festival of Politics on the High School evening of 18th August 2010. • Jack McConnell For the first time we are staging Former First Minister a debate at Holyrood on the topic of • Mike Stevenson compassion in education; debating Thinktastic (chair for the evening) how philanthropy and compassion • Baroness Warwick can work in harmony and how Chair of VSO in the UK (TBC) education is central to creating good citizens aware of the needs Tickets are very limited so please of others. register your interest by emailing Our Chief Executive Anthony Finn [email protected] will be joined by: • Ewan McVicar For more information on the Festival of Politics go to One of Scotland’s foremost singer www.festivalofpolitics.org.uk songwriters and storytellers. The brochure will be launched in July but you can look at the exciting events from • Isabelle Boyd CBE 2009 as you wait for the launch date!
Anthony FinnEwan McVicar Isabelle Boyd CBE Jack McConnell Mike Stevenson Baroness Warwick
Glow developments Glowing support for learning and teaching
A wide range of resources • the Glow tools used • use Glow Meet to support are now available to help • some advice on method conversational French practitioners use Glow to • a quick ‘how to’ video, and • create a Worry Forum enhance learning and teaching. • the end product, a description • embed video as a stimulus The Glow Cookbooks show of the impact from the teacher for writing how Glow is being used by or pupils. • enhance staff classroom practitioners and They can be used to find how communication. how it is supporting the to use Glow in a vast range of implementation of Curriculum ways and for different purposes, Glow Cookbooks can be accessed via for Excellence. including how to: the Glow national site, Help link or linking directly to glowhelp.me/ The cookbooks contain the • use Glow for innovative and cookbooks or using a Google ingredients: successful transitions search for Glow Cookbooks
www.teachingscotland.org.uk 7 Dispatches If you have news to report,please email:[email protected]
News in brief New website Teacher Education review The Review of Teacher Education in Scotland is being designed underway, led by Graham Donaldson, the former GTC Scotland is working on its website head of HMIE. The Review will examine current to update it and make sure that it’s a arrangements for teacher education in Scotland, one stop shop for all your needs and and examine how well they meet current and, very support from the Council. If you importantly, future needs. haven’t yet visited us come and have a It will look at all aspects of teacher education – look at www.gtcs.org.uk and keep an initial teacher education, probation/induction and eye open in the autumn for some continuing professional development – and the exciting new developments. coherence between these. It will also look at common principles underpinning teacher education. The review team will use technology to engage with the teaching profession and other interested parties. An extensive consultation programme is planned as part of this and online events, on forums such as ‘heads together’ and Glow, will take place over the course of the Review. Subject Information on how to get involved in each event teaching & CfE will be set out on the Review website. be an issue which people will be invited to post The first event, a formal call for evidence, comments on. The first challenge was launched on Following a number of enquiries launched on 19 April. It is accompanied by an 19 April with the following statement: “there is a about the teaching of subjects or online survey to capture information about perception that the quality of newly qualified aspects of subject content in teacher’s experiences of teacher education. teachers in Scotland has never been higher”. secondary schools, and how this may Responses to both are sought by 31 May. impact teacher registration, GTC There will be a ‘challenge of the week’ on the To respond to a challenge, or to learn more about the Review and opportunities to contribute, go to Scotland has published its current Review website over the coming months. This will www.ReviewofTeacherEducationinScotland.org.uk thinking on www.gtcs.org.uk
Curriculum for Excellence Ten-point plan to drive CfE launched
A ten-point plan to drive forward education for our young people.” the delivery of Curriculum for Mr Russell has asked The package puts in place: Excellence has been unveiled by stakeholders to work with him to Michael Russell. communicate measures to build • Tailored support for any secondary school which needs additional help to He said: “I have been listening secondary teachers' confidence in be ready for August to the concerns that have been their ability to deliver Curriculum •Additional practical materials for teachers to support implementation and expressed recently around the for Excellence. ensure clarity on what is expected new curriculum. I have He said: “As we move closer to •£3m funding for councils to help support quality assurance and moderation acknowledged those concerns and Curriculum for Excellence being of assessment and am acting to address them. fully rolled out, I am impressed by •A proposal for literacy and numeracy units to be built into English and maths “Schools across Scotland are the enthusiasm of many teachers qualifications to simplify the system for formally recognising these skills well underway with their and headteachers. • ‘Excellence Groups’ bringing subject teachers and experts in individual fields preparations for Curriculum for “We need to continue to work together to support excellence in education Excellence. They are responding to together, with all our partners on • HMIE working with education authorities and schools to support their the challenges of educating their the Management Board, to build implementation of Curriculum for Excellence pupils for a modern world confidence in Curriculum for • A series of events to allow headteachers to share experience and best requiring new ways of learning, Excellence in our schools. practice new skills, creativity and “Our ten-point plan will help by • A greater role for parents in managing the new curriculum innovation. delivering real support in key • Additional materials for pupils and parents explaining the new curriculum “I want to make sure we harness areas, that's why I am committed • A group, convened by Mr Russell, made up of stakeholders and those with and drive forward this momentum to driving this forward as quickly an interest in education to advise on future development. to deliver the best possible as possible.”
8 The General Teaching Council for Scotland Dispatches
Peer to Peer
Anna Munõz As your probation Professional year ends, you’ll be Learning & Development, looking to the future. GTCS Remember to include CPD in your plans.
As your probation year ends, subject or to gain many of you will be looking recognition for particular forward to a well deserved expertise. Looks great on rest. It is important to revive your CV! yourself during your break • Chartered Teacher – once and prepare for future you have reached the top of challenges. You can also the salary scale, you may take advantage of the wish to pursue this option. It New Qualification summer holidays to is aimed at teachers who broaden your knowledge. wish to remain in the Often the best ideas arise classroom and will increase when engaged in other your pay. designs published experiences, so you never • Standard for Headship – know what great this may seem a long way SQA has published the design principles download from the SQA CfE website. inspirations for classroom off but who knows what the for the new National 4 and 5 This is a major programme of work teaching and learning future may bring, you could qualifications following their sign-off and from May 2010 SQA will publish will come. be a Headteacher in the by the Curriculum for Excellence progress reports and development As you look towards making! Management Board and SQA’s updates on their website when they cultivating your future Note: ensure you meet Qualifications Committee. become available. The SQA MyAlerts career, it is worth any entry conditions. The design principles provide the service updates subscribers whenever reflecting on your CPD Further information on all blueprint for developing the new content is added or updated on our experiences during your of these can be found on qualifications, which will replace Curriculum for Excellence web pages. induction year and look at the main GTCS website. Standard Grade and Intermediate 1 and This means that all those interested will how you can take Regardless of where your 2 qualifications, which currently sit at be able to follow progress as the responsibility for your CPD in teaching career takes you, SCQF levels 4 and 5, and will be delivered qualifications are being developed and the future. The first few GTCS will be with you every in 2013/14. will have the opportunity to comment. years of your career will see step of the way. A summary document and a full you developing your technical description of the design For further information and regular updates, practice and reinforcing Please remember visit the SQA website: www.sqa.org.uk principles are now available for your Teacher Induction Many of you may be moving Scheme experience. once you reach the end of However, it is vital that you your induction year. It is source opportunities to vitally important to keep us keep up the CPD habit now updated with your address CfE Special›› that you no longer have the details. Certificates will be dedicated 0.3 time. sent out mid-July so make Once you have your sure we have a permanent Take a look at teaching career established, address by Friday 18 June to CfE from a you may wish to pursue one ensure that your certificate variety of of the following routes: reaches you. • Professional Registration/ perspectives – Recognition – this gives Best of luck for the future starting on you the opportunity to to all 2009/10 probationer page 14 add another registration teachers!
www.teachingscotland.org.uk 9 Development Tell us what you think.Please email:[email protected]
Right from the start of your career, there are steps you can take to make sure it follows the path you want. Professional Recognition is a great way to provide you with guidance
Take control of your career
The first few years in teaching WORDS: She received the recognition in 2009, after you have achieved the DANIEL LAMBIE four years after achieving SFR, for Standard for Registration will have a mentoring. significant bearing on your entire Susan said: “Gaining Professional prove invaluable throughout a career, career. Taking proactive Recognition is a great achievement such as negotiation (and diplomacy!)” control of your own progression and and it is nice to be recognised for the Susan worked with Donna development is essential if your work undertaken outwith the Sutherland, who also teaches at career is to follow the path you would classroom. Hamilton Grammar School, to gain like it to. “It is also not as time consuming their Professional Recognition. She More and more teachers who as you would think, especially if recognises the benefits of working have gone through the Induction there are a few teachers in the with like-minded colleagues. She said: programme are using GTC Scotland’s school who get together and work “Susan [Montgomery] and I went to Professional Recognition programme through it.” High School together and now to help them with this. Mairi McAra, Professional Officer work side by side at Hamilton Rosa Murray, Professional Officer at (Early Professional Learning) at GTC Grammar. It is beneficial to know GTC Scotland, said: “Professional Scotland, said: “This collegiate that you have someone you can share Recognition can and does play an approach is another useful benefit of ideas and experiences with.” important role in supporting learning the programme. Not only does it help Donna also debunks some of the and development at every stage of a teachers develop and expand their misapprehensions around the teacher’s career. network, it also hones skills that will programme. She said: “The process “It is a perfect way to focus an of gaining Professional Recognition individual’s CPD to ensure they not is not as arduous as it first appears. Having Professional Recognition only better themselves, but also to The most difficult part is working improve systematic practices across also makes you stand out, especially out where the different pieces the profession.” when completing application forms of information should go. Susan Montgomery is one ‘early and going for interviews Your Regent/Head Teacher can years’ teacher who has been Susan Montgomery help with this.” awarded Professional Recognition. Susan and Donna’s work together
10 The General Teaching Council for Scotland Development
In association with
In education, change is the only constant. So how can we better manage this process? Coaching tips
Many of us fear change and are quite happy with the way things are now. However, defending the status quo is a losing battle. You only have to look at the speed that the world around us is moving to understand that standing leadership responsibility. In still is not an option. So we fact, while sometimes can embrace change, or we useful, authority can often ASK THE EXPERT can get swept away by it. get in the way. Leaders can, Send any questions you would What you need is faith and should, emerge from like to ask to teachingscotland@ in a big idea, the nerve to anywhere in your school. gtcs.org.uk and we’ll find a lead others and a shared The best leaders lead suitable source to point you goal that resonates opinions. The best leaders to the information you need. strongly with you and those lead opinions in line Interact with Teaching Scotland in association with you lead. Being passionate with your school’s vision Leckie & Leckie www.leckieandleckie.co.uk about change will inspire towards shared goals. those you lead to be This year I have passionate too. discovered the thrill of not only has had direct benefits on confidence in working with other leading and have been them as teachers, it also leaves a staff and has helped improve my “There is just amazed at how sharing legacy that will help future persona in school. too much my passion for a big idea generations. Part of their work “It has really helped me develop as resistance to has attracted the support involved delivering talks to student a person and is a great stepping change in from many like-minded teachers and production of a booklet stone in your career, especially if people. entitled ‘How to survive your you are planning on going down my school” probationary year’. either the management or charter Passion is contagious. If Our big idea… And ultimately, as Susan said, it teacher route. you don’t believe that, try “By 20 July 2015 every puts their careers on a more solid “The process has really helped me it! The next time you are in primary school staffroom footing: “Having Professional self-evaluate my skills and make the staff room, talk will be a place that all Recognition also makes you stand plans for my future CPD.” enthusiastically about staff enjoy being in out, especially when completing Mairi added: “The form for something you feel because they experience application forms and going for Professional Recognition from passionate about. Notice a positive learning interviews.” GTC Scotland can seem daunting how you feel and how the environment where daily Mairi McAdam, who teaches at at first. But you have already done other person reacts. support and challenge Rosshall Academy, is also keen to all the work in school and are Essential to your mission from other staff is actively stress the long-term benefits of just formalising it and seeking is the skill and attitude to encouraged by all.” Professional Recognition. She said: recognition. It is very similar to the win hearts and minds and “It has prepared me for going down project leadership submission. I the best bit is that you can Read more about our ideas the management/leadership route. would encourage more people to promote your big idea and around change, goal setting and vision at I am now at the stage of thinking fill in the form and give it a go.” form a team of supporters www.bluekitecoach.com/ about applying for jobs as a without needing any teachingscotland PT/Faculty head. For more on Professional Recognition, see “It has greatly improved my www.gtcs.org.uk/PR www.teachingscotland.org.uk 11 PVG
The new scheme to protect vulnerable groups will lead to changes in the process of registration with GTC Scotland, writes Daniel Lambie
As we discussed in the last issue of Teaching Scotland, the Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme is due to be introduced by the Scottish Government in October 2010. Following its introduction, membership of the PVG Scheme will be a requirement for anyone applying to register with GTC Scotland.
Registration John Adams, the Teacher Registration Manager at GTC Scotland, explained the impact this will have on the registration process. He said: “From October 2010, anyone applying to join the GTC Scotland register will need to be a member of the PVG Scheme. “If you are already registered with GTC Scotland, you should eventually be put into the PVG Scheme by your employer. It is intended that this will happen gradually from 2011 through to 2014. “While initially there will be very little impact, from October 2011 all employers in Scotland will have a legal responsibility to ensure that teachers become members of the PVG Scheme – this will be called Retrospective Checking. PVG and yo “GTC Scotland will not be carrying out Retrospective Checking, but will receive a copy of a registered teacher’s PVG Scheme by their employer.” determination that no information membership as they are put into the John added that you should contact is available to suggest that an your employer if you have any queries individual is ‘unsuitable’ to work regarding how this process will with children. The GTC Scotland operate and how any costs associated “The GTC Scotland professional professional vetting with this will be covered. vetting process, which is an assessment of fitness to work as a process, which is an Vetting teacher, must be much broader than assessment of fitness to GTC Scotland will still carry out its the PVG scheme in order to protect the work as a teacher, must be own vetting of teachers, even if they reputation of the teaching profession much broader than the are members of the Scheme. and to protect the public. PVG scheme in order to Mark Paxton, from Professional “It therefore involves considering protect the reputation of Practice department at GTC Scotland, whether a person is suitable to work the teaching profession explained: “Membership of the PVG with children and whether their scheme is gained based on a character and conduct is such that
12 The General Teaching Council for Scotland PVG
PVG IN SUMMARY The Protecting Vulnerable Groups Scheme delivers on the provisions outlined in the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) (Scotland) Act 2007. It will: • help to ensure that those who have regular contact with children and protected adults through paid and unpaid work do not have a known history of harmful behaviour • be quick and easy to use, reducing the need for PVG scheme members to complete a detailed application form every time a disclosure check is required • strike a balance between proportionate protection and robust regulation and make it easier for employers to determine who they should check to protect their client group.
ur registration
they are fit to work as a teacher.” Mark insists that this approach is through the new vetting procedures.” This means that a teacher or essential to protect the integrity and applicant could be a member of the professionalism of the teaching Please note PVG scheme, but still be refused profession. He said: “We must If you’re not allowed into the PVG GTC Scotland registration, or, consider any information that we scheme, your registration with GTC ultimately, have their GTC Scotland receive that may impact on an Scotland will be removed or refused registration removed. individual’s fitness to teach, even if and you will not be allowed to Mark continued: “If the PVG this relates to events that happened teach in state schools in Scotland. Retrospective Checking uncovers a some time ago, and respond criminal offence (or similar) that proportionately. we had not been informed of before, we “Our experience of the enhanced Details of the PVG Scheme can be found at would consider whether the particular disclosure process however would www.scotland.gov.uk/ Topics/People/Young- matter affects the teacher’s fitness to suggest that only a very small People/children-families/pvglegislation For more Q&As on how the scheme will impact remain on its register following usual proportion of teachers would have on your GTC Scotland registration, visit
www.teachingscotland.org.uk 13 CfE Special Tell us what you think.Please email:[email protected]
Coatbridge High School Looking at CfE from
Award winning journalists from Coatbridge High School explore CfE from a number of perspectives
WORDS : Robyn Duffy, Emma Cunningham, Keely Ormond and Rachael Kane
When we won the Scottish School initiative, only time would tell. Magazine Competition, part of our To find out more about CfE we prize was the opportunity to write about decided to interview Mr Russell (Cabinet Curriculum for Excellence (CfE). We Secretary for Education and Lifelong chose this topic because we felt that Learning). If anyone knew more insufficient steps had been taken to information about CfE, it would be inform parents, teachers, employers him. The aim of the interview was to and pupils about the change. We discover what he felt the aims of the decided to focus on employers, as we new curriculum were and the impact envisaged that they would be the group this would have on all that were least informed about the changes, given involved in curricular change. the Government’s priority to inform Mr Russell declared CfE was “to make pupils, parents and teachers. sure Scotland has the best educational In addition to employers, we felt that system for every pupil”. He explained to pupils and teachers were fundamental us the numerous problems regarding the to the process and we sought to include current curriculum. He highlighted the them in our research. The results of our fact that, at present, there are too many research showed that only 32 per cent exams. Also he feels it does not of parents had heard of the term CfE and adequately prepare all pupils for the real 100 per cent of teachers thought that world. He stated that, according to more steps would have to be taken to research conducted in 2002, the general inform everyone who will be affected by consensus was that there was a need for the new curriculum. change. He announced: “The change is We were delighted to be given the a reaction to what was not good.” opportunity to interview various people, We also met with Dr Joyce Henderson including Mike Russell MSP and we (CfE Co-ordinator for Support for Staff spent a day at the Learning Teaching and Senior Phase) at the LTS offices and Scotland (LTS) offices. Moreover, we she shared more in-depth details. carried out our very own independent When asked why the current research via surveys and questionnaires. curriculum was changing, Dr Henderson The results were clear; that a used the analogy of Rip Van Winkle significant amount of work had already waking up in the 21st century after gone into CfE and that, like any new having been asleep for 100 years. She explained how he would be unable to recognise anything around him with the exception of the classroom. If he were Mr Russell declared present in a classroom, he would be well CfE was:“to make sure aware of his location because it still Scotland has the best looks very much the same as it did educational system for years ago except, nowadays, the boards are white and not traditionally black. every pupil... the change is Emma (left) and a reaction to what was From this illustration, we understood Robyn outside not good.” her point– schools have been much the Mike Russell’s office same since 1908 and now we are at a
14 The General Teaching Council for Scotland CfE Special m a different angle Diagram 1: Percentage of parents informed
32%
Informed Not informed
Our research shows there are still a vast majority of parents in 68% the dark about CfE
stage, in society, where technology is questioned whether Mr Russell felt constantly advancing and becoming parents were well informed, he replied: more high-tech than ever. Therefore, an “Not yet, but they will be.” He clarified innovative curriculum would be needed that the “Toolkit for Parents”, which is to prepare children for jobs that do not available on the LTS website, will help exist yet, using technology that has not make parents more aware of the yet been invented. Thus CfE was born. changes in store. The online “Toolkit” is As we, personally, will not be involved also planned to be showcased at in the new curriculum, we were curious meetings in schools along with materials to know whether employers would be informed about the changes to the qualification system and whether our He seemed fairly qualifications would still be recognised and looked upon with equal validity. Mr relaxed about our Russell revealed that he was “not question [whether impressed with the naming of the new employers would be qualifications” and there were still informed] and he stated: requirements for more changes before “We have four years to actually informing employers. He plan for informing seemed fairly relaxed about our employers.” question, and he stated: “We have four years to plan for informing employers.” When we expressed worry about our which will be sent home to parents. qualifications being inferior to the new However, we are worried that if parents qualification he responded: “I give do not have access to the internet and absolute assurance of equal standards do not attend school meetings due to for qualifications.” However, we were other commitments or if they fail to read not quite convinced about this and materials sent home then they will we decided to further our research on remain ill-informed. Mr Russell this area. remarked: “There does come a moment Parents are obviously concerned about when no more can be done.” the education of their children. We, We felt that his was an issue worthy therefore, realised it was important to of concern and that greater steps could find out what steps had been taken to be taken to inform parents. notify parents about CfE. When we Arguably, the first focus to be
www.teachingscotland.org.uk 15 CfE Special Tell us what you think.Please email:[email protected]
Diagram 2: How should we inform parents?
16 13 15 10 10 11
7 10
6
Number of teachers 5
Letters home Information evenings Lecture to parents Parent 0 workshops Parent toolkit CfE Our teachers suggested a forum Coverage number of ways to inform on local/ National news parents of the changes Methods of communication informed about CfE are teachers. All fundamental to their learning, but as a teachers have heard of CfE and LTS separate entity. We are aware that this explained that teachers are currently will not affect our current first-years and attending workshops to help them above, but we feel it would be beneficial develop the skills they need. Teachers for them to know about CfE as it will also have access to the “Toolkit” online. help continuity. A number of pupils have still not Ultimately, what we learned from heard of CfE and, some of those who Mr Russell was that the creators of CfE have heard, are unsure about the still have four years until the first exams changeover. When questioned about take place and that, during this time, his knowledge of CfE, a first-year boy they will endeavour to make replied: “Oh, aye! There was a wall arrangements to inform everyone. about that in my Primary school.” This We just hope that this is enough shows that pupils are not seeing the time for them to follow through on curriculum as something which is being their plans. implemented in August and What do potenial employers know about CfE?
A number of issues appeared letting employers know about Robyn and Emma unanswered which spurred us to the changes to the qualifications spoke to their devise and implement our very and it is difficult and challenging careers adviser own research. to tell all employers. Admission We wanted to find out if was made that employers employers are well informed nowadays still don’t understand about changes to qualifications. present qualifications To do this we interviewed a which were implemented careers adviser. approximately a decade ago. The general results were that In short, more steps the CfE will be beneficial due to need to be taken in its relation to the world of work. order to inform However, SQA are in charge of employers.
16 CfE Special
Our recommendations
From our research we have an understanding of the difficulty surrounding informing everyone of the changes to the curriculum. Our recommendations are: •To inform parents about the change (Primary and Secondary) •To have more media coverage e.g. papers, television •To have meetings for parents. When we looked at the parent “Toolkit” it looked very interesting and full of information. When we tried it out it seemed helpful and well explained.
We thought it was informative and planned well, and our recommendations would be: •To have an option to leave comments •To have an option for families to ask questions.
The “All Kinds of Minds” site, linked to the toolkit, is also useful for finding out information, but one important thing is how parents are being informed about CfE. Our recommendations on how to inform them more are: •To have more resources in school •To have links on the school website •To send information via e-mail etc.
Diagram 3: How should employers be informed?
Media coverage 13
Links to the Career Services
11 Exemplar of Assessment
Methods of communication materials 5
Government run employer workshops
10 Number of teachers
www.teachingscotland.org.uk 17 CfE Special Tell us what you think.Please email:[email protected]
A primary perspective
18 The General Teaching Council for Scotland CfE Special
Many within the teaching profession have strong views on how to take advantage of the opportunities CfE presents, and how to cope with its challenges. Here, just a few of them share their thoughts and experiences Opportunity
For me, Curriculum for Excellence is the most exciting thing to happen in Scottish education during my teaching career. Schools and teachers now have knocks? the chance to take back some of the freedoms which were denied in the previous curricular model and, like I was recently reminded of this when ever, need to be places where mutual Anne Moore any change, this brings opportunities Primary chatting with a P7 class about an respect is evident and the individual as well as challenges. Handing schools School interdisciplinary project they had been learner, teacher and the learning more autonomy in curricular design is headteacher involved in. The main focus was maths experience are valued highly. both stimulating and testing. and the study was based on that of a However, this can bring challenges However important curriculum football manager. The feedback was for schools. We need to make sure reform may be, the focus of overwhelmingly positive. One of the that our teachers have access to high Curriculum for Excellence is most P7 girls said: “When I heard we were quality continuing professional definitely rooted within the learning going to be doing a maths project and development. I believe there are experiences of our young people. We it was about football I thought, Oh no! exciting and creative ways to achieve are changing direction away from the But I was wrong… it was brilliant! this. Teaching no longer should be an misguided view, that teachers are there Working as part of a team helped you activity carried out in isolation. We to impart knowledge, towards a model to be a better thinker.” need to utilise the best practice within where the outcomes and experiences In our schools, I believe we can see our own school clusters, authority and focus on how our young people are young people becoming more beyond. learning. Teachers are now able to motivated and enthusiastic about their The challenge of resourcing is an focus on developing their skills in, learning. The emphasis is on issue which has to be considered ‘engineering’ learning environments motivation and fun. Developing in carefully. Schools need time to plan, in which high quality learning can our young people the attributes time to collaborate and find ways to take place. described in the four capacities. work together. It is thrilling to witness the impact of I am encouraged to see emotional Curriculum for Excellence represents this transformation. Our teachers now health and well being given a the vision and ambition to take our have more freedom to express high priority in Curriculum schools forward, reflecting on what themselves and take calculated risks. for Excellence. Relationships are we do well and deciding Our young people have a greater important in creating a positive climate how to do better. The entitlements opportunity to become more active – in the classroom. Our young people, are no more than our young rather than passive – in their own now more than ever, have the people deserve. learning. A very powerful point made opportunity to be engaged in active, Curriculum for Excellence is a good by Dylan William when I heard him collaborative interdisciplinary learning. start. However, the challenge now is to speak recently: “learners create They are now being encouraged to ensure that this is translated into the learning”! The job of the skilled take more responsibility for their experience our learners have in the teacher now is to focus on creating learning - thereby increasing classrooms of Scottish schools. the right conditions in which personalisation and choice. meaningful learning can happen. Our classrooms will now, more than
www.teachingscotland.org.uk 19 Cfe Special Tell us what you think.Please email:[email protected]
An FE perspective
Teachers should be Hugh Paton whole new range of things that it exactly what they meant, so there has prepared for years of adjustment as Senior Lecturer, has taken FE 25 years of ups and to be a big communications exercise to Curriculum for Excellence beds in, if Anniesland downs and real sweat to cope with, make sure all the stakeholders know College the experience of the Further Education and we are still working on exactly what is happening with sector is anything to go by. improvements, especially with the assessment. It has to be appropriate, Hugh Paton, GTC Scotland’s elected developments in technology and valid and reliable and it also has to be member for Further Education and methodologies.” practical and sustainable. Senior Lecturer in Flexible Learning Hugh said that while teachers have “Under this new system, teachers and Learning Resources at Anniesland the professional knowledge and skills, will be more accountable and I think College in Glasgow, told Teaching he saw assessment – especially teachers are happy to take that role on Scotland that the ramifications of summative assessment – as being a so long as they have the support and similarly sweeping changes, called the particularly challenging and the resources. This is a change of Action Plan, introduced in Further demanding area. He said provisions in culture, it’s not just a change of process, Education more than 25 years ago the ten-point plan announced earlier and I don’t think we should were still being felt. this year by the Scottish Government underestimate it or undervalue the “I don’t think staff in the school to support teaching staff in their CPD effort that staff will have to put in.” sector are wrong in having concerns, were good steps, because assessment He said the FE sector could, and because even 25 years down the line was an accountability issue. would be willing to, work with and we still face challenges with “We have a responsibility to learners, support teachers in the CPD area, with assessment. I think it all comes down and other stakeholders, to ensure that FE colleges being a repository of to confidence – teachers’ confidence in our ‘assessments’ are correct. experience and expertise in the area. the systems and confidence in the “One of the things FE went through “There are new opportunities, but teaching profession. was around the credibility or currency challenges and demands come with “There is no question that teachers value of some of the awards that were them. We all want to grab these are competent, but they have to be coming out.The stakeholders opportunities but we have got to be given the capacity to take on board the (especially employers) wanted to know pragmatic about it.”
University challenge – measuring success
Curriculum for Excellence provides a listening to, or reading questions, and system for several years. Working Ident Prof Peter unique and exciting vision for the responding to them. The computer is Tymms closely with authorities in Scotland, we future of Scottish education and in not a passive page turner, but asks the Director of are currently aligning them to the doing so it sets serious challenges for next question according to how the CEM, Curriculum for Excellence. The system Durham those interested in assessment within individual responds to the first. As time University gets round the serious problems of schools in Scotland. Whilst teacher passes, the computer progressively children being threatened by questions judgement is rightly given central focuses on the respondent’s frontier of which are too difficult or too easy. It importance, Building the Curriculum 5 understanding and knowledge. By neatly integrates with AIFL and provides also makes it clear that there is a need assessing in different areas it is quite the necessary rigour and accurate for reliable and valid assurance possible, within a short space of time, information needed for monitoring mechanisms. Tracking pupils’ progress to produce a profile of strengths and progress over time and making and comparing standards across challenges for every child in a class. comparisons. schools and authorities also feature This can be tracked over time allowing We believe that using computer- prominently on the agenda. teachers to work on the challenges, adaptive assessments in conjunction Traditional pencil and paper tests remediate them and then integrate with teacher judgement would would not sit comfortably with the the information with professional maintain the strong tradition of high- new vision, but recent technological judgement to check that their work quality assessment which has been and theoretical advances have created has been effective. established in Scotland to enhance possibilities that can transform the At Durham University, within the learners’ outcomes. By working process of assessment. Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring, together and developing, it is possible Imagine an individual sitting down we have been developing this kind of to be at the forefront of assessment at a computer with headphones on, computer-adaptive assessment internationally.
20 The General Teaching Council for Scotland CfE Special
Will CfE open doors or create additional barriers for pupils?
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www.teachingscotland.org.uk 21 CfE Special Tell us what you think.Please email:[email protected]
Resources
Learning Teaching Scotland have been working with stakeholders to provide the information, confidence and support needed to ensure successful implementation of CfE
How LTS supports implementation
Learning and Teaching Scotland (LTS) Schools, centres and education Health and Wellbeing across learning. Alan is playing a key role in the practitioners across Scotland are Armstrong Within each section there are examples implementation of CfE, providing advice working towards full adoption of CfE. Director ,LTS of approaches to learning and teaching and support for practitioners in all They are actively engaged in, for that are already being used in schools sectors of education. example, discussing, designing and across Scotland, including case studies All new support materials will be testing possible curriculum structures, with video clips of interesting and available on the CfE website. They will and using the experiences and innovative practice. also be highlighted in Glow, using Glow outcomes to improve learning and Meet to introduce the new materials and teaching – raising standards in ways Support for curriculum stimulate discussion and debate. In that best meet local contexts and planning addition, teachers will be encouraged to priorities. LTS is continually providing new share ideas and materials across LTS provides a wide range of advice support to keep local authorities, schools curriculum areas and publish them in and examples of how practitioners are and centres up-to-date with the latest the national Glow Groups. working with the new curriculum in all thinking from schools. Key support includes: areas. This support for staff and Building your Curriculum is a process • Support using experiences and examples of emerging practice can be designed to support and reinforce the outcomes found in the experiences and outcomes guiding principles of Building the • Support with curriculum planning area of the CfE website. Curriculum 3 – a framework for learning • Support understanding and Support can be found here for each and teaching. Building your Curriculum developing effective approaches of the eight curriculum areas as well as can be found easily on the homepage to assessment. for literacy, numeracy and aspects of of the CfE website in the left hand
22 The General Teaching Council for Scotland CfE Special
navigation by selecting Building the Curriculum then Building your Those Curriculum. From here, a number of involved options will appear in a drop have really down list. risen to the There is a section on ‘Guiding challenge your thinking’ which provides users and shown with examples of the work some schools how are doing to develop curriculum learning, structures. teaching In ‘sharing and developing thinking’, Support with understanding across curriculum areas, stages and and schools can review their curriculum approaches to assessment within levels. assessment plans and decide what they want their To provide practitioners with examples When using the web area for come curriculum to look like in the future, of approaches to assessment in support, practitioners may find it useful together what they need to do to achieve this advance of the launch of the NAR to follow the review, reflect, and respond effectively.” and how they are going to manage later this year, LTS has been working sequence. that change. with more than 170 schools and First – review materials relevant to the There are also examples of curriculum centres to support them in developing school or centre, for example by stage, plans from a variety of contexts, assessment practices in line with or within a level or curriculum area, including broad general education, Building the Curriculum 5, focusing on focusing in particular on the ways that interdisciplinary learning, planning for particular Experiences and Outcomes practitioners have planned the learning, change, and transitions. Examples at this in literacy, numeracy and health & reviewed the evidence, reflected on stage are both real and fictitious with wellbeing across curriculum areas. what the evidence tells them, and then emerging ideas about strategic planning Alan Armstrong said: “Schools and responded by giving feedback and from early years, primary, secondary and centres started to become involved in suggesting next steps in learning. special schools. the process in early January. With the Then reflect on how the materials or Alan Armstrong, Director of support of LTS and local authorities, approaches might inform assessment Curriculum and Assessment at LTS, those involved have really risen to the practices and how they could usefully explained: “We designed this process to challenge and shown over a short period be adapted and improved. help schools, their partners and of time how learning, teaching and Finally, respond, by summarising education authorities to review their assessment, within the context of CfE, reflections in a feedback form provided curriculum plans and develop their come together effectively.” on the website. own curriculum frameworks. The These emerging examples, available These emerging examples will then support materials available on the on the LTS website, are a work in go through a process of national quality LTS website can be used to help progress and are still in the process of assurance and suitable materials will be discussions about planning the peer-review and quality assurance. published on the NAR when it is curriculum, adapting and building on The examples show learning and launched later in the year. the ideas for each individual context and teaching and evidence of pupils’ work, setting. More than fifty curriculum plans for experiences and outcomes in literacy, More information at are available online.” numeracy and health and wellbeing, www.ltscotland.org.uk/curriculumforexcellence
A quick guide to the National Assessment Resource (NAR)
The NAR is planned for launch monitoring (SSA) arrangements. of standards and expectations for assessment with opportunities this autumn. It is a joint The NAR will provide examples of CfE and how to apply these for professionals to discuss development between LTS, SQA a wide range of assessment consistently. assessment resources and and the Scottish Government. approaches and evidence relating In its first phase the NAR will approaches through Glow, The NAR is essentially a single to experiences and outcomes support 3 – 15 assessment SQA Academy and SQA online solution to support across curriculum areas, ages, approaches. Future developments Understanding Standards. assessment approaches for CfE. stages and levels. will support the senior phase. Access to the NAR will be Further developments of this One of the key purposes of Some materials will be developed via Glow log in and will be via resource will support National NAR is to support teachers in by SQA and others by users. SQA for independent schools Qualifications and national developing a shared understanding The NAR will support CPD in and colleges.
www.teachingscotland.org.uk 23 Scottish Learning Festival Tell us what you think.Please email:[email protected] The Scottish Learn
The UK’s largest education event will include invaluable access to knowledge and resources as the profession implements CfE
Organised by Learning successful, innovative approaches to and Teaching Scotland (LTS), the learning and teaching and will Scottish Learning Festival has showcase how practitioners and cemented its place as the largest all- learners are taking advantage of Glow round education event in the UK with and other technologies, bringing an ambitious programme of speakers together examples of educational and events. practice, leadership and management Now in its eleventh year, the festival strategies from across Scotland brings together the global teaching and beyond. and learning community for two Assessment is a key aspect of the days of inspirational seminars, implementation of CfE and the festival speeches and resource launches that will explore how assessment practices support CfE. support the new curriculum, Taking place on 22 and 23 promoting improved learning and September at Glasgow’s SECC, this teaching together with greater year’s programme is jam-packed autonomy and professional with inspirational speakers, responsibility. workshops, spotlights and seminars Keynote speakers this year include covering all aspects of education. The Michael Russell MSP, Cabinet main theme of the 2010 festival is Secretary for Education and Lifelong CfE: Enhancing Experiences, Raising Learning, Eric Booth, an award- Standards. It will provide winning actor, author, entrepreneur opportunities to find out about and arts education specialist, Richard
The Scottish Learning Festival has gained international recognition as a leading UK education conference, which brings together teachers, pupils and others from right across Scotland to share experiences and best practice” Mike Russell, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning Debates and discussions are likely to focus on CfE
24 The General Teaching Council for Scotland Scottish Learning Festival ing Festival 2010
in the implementation of CfE, therefore it will offer an excellent platform for the exchanging of creative ideas and approaches by everyone with an interest in driving forward the improvements to Scottish education that we all want to see.” Bernard McLeary, Chief Executive of LTS, said: “Last year’s festival drew over 7000 education professionals to Glasgow, cementing Scotland’s reputation as a world-leader in the field. “CfE reaches full adoption in August 2010 and visitors to this year’s event will have this at the forefront of their minds. Our aim is to provide them with a wide range of activities and events that will help them to consider how they can best develop innovative and relevant experiences for Scotland’s children and young people, leading to sustained, motivating learning and high levels of achievement for all.” Professor Kay Livingston, Director of International Research and Innovation at LTS also said: “Teachers and education practitioners will be visiting the festival to develop their skills, knowledge and creativity. It provides an opportunity for them to focus their own priorities and develop solutions relevant to their own circumstances. “International education and global citizenship will also have a large part to play within the 2010 Gerver, author of ‘Creating talking about his wide ranging review The festival is festival. Embedding global Tomorrow’s Schools Today’ and of teacher training in Scotland. a key event in citizenship across all areas of the Professor Sugata Mitra, Professor of Michael Russell, Cabinet Secretary the teaching curriculum is the key to developing Educational Technology at Newcastle for Education and Lifelong Learning, calendar young people who are prepared for University. said: “The Scottish Learning Festival life and work in a global world and In addition to the energising has gained international recognition many seminars at the festival will keynote speeches, there will be a as a leading UK education conference, reflect this.” variety of spotlight speakers covering which brings together teachers, a variety of engaging topics, from pupils and others from right across Registration is now open. meteorologist and former BBC Scotland to share experiences and To keep up-to-date with the latest news about weather presenter Heather Reid best practice. the Scottish Learning Festival 2010, log onto OBE discussing science and climate “I am very much looking forward to www.scottishlearningfestival.org.uk. You can also follow news about both the festival change within education, to Graham attending my first Scottish Learning and Learning and Teaching Scotland on Twitter Donaldson, former HM Senior Festival in the autumn. This year’s and Facebook. Visit www.twitter.com/ltscotland Chief Inspector of Education festival comes during a crucial phase or www.ltscotland.org.uk/facebook
www.teachingscotland.org.uk 25 Research Tell us what you think.Please email:[email protected]
Scottish Natural Heritage is helping schools to bring the great outdoors into the classroom with an innovative research programme A natural solution to learning
WORDS: TIM POWER
If you go down into the woods today near Lanark and said the children you’ll be in for a big surprise! You’ll find loved the experience. groups of children enjoying the great “I used the trip to Gleghorn Glen in outdoors thanks to an innovative the Clyde Valley Woodlands as a way to research project funded by Scottish explore the theme of ‘my special place’. Natural Heritage (SNH). We had already discussed other special SNH is keen to promote more school places such as home and the school trips to its 53 national nature reserves grounds and this trip allowed the around Scotland and is looking to learn children to get out and explore how the from teachers involved in the project woodland provide animal habitats. about the simplest ways of going about “The lovely thing about the visit was organising educational outings. how the children reacted to the SNH has funded workshops with environment. I did not want to focus on teachers to explain the project and will a narrow subject like geography or be meeting the cost of the days out of biology, but let the children see the the classroom and the final analysis of broader role of the forest. We did simple the findings of the project by Dr Greg exercises like staying silent to hear the Mannion at Stirling University. noises of the woodlands and to collect One of the teachers involved with the items from the forest floor such as project was Debbie Hughes when she leaves and acorns. I gave them cameras was a teacher at Libberton Primary to take pictures of the forest so we had School near Biggar in South plenty of material to take back to the Lanarkshire. She organised for a group school to develop the themes further. of P1-P4s to visit a SHN nature reserve “I could see the children really
Clyde Valley woodlands Debbie Hughes enjoyed the freedom they had to and pupils at explore. They were fascinated by an old This reserve is made up of six different have protected the rich mix of ash, oak Gleghorn Glen overgrown tree stump that they thought woodlands: Cleghorn Glen, Cartland and wych elm trees from felling and would make a good house for forest Craigs, Falls of Clyde, Chatelherault, development. And there’s varied bird creatures and made up stories about Nethan Gorge and Mauldslie Woods. life, including warblers, bullfinches, and what types of animals lived there. It was Cleghorn Glen and Cartland Craigs kingfishers. In spring, the forest floor is really nice to see them use their feature gorge woodland typical of the covered in colourful carpets of bluebells imaginations to express themselves. middle Clyde Valley. The steep gorges and primroses. “It was an interesting experience because it gave the children the
26 The General Teaching Council for Scotland Research
Finding how the trips add value
Dr Mannion’s role at Stirling University is to summarise the insights and experiences of the teachers and pupils involved in the project and to help the teachers share their thoughts among themselves through online chats and face- to-face workshops. He said: “The project is also about trying to document the way any teacher who is not a specialist in outdoor work can find ways of bringing their pupils into outdoor contexts, especially nature, and facilitate learning in a wide variety of ways. “There are a wide variety of approaches being tried too. There are teachers working in an interdisciplinary way, while others are working with art and design, ICT, and religious and moral education for example, so the findings will potentially have considerable reach for any teacher of any subject in primary or secondary school,” he added.
barriers to organising trips for children. One thing he knows from feedback is that if the opportunity to develop into a valid part to play in ethos of school trips is not confident individuals. It was an Curriculum for Excellence. endorsed by the local opportunity to take a broader view “In a sense, we are testing authority then teachers do and appreciate nature for what it is. the waters, to see how not feel permitted, despite Hopefully, they will want to visit teachers can make the enthusiasm and support in the school. more places like this as they grow process of organising these trips as “We'd like to see how outings to up,” she added. simple and effective as possible.” experience nature can benefit the SHN Communications Officer Brian has been pleased with the children. We are not particularly trying Brian Spoor has been impressed feedback from the teachers so far, to recreate the classroom in these with the response to the project. but will have to wait until the end natural places – we see the experience He said: “The teachers are very of the year before all the findings are itself as an important part of their enthusiastic about the opportunity in and the work is analysed by education and are we keen to see how for children to experience and Stirling University in the new year. teachers fit that into Curriculum for appreciate nature and believe it has He appreciates there are many Excellence,” he added. www.teachingscotland.org.uk 27 CPD
In my view Whose CPD is it anyway?
The CPD team have spent a lot of antipathy to the old-fashioned time trawling through the ‘sheep-dip’ model, where we responses to the questionnaire round ‘em up, count their heads, on CPD that many of you get them telt and let them go. completed. Too much of my life have been As you would expect, there spent as a passive recipient of was a wide variation in replies. other people’s priorities, and we Many wished for more subject- know that this is an ineffective related CPD, and lots and uninspiring way to learn. We commented on the value placed are very clear that children and on CPD which made a difference young people need to be given to practice. ‘In-house’ learning choice and flexibility in their was generally viewed as positive, learning. They need to become relevant and useful, while a small active participants in the learning, number said that the provision and to understand what offered was too general or basic. questions to ask as well as what Some comments were very questions to answer. Why would positive and recognised that it be any different for teachers? when CPD was good, it could Technology offers so many result in new thinking, improved exciting and innovative ways for practice and increased teachers to take charge of their confidence. Others reflected a CPD and many opportunities to very different picture, and some build new learning networks. For views were very negative. Some example, have you explored the courses were described as potential of social media as a CPD irrelevant and random; others tool? Are you joining GLOW very patchy in quality, patronising groups, or visiting CPDFind for and a waste of time. hundreds of excellent free So what made the difference? opportunities, or our CPD team Clearly there were a number of blog? Are you using CPDReflect factors, but one of the most to review your progress and to significant appeared to be in how plan and record your CPD? strongly the educator ‘owned’ Or are you passively waiting for the CPD. Highest levels of someone to do it for you? Of disgruntlement came from those course you’re not! who spoke about CPD being A full report of the CPD Survey ‘done to’ them. They described a will be on the blog soon model where someone – the authority, the school, their Margaret Alcorn leadership team – decided what National CPD their CPD needs were and then Co-ordinator set about requiring their presence. They were passive recipients who felt no connection with the learning being offered. Some of you who have heard me rant know I have a personal
For more about CPD or to contact the national CPD team, visit CPD Scotland’s website: www.ltscotland.org.uk/cpdscotland
28 The General Teaching Council for Scotland CONNECTING TEACHERS, STIMULATING DEBATE
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Over the next few months, a wide range of CPD courses are running in your area, including:
SCHOLAR Programme, University of Strathclyde University of Aberdeen NATIONAL Heriot Watt University Wide range of courses. School of Education T: 01292 886206 AOK Learning Providing CPD for Call for dates Programmes available W: www.uws.ac.uk/ Various courses. Secondary School Head T: 0141 950 3033 include: Chartered Teacher; schoolsdepts/education/ cpd/index.asp Call for dates Teachers, Co-ordinators, W: www.strath.ac.uk/pdu Leadership in professional T: 0141 221 1001 Pathfinders and settings; Advanced University of Edinburgh W: www.aokonline.com Classroom teachers Queen Margaret professional studies; across Scotland: University Inclusive practice. Joint Moray House School of Education Concept Training SCHOLAR 10th Anniversary Post Graduate Certificate EIS/University in 2010: 23 Various CPD opportunities Training in special Conference, 18 June 2010. in Collaborative Working; January – literacy across including Chartered and additional needs. T: 0131 451 4270/4002 Education & Health the curriculum; 15 May – Teacher, ASFL programmes, CPD various dates W: www. scholar.hw.ac.uk New opportunity for health and wellbeing short courses and T: 01524 832 828 Education & Health staff to across the curriculum. custom-designed CPD. W: www.concept- SSERC learn together, supporting T: 01224 274 989 Contact for details. training.co.uk Science and Technology children with additional W: www.abdn.ac.uk/pldc Advisory Service. Health support needs. E: [email protected] T: 0131 651 6263 W: www.education.ed.ac.uk/ EIS and Safety, Science and W: www.qmu.ac.uk cpd EIS – Learning Technology CPD, primary E: [email protected] University of the representatives. and secondary. West of Scotland National Youth See website for further Various courses, residential TAG The School of Education’s Choir of Scotland details and non-residential, Citizens Theatre, CPD provision lies within Music – a pathway T: 0131 225 6244 many supporting the Glasgow. Call for dates the Advanced Professional to learning W: www.eis.org.uk implementation of CfE. T: 0141 418 6243 Studies framework with T: 01383 626070 W: citz.co.uk/tag/cpd six named pathways. University of Aberdeen, W: www.sserc.org.uk E: [email protected] Telephone, email or visit the 2-4 August and www.science3-18.org website for further details and T: 01224 274989 advice. New provision coming W: www.nycos.co.uk on stream. E: [email protected] This is a paid for listing and as such is not exhaustive. GTC Scotland does not endorse any goods or services advertised
Teaching Scotland magazine 29 My perspective Make your best better
Since the mid 1990s schools in Constant improvement is a necessary and positive Scotland have had to deal with change on an unprecedented scale. Change has aspect of an evolving education profession come in the form of several major educational initiatives (5-14 Framework for Learning; Higher Still; McCrone Agreement, class challenged my expertise and and Curriculum for Excellence) which have resourcefulness in implementing a greatly fashioned both the structure of the curriculum which would combine teaching profession and the curriculum in previous working theories and raise self- which they operate. esteem through celebrating individual Those within the learning community and group achievements. have had to evolve, and continue to evolve, Leading and contributing to the whole in response to this journey of change. school CPD Programme provided me with From a personal perspective, several an excellent background from which to significant learning experiences in my fulfil my role as a mentor. Not only did this career have acted as cornerstones for provide an opportunity to support, guide personal and professional change. Central and develop student and probationer to cultivating my pedagogy and meeting teachers, it also provided an opportunity concurrently with curricular changes has for greater self-reflection with regards to been the need for a programme of CPD. my own professional development. My first notable introduction to what we My willingness to reflect and question now refer to as CPD occurred during my my competency as a practitioner has, probationary period as a novice secondary without question, been the catalyst for my teacher. I recall my Principal Teacher professional and personal development. wittingly commenting: “Remember, you Such an approach has allowed me to don’t need to be sick to get better”. Little achieve enough experience to achieve did I appreciate, at the time, how these Charter Teacher status. simple words would continue to underpin It is difficult to predict the path my teaching pedagogy. education will take over the next five years Although the benefits of CPD have but key to its success will be the ability of been well documented, my experience at teachers and management to foster this early stage suggested that it did not personal growth through a structured always accommodate and reflect either programme of CPD. Reflection and critical my professional or personal needs. ability to plan a structured programme of enquiry will be central to the Keith It was not until the McCrone Agreement self regulated learning. The level of McKenzie enhancement of curriculum delivery that my development was given the decision-making undertaken made me Chartered through a greater understanding of a impetus it needed. Taking responsibility re-visit my own approaches to teaching Teacher more partnership based, and for the planning and management of my and learning and made me question how collaborative approach towards teaching own professional development improved they contributed to the effectiveness of and learning. my ability to reflect in as well as on my pupil learning and attainment, within the The New Teacher Induction Scheme, current practice. This became a major classroom and beyond. Professional Recognition and Chartered vehicle in critically analysing the Reading, research and CPD have allowed Teacher status should continue to effectiveness of my pedagogy and my me to develop a strong correlation promote expertise within teaching and between my own understanding and learning, whilst improving the professional awareness of pupil motivation to learning identity of the teaching body within the and my pedagogy across other curricular learning community. My Principal Teacher areas. By increasing the number of wittingly commented opportunities to facilitate cognitive learning ‘Remember, you don’t and motivation within Physical Education I What is your perspective of teaching? It doesn’t need to be unusual, but being need to be sick to get have attempted to re-engage learners and yours it will be unique. Send us Your Perspective, nurture a culture of independent learning. consisting of no more than 500 words, to better’.” [email protected] My involvement in leading an ASDAN
30 The General Teaching Council for Scotland Crossword
Prize crossword Win a luxury weekend 30. Traditional month for Scotland’s national examinations (3) break courtesy of The DOWN Town House Collection. 2. Bill, the legendary voice of To be entered into our rugby (7) prize draw, simply 3. Small crustaceans, obviously (7) 4. Scottish schools for older complete the crossword, pupils (11) and send us the answer to 5. Cricket equipment (3) the question below 6. Large bodies of water (6) 7. Person in charge of a museum (7) ACROSS 8. Intelligent pieces of equipment 1. Barrier constructed in schools? (5,6) across a waterway (3) 11. One of the dramatists most 3. Emergency single for studied by Higher English Abba? (3) pupils (11) 5. Untrained horse in the USA (6) 13. This country’s Garden Route is a 9. Person in religious orders (6) popular tourist attraction (5,6) 10. A mathematical statement 18. Tropical cyclone (7) whose truth can be proved 20. Long, tapering, usually on the basis of a given set triangular flag (7) of axioms (7) 21. Sports arena (7) 12. Person who thinks he’s 22. Person who belongs to a club or tough (4,3) communication (4) November 30th (6) 13. US politician (7) 20. Spaghetti, for example (5) 29. School subject that draws society (6) 14. Important chess-pieces (5) 23. Speedy train (7) you in? (3) 26. Female pig (3) 15. A chill or fit of shivering (4) 24. This country’s capital is 16. Thick, wormlike larva of certain Helsinki (7) beetles and other insects (4) 25. An equilateral parallelogram (7) 17. Takes an examination (4) 27. Style of handwriting with the 19. Piece of equipment for letters slanting to the right (6) receiving satellite 28. This saint is celebrated on
FINISHED? NOW ANSWER THIS: It seems to be a constant feature of education today, making it questionable if it’s as good as a rest! Send your answer, including your name and contact details, marked ‘Teaching Scotland 35 competition’ by email to [email protected] by 2 July 2010. Terms and Conditions: The editor’s decision is final. Competition is not open to employees of GTCS. We reserve the right to publish the names of winners in future issues of Teaching Scotland, but will not hold details for any other purpose. Entries must be received by 2 July 2010. One winner will be selected at random. The winner will be informed by email or telephone. The winner can select from any of the hotels listed right. The prize includes breakfast and dinner on the first night, as well as accommodation. All other expenses are excluded. No cash alternative is available.
The lucky prize winner in the last issue was Rebecca Linscer. Enjoy!
IN ASSOCIATION WITH ››
EDINBURGH Channings is an informal, relaxed hotel with a very friendly approach. It occupies five Edwardian townhouses near Stockbridge, one of Edinburgh’s most popular ‘urban villages’. The Bonham is a boutique hotel with a very contemporary spirit which occupies a series of Victorian buildings in the West End. The Howard is an intimate and discreet luxury 5-star hotel which occupies three Georgian townhouses in a super-convenient location in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town. The Edinburgh Residence, a 5-star residence hotel, is a collection of 29 elegant suites through three adjoining Victorian houses in the West End of Edinburgh. GLASGOW Blythswood Square in Glasgow city centre is the newest, most magnificent addition to The Town House Collection of luxury boutique hotels in Scotland.
www.teachingscotland.org.uk 31 NATIONAL LECTURE Annie Lennox Thursday 19 August, at 6pm, Main Chamber, Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh
To register for your ticket, go to www.gtcs.org.uk/events Tickets limited to two per person.
One of the world’s most renowned singer songwriters, Annie Lennox, talks about her campaign to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in Africa and the importance of global citizenship.
GTC Scotland will host the lecture as part of the Festival of Politics 2010. You can read more details about the event and about other events during the week long programme in the brochure, due out in July. Full details will be posted on the Festival website www.festivalofpolitics.org.uk and on the Festival Facebook page.
To read more about the charity go to www.annielennoxsing.com
In association with:
See www.gtcs.org.uk/events for further details, or email [email protected]