FIFTH EDITION Winter 2014 www.brookewestontrust.org TRUST EDUCATION THE MAGAZINE FOR BROOKE WESTON TRUST STAFF

NEW HEAD TEACHER APPOINTED AT OAKLEY INTER-SCHOOLS EVENTS VALE PRIMARY PICTURED INSIDE

RESULTS OF THE 2014 STAFF SURVEY

REGIONAL FOOD AWARD WIN FOR CBA CATERING TEAM

LATEST NEWS FROM OUR SCHOOLS WELCOME

DR ANDREW CAMPBELL CEO, BROOKE WESTON TRUST

WELCOME TO THIS LATEST ISSUE OF TRUST EDUCATION.

A very warm welcome especially to all new members of staff who have joined the Trust since last summer.

In this introduction I want to pay tribute in helping the Trust become compliant in could be more proactive in communicating

to the work of non-teaching staff that is its purchasing practices. This has been their work to you. We have begun to now gathering real momentum to help a major task, but we are well underway. address this at the newly-formed local

the Trust operate more efficiently. In Compliance does not have to mean lack of Governing Body Chairs’ Forum. The forum “2013-14 I was very proud of the ways in quality either: CBA won a county award for brings together all of our Chairs along which teaching staff and senior leaders the quality of its food which is all sourced with myself and the Chairman of the Trust collaborated to ensure all of our schools through our new procurement routes and Board. One of its biggest“ priorities is to made improvements in the quality of their Catering Manager Chris Lapsley has now look at further improving communication at service to students. This year the focus is been invited to join the DFE’s Catering all levels across the Trust. on making sure we achieve the same high Reference Group - the proof of the pudding Finally, I’d like to wish you all a Happy levels of collaboration across the business is in the eating! Christmas and New Year from everyone in and operations areas of our work. Facilities, Finally for this issue, I think it is important the Trust central team. IT, catering and administration staff have to acknowledge one key message from the all got a major part to play as we operate Trust-wide staff questionnaire. As with last as a single bigger organisation with greater year the vast majority of staff are highly buying power. supportive of the work of their own school, I’d also like to thank all those non- but one message that comes through is teaching staff who have played a big part that perhaps your local governing bodies

TRUST EDUCATION | Winter 2014 BWT NEWS

PRIMARY SCHOOLS COLLABORATION

(Pictured are Michelin starred chef Jason Atherton, Business Academy’s Business Manager Linda Stubbins, CBA WIN REGIONAL Chris Lapsley and Northamptonshire County FOOD AWARD Council leader Cllr Jim Harker) The Trust is celebrating after an in–house catering team beat off stiff competition to win a prestigious food and drink award. The team from (which also provides the hot meals for students at Corby Technical School) won the Healthy Eating Workplace of the Year – Tricia Davies took up her position as Executive Health & Education category award in the Carlsberg UK Northamptonshire Food and Principal of the Trust’s primary schools provision Drink Awards. earlier this year and since then has introduced a CBA Restaurant Manager Chris Lapsley said: “To receive this award is a fantastic series of new measures to ensure our five primary achievement. It represents all the hard work that our staff put in to producing the schools get the best out of collaborating together. highest quality food. I’m very proud of all our team.” New measures introduced are: • A new primary curriculum overview • Peer reviews by the Principals of each other • Half termly focused meetings/trainings for CONSULTATIONS Assistant Principals /Vice Principals, EYFS, AT TWO SCHOOLS SENCO, literacy and numeracy leaders • Moderation of work for all year groups Consultations are currently being carried out at • Deployment of lead teachers to support specific two Trust schools. We are holding a consultation areas within the schools exercise about plans to increase the size of Corby Technical School and whether to make changes so • A monitoring and evaluating framework that Kettering Science Academy’s secondary and • Templates for common documents such as primary schools stand alone. the School Evaluation Form and the School Following public feedback the Trust’s Board of Development Plan Director will make a decision whether to proceed • Working with the Brooke Weston Teaching with both proposals in February. School Alliance to provide primary focused NQT, ITP and OTP programmes. The DfE will have the final decision on both matters.

HELPING WITH A CHARITY CHALLENGE NEW PRINCIPAL AT The Trust has been thanked for supporting a local charity. A minibus was donated to OAKLEY VALE PRIMARY the Windmills Charity to help with the West Highland Way fundraiser that took place in The Trust welcomed a new principal to Oakley Vale September. Primary School this September. The vehicle was loaned to challenger Linda Rodgers who raised £3600 for the Corby based charity that provides support to local families of sick children. Emma Goodwin was appointed as the new Principal, taking over from Mike- Deane Hall. Windmills said: “We would like to thank Brooke Weston Trust for their sponsorship of our West Highland Way Challenge. Mrs Goodwin took up the position after having “We are very grateful for all the support shown to us by the Trust and Dr Campbell. “ worked as Vice Principal at Beanfield Primary School for the past few years.

02 | 03 QUESTIONNAIRE Agree BWT STAFF Disagree Disagree Strongly Agree Strongly Neither Agree nor Neither Agree QUESTIONNAIRE 2014 Disagree Strongly % % % % % I am fully committed to putting students first even when doing so makes my own 77.3 20.7 1.19 0.48 0.24 work more challenging

I understand the overall aims and values of the BWT 33.1 57.2 5.73 2.39 1.43 I understand the culture and aims of my own school 47.2 44.6 5.25 2.39 0.48 I understand the role of our school governors 21.7 48.4 19.5 9 1.19 I think the governors of this school are doing a good job 8.11 41 45.8 4.3 0.72 I am aware of other academies in the group 33.1 58 6.92 1.67 0.24 I broadly understand the challenges the other academies face 10.7 38.6 29.3 17.9 3.34 I would like to receive more regular news about the Trust 7.4 41 41.2 7.6 2.6 I would like to receive more regular news and information relevant to my own role 29.1 49.6 18.3 1.91 0.95 I feel I am listened to when I have an idea or suggestion to make 23.8 46.5 18.6 6.6 4.3 I feel that I am usually acknowledged when I do a good job 27.2 44.1 13.8 11.2 3.5 I am proud of the job I do and my own level of professionalism 64.2 33.8 0.4 0.2 1.19 My training and development opportunities are catered for by the Trust 20.5 38.9 26 10.2 4.3 I regularly support colleagues in their work 58.9 38.1 2.3 0 0.48 I am encouraged to perform at my best 49.4 37.7 8.1 2.6 2.1 I am well aware of the training opportunities offered by the Trust 17.4 36 21.9 19 5.4 I know who to talk to if I need advice about an aspect of my work 44.8 44.6 5 2.39 3.1 I have an effective working relationship with my line manager 49.8 36.5 8.35 2.15 3.1 If the right opportunity arose, I would like my next job to still be with the Trust 30.5 31.7 30.3 5.25 2.15

My principal or line manager keeps me informed about relevant Trust 21.7 47.4 19.5 7.4 3.82 developments or changes

I receive feedback from my line manager on the quality of my work and 29.3 46.3 14.8 5.7 3.82 my progress towards agreed targets

Thank you to every one of the of opinion in order to identify governing bodies (LGBs). As a my own work more challenging”. 448 staff who took the time to and celebrate best practice, first step towards this, I will have This is our core value as an complete this year’s annual staff provide opportunities for career already met with all Chairs of education organisation and I am questionnaire. The Board and progression and evolve as an LGBs to discuss your feedback delighted to see this commitment leadership of the Trust holds the organisation. Encouragingly, before you read this article. is reflected right across our opinion of all staff in high regard, compared with last year’s results, One other piece of feedback schools. whatever their role. We will be staff overall felt they had a better I think worth sharing was that Overall, the results of the discussing the outcomes of this understanding of the aims and some staff felt the structure of questionnaire are once again very exercise at our next meeting. values of Brooke Weston Trust the questionnaire itself does not positive. I would leave you with The education landscape is and were better aware of the perhaps allow every group of staff the three words that summarise ever-changing and as a single other schools within the Trust. to sufficiently distinguish their the majority of the responses of organisation we must seek to We have been working hard this role and we will look at how to re- those describing their experience position ourselves to make the year to help forge relationships categorise this for next year. of working for Brooke Weston best of the opportunities afforded and encourage collaboration It is particularly reassuring Trust: Rewarding, Challenging, and meet the challenges we face. between our schools, exploring to see that staff are proud of Enjoyable. To that end we have implemented ways in expertise can be shared their professionalism and feel a number of Trust-wide changes and best practice encouraged, encouraged and supported this year and it is important for us improving business efficiency *If you have any suggestions by their line managers. With to acknowledge what has worked and generating savings. This will for featured articles or items pride and encouragement well and where improvements become more and more prevalent in the newsletter please email comes commitment, and it is can be made. as the Trust grows and develops. enquiries@brookewestontrust. that commitment which sees a org As our group of schools Perhaps the biggest message staggering result of 98% Strongly continues to develop ways of about where we need to do better Agree/Agree for “I am fully working together, it is crucial is in communicating to staff the committed to putting students that we listen to a broad range role and contribution of their local first even when doing so makes

TRUST EDUCATION | Winter 2014 SCHOOLS EVENTS

One of the big benefits of working together as a Trust is the inter schools events that out students and staff can take part in. This year has already been busy with our schools coming together in some competitive events. Read more below. ANNUAL BAKE OFF Peckover Primary School hosted the annual Year 3 Great Brooke Weston Trust Bake Off. All teams had to make a chocolate fridge cake and create their own cake box. After a closely fought competition the Greedy Gretton Gherkins were crowned the winners. The Peachy Peckovers placed second and Kettering Sizzling sausages (KSA), Oatey Oakley Vale (Oakley Vale) and Beanfield Bun Bakers (Beanfield), (last years winners), came joint third.

HISTORIC FIRST PARADE FOR CADETS The /Brooke Weston Trust Combined Cadet Force held its first parade this September. Twenty three students drawn from , Corby Business Academy, Kettering Science Academy WINTER and Thomas Clarkson Academy joined Oundle School CCF (Army) contingent to form the largest first year Army SPORTS FESTIVAL Cadet Company in Oundle School’s history. September also saw the first Field Weekend for the Kettering Science Academy hosted an inter-schools Winter Sports Festival cadets, who meet at Oundle School once a week for on Tuesday, 11th November for Year 7 students. platoon training. Students from KSA, Brooke Weston and Corby Business Academy competed against each other at the afternoon event. Matt Isherwood, BWT Officer in Charge, said: “The BWT Cadets have all undergone a rigorous selection The students took part in badminton, hockey, football, rugby and a rowing process; involving letters of application, interviews and a competition. recommendation by their respective Principal. As such, Head of PE at KSA, Mr Lee Haywood said: “The event was a great success we are indeed fortunate that all of the Trust Cadets are and our Year 7 students did really well and they were placed second strong candidates to take on leadership positions and overall on points behind Brooke Weston students. We now look forward in time act as ambassadors for the CCF when we begin to taking part in the Summer Sports Festival to be hosted at Brooke Weston the recruitment of future Cadets. next year.” ”We all look forward to an exciting year which will see Mr Haywood added: “I have been talking with the heads of PE at the other the Brooke Weston Trust student begin their Cadet Trust schools and we looking into organising other inter-schools sports careers laying the foundations for the future independent events including a Year 8 swimming gala and maybe a Triathlon event in the Brooke Weston Trust contingent.” future to challenge our students to run, cycle and then row.”

04 | 05 SHARING GOOD PRACTICE

THOMAS CLARKSON ACADEMY

ENGLISH AND DRAMA STUDENTS TCA’s students performed in a 30 minute www.thomasclarksonacademy.org AT THOMAS CLARKSON production of The Tempest. English Teacher Dan Hudson said: “It went ACADEMY TOOK TO THE STAGE really well and they did superbly. They were ALONGSIDE PROFESSIONAL praised by the professional actors who said NEWS IN BRIEF ACTORS WHEN THEY APPEARED they were very convincing. It was a really AT THE RECENT SHAKESPEARE positive experience for them all.” • Primary school pupils got a taste of secondary school life at Thomas Clarkson Academy when they FOR SCHOOLS FESTIVAL AT Thomas Clarkson Academy student took part in TCA”s Maths Challenge Day. Charlotte Cameron is now a World Champion KING’S LYNN CORN EXCHANGE. • On Friday 7th November the Academy was joined by kickboxer after winning gold at the World 20 students from the Academy took part Year 5 students from Peckover and Orchards Primary Kickboxing Championships in Portugal. schools for a ‘Spy Challenge’ themed day. in the event which was staged across the Charlotte, 14, came home with 5 medals this country making it possible for students to year and a World Champion title in the cadet stage abridged Shakespeare productions. girls 13-15 years category -60kg.

CORBY CHAIR OF THE BROOKE all those people involved, especially WESTON TRUST, GEORGE parents, for the chance they took with us, as parents did with the Brooke Weston Technical WESTON, UNDERTOOK THE Academy when it opened back in 1991. CEREMONIAL DUTIES TO School “I would like to thank all the trustees and infinite paths to choose from... DECLARE CORBY TECHNICAL governors, Northamptonshire County SCHOOL OFFICIALLY OPEN IN Council, who gave us the land and to OCTOBER. Corby Borough Council for having the Staff, students and invited guests faith in the Brooke Weston Trust.” CORBY TECHNICAL gathered as the Trust’s Chairman unveiled a commemorative plaque to celebrate SCHOOL the £6m state of the art building in CORBY Cottingham Road. www.corbytechnicalschool.org Mr Weston is the Chief Executive of NEWS IN BRIEF Technical Associated British Foods, which employs more than 100,000 people in 47 countries • Principal Angela Reynolds was invited to a School and includes well-known names, including special reception with the Prime Minister. infinite paths to choose from... Twinings, Primark, Ovaltine, The Silver • Mrs Reynolds joined other leaders from Spoon Company, Jordans Ryvita and Outstanding schools at the event organised Kingsmill. by the New Schools Network. After performing the opening honours he said: “I would particularly like to thank

OAKLEY VALE PRIMARY SCHOOL www.oakleyvaleprimary.org.uk

IN NOVEMBER, OAKLEY VALE solar PV panels which are capable of PRIMARY SCHOOL WELCOMED generating 17KW of energy. The visitors NEWS IN BRIEF also had the opportunity to see the school’s DELEGATES FROM ALL OVER biomass boiler in operation. These help the • On Wednesday 19th November three children from EUROPE AND REPORTERS school save money and is also having an Year 3 took part in a Corby Cluster Maths Challenge at FROM LOOK EAST. Their visit was impact on the school’s carbon footprint. neighbouring Exeter Primary School. The children had to answer a range of questions and challenges including part of a general assembly hosted by Mr Joe Dickinson (Project Manager) of Electric Corby (a community interest ‘what does infinity mean?’ Electric Corby said the visit was well The children did very well and came second overall. company). They were visiting various received by the delegates and thanked • This term, Oakley Vale Primary was awarded the buildings in Corby that have been identified Oakley Vale for allowing them to visit. by Corby Electric as incorporating energy Sainsbury’s Bronze Kite Mark for PE. The school has saving technologies in their building In the new year, Oakley Vale plans to work now set up a ‘Sports Crew’ led by some KS2 children management. Oakley Vale was the only with Electric Corby to develop a school who are setting up games and running competitions at primary they visited. project so that the children can gain a lunchtime to help promote sport. greater interest in saving energy. At OakleyTRUST Vale EDUCATION they were |able Spring to see2014 our SHARING GOOD PRACTICE

PUPILS IN YEARS 4-6 HAD A TOPICAL DEBATE ABOUT A WASTE PLANT THAT HAD BEEN PROPOSED ON A SITE NEAR TO THEIR SCHOOL. The children looked at the disadvantages and advantages of the Brookfield Plantation and took on different roles from each side of the argument to have a lively and informed debate. The topic inspired the children to write persuasive articles and year 6 developed the theme further to write a balanced argument. Local campaigners against the development came in to speak to the children about the impact of the development on the local area. The teachers took on the role of the developers to ensure the children could see both sides of the debate.

Reception class were visited by a palaeontologist who delivered a dinosaur workshop. He brought GRETTON large dinosaur models for the children to look at, as well as fossils and a real dinosaur egg that had baby dinosaur bones in. PRIMARY SCHOOL www.grettonprimary.org NEWS IN BRIEF • A mobile farm visited the school and bought along some sheep, ducks, dogs and a pony for the children in Rowan class to ride. • Year 6 pupils enjoyed a residential to Boreatton Park in Shropshire.

A PUPIL AND TEACHER RAISED FUNDS FOR THE LITTLE PRINCESS TRUST BY HAVING DRASTIC HAIRCUTS. Year 3 pupil Madeline had an amazing 10.5 inches cut off her long locks and Miss Pollington had 7.5 inches lopped off. The hair will help to make wigs for children across the UK and Ireland who have sadly lost their own hair through cancer treatment. Peckover staff and pupils are so proud of them both and think they look fabulous with their new looks. PECKOVER Parents of Year 6 students went back to school this term. Reading, mathematics, spelling, punctuation and a grammar PRIMARY SCHOOL test was the subject matter for the day. www.peckoverprimary.org NEWS IN BRIEF

• Under the leadership of class teacher Richard Holt the school has gained its Bronze Food For Life. • Almost £250 was raised for Children in Need as the children came to school in fancy dress.

YEAR 6 HAS HAD A FANTASTIC Reception children had a wonderful Italian Day TERM LEARNING ALL ABOUT HOW as part of their ‘Food, Glorious Food’ theme. TO SURVIVE IN THE WILD AND HOW The highlight of the day was an invite to make a pizza with parents. The support for this activity TO PROTECT THEMSELVES FROM was the largest response we have ever received. NATURAL DISASTERS. The children have Reception staff at the school said: “We know embraced the theme and this has reflected in parents are the first and enduring educators the quality of the work they have produced. of children, so this step forward with parental The learning environments have been designed partnership is a very positive development for collaboratively with the children and this has led to Beanfield.” a real enthusiasm for learning. Children have been out and about in the local environment building dens from natural materials and learning how to build campfires. They have also had sessions BEANFIELD with visitors, who taught them how to tie a range of different knots, which they then used to build PRIMARY SCHOOL mini rafts. There has also been some fantastic homework produced based on natural disasters, www.beanfieldprimary.org with children building volcanoes at home with support from their families, showing how everyone has got full spirit of being a born survivor. On Wednesday 26th November the children in 3CJ performed a concert for the rest of Key Stage 2 and their parents. 06 | 07 STAFF ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Senior Vice Principal Janet Duggan

VICE PRINCIPAL BECOMES OFSTED AWARD INSPECTOR NOMINATION FOR Corby Business Academy can now boast paying dividends for CBA and other schools THOMAS CLARKSON that it has an Ofsted Additional Inspector across the Brooke Weston Trust, which amongst its ranks. funded her training. ACADEMY STAFF For the past two years Senior Vice Principal She said: “I have shared my experiences Janet Duggan has undergone the strenuous with several schools in the Trust, I’ve led Two members of staff at Thomas Clarkson training programme run by SERCO for all sessions for teachers on the new Ofsted Academy were nominated for awards by candidates who want to become additional Frameworks which contain the evaluation students who feel they have made a big impact inspectors. schedule by which schools are judged. on their lives. Mrs Duggan recently completed her final “This, in turn, identified some teaching and Laura Buckenham, a member of the school’s challenge of being part of an inspection learning issues with some schools and we inclusion team, and Ben Arrowsmith, travel team at a primary school and after passing were able to help them with that. I have and tourism teacher and cover supervisor, did with flying colours she is now an official also supported middle leaders in one of the not know they had been nominated until they Ofsted Additional Inspector. Trust’s schools. received invitations to the Young People’s Outstanding Achievement Awards ceremony She said: “The process has been rigorous “Going through Ofsted training definitely which was held at Burgess Hall, St Ives, on and illuminating and it shows you the other sharpens your focus within your own November 21st. The pair did not win but were side. I have learned Ofsted want to give school. In the past year or so we have done delighted to have been nominated. schools every opportunity to show what a lot of work scrutinies. For example we’ve they are doing to make a difference to the questioned whether innovative, creative Mr Arrowsmith said: “It feels really special learning of children and the lives of children. teaching strategies are being used. We’ve to have been nominated and makes you feel The inspectors are always looking for cause examined whether students have the proud.” and effect. For example, the teacher does X opportunity to reflect on their own progress Miss Buckenham added: “Receiving this and the impact on learning is Y. and set their own personal targets. We’ve nomination really makes you realise what a “During training you are made aware of the looked at whether teachers are marking difference we make to our students.” all factors you need to take into account formatively and whether students have been The awards have been organised by the when deciding that the progress made over given enough time to act on the written Participation Service at Cambridgeshire County time by students is either outstanding, good, feedback. Council to recognise outstanding achievement requiring improvement or inadequate.” “It sharpens your focus on the progress in young people and professionals who work Even before Mrs Duggan qualified as an being made by different groups of students with them. inspector she found the experience was in the school.” HEAD OF SCIENCE CYCLES 10,000 MILES TO GET TO TCA Thomas Clarkson Academy’s new He set off from Portland, Oregon, in July before joining TCA in head of science took the long in September 2013 with the aim September. route into school when he joined of cycling around the world but Mr Power said: “I was looking in September, having cycled ‘only’ made it half way, taking in for a challenge and I thought it 10,000 miles around more than 20 places including the West coast looked like fun. I cycled through countries before he arrived. of America, Mexico, Guatamala, 20-something countries over 8 Edward Power had previously El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, months, cycling for up to 10 days worked in the UK for five years, Costa Rica and Panama. at a time before taking some time and at one of the world’s top He returned to the UK for off to see the sights. It was an independent schools in Abu Christmas then set off again and amazing experience.” Dhabi. cycled to Uzbekistan, finishing

TRUST EDUCATION | Summer 2014 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

ROLE IN FOCUS NATASHA DUNSTONE PE Teacher at Corby Business Academy Role title: Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator

What does the role involves? Two teachers at Thomas Clarkson The role involves promotion of the award throughout the academy, registering students onto Academy have qualified as Duke of the scheme, helping students secure an activity for each of the three sections and to help Edinburgh Award assessors. train the students for the expedition section. It also involves directing staff and developing Lucy-Beth Heighton and Daniel Hudson staff through training and mentoring students. attended an assessors training course and How long have you been involved? joined a group of students at a campsite in Rutland where they worked alongside I have spent the last 18 months setting up the current Duke of Edinburgh at the Academy and an accredited assessor to mark and sign we currently have 65 students signed up and currently completing their award. off the group’s expedition. What are the highlights? Miss Heighton, centre manager for TCA’s The highlights so far have been meeting students and staff that I wouldn’t usually have DoE Award programme, said: “As a worked with. Another highlight is seeing students excel in areas and activities that take them student I never had the opportunity to out of their comfort zone. do the Duke of Edinburgh Award which What qualities do you need to be a DoE Coordinator? is why I wanted to give our students the opportunity to do it. Enthusiasm, determination and organisation. “It is consistently recognised as one of the What advice would you give to other BWT staff looking to get involved with DoE? things employers look for on a CV. It is a There are many ways staff can get involved in the award, from mentoring a group through nationally recognised award which helps the whole award, to being an assessor or an expedition supervisor. The award is a fantastic students to demonstrate commitment, opportunity for staff to work with students outside of the day to day running of academy progress and responsibility. They have to life. It is one of the most rewarding responsibilities I have had. If any staff would like to go above and beyond what is expected discuss the Duke of Edinburgh award they are welcome to email me at ndunstone@ and challenge themselves. It is also really corbybusinessacademy.org good fun.”

The Trust prides itself on offering in building a new school, setting the ethos PROFESSIONAL opportunities for professional and being involved in creating an exciting development to all members of staff. Here curriculum for students was too good DEVELOPMENT we speak to Linda Arnold, Vice Principal to miss. for Teaching and Learning at Corby I applied for and was appointed Director Technical School. of Maths. In that first year with a cohort of WITHIN THE BWT “Being a late entrant into the teaching just Year 7 students as well as teaching profession is a mixed blessing – on the one Maths; I was also delivering History and had there’s all that experience that’s been Geography – an interesting year! As the accumulated over the years to draw upon, school has grown, so too has my role, at the but the downside is all the pesky youngsters start of this academic year I was appointed that are so much better than you are! Vice Principal responsible for teaching However having negotiated my way through and learning and am now delighted to be a Maths PGCE at Leicester and my NQT year involved in looking after NQT’s – who are (plus another) at Queen Eleanor Technology impressing me with their professionalism and College in Stamford I joined Lodge Park creativity and it is a privilege to be involved school in Corby as second in department with developing the teachers of the future. (and to gain sixth form experience). Four To help me in my role I am part way through years later I was Head of Department and the NPQSL course, which has been a Lead teacher for English and Maths. I wasn’t valuable source of inspiration and reflection. looking for a change of school at that point Corby Technical School will continue to grow in my career but the advert for the new over the next few years and I am looking Corby Technical School caught my eye – the forward to the challenges that will bring.” opportunity to be involved from the outset

08 | 09 SHARING GOOD PRACTICE

BONITA NORRIS, WHO Hundreds of students were awarded for their academic, sporting and vocational ACHIEVED THE FEAT OF endeavours and the ceremony was watched BEING THE YOUNGEST by parents, staff, dignitaries, governors and Trustees. WOMAN TO CLIMB EVEREST As part of an ongoing literacy strategy BWA DELIVERED AN INSPIRATIONAL had two promotional weeks focusing on PRESENTATION ABOUT THE the work of authors CS Lewis and Roald Dahl. A series of assemblies took place CHALLENGES SHE FACED on both authors and there were tie-ins at AND THE SKILLS NEEDED TO tutor time and in the library. In addition ten staff members received specialised literacy ACHIEVE HER DREAM AT THIS training from expert and author, Caroline BROOKE WESTON YEAR’S PRIZE GIVING. Bentley-Davies. www.brookeweston.org

NEWS IN BRIEF Nikolai • Year 13 student James Barry has secured an apprenticeship with Channel 4. He has already completed two work experience placements Bonita Norris with them and will now be joining their online team for a year. • Sixth Former Nikolai Milanov successfully defended his World Championship Kickboxing Championship in Portugal. He has retained his titles for the third year running and added a further gold in an upper age category. James

CORBY BUSINESS ACADEMY www.corbybusinessacademy.org A YOUNG ENTERPRISE COMPANY the Midland Regional Festival of the competition. FROM CBA TASTED THE SWEET CBA’s 50 musicians were up against bands from SMELL OF SUCCESS AFTER the best schools in the region and they received TRIUMPHING AT A TRADE FAIR. plenty of praise from the judges. Tea Time Aromas, which sell reed diffusers, was CBA Director of Music Clive Wears said: “We awarded for best sales and marketing at the event were ecstatic when we won Gold because that NEWS IN BRIEF held at Stamford Arts Centre on November 8th. means there is a chance we will be selected for the national final at the Royal Northern College of Another CBA YE company, incentive (which Music in Manchester in April. • Three Sixth Form students have secured creates coloured candles) also took part in the places at Oxford University’s prestigious trade fair. “The band’s success is down to their hard work shadowing scheme. and dedication.” The CBA teams competed against companies • The Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme from 11 other schools across Northamptonshire Mr Wears was also delighted with the Big Band was launched at CBA. and Cambridgeshire. which was launched in September and is led by Lucy Wass. He said: “This was the Big Band’s first public CBA musicians have won Gold at the National performance. They did an extremely good job and Concert Band Festival for the first time. winning Silver has boosted their confidence.” The Senior Concert Band won Gold and the new Big Band won Silver - just weeks after forming - at SHARING GOOD PRACTICE

PRIMARY PHASE YEAR 11 STUDENTS HAVE STARTED ON A PROGRAMME OF OFFERING REGULAR SPORTS SESSIONS TO PRIMARY PHASE PUPILS AT KETTERING SCIENCE ACADEMY. THE STUDENTS ARE RUNNING THE SESSIONS AS PART OF THEIR GCSE LEVEL 1 SPORTS LEADERS COURSE AND THEY ARE REQUIRED TO WORK WITH YOUNGER CHILDREN AND LEAD THEM IN REGULAR SPORTS SESSIONS. A group of Year 5 pupils sent time at the Secondary Phase on Tuesday, 21st October and students from form 11B led a successful first session with the visiting pupils. Teacher of PE at KSA, Jessica Davis said: “Our pupils were split into small groups and were in charge of different aspects of the session for example warm-up, skill KETTERING SCIENCE development, games and cool down. “Our students did exceptionally well for their first time at leading. All primary staff and ACADEMY primary school pupils were impressed with the session.” www.ketteringscienceacademy.org Reception children were invited to bring their pets into school during last half term. Pupils had a chance to meet with a variety of animals during the special themed week including cats, dogs and the more exotic pets including one child’s pet snake. NEWS IN BRIEF Reception Teacher, Rebecca Bradbury said: “Pets week gave the children the opportunity to talk about their pet and how they care for them. The children observed • Students learned about the democratic many different animals and had the chance to ask questions to find out more process as house captains were elected information.” for Year 6. She added: “This week was very successful as we had a variety of pets in school ranging • The Year 1 class held at mock wedding. from a dog to a pet crab.”

Children at the Primary Phase at KSA gave generously to the local food bank appeal as part of the school’s harvest celebrations in October. The Reception children at the Primary Phase at hosted a harvest festival assembly at the school last half term and to coincide with their performance families were asked to donate food for the local Food Bank in Kettering, St Jude’s. Parents of Reception pupils were invited into school to see their children perform the harvest festival celebration assembly on Wednesday, 22nd October and on display were all the donations from all the primary phase families. They provided donations of tinned and packaged foods to donate to the food bank.

SECONDARY PHASE KETTERING SCIENCE ACADEMY HAS RECEIVED A HIGHLY RATED students, their houses and between form groups. The on-line system is SAFEGUARDING REPORT THAT RECOGNISED THE ACADEMY’S not only accessible by the staff to monitor students’ progress, but can DRIVE TOWARDS THE STUDENTS FEELING SECURE AND HAPPY. also be viewed by parents to monitor their child’s progress and see what points they have been awarded, by which member of staff, when and The recently released LEA report, following the audit, praised the what the points were rewarded for.” academy and highlights the excellent working practices witnessed at KSA in regard to safeguarding its students. As part of the audit teaching staff, non-teaching staff, governors and parents were all asked for their views on the Academy and its NEWS IN BRIEF procedures. The inspectors also scrutinised a range of evidence including the Single • KSA has been awarded a certificate from Camps International in recognition of the efforts of students and staff who took Central Record, policy documents, certificates, risk assessments, part in a challenge trip to Tanzania in the summer. staff handbook, child protection records and minutes from governors’ meetings. • A new library app has been launched that allow students and staff to access to the Academy’s book and borrowing lists Included in the report was praise for the Senior Leadership Team, it while on the move. stated: ‘The Senior Leadership Team is highly knowledgeable and effective in ensuring that all staff understand the significance of • Year 11 student Myles Tew has become awarded the honour safeguarding and the importance of everyone’s role in contributing to of Cadet to the Lord Lieutenant and will assist at any Royal visits to Northamptonshire. the overall effectiveness and success.’ Principal of KSA, Mr Paul Davies said: “Behaviour, attendance and anti- bullying procedures are key elements of the safeguarding inspection and the inspector found we have met or exceeded all our statutory requirements. There was a particular mention made of how we deal with anti-bullying including our work within tutor time and our relentless focus on keeping our students safe.” Mr Davies added: “Our attendance level at the Academy is the highest it has ever been at 95 per cent, which is above the national average. This also illustrates how safe and happy the students are feeling at KSA.”

An online awards system has been introduced at Kettering Science Academy’s Secondary Phase. Students are each set milestones and have been earning points in class for good behaviour, for assignments and coursework and for examples of good conduct. Progress Leader for Year 11, Hazel Dodd said: “It is a great system which is working well for the students and staff. Our students have been awarded ePraise points by staff for achievement, effort and participation. It is encouraging a healthy competitiveness between

10 | 11 FIVE MINUTES WITH

VICTORIA DUGUID-YEOMANS Assistant Head of Sixth Form at Brooke Weston Academy KELLY GREAVES Describe what a typical working day is like for you: Assistant Head at KSA Primary A typical day usually consists of teaching between three and five periods of dance, ranging from Year 7 to Year 13. I also teach a couple of periods of drama Describe what a typical working day is like for you: to Year 11 and they are fantastic. I adopted the class when a colleague left and Like everyone says there really is no such thing as a was so excited to work with them as they are such an inspiring group. On top ‘typical’ day working in a school and that is so true in of teaching I have lots of interaction with Year 12 and 13; this can be from work my role. My day always begins at 8am with breakfast issues or successes right through to personal situations. Currently there is a lot of and a strong cup of tea and from there it usually is a focus on post-18 options for Year 13 as the all-important UCAS deadline hits and series of meetings with parents and agencies relating the applications for apprenticeships and employment start to mount. My office to Early-Help, Safeguarding, and SEN. I help manage a (shared with Director of Sixth Form Gerry Witt) is a flurry of practice interviews for great team of staff supporting learning, behavioural and Year 13 students and it’s a joy to see these students, many of whom I taught in emotional needs, attendance and wellbeing. There are Year 7, conduct themselves with such maturity in the interviews. also always times of the day I’m in front of the computer or on my iPad collating and analysing data, discovering What aspect of your job do you enjoy the most? something new or just responding to a never empty The best part of my role is supporting progress for students; be that with new inbox. ways to connect students to ideas or concepts in the classroom that allows them to access the work and achieve, or through supporting them pastorally What aspect of your job do you enjoy the most? to manage their experience here. I find a great sense of job satisfaction from I enjoy solving problems or helping someone overcome improving the students’ experience. I really like to help students realise that a a difficulty. That could be a pupil, parent or colleague. I situation is not ‘hopeless’ or ‘impossible’, plus building good professional working love seeing pupils at the end of the week or year, or even relationships with the students gives many opportunities in which they make you years down the line coming back to see me proud of feel immensely proud. their accomplishments and I know I was part of it.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? If you could go anywhere in the world, where would I would like to visit the Galapagos as a recently PADI Certified Scuba Diver I am you go and why? eager to visit and explore the reef. One day I hope to see a giant tortoise and I would grab the chance of visiting anywhere and sunbathing penguins with my own eyes! I would also like to spend a Christmas in everywhere as long as I didn’t have to encounter Greenland and visit Paris in winter… enormous, poisonous spiders. I would love to travel alongside Michael Palin on any of his treks, particularly If you could invite 4 famous people to a dinner party, who would you invite across the Himalayas, I thought that was fascinating. and why? If you could invite 4 famous people to a dinner party, I think I would invite Pina Bausch a dancer/choreographer who inspired much of who would you invite and why? my study at university. When at university I did visit one of her final productions Stephen Fry – he simply knows everything and I find him at Sadler’s Wells, London. As we were entering the theatre through the bustling so interesting. crowds I knocked into a frail lady at the door smoking a cigarette. When I turned Han Solo/Harrison Ford – I’m a lifelong, avid (slightly to apologise I realised I had just bumped into Pina Bausch herself! I would obsessed) fan of Star Wars. I think Indiana Jones was definitely invite Jamie Oliver. I adore his drive for good food… although I might ask pretty cool too. him to cater the dinner party! Is that allowed? I would have Richard Branson there, I respect much of his achievements and his vision. I would invite Baz Luhrman Nelson Mandela – represents all that is important to me. as a chance to see the world from his point of view would be incredible… and I Ant ‘n’ Dec – I couldn’t survive a dinner party without suppose if Jamie Oliver was catering I would invite Samuel Beckett but as he was some sense of humour or silliness. I know they would somewhat reclusive I might have to settle for Dickens. ‘get me’ and I would have a bellyful of laughs.

If you won the lottery, how would you spend your winnings? If you won the lottery, how would you spend your This is an easy one to answer. I would build rescue shelters for animals and fund winnings? conservation projects for animals and natural environments. I’d make sure all my family were comfortably provided for, travel the world and buy an extortionate amount of What is your greatest accomplishment? shoes and chocolate. Becoming PADI certified was so tough given the amount of ‘homework’ involved and I realised pretty early on in the course that I should have paid What is your greatest accomplishment? more attention in my science and maths lessons at school, plus at times it was I believe my greatest accomplishment is the arrival of my terrifying but now it’s the most wonderful experience and it will lead to many more long awaited child, although my colleagues seem pretty qualifications I hope. impressed that I can eat 14 Pringles in one mouthful.

What word describes you best? What word describes you best? When I asked this question to the people I annoy most in the school they said Logical. ‘enthusiastic’. I think I can live with that.

TRUST EDUCATION | Summer 2014 OTHER NEWS

OUTSTANDING GOVERNANCE AWARDS NOMINATION FOR CBA

The Trust is nominating Corby Chair of Governors at CBA, Kerry Business Academy for the NGA’s James, said: “I am very fortunate Outstanding Governance Awards. to work with a Governing Body who are dedicated to making The awards are held every two Corby Business Academy years to celebrate the excellent a successful and enjoyable practice of governing boards and environment for our students. clerks across England. The finalists The governors give up their time will be invited to a prestigious to not only attend the regular awards ceremony at the House of formal meetings, but also to spend Commons on 9 June 2015, where time with students, teachers and the winners will be announced. support staff, to do anything we can to support further growth and BWT Operations and Admin achievement. Manager Sarah Mills nominated the CBA Governing Body due to “CBA has gone from strength to it robust procedures and strategy strength since we opened, and as well as how its actions have I am proud to be involved in its contributed to the school’s ever future.” improving results and outcomes.

TEACHING SCHOOL NEWS: NCTL to assure the quality of the programme TEACHING SCHOOL at a national level.’ DAY COURSE FOR REDESIGNATION: PHYSICISTS: As one of the first Teaching Schools in the SCHOOL DIRECT We welcomed 26 physicists from schools country, Brooke Weston recently took part in across the East Midlands for training by the a ‘four year review’ pilot study that focused OPEN EVENTS: Institute of Physics. The session, on A Level on our working practices and impact and We ran a series of information events for Physics experiments and equipment was led we received redesignation of our status. The those who are considering a career in by three IOP practitioners. Training took place results of the pilot study will be used by the teaching. We are currently recruiting for both both in our Teaching School and science National College for Teaching and Leadership. primary and secondary trainees to start in laboratories and the feedback was excellent. They commented: ‘Your participation was September 2015. More information on our Two further physics sessions are planned invaluable in helping to develop a model vacancies and the entry criteria can be found for 2015. which will enable other teaching schools to on our Teaching School website www.bwtsa. demonstrate the impact of their work, and for brookeweston.org

Brooke Weston Trust, London Road, Priors Hall, Corby, Northamptonshire NN17 5EU t: 01536 397000 www.brookewestontrust.org Trust

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