Services for schools
Telford & Wrekin Council delivers a comprehensive range of professional services to schools, academies and colleges.
Version 4. Updated January 2019.
Contents
Professional, Educational and HR and Business Support Pupil Support
Arthog Outdoor Education Centre (Wales) 4 Graphic Design 34 Arthog Outreach (Telford & Wrekin and Shropshire) 5 Health and Safety 35 Attendance Support Team 6 Information Security, Data Protection and Early Years and Childcare 7 Freedom of Information 36 Education Business Links - Enterprise Programme 8 Insurance Services 37 Education Business Links - Work Experience 9 Internal Audit 38 Education Services within Telford Town Park 10 Legal Services 39 Educational Visits and Journeys 11 Online Learning Interactive Environment (Ollie) 40 FutureFocus Careers Service 12 Occupational Health 41 Multicultural Development (MDT) 13 Human Resources Advisory Support 42 Newly Qualified Teachers (NQT) 14 Procurement 43 Oakengates Theatre @ The Place 15 Research and Intelligence 44 Road Safety and Sustainable Transport 16 Telford & Wrekin Training Services 45 Safeguarding 17 School Governance 18 Property, Facilities Management Special Educational Needs and /or Disabilities (SEND) and Catering Behaviour Support Advisory Team (BSAT) 19 apT Development Management Services 46 Educational Psychology Service 20 Eatwell Project 47 Learning Support Advisory Teachers (LSAT) 21 Engineering, Geotechnical and Structural Sports Development 22 Engineering 48 School Improvement Teaching and Free School Meals Assessment Service (Year 3 Learning Support 23 and above) 49 Telford & Wrekin Music Service 24 Let's Clean 50 Telford Ice Rink 25 Property Maintenance, Facilities Management & Telford Snowboard and Ski Centre 26 Building Design (part of the biT group) 52 Youth Employment Support 27 Radiation Protection Advisory Service (for secondary schools) 54 Recycling Services 55 ICT and Finance School Catering Service 56 West Mercia Energy 57 Agresso Financial Management System and Support 28 ICT Support Services 29 Schools Finance Team 30 Communication Support 31 Emergency Planning 32 Employment Services 33 Professional, Educational and Pupil Support
Arthog Outdoor Education Centre (Wales)
What we offer Customer feedback Arthog Outdoor Education Centre is a special kind of place. It is a place which combines outstanding location and ‘Yet again a truly amazing week with amazing people. high levels of staff expertise with an ethos which ensures a ‘Arthog’ is the highlight of our children’s school ‘careers’ warm welcome, a supportive and responsive service and a as well as the highlight of the year for all staff members successful and truly memorable experience: lucky to come. You demonstrate a perfect combination of wit, knowledge, patience and fun that I aspire to n Location: a purpose built 120 bed residential centre on the coast of North Wales in the southern part of the recreate in the classroom.’ Snowdonia National Park. The Centre is situated in private grounds in an elevated position overlooking the sea, estuary and mountains; n Adventure: we are not an ‘on-site’ activity centre. We believe that the value of an adventurous activity is significantly enhanced by its location, so your adventures with us will take you into the wilds of Snowdonia; n Environment: there is no escaping its beauty and diversity. Each step of your journey will provide new things to see and experience. If fieldwork is your interest, there is great scope for a variety of projects in the locality; n Staff team: a friendly, dedicated group of people who will strive to make your visit a special one. Our instructors are a highly skilled and very experienced group of professionals who take ownership of their group and endeavour to give them the best experience possible.
Why choose us? ‘Arthog’ has a long standing and enviable reputation for the provision of outstanding outdoor educational experiences. The adventures are real and the experiences unforgettable. Contact ( 01341 250455 @ [email protected] www.arthog.co.uk
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Arthog Outreach (Telford & Wrekin and Shropshire)
What we offer Customer feedback Here at Arthog Outreach we provide ‘real’ adventurous activities for children and adults in the natural environment ‘It was a tremendous day and the students really around Telford and Wrekin and Shropshire. We operate in enjoyed the experience. It has certainly created an a setting which can sometimes be overlooked and creates awareness of the opportunities that exist to them at the opportunities to encourage participation in adventurous end of Year 11 and I know several of them are keen to activities closer to home. A short minibus drive gives us return to your facilities.’ access to stunning locations and fantastic opportunities for Local Academy school adventurous activities.
Activities include; canoeing, climbing, walking, caving and mountain biking as well as team building and personal development opportunities.
We tailor our sessions to meet your individual development goals so that you get best value from each day. We also link what we do in the outdoors with learning outcomes for schools to bring alive aspects of the National Curriculum.
Why choose us? We provide: n High quality sessions that are delivered by nationally qualified and experienced staff; n Bespoke events or programmes that can be created for each new booking to meet your individual or groups requirements; n All equipment and transport is provided; n Our well-equipped centre in Wellington provides many activity opportunities on and off site - right on your doorstep.
Contact Alan Braybrooke ( 01952 387378 @ [email protected] www.arthog.co.uk
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Attendance Support Team
It is essential that all children and young people registered for n Guidance on the appropriate interventions for education at school, attend regularly and on time and that individuals or their families and support on the referral they access all of the opportunities that education offers. route to ensure the support is accessed; n Guidance and support on action planning and Children and young people who do not attend school preparing data for inspections; regularly are at risk from a whole range of factors that n Training and action learning workshops so that schools may lead to poor outcomes, including low attainment and can access all legal interventions to encourage the social exclusion. The link between irregular/non-school highest level of school attendance achievable and the attendance and poor academic achievement and limited most appropriate strategies for reducing persistent or impoverished life outcomes has been well established. absence. Where help is needed, the Attendance Support Team (AST) will work with schools to improve attendance and reduce persistent absence. Customer feedback What we offer ‘You have been immensely helpful to us - always supportive and very practical, including house visits. We have the Local Authority delegated responsibility to You are professional and friendly, clearly having the manage all legal interventions relating to school attendance welfare and education of our students as a priority. which includes issuing all Penalty Notices. In addition, we Wouldn’t want to be without you!’ collect data as required by Ofsted on children who are out of school, missing education or subject to a modified timetable. The Child Employment Officer also sits within the team although this intervention is statutory.
AST offers a variety of packages to support school/ academy systems and processes to manage school attendance including: n An Education Welfare Officer; n A comprehensive menu of training
We can also provide sample policies to schools for attendance and Children Not Receiving Education (CNRE), Children Missing Education (CME), Children Out Of School (COOS) and Modified Timetables (MTT).
Why choose us? Contact We provide: Attendance Support Team n Extensive, expert knowledge of all related school ( 01952 385220 attendance legislation and statutory guidance to underpin any advice offered to schools. We interpret this @ [email protected] legislation and can provide concise summary reports; n Vast experience of dealing with a variety of cases when the presenting concern is a child not attending school regularly. This is often a symptom of underlying complex issues;
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Early Years and Childcare
We have a successful relationship with schools, settings and childminders, based on principles of trust, challenge Customer feedback and support, in order to secure sustainable improvement. Through raised aspirations and high levels of achievement ‘Our Early Years Childcare Consultant has supported our we will improve equality of opportunity for all children. practitioners, reflected on current practice and worked with them to strengthen the play and learning experiences We provide cost effective professional expertise and which they offer to our children. We received honest and respond to need through an innovative, creative approach. candid feedback with constructive suggestions for areas of development whilst praising the excellent practice What we offer: already shown by our practitioners. Together with our continued management observations and rigorous n An Early Years and Childcare Consultant. support and supervision programme I feel the support n Bespoke advice and support to meet your needs our colleagues at Telford and Wrekin have given over (this could include action planning, learning and the last year has empowered our practitioners to take development, safeguarding, welfare requirements and responsibility for their role in any forthcoming Inspections.’ Self Evaluation Form support). n Teaching Assistance training and extended school childcare support. n Pre and post Ofsted inspection support. n Voluntary management committee support. n Pre-registration advice.
Additional packages available: n ITERS, ECERS-3, SACERS, FCERS and SSTEW audits n Bespoke in-house training n Forest School Training
Childminder Induction Programme If you are thinking about becoming a registered childminder, we offer a full training programme including: n Childminder briefing session n CACHE Level 3 home based childcare award n First Aid n Child Protection n Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
Why choose us? n A proven track record n In depth knowledge and experience Contact n Highly qualified, experienced and valued staff Early Years and Childcare Team n Accountability at a local and national level ( 01952 385423 n Value for money @ [email protected]
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Education Business Links - Enterprise Programme
What we offer Why choose us? We offer a number of fun, educational activities and All our activities and challenges have been designed to interactive challenges for all Key Stage 1 and 2 students support the framework for the national curriculum in a fun including: and educational way. Without even knowing, children will n Bug Hunt - suitable for all KS1 and KS2 students. be using a mixture of skills such as maths, team working, Children become ‘bug hunters’ to explore and discover communicating, negotiating, budgeting, designing, problem what bugs and other creatures are living in their school solving and organising skills - to name but a few. grounds. You are provided with a comprehensive pack containing activities, information sheets, worksheets, Many of our activities offer the opportunity to learn real identification keys and competitions; world information where children are given the chance to experience their curriculum and not just learn it. n Maths Trails - suitable for all KS1 and KS2 students. A wonderful and unusual opportunity for children Both the activities and support we offer will encourage to undertake mathematical challenges whilst on an children to solve problems, develop ideas, improve literacy amazing architectural tour of Shrewsbury, Oswestry, and numeracy, raise aspirations and more importantly Ludlow or Telford; recognise opportunity. n Mini Enterprise - suitable for all KS1 and KS2 students. A number of exciting, interactive challenges allowing your students to be enterprising. Students Customer feedback take on the role of a mini entrepreneur and look at challenges and ways to solve them; ‘I thought it was epic fun and informative.’ ‘I learnt it’s good to work as a team.’ n Orange Challenge - suitable for all KS2 students.. ‘I liked how we had a budget and money.’ A very popular, fun and interactive Enterprise activity ‘It was fun, I would like to do it again.’ looking at Fairtrade, where students grow....oranges!; n Superhero Challenge - suitable for all KS1 and KS2 students. Using special ‘superhero design powers’ children will also be developing their creative skills to make and market a new superhero for their favourite comic or magazine; n Sleigh Bridge Building - suitable for all KS1 and KS2 students. A fun and interactive festive Christmas challenge where the children take on the role of Christmas elves and work through a number of problems to design and make a solution for Father Christmas; n The Big Bunny Drop - suitable for all KS1 and KS2 students. An ‘eggciting’ Easter themed activity where the children will become ‘Easter Bunnies’ and save their Easter Eggs from a certain doom!
Contact Education Business Links team ( 01952 388600/381070 @ [email protected]
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Education Business Links - Work Experience
What we offer Customer feedback We provide a health and safety assessment and approval service and a telephone helpline, message and email 'Students and Teachers kept coming up to say how service for enquiries relating to work related learning for much they enjoyed the interview workshop'. education and training providers whose learners undertake 'Thanks for your support following the incident with our a work experience placement. pupil'
Our service includes: n A telephone helpline, message and email service for enquiries relating to work related learning n Preparing students for work experience through an interactive presentation and workshop on finding a placement, employer expectations and staying safe. There is time allocated for a Q and A session for the students n Access to the EBL database of 3,000+ employers who have previously offered a work experience placement (NB. This is T&W data and is updated regularly. T&W do not authorise any copies of data to be held without their permission.) n Assessment of potential work experience placements (block and extended for KS 4 and 5) to ensure they meet requirements in accordance with HSE guidelines Contact www.hse.gov.uk/youngpeople/workexperience Education Business Links team n Annual work experience review upon request ( 01952 388600/382888 [email protected] Please contact us for further information and we will be @ happy to discuss your requirements
Why choose us? n A NEBOSH and Rospa certificate qualified team who have worked for many years with local schools to prepare students and support staff for the work experience programme n The team has an extensive range of experience, knowledge and training to support your school pre, during and post work experience
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Education Services within Telford Town Park Winner of Green Flag Award 2016
What we offer Customer feedback Based at the Town Park the team offer a varied education programme covering primary, secondary, higher and further ‘Telford Town Park is a perfect place to do a wide range education curriculums. of wildlife activities, on sunny days we did net sweeping on the wildflower meadows and on wet days we did Our programme is delivered at Telford Town Park utilising woodland bug hunts in the wooded areas’ our on-site classroom and the outdoor environment. Bronze, RSPB Silver and Gold packages are available and include both facilitated and self-led activities.
Why choose us? n Activities are based in Telford Town Park a Greenflag Park, with 170 hectares of open space in which to learn including formal play, public gardens, adventure golf, aerial ropes course, trails, picnic areas, local nature reserve, lakes and visitor centre. n An indoor classroom, on-site toilets and snack bar. n Organised activities can be supplemented by visits to the play areas including water play in the summer, guided nature and heritage trails and adventure golf course. n Varied and unique site of heritage significance ranging from medieval to industrial archaeology with Local Nature Reserve Wildlife status. n Opportunities to utilise cycle hire as well as team building on the aerial ropes course. n A full day out for schools that will be both educational and fun. n A variety of activities available on the doorstep. n A range of both charged and free activities. n New in 2016/17 - will be working in partnership with the Field Studies Council to offer A Level geography fieldwork opportunities. Contact ( 01952 380036 @ [email protected] www.telfordtownpark.co.uk
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Educational Visits and Journeys
Well organised educational visits provide memorable Why choose us? experiences, develop relationships and have a positive n Essential guidance for all those who have responsibility impact on young people’s learning and development. This for the approval, planning and/or execution of any page gives you access to a number of key documents, CPD educational visit including mandatory Employers opportunities and supporting materials to assist and guide Guidance for those operating under Telford and Wrekin those who manage, approve, lead and help with educational Local Authority visits and journeys. n Support and training for Educational Visit Coordinators, What we offer Visits Leaders and anyone interested in education off site, out of doors, overseas or in a residential setting. We provide a health and safety assessment and approval n This advice and guidance is part of a supplementary service and a telephone helpline, message and email SLA to Telford and Wrekin Health and Safety Advice service for enquiries relating to work related learning for Service to Schools but can be accessed independently education and training providers whose learners undertake or purchased on an event by event or needs basis. a work experience placement.
Our service includes: Customer feedback n A specific SLA which applies to situations where adults acting in the course of their employment have 'I’d say you learn mostly how to interact with different responsibility for; kinds of people and are open to different ideas. You learn how to cooperate well with others who share and n On-site outdoor activities don’t share the same opinions as you’ n Off-site activities and visits n The associated journey and travel arrangements n Residential visits n Visits that involve travelling outside England, Scotland and Wales n Outdoor adventurous activities and field studies in higher risk environments n Guidance and approval process for high risk Contact educational visits and journeys abroad Jo Barnett n Educational Visits Coordinator training and termly ( 01952 382057 network meetings @ [email protected] n Party Leader/Visit leader Training n Telford and Wrekin Outdoor Learning Conference n Courses as requested e.g. Outdoor First Aid and Water Margin Safety Management, outdoor leadership including Shropshire Hills Award and Mountain Leader Award, the John Muir Award and the OEAP Outdoor Learning Cards.
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FutureFocus Careers Service
We support schools to fulfil their statutory duty to provide IAG is an umbrella term and covers a range of activities and young people with impartial Information and Guidance (IAG) interventions that help young people to become more self- so that they may make successful transitions and have reliant and better able to manage their personal and career improved outcomes. development, including learning.
What we offer It includes: n the provision of accurate, up-to-date and objective We support young people to help them make realistic, information on opportunities, progression routes, informed and aspirational decisions about their future. We choices, where to find help and advice, and how to work to reduce their barriers to participation, in line with the access it; Raising the Participation Age. n the provision of advice through activities that help young Activities can include: people to gather, understand and interpret information and apply it to their own situation; n One-to-one careers guidance for all Year 11 students; n the provision of impartial guidance and specialist n Group work sessions to support career choices support to help young people understand themselves which can include post-16 options; UCAS Progress; and their needs, confront barriers, resolve conflicts, Applications; Choosing KS4 options; CV building and develop new perspectives and make progress. Apprenticeships; n Organising careers fairs; n Attending parents’ evenings; Customer feedback n Arranging training provider/college/sixth form talks; (The Adviser) ‘has been very professional and a great n Work with any ages that the school would like a help’ programme delivered to. ‘‘I’ll never forget how much you helped me - you were the only one there to help me when others couldn’t.’ Why choose us? The Education Act 2011 places schools under a duty to secure access to independent and impartial careers guidance for their pupils from September 2012.
Whilst complying with the requirement to secure careers guidance from an external source, schools will be free to make arrangements for careers guidance that fit the needs and circumstances of their students, and will be expected to work, as appropriate, in partnership with external and expert providers.
From September 2013, Ofsted have taken greater account of the quality of careers guidance, and of where students progress on to post-16.
FutureFocus provides support to help maximise the number of positive destinations for students. We use the IAG Quality Contact Standards to support the delivery of high quality IAG, to Tara Foran evaluate the effectiveness of the service and to contribute ( 01952 388656 towards the school meeting their new statutory duty. @ [email protected]
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Multicultural Development Team (MDT)
What we offer Customer feedback MDT provides specialist EAL teaching and assessment, and bilingual TA support. It also provides training, support, ‘We have been very impressed by the quality of the EAL guidance and resources for schools in: teacher who has been working with our school and will n working with pupils who have English as an Additional look out for courses with you in the new academic year.’ Language including those who are newly arrived from ‘Thank you so much for such a productive morning and overseas; for these documents. Thanks for your expert help.’ n raising the attainment of minority ethnic pupils who are at risk of underachieving; n tackling racism and promoting equality of opportunity for all pupils; n the promotion of all pupils’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development.
Why choose us? We provide: n A wealth of experience of working in schools of all kinds across Telford and Wrekin and Shropshire. Over the years we have built up strong long-term working relationships with many local schools; n A wide knowledge of the cultural and linguistic backgrounds of minority ethnic and bilingual pupils; n Expertise in assessing the language skills of pupils learning EAL and providing appropriate advice to school staff; n Expertise in facilitating communication between schools and families; n Knowledge of local school contexts that helps us to tailor our teaching, training and consultancy programmes to suit the needs of their audiences.
There are separate packages available for primary and secondary schools in the form of ‘core’ and ‘bespoke’ offers. Details of all our packages and CPD courses are Contact available on request. Multicultural Development Team ( 01952 380828 For further information visit our website http://mdt.taw.org.uk @ [email protected]
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Newly Qualified Teacher (NQT) Appropriate Body Service
Following legislative changes in September 2013, schools Enhanced Induction Tutor Support Package and Head Teachers have a statutory responsibility to make This is an addition for schools which purchase the prior agreement with an Appropriate Body to quality assure Appropriate Body Package. It comprises up to three places the induction process for their newly qualified teachers. on each of the following courses: n Tutor/mentor initial training event (July or September) We can provide an Appropriate Body Package and n Enhanced Induction Tutor Support Package to support you Termly inducation tutor/mentor update, training and in doing this. network meetings
What we offer As the Appropriate Body, the Local Authority will support all schools by completing the following statutory requirements:
Appropriate Body Package n Registration of NQTs on the National Database n On-line access to the latest LA induction guidance and support materials n Processing, updating and checking assessment forms for certification n Transferring documentation Contact n Recommending extensions when necessary @ [email protected] n Quality Assurance of the induction process n NQT Induction: Welcome to Telford & Wrekin – an event for new NQT starters, held at the beginning of the Autumn Term and repeated at the beginning of the Spring Term for January starters n Annual Celebration Event for NQT completion – held annually each November, an opportunity to celebrate the achievement with those successfully completing the NQT standards
As part of this package, we will also provide email and telephone advice/guidance, support for induction issues, action planning, communicating events and information, and liaison with third parties when required.
Where serious concerns arise over the NQTs progress, a support visit to the school may take place if needed.
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Oakengates Theatre @ The Place
Telford’s largest entertainment venue offers an excellent range of live entertainment including live music, musicals, Customer feedback dance, comedy, children’s shows, special interest talks and 'Just to say thank you for the splendid and helpful a pantomime. The facility offers high quality, professional reception you gave our Funny Bones team when we productions along with a local community facility offering descended on you a week ago Tuesday. I know our schools and local groups the opportunity to showcase their Production guys Crispin and Alan were well impressed work. The venue can host celebration events including by the technical support they received. Martin your awards and ceremonies, exhibitions and conferences. Duty Manager and ours for the evening were friendly and very helpful. And Marie from Marketing was lovely The flexible spaces offer meeting rooms to hire and a in coordinating and assisting with the Sensory tour bespoke art room ideal for targeted groups for creative prior to the show. We hope to do similar again with you activity. in the future.’ What we offer n an excellent facility to promote schools showcases in dance, music and drama n projects include working with professional partners such as the Birmingham Rep and the Shakespeare Schools Festival n children School shows performances by leading artistic companies n pantomime school performances n Meeting rooms to hire n Bespoke art room ideal for targeted creative activity n Volunteer opportunities for students 16+
Why choose us? n We provide a unique facility within the borough with a fully accessible venue including disabled stage access. n The venue is fully accessible and has free Wi-Fi access. n Refreshments can be provided for your event from our in-house catering team. n There is free local parking and we are also well served by a public bus service.
Contact Heather Swanson ( 01952 382371 @ [email protected] www.theplacetelford.com
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Road Safety and Sustainable Transport
The Road Safety & Sustainable Transport Team are n Bike Roadshow – a great way to fill a collapsed professionals who deliver comprehensive road safety timetable day education services to both Primary and Secondary Schools. Our aim is reduce the number of children and young people We also offer Bikeability training to all schools - training is killed or seriously injured on our roads whilst also encouraging aimed at years 5 and above. future generations to lead active and healthy lifestyles. Our Road Safety Officers have a wealth of experience and What we offer our informative and interactive programmes have been both popular and effective in alerting young road users to the Primary School services include: dangers they often, unknowingly face, on a daily basis. n Travel Telford School Network - an annual membership which includes wrap around road safety support. Why choose us? n Stepping Out - pedestrian awareness scheme We offer extensive experience and knowledge provided at aimed at Years 3 & 4. The scheme of work has been affordable and competitive prices. Some of our previous developed to help children develop basic, yet vital, recommendations include: pedestrian skills. n Highway Magazine Excellence Awards - Road Safety n Scooter Training - children are taught basic scooter Scheme of the Year 2012 Winner - A41 Chetwynd handling and control skills through a variety of games Cross Roads and exercises. Open to all years. n Telford & Wrekin Corporate Health and Safety Award n Cycle Skills - kick start a healthy and active lifestyle 2012 - Road Safety Team through the Cycle Skills training course. This course n IHT Road Safety Award 2007 - Reducing All Accidents will teach pupils basic bike handling and control skills. Award Winner - A442 Scheme. Open to all years. Charges Other services include: Costs start from as little as £50. Quotations provided on n Road safety workshops request. Please note that many of these programmes can be n Walking bus support and guidance tailored to meet your exact requirements so please do not n Go ride - cycling in PE hesitate to contact us should you have any queries or requests. n Learn to ride courses n Dr Bike n School travel plans n Modeshift STARS n School crossing patrol service
Secondary school and college services include workshops and presentations on the following subjects: n Pedestrian safety n Cycling safety Contact n Pedestrian behaviours and attitudes Dominic Proud n Being a responsible passenger Group Manager - Transport, Strategy and Road n Seatbelts Safety n Travelling sustainably ( 01952 384697 n Young drivers @ [email protected]
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Safeguarding
Telford & Wrekin Council provides a safeguarding training schools, academies and other settings outside of Telford & service for schools in Telford and Wrekin, other educational Wrekin. Prices are available on application. providers, academies and schools in other local authority areas. This service includes both group and bespoke The team also offers a range of additional bespoke training and consultancy. consultancy support on the processes associated with safeguarding, and also additional bespoke training, ideally Training is provided in line with the requirements of ‘Keeping delivered in the school’s setting. Children Safe in Education’ and all our training includes information on local perspective and pathways. Again, depending on capacity, these additional services can also be offered to schools and settings which do not The training package is led by a small team of staff with many buy into the above package on a pay-as-you-go basis at a years of experience in schools and expertise in safeguarding. supplementary rate. The team is led by an ex local Headteacher, supported by a previous Early Help Team Leader & Education Adviser and an experienced Safeguarding Trainer. Customer feedback ‘Just a quick thanks for feeding back so quickly! What we offer You know from working with us that we want to do Telford & Wrekin Council’s current safeguarding training everything at the very highest level and as a result will package for its schools includes: introduce your suggested changes immediately. n Whole-school basic safeguarding awareness training, I know the staff were very complimentary about the ideally delivered in the school setting (one free session way you approached your work. Many thanks’ per year). Secondary Headteacher n Basic awareness training ‘mop up’ sessions for new ‘Very good training by extremely knowledgeable and staff (one free place per year; courses are normally held experienced trainers. Cathy, Mark and Karen are all half termly). very knowledgeable and approachable’ n A two day training course for newly designated Safeguarding Lead safeguarding leads and governors responsible for safeguarding (one place per school every three years). n Access to an on-line training package (*). n A termly twilight update for designated safeguarding leads on current and local issues. n Access to template policies and support work books for designated safeguarding leads and governors. n Mailings to schools and settings with up to date and relevant safeguarding information.
This basic annual package of support can be purchased by other providers within Telford & Wrekin, including colleges and schools in the private sector, at an annual fee.
Please note: (*) Anyone wishing to access on-line training must have previously received at least one session of face to Contact face training. Sue Dyson ( 01952 380886 Depending on the capacity of the team to deliver, this basic @ [email protected] annual package of support may also be purchased by
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School Governance
What we offer Support can also be provided in areas such as: n Interpretation of government legislation and supporting The School Governance service in Telford and Wrekin has its implementation through advice and the production of an established reputation for providing quality support and guidance; guidance to schools and academies and their governing n The offer of one to one support to new Head Teachers bodies. As part of the School Improvement Service, the on governance matters; School Governance team works closely with Head Teachers n Guidance with aspects of appointing a new Head and governing bodies to ensure they meet their statutory Teacher. duties and strengthen their leadership and management roles.
Our services include: Why choose us? n A governor helpline which offers free advice Regular quality assured processes indicate very high levels including constitutional and statutory aspects of school of satisfaction with the quality of clerking service, governor governance. The help line is available Monday-Friday; training courses and termly briefing sessions for Head n A wide variety of centrally delivered governor training Teachers and Chairs of governing bodies. courses and networking opportunities; n A high quality clerking service which includes the calling of governing body meetings, production of Customer feedback minutes and provision of advice and guidance on the ‘We can’t speak too highly of the tremendous level of conduct of meetings and other governance matters. support Governors and staff received from the Team, This includes managing the process of governor they clearly knew their stuff: they gave practical advice appointments and resignations; and straight forward assistance which enabled us to n Support and advice for appointing a new move from a Requires Improvement School to a Good Headteacher; School with outstanding features at our latest Ofsted.’ n Networking opportunities where governors can show best practice and learn from each other.
To ensure the service is as effective as possible we provide: n Termly training for clerks to develop their skills; n Termly briefing for clerks to develop their expertise in any particular items for each termly agenda; Contact n A suggested termly agenda which reflects any national Gillian Richards and local initiatives; 01952 380808 n Detailed briefing papers to guide and inform discussion ( at meetings; @ [email protected] n Quality assurance of processes and procedures; Shirley Thompson n A coherent and aligned support package to respond to ( 01952 380868 queries raised at meetings. @ [email protected]
To ensure that governance is effective as possible we offer: n A termly Heads and Chairs briefing session to highlight the aspects of the forthcoming agenda, share good practice and facilitate networking; n Specialised training for Chairs; n Induction training for new governors.
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SEND: Behaviour Support Advisory Team (BSAT)
We are an experienced and highly talented group of n A highly experienced valued team. Our cohesive practitioners who work with children and young people aged team has been recruited for their proven abilities and 4-18, TAs, school support workers, teachers and senior professional expertise. We are consistently rated leadership teams. We work to support inclusion in schools by our schools and external agencies as good and and settings in the area of personal and social development, outstanding for our support and challenge, resulting in behaviour for learning and well being. improved pupil outcomes and provision. n Accountability at a local level. Working as What we offer employees of the Local Authority, we are held to account through rigorous monitoring and evaluation We offer a wide range of courses, CPD and conferences of the services we offer – by you, by the council and in the area of Special Educational Needs and /or Disabilities the DFE. This ensures the service you receive is of the SEND, social emotional and behaviour needs, along with highest quality. in school small group interventions to support settings in encouraging engagement and improving learning n Value for money. Our support provides excellent value behaviour. for money. n A proven track record. Successfully operating as We can provide MAPA training for Telford and Wrekin schools a traded service since 2011 we are already working and offer a Nurture Group Network and support package. flexibly to provide a range of high quality bespoke schools improvement consultancy services and CPD Our service aims to work in partnership with children, courses to meet the needs of our schools. school staff, parents/carers and other professionals to n Training to schools to build capacity, equipping staff encourage positive learning communities which meet each with skills and confidence to support SEMH. child’s needs. This will be achieved through a flexible, collaborative, empathetic and child-centred approach rooted in responsive, innovative and inclusive solutions. The advisory services are traded with the Local Authority Customer feedback: schools, non Local Authority schools and other agencies Through the patience and understanding of the inclusion who may wish to access the service. mentor our son has become a lot more self-assured to the point where we believe he has now gained enough Inclusion mentor support for individual pupils can be confidence and belief to be better equipped to cope with accessed through Fair Access Panel – FAP (Headteachers restarting his education in September’. and LA Officers) as a Core Service. Group interventions are Parent accessed via the traded services.
Why choose us? We provide: n A range of experience, knowledge and skills to initially assess children and young people and to provide evidence base intervention. Contact n In depth local knowledge. We know our schools Bethany Seymour well and the strengths of people in them. We have a long standing commitment to improving the outcomes ( 01952 380861 for all children and young people within Telford and @ [email protected] Wrekin and neighbouring authorities. Building on our years of strong partnership working, we are able to establish, lead, support and manage effective local networks.
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 19 Professional, Educational and Pupil Support
SEND: Educational Psychology Service
Educational psychology is concerned with children and young people in educational and early years settings from 0 to 25 years. We can work in a variety of ways to support teachers, parents, and the young people concerned.
What we offer n Assessment and interventions for children and young people who have complex needs within mainstream schools, special schools and Assessment Intervention Centres. n Critical Incident and Bereavement support for schools Contact following a child or adult’s death. Karen Grandison, n Statutory guidance to the Local Authority to contribute Principal Educational Psychologist to the Education Health and Care Plans. ( 01952 385216 n Therapeutic intervention to assist children with social [email protected] emotional and mental health difficulties. @ http://eps.taw.org.uk n Support to children in care and the Virtual School Team. n Training to staff to provide therapeutic interventions. n Support to the Strengthening Families Agenda through joint multidisciplinary working with a range of support agencies and social workers.
Why choose us? n We are a team of educational psychologists trained to Doctoral level who are equipped with the skills to assess children and young people and to provide evidence based interventions. n We provide training to schools to build capacity, providing key staff with the skills to work more effectively with children and young people with learning, social, emotional and mental health difficulties. n We can assist schools with their application for an Education Health and Care Plan. n We can provide assessment within the context of the school environment to inform CAMHS with more supporting data in relation to the child’s difficulties. n We provide a wide range of training for teaching staff and other agencies such as foster carers in relation to complex needs and the impact of early developmental trauma. We have expertise in a range of therapies and use these skills to support anxious pupils who struggle to manage in their educational setting.
20 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools Professional, Educational and Pupil Support
SEND: Learning Support Advisory Teachers (LSAT)
The Learning Support Advisory Team, which includes professional expertise. We are consistently rated by our qualified Early Years Teachers, works with children and schools and external agencies as good or outstanding young people aged 0 to 18, teaching assistants and school for our support and challenge, resulting in improved support workers, teachers, and senior leadership staff. pupil outcomes and provision; n Accountability at a local level. Working as employees We offer a wide variety of courses, CPD and conferences of the Local Authority, we are held to account through along with in-school group interventions to support settings rigorous monitoring and evaluation of the services we in encouraging and improving learning behaviour and raising offer - by you, our schools, by the Council and the DFE. attainment. We are also providers of Preparation for HLTA This ensures the service you receive is of the highest and Level 5 Leadership in conjunction with Best Practice quality; Network. n Value for money. In comparison with other providers, we believe that our support provides excellent value for What we offer money; The Learning Support Advisory Team consists of: n A proven track record. Successfully operating as a n Team Leader; traded service since September 2001, we are already working flexibly to provide a range of high quality n Advisory teachers with specialisms in Dyslexia, Autism bespoke schools improvement consultancy services and Speech, Language and Communication needs; and CPD courses to meet the needs of our schools. n Visual stress/print sensitivity screening; n Dyscalculia; n Developmental Co-ordination Difficulties (Dyspraxia). Customer feedback ‘We are more than happy with the work the LSAT The LSAT Team offers Early Years observations and EY completes with our school. They have managed some of planning and monitoring of intervention programmes, school our more challenging pupils well, giving clear and helpful based initial assessments and reviews. The LSAT Team also reports with plenty of advice and resources to explore’. provides EHCP reviews, language screening and specialist assessments. In addition we offer GSCE Examination Access Arrangements testing.
We aim to work in partnership with children, school staff, parents/carers and other professionals to encourage positive learning communities which meet each child’s needs. This will be achieved through a flexible, collaborative, empathetic and child-centred approach rooted in responsive, innovative and inclusive solutions.
Why choose us? We provide: n In depth local knowledge. We know our schools well and the strengths of people in them. We have a long standing commitment to improving the outcomes for all children and young people within Telford and Wrekin and neighbouring authorities. Building on our years of Contact strong partnership working, we are able to establish, Bethany Seymour lead, support and manage effective local networks; ( 01952 380861 n A highly experienced valued team. Our cohesive [email protected] team has been recruited for their proven abilities and @
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 21 Professional, Educational and Pupil Support
Sport Development
Did you know that the number of people in England who n All schools and community sports coaches are recruited regularly take part in sport is rising? via the Telford & Wrekin Council recruitment procedure. n Minimum of NVQ level 2 standard, which will include Sport can and does have a positive impact on individuals, 1st4sport Level 2 Certificate in the Principles and our communities and wider society. It has also has a Preparations for Coaching Sport & 1st4sport Level 2 positive effect in the school environment. Award in Multi-Skills Development in Sport n Sessions must be thoroughly enjoyable, challenging What we offer and suitable for different age groups. Sport & Physical Activity Sessions n All sessions will be inclusive/adaptable to varying ages n Athletics n Tennis and abilities. n Basketball n Multi Skills n All sessions will be delivered by qualified coaches in that chosen sport. n Table Tennis n Golf n Fair play will be respected at all times. n Tag Rugby n Handball n Bespoke activities can be developed with you to meet n Rounder’s n Dodgeball your requirements. n Volleyball n Football n Junior Gym n Equipment Hire* Why choose us? Our team consists of a number of highly qualified and We recognise the importance of offering a range of sport experienced sports & physical activity professionals. We are & physical activity sessions in all schools. We can help extremely passionate about sport & physical activity due to you use sport & physical activity to educate children in a the impact and the benefits it can bring to pupils making a variety of subjects. We provide a combined practical and significant impact on the school. educational based sport & physical activity sessions to primary schools, secondary schools & colleges. Due to n Health - Vast health benefits; it can reduce the risk of major our Sport Development background and strong links within illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes and cancers, as the community we can advise and help schools up-skill well as helping reduce childhood obesity. Regular physical their current workforce via NGB qualifications or by peer activity and sport teaches children the virtues of adopting a mentoring. We can also help schools and colleges with healthy lifestyle and taking care of their bodies. funding applications and offer advice and guidance on all aspects of school sport. We can also help schools and n Attainment - Research shows that more active colleges create strong school club links with local sports children are likely to perform better academically and clubs in the area. achieve higher grades than those who are less active. n Wellbeing - Increases a child’s self-confidence and *Equipment hire leads to higher self-esteem. This has a significant We have a range of equipment which you can hire, impact on children’s emotional and mental health. including: n Social - leads to higher social inclusion, and a higher n Inflatable football pitch ability to forge friendships n Speed shot (an inflatable football game which records n Transferrable Skills – Vital life skills such as; Increase the speed of your shot) team working, determination, goal setting, practice, n Dance mats (undercover area required) patience and persistence. n Portable floodlights n Bubble footballs Contact Marvyn Joseph Standards & Values ( 01952 382332 n Enhanced DBS check @ [email protected]
22 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools Professional, Educational and Pupil Support
School Performance Teaching and Learning Support
What we offer n We have a proven track record of supporting schools in terms of their pupil outcomes and positive Ofsted n We are a dedicated, experienced and highly qualified judgements. team of teaching professionals, offering a range of n support to schools - both across the curriculum and We consistently strive for quality and excellence, through all ages and phases, from the EYFS to Key embedding sustainable school improvement models Stage 5. based upon careful analysis of current trends in education at both national and local level. n We offer a comprehensive programme of CPD courses throughout the year, together with bespoke consultancy support, which responds to the specific needs of schools and to the local, regional and national agenda. Contact Using secure knowledge of the contexts and challenges Sue Dyson facing schools we provide a professional commitment ( 01952 380886 to improving school performance and pupil outcomes. @ [email protected] As a team we also work for the following outside agencies: Ofsted, AQA, CEOP, National STEM Centre, West Midlands Mathematics Hub, Hodder, The Severn Teaching School Alliance, The Salop Teaching Alliance, The Marches Training School, The Hereford Teaching School Alliance, Chester University, CLEAPSS, SWGfL (360 safe), WMNet, Keele University Science Learning Centre.
This external work provides an invaluable opportunity for team members to be kept up to date with any new developments and policy changes, both regionally and nationally. These insights are used to inform all our training and consultancy work with local schools, ensuring they are best placed to meet any challenges.
To discuss, arrange or book bespoke consultancy sessions, please send an email to the appropriate specialist, or contact Sue Dyson (contact details below).
Bespoke consultancy is charged at £250 per session (for up to 3 hours – morning, afternoon or twilight) for Telford & Wrekin Council Local Authority schools and £300 for academies and for schools outside of Telford and Wrekin.
Delegate fees for our programme of CPD courses are detailed in the School Improvement CPD booklet.
Why choose us? n We are a successful team of teaching and learning specialists who work flexibly to provide a range of high quality, tailored school improvement.
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 23 Professional, Educational and Pupil Support
Telford & Wrekin Music Service
What we offer Customer feedback We offer music lessons, music workshops (including Garageband on iPads) and music curriculum teaching in ‘The service offered by Telford & Wrekin Music is school settings. Lessons can take place both during and wonderful. My daughter has developed fantastic after school and are open to all young people in Telford. relationships with her teachers and is continually inspired by them. The Out of School Groups are a place There is something for everyone from small group lessons to have lots of fun making music whilst providing great on a wide range of instruments to whole class teaching. We opportunities to enhance skills.’ also offer a 6 week early years music programme. Of course all of our workshops can be tailored for your needs.
Our tutors are as important as the music that young people learn which is why we have over 20 professional musicians, educators and performers working with us, all of whom are enhanced DBS checked.
Why choose us? We provide: n Activities carried out by qualified musicians all enhanced DBS checked; n A wealth of musical experience working with schools; n Flexible workshop packages on a range of instruments and themes; n Music curriculum support carried out by qualified music teachers.
Contact Tracy Hall ( 01952 380986 @ [email protected] www.telfordandwrekinmusic.co.uk
24 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools Professional, Educational and Pupil Support
Telford Ice Rink
Telford Ice Rink boasts a unique facility, located in the £250m Southwater complex. It has a varied programme of activities suitable for all ages and is ideal for local schools to attend regularly or as an end of term treat.
Suitable for groups of all abilities, it is a fun and exciting place to socialise and gain confidence through learning to skate.
What we offer n Ice skating lessons n Ice hockey lessons n School visits n Tots on ice n Discos n Public skating n Stability aids for hire on all public skating sessions for any novice skaters n Telford Soft Play which is for under 8’s including ball pits, tunnels and climbing frames to keep little ones entertained. n A spectator gallery that seats up to 700 (1000+ standing) n Cafe Go - serving drinks and refreshments Contact n Free wifi Matthew Newens Why choose us? ( 0845 155 9966 [email protected] n The ice pad is just under Olympic size at 56m by 26m @ allowing plenty of space for students to glide around. n There is ample parking and a coach stop located next to the ice rink. n Telford Ice Rink is also the home of Telford Tigers Ice Hockey team who play in the English Premier League (so school visits can also include meeting the team on request) n This icy destination promises entertainment for students and teachers offering a fun way to keep in shape
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 25 Professional, Educational and Pupil Support
Telford Snowboard and Ski Centre
Telford Snowboard and Ski Centre has been in place for over 40 years and comes with a wealth of experienced staff who are passionate about snow sports. As the majority of staff are from a snow sports background they have the knowledge and experience to ensure safe learning.
Customers range from 3 years to 87 years and start learning at any point within this range. It’s never too late to start!
Schools across the region attend the slope weekly, monthly or once a year to refresh students for a school ski trip or as part of their curriculum activities. It’s healthy, engaging and fun.
What we offer Contact n Learning to Ski or Snowboard Robin Glover n Adrenaline Tubing ( 01952 382688 n Tobogganing and tots donuts @ [email protected]
The centre provides lessons for ICAN2 disability groups, schools, clubs, businesses, friends and family who regularly return to better their skills or introduce new people to the sport.
Why choose us? Instructors are experienced at teaching a wide range of customer abilities, adapting technique to meet the requirements of the individual or group. Our facilities include: n Outdoor, all weather 85 metre dry ski slope n Outdoor, all weather 35 metre nursery slope n Alpine Lodge with capacity for up to 60 persons
26 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools Professional, Educational and Pupil Support
Youth Employment Support (YES)
The YES team offers high quality and flexible tailored sessions designed to help young people gain transferable Customer feedback life skills in team working, communication and employment. ‘Great team, these guys are supportive and really know At the same time we will help to develop self-confidence, their stuff’ self-esteem, resilience and conflict resolution skills. ‘Lovely people, learnt some new skills. Would Learners are challenged, engaged and supported recommend to anyone’. throughout a range of practical activities.
What we offer We can offer workshops in employability skills (CV building, application forms, and interview techniques for example) as well as enterprise activities which will be tailored to meet your learning requirements.
Why choose us? n Activities are carried out by experienced and qualified staff that are DBS checked; n Competitive rates for services provided; n Flexible to meet your needs; n We aim to make our sessions interactive, fun and interesting; n Programmes align to Ofsted and the CBI Framework.
Contact Mark Purcell ( 01952 388830 @ [email protected]
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 27 ICT and Finance
Agresso Financial Management System and Support
What we offer n If the school chooses to use the Council’s appointed bank then the bank account will be managed as part of Agresso is Telford & Wrekin Council’s financial management this service; system and is a powerful, flexible and fully integrated system n which enables every aspect of your school or academy The system will account for VAT on expenditure and accounts to be held in one place. income; n All processes are subject to and in accordance with the It gives you the tools to manage your own finances, Council’s Internal Audit requirements. including easy and comprehensive reporting at your fingertips. From budgetary management and control to electronic authorisation and reporting, Agresso helps education establishments achieve great things when it comes to accounts.
The system consists of: n General ledger with commitment accounting - for monitoring and reporting; n Purchase ledger and full Purchase to Pay solutions - for placing orders and paying suppliers; n Sales ledger with sales invoicing and billing - to invoice customers for income; n Planning module for budgeting and forecasting; n Online approval including invoices.
This service includes: n A dedicated, professional support team who are available Monday to Friday 8.30am-5pm to assist with Contact queries and provide advice; Alex Price n System security and back-ups to give peace of mind; ( 01952 383717 n A comprehensive training programme for all users and @ [email protected] regular update training; n Buying and procurement advice and guidance in conjunction with the Council’s Procurement Team.
Why choose us? n We offer a professional, dedicated support team who will assist with reports to meet school reporting requirements including consistent financial reporting and capitation; n The system is available to users 24/7; n The Agresso Support Team liaise regularly with the Telford & Wrekin Schools Finance team to ensure the needs of schools are met; n The system is continually reviewed and developed;
28 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools ICT and Finance
ICT Support Services
What we offer Charges My team provides full ICT support and services to over Charges are based on your business size and dependent on 90 schools, Telford & Wrekin Council, Parish and Town the level of support required - quotations can be provided Councils, the Voluntary Sector and Small Businesses; on request. working in partnership to provide reliable, efficient and value for money ICT. Customer feedback We take the worry away from ICT… Telford & Wrekin support is massive to us! They All systems and management is done within our data supported the opportunity to have the latest technology centres so there is very little or no need to have any in the classroom, allowing us to show exactly the same equipment at your organisations site. information which appears on the devices to the AV Boards. We have up to 30 devices in a class accessing n We offer a flexible, secure and reliable service to deliver the internet without any problems. The connectivity has your ICT support requirements. been brilliant, enabling the students to learn without n Access to your resources anytime, anywhere and on worrying about ICT working. any device. Rob Pritchard, Business and Marketing Manager, The Education Development Service n Options to share resources between organisations. n Easy access and functionality to your ICT service With the concerted support network in place that Telford through our Self Service Portal. & Wrekin offer, the fragmented bits of software, hardware and Cloud are brought together to ensure everything works Why choose us? seamlessly. The great thing is that we focus on delivering education, using up to date tools that Telford & Wrekin Our ICT Managed Service currently supports 30,000 provide, without having to worry about making it work. customers and since 2012 we have continued to grow Ercall Wood Technology Secondary School outside of Telford and Wrekin. Headteacher – Chay Davies n We understand the challenges you have and we work in partnership with you to ensure ICT is an enabler for your organisation. n We push the boundaries of technology and pride ourselves in working with the right partners and suppliers to drive and deliver the best and cost effective solutions for your business based on your visions. n We can help you shape your ICT strategy to maximise the value of your current equipment, and to enhance your organisation with appropriate technological innovations. n Our services are fully customisable for software and branding with flexible design, implementation and support. n We were in the top 10 for best use of Cloud by the UK IT Industry 2013, and a BETT Awards Finalist 2015 and 2018. Contact ICT Services ( 01952 383353 @ [email protected]
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 29 ICT and Finance
Schools Finance Team
The Schools Finance team offers a full and comprehensive n Maternity insurance; financial advice and support service for schools. Our n Theft and vandalism insurance. standard and enhanced service packages offer a wide range of options to enable you to select the service package Why choose us? which best suits your individual needs. We offer experienced, dedicated staff, most of whom have Within the standard service package we will: offered financial support to schools for many years. n Assist with the preparation of your annual school budget; We support all the maintained schools in Telford and Wrekin n Prepare an establishment budget supporting your overall and several academies and the traded service benefits from school budget; the strong links and information exchange within Telford & n Prepare a three year budget forecast; Wrekin core services, for example developing the school’s n Prepare termly budget monitoring statements; formula and ongoing discussions with the Schools Forum. n Provide advice and support to schools to ensure compliance with the Schools Financial Value Standard We are also able to use our ready access to all the other (SFVS); elements of Telford & Wrekin support services to schools (payroll, Agresso, HR etc) to offer a seamless service informed n Provide financial advice and information; by in-depth knowledge of the school’s circumstances. n Help with the interpretation of financial statements and reports; We aim to develop and maintain strong relationships with n Assist with the closure of accounts; the schools we support so that we can offer bespoke n Prepare a financial statement for inclusion in the School services to suit every individual school. profile; n Provide advice on the use of financial monitoring systems supported by Telford & Wrekin Council; Customer feedback n Advise on the setting up and amendment of cost ‘We always receive the highest level of service from staff centres, accounts and budgets on the Financial who are extremely professional and knowledgeable.’ Management system supported by Telford & Wrekin Council; n Advise on compliance with Education Funding regulations; n Provide financial induction and briefing for newly appointed head teachers and administrators; n Review extended activities plans; n Provide access to the Schools Finance Team help-line.
Enhanced Service Packages We offer specific enhanced service packages, which can include one or more of the following; monthly reporting, finance committee attendance, benchmarking, budget recovery planning, support for the SFVS, preparation of financial information, support for extended school Contact activities, training and recruitment advice, additional data and reporting and any other ad-hoc work. To complement Tim Davis Telford & Wrekin’s general insurance service, we also offer ( 01952 383756 three schemes for schools: @ [email protected] n Supply insurance;
30 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools HR and Business Support
Communication Support
Schools can find themselves at the eye of a media storm - if Why choose us? you're in this situation who are you going to turn to, leaving We provide: you to get on and run your school? n Many years experience and an in-depth knowledge, What we offer including helping many schools through a media crisis; n A team of professional officers who have a range of Our experience in Telford and Wrekin shows that schools qualifications including Chartered Institute of Marketing, are thrust into an often unwelcome spotlight with local, Institute of Direct Marketing and Chartered Institute of regional and national press or social media at any time. Public Relations; That’s why we’ve developed a special crisis communications n A wide range of contacts and effective partnership package for schools. working with many local media organisations, businesses and community groups and having the This will give you reassurance of round the clock advice ability and channels to promote messages borough on issues that can have a significant reputational impact wide. for you. For an annual fee, we will provide up to 5 hours dedicated crisis support, covering: n direct media relations with traditional press; n responding to issues/criticism on social media channels; n advice and assistance on written communications with parents relating to the issue in question; n where appropriate, a member of the council’s press team may attend the school to help deal with a given issue but this will depend on the nature of the incident.
We also offer a range of professional services that can be tailored to meet your needs and improve the effectiveness Contact of communication and engagement with your school's Nigel Newman community. These services are charged separately and 01952 382403 include: ( [email protected] n Planning and delivering communications campaigns @ including web, print, social media and evaluation; n Advice and audits of your social media and digital offer; n Graphic design for print and web services, including video animation; n An advertising agency service including media buying.
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 31 HR and Business Support
Emergency Planning
Since emergencies can occur without warning, pre-planning is necessary. An urgent need for rapid decisions, shortage Customer feedback of time and lack of resources and trained personnel can lead ‘The emergency planning exercise was of great value to chaos during an emergency. to The Bridge as it has enabled us to enhance our emergency planning processes and procedures What we offer ensuring that our response to any emergency event is We can help you prepare as thoroughly as possible for rapid and organised. A very valuable exercise.’ unforeseen emergency situations. We understand the utmost priority of protecting children, staff and other people and property and we offer: n Guidance and support with completing the emergency plan for schools template; n Bespoke exercises to validate schools emergency plans; n Assistance with informing children how to respond in an emergency; n Promoting community resilience.
Why choose us? We provide: n Support and guidance from experienced, professional emergency planners; n The benefit of you being better prepared to respond to an emergency in your school or involving your pupils; n Bespoke exercises which focus on your school, including filming at the school with relevant staff. Contact Civil Resilience team ( 01952 381960 @ [email protected]
32 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools HR and Business Support
Employment Services
What we offer Why choose us? We provide a comprehensive, experienced and professional We offer a knowledgeable team with extensive experience of addition to your school by providing contract administration working with and supporting schools. This means that we for your employees, together with payroll services. can offer a professional, proactive and flexible service priding itself on the relationship that is built up with each customer. Our approach is a personalised one with access to named We keep things simple whilst always providing a contacts who are able to visit you when required. We aim to comprehensive, accurate method of processing your payroll build strong working relationships, being guided by you as and contractual requirements. to how we can best support you. We will: n Provide support and guidance to new administrators We also offer associated services such as the Human about the operation of our procedures; Resources Advisory Service, Occupational Health and our n Place adverts on WMJobs website free of charge; On-Line Learning Interactive Environment (OLLIE). n Complete mandatory pre-employment checks for teachers (i.e. QTS and checks to ensure that they are not prohibited from working with children); Customer feedback n Provide a facility for on-line DBS checks; ‘Can I just say how much I have enjoyed and n Process contracts of employment based on your own appreciated having HR support that has increased templates for new starters; credibility, accessibility and makes me feel better n Process any amendments to contracts necessary to supported.... it has been a pleasure to work with you.’ reflect changes in employment contracts during the course of employment; n Be responsible for accurate and timely payment of
salaries via BACS; n Calculate occupational and statutory payments such as sickness, maternity, adoption or paternity entitlements; n Make statutory and third party deductions; n Apply complex pension calculations (complying with Pension Regulator expectations) and comply with Auto- Enrolment Regulations; n Process starter and leaver documentation to meet legal
and HMRC requirements, e.g. P45s, P60s; n Meet year-end HMRC deadlines; n Provide information to assist you in the completion of Teachers’ Pension Scheme Annual Service Return and the Schools Workforce Census; Contact n Provide standard reports such as establishment lists, Julie Pugh (Employment Services and Payroll) sickness reports and pre-payment reports. Further reports can be tailored to meet your needs; ( 01952 383636 n Provide paper payslips if you wish; @ [email protected] n Respond to requests for information regarding Cath Haseley (Employment Services and mortgages, benefits or similar queries; Contracts) n Provide Helpline advice to your employees relating to ( 01952 383511 salary payment queries. @ [email protected]
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 33 HR and Business Support
Graphic Design
What we offer The Graphic Design team offers a high quality cost-effective creative design service to meet your needs. Our dedicated team of three highly skilled, professional designers are experienced in delivering a wide range of work, from branding services, prospectus to video editing, captioning and animation.
We can create artistic and intelligent graphic design solution for the following: n Printed literature such as reports; leaflets; newsletters; flyers; stationery etc; n Electronic environment including websites; apps; content rich online documents; ebooks, interactive forms etc; n Branding including logos and corporate identities and enforcing brand awareness; n Illustration (pictorial and diagrammatic); n Signage such as directional, informational, interactive digital signage, shop front, window graphics, totems etc; n Videos production, captioning and editing; Contact n Animations and presentations; Jason Edwards n Charts and infographics; ( 01952 382428 n Maps; @ [email protected] n Photo editing and retouching; n Vehicle liveries; n Displays and exhibitions.
Why choose us? We provide: n Competitive rates; n A quick turnaround; n Professional products.
34 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools HR and Business Support
Health and Safety
Telford and Wrekin Council’s Health and Safety team consist Health and Safety training for schools includes of qualified health and safety professionals with extensive n An Introduction to health and safety experience and knowledge. Our approach is hands on and n The Governors role in health and safety we can provide services at a level to suit the educational n premise. Our pragmatic approach and risk based School Based Risk assessment workshop solutions are in keeping with the principles of sensible and n Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessor proportionate risk management. n Outdoor playground equipment n Legionella awareness. What we offer n Health and safety for Building managers We are able to provide a variety of services due to the depth n Construction and Contractors of knowledge and experience within the health and safety n Event Safety team that will assist head teachers and governors to comply n Investigating Accidents & Incidents with their legal responsibilities for health and safety. n Managers Role in Health & Safety In order to assist with you maintaining the appropriate levels n Managers Role in Health & Safety (refresher) of health and safety, we will advise on health and safety standards by carrying out an annual advisory site visit to Charges provide professional advice and a documented report on the findings from your annual health and safety audit check. Charges are dependent on the level of support required – quotations can be provided on request. We can offer assistance with the investigation of serious and notifiable accidents and incidents and if necessary support your school when having to liaise with the Health and Safety Customer Feedback Executive and other statutory bodies. 'It was by far the best H&S training I’ve ever received; thanks.' To assist schools, we will be creating a new SharePoint 'the information I received was invaluable' site. This site will offer guidance on a wide range of health & 'It was actually a pleasure to attend this H&S course – safety issues and safety alerts that could arise in educational thank you for making it interesting and useful' establishments. This will be updated on a regular basis, and will help schools in developing robust safety management systems, risk assessments and keep up to date with health and safety legislation.
We provide a wide range of health and safety training Providing health and safety information and training helps you to ensure that the people who work at your school know how to work safely and without risks to health. It will help you meet your legal duty to protect the health and safety of your employees assist with developing a positive health and safety culture, where safe and healthy working becomes second nature to everyone.
Telford and Wrekin Council’s Health and Safety team provide a program of health and safety training for schools in a variety of ways; courses are delivered on pre-arranged dates Contact and are accessed via ‘Classroom Connect’ ( 01952 383627 @ [email protected]
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 35 HR and Business Support
Information Security, Data Protection and Freedom of Information
What we offer Why choose us? We offer professional support for schools to help implement We provide: fit for purpose information governance arrangements/ n Value for money by providing professional expertise in a policies within the school ensuring the necessary safeguards service that is not easily obtained in the private sector. are in place for, and appropriate use of, school, pupil and n Support to help schools implement the correct personal information. These areas include: framework of information governance which will help protect them from potential fines of up to £17,500,000. Freedom of Information (FOI) n Dedicated officers who are fully qualified and have an n Process any FOI request the school may receive; in-depth knowledge in providing this service to schools. n Support the school in writing an FOI policy; n Provide training/awareness on all aspects of FOI; GDPR n Assist the school in creating a fit for purpose model This legislation replaces the Data Protection Act 1998 and publication scheme. governs how organisations manage personal data of living identifiable individuals. This statement details how Telford & Data Protection Act 2018 (DPA) Wrekin Council will comply. For further information please visit www.twccommercial.co.uk/commercialservices/ n Provide the same services as detailed above for FOI but homepage/41/information_governance relevant to DPA n Review the schools ICO data protection registration and benchmark against other schools Customer feedback n Undertake a data audit which reviews the schools ‘The data audit was immeasurable both in potential processes against DPA requirements financial savings and ensuring compliance with both n Review CCTV arrangements legislative requirements and best practice. Data protection n Support the school in writing a Privacy Policy and/or is a very specialised area of management which Social Media Policy undergoes regular changes, periodic audits such as this n Provide Data Protection Officer (DPO) services are extremely helpful and in the long term save time’. Mount Gilbert School Information security n Assist the school in writing an Information Security Policy; n Review the use of ICT including cloud services, use of removable media and disposal.
Records management n Assist the school in writing a Records Management Policy; n Review the schools information asset register and/or support them in creating one; n Review information sharing arrangements. Contact Rob Montgomery ( 01952 383103 @ [email protected]
36 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools HR and Business Support
Insurance Services
What we offer The Insurance Service provides advice and guidance to support schools in their management of operational risk through the purchase of insurance.
The risks to which schools are exposed are many and varied. The insurance package offers a suite of covers for insurable risks as well as offering a ‘pay as you go’ facility for ad-hoc risks. Claims handling is included within the package.
Insurance Package n School Buildings and Contents (excluding Theft - Contact available through Schools Finance Team). Paul Meakin n Employers & Public/Products Liability. ( 01952 383739 n Liability arising from publications. @ [email protected] n Motor insurance (vehicle details required). n Engineering insurance for items of plant (e.g. boilers and lifts). n Claims handling service. n Claims information for your school’. n Insurance advice. n Claims surgery (on request).
Pay As You Go n Theft and vandalism scheme (an in-house scheme administered by our schools finance colleagues). n School trips/travel insurance. n Hirers liability (available to anyone who hires your facilities but has no insurance).
Why choose us? We provide: n A local friendly service; n Easy communication links; n Professional and knowledgeable staff; n Flexible service tailored to your needs; n Ability to respond quickly.
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 37 HR and Business Support
Internal Audit
Our team are dedicated and experienced internal auditors who have the skills and knowledge to add value throughout Customer feedback the audit process. All of us are professionally qualified and ‘Auditors were very helpful’ work to professional standards. ‘All Auditors improve the quality of the monitoring and reporting procedures and prevent complacency.’ We are also subject to regular independent review where we ‘Provides pointers for future improvements.’ have been consistent in achieving a high rating. ‘The Governors are very interested now and want to check procedures are improved, so good audit.’ Therefore by appointing us you can be assured that in ‘Useful recommendations which are realistic based on addition to complete independence and subsequently a the resources we have at the current time.’ greater level of assurance, you will receive a quality service at a reasonable price.
What we offer Our experienced school auditors can: n Provide advice and support regarding schools Financial Regulations, policies and procedures; n Provide assurance to the Headteacher and Governors over operational processes and controls; n Carry out fraud compliance work and investigations where necessary; n Review grant claims including terms and conditions; n Carry out ad-hoc reviews as requested; n Undertake school fund or voluntary fund audits.
Why choose us? Contact We provide: Tracey Drummond n Fully qualified auditors; ( 01952 383105 n Experience in auditing schools; @ [email protected] n Experience in schools legislation, local government requirements and the requirements of the S151 Officer; n Experience in fraud investigations; n Awareness of other departments within the Council with internal contacts to assist the school in all areas of their business; n Training in areas such as record keeping for school fund, breakfast and after school clubs and imprest/ petty cash accounts; n Competitive prices.
38 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools HR and Business Support
Legal Services
What we offer We provide legal support and services to the Council as a whole (and to some external bodies), advising and assisting it in relation to its statutory functions. Areas in which we provide a legal service for the Local Education Authority include: n Nuisance and disturbances on school premises; n Contract disputes; n Land and property related issues; n Corporate parenting and safeguarding issues; n Debt recovery issues; n Employment/Personnel disputes and issues; n Special educational needs; n Advising and updating the LEA upon changes in legislation and implementation in practice; n Admissions/Exclusions; n Non-school attendance and employment of children issues; n Requests for disclosure within court proceedings; n Information law (in liaison with the Information Governance team); Contact n Negligence claims (in liaison with the Insurance team). Sharon Tipping ( 01952 383244 Expertise is available within the team which covers most [email protected] legal subjects. Non strategic areas in which schools may @ wish to seek advice from Legal Services include: n Questions of parental responsibilities and rights; n Problems with contracts, such as photocopier lease and service agreements; n Trespass and trespassers; n Debt collection; n Property issues, such as the letting of school buildings.
Why choose us? Our lawyers are ideally placed to advise Telford and Wrekin schools as they have direct knowledge of the work carried out in schools and understand the challenges and changes facing the Council as a whole and schools within its area.
Also, Legal Services is accredited with the Law Society’s practice management standard, Lexcel.
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 39 HR and Business Support
Online Learning Interactive Environment (Ollie)
OLLIE is Telford & Wrekin Council’s learning management We would be keen to discuss your learning needs and system and is the total platform for our learning and how we can support you to maximise the benefits of using development offer. blended learning through OLLIE. We aim to assist you to deliver learning in a place, at a pace and a time to suit the OLLIE will allow you to put your learners at the heart of needs of your learners and your organisation. everything that matters. You can personalise learning through individual learning plans and access a variety of learning solutions through Ollie that will ensure compliance and drive important business outcomes. You can also access simple reports to enable you to manage the learning.
Depending on the access you have (based on what you buy into) you can access: n Over 300 eLearning courses n Over 250 face to face events
You will now be able to book all of your face to face training through Ollie, including face to face training offered by: Contact n Safeguarding Children Board Rebeccca Hirst n School Improvement Service ( 01952 383919 n Talking Training @ [email protected] n Telford Training Services http://telford.learningpool.com/ n Health & Safety training
The most commonly used eLearning courses on offer are: n Child Sexual Exploitation n Female Genital Mutilation n Child Protection n Prevent n Keeping Children Safe in Education n eSafety Awareness n Fire Safety Awareness
Based on helpful feedback from schools we have reviewed our support and pricing offers to give you the flexibility to buy into a package that suits the needs of your school. We now have offers for support and bundles around eLearning course completions that can be paid at the start of the financial year. The bundles have been created based on the patterns of course completions we have seen from existing school users.
40 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools HR and Business Support
Occupational Health
We’re here to help you ensure that your school provides a healthy and safe working environment by the provision of advice and guidance to enable your employees to maximise their attendance.
What we offer Pragmatic occupational health advice can assist you to ensure the health of employees, and others, is protected whilst at work.
The following occupational health services are offered: n Pre-employment health assessments, ensuring fitness for role; n Advice on health problems affecting performance and/ or attendance at work (via management referral); n Advice on the interaction between health and work and how individual situations might be managed; n Advice on rehabilitation/return to work following a period of sickness absence; n Medical advice on ill health retirements; n Assistance with carrying out specific statutory risk Contact assessments for individuals where there is a health- Andy Griffiths related component; 01952 383501 n Advice on adjustments that could be made to allow ( people with disabilities to commence or continue in @ [email protected] employment; n Input to occupational health needs assessments for service areas.
Why choose us? We provide: n Services provided by our own Occupational Health Advisors and, where necessary, an Occupational Health Physician. Employee counselling is provided by an independent counselling team; n A bespoke flexible response that offers practical advice at a price that won’t break the bank.
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 41 HR and Business Support
Human Resources Advisory Support
What we offer n HR Consultancy Services – for example expert advice on changes to terms and conditions of employment, We provide a comprehensive and professional HR Advisory incorporating changes to pay structures. Service that will provide you with support and guidance in all n aspects of people management. Drafting reports and action plans on issues such as Gender Pay Gap. Our approach is a personalised one with access to a dedicated HR Advisor who will visit you as and when We also offer other associated services such as required. They will work with you to identify how best they Employment Services (contracts and payroll) and can support you, taking into account the priorities for your Occupational Health and there are significant benefits in school and your current HR challenges. This enables them combining these services. Details of these services are to quickly develop a strong working relationship with you – detailed within this brochure. something we pride ourselves on. Why choose us? We provide the following services as part of our standard Our approach is a personalised one which is achieved through package: the provision of an experienced and dedicated HR Advisor n Professional and pragmatic advice, delivered over the for your school. We aim to be an extension of your team and phone, via email or face to face, covering the full range this co-operative approach is one that is valued by our existing of employment matters, including: customers and enables us to fully understand your needs and n absence management, capability, discipline, support you in achieving the aims of your school. grievance, management of change processes (re- structures, TUPE transfers, changes to terms and We take great pride in providing a high quality, supportive conditions) service and having a very strong working relationships with n support with employment matters arising out of our customers. We are dedicated and committed to going Academisation. the extra mile and know this is valued through the positive feedback we have received from our existing customers. n Safer recruitment advice n Attendance at all formal meetings, including Senior HR attendance for all Appeals and more complex matters. Customer feedback n Access to a suite of Trade Union negotiated HR Model ‘Can I just say how much I have enjoyed and Policies, Guidance Notes and template documents appreciated having HR support that has increased that are regularly reviewed and updated in line with credibility, accessibility and makes me feel better legislation. supported.... it has been a pleasure to work with you.’ n Regular communication with you on national policy changes and forthcoming legislation relevant to your school, including a termly newsletter. n Advice regarding exit strategies and negotiating terms on your behalf.
The nature of employment work means that we can also offer additional services on a pay-as-you-go basis: Contact These include, but are not limited to: Rebecca Hulsmeier, HR Consultant n HR Skills Training– This can cover the full range of ( 01952 383601 people management topics, such as Safer Recruitment, [email protected] Disciplinary, Capability and Absence Management. @ n Conducting independent employment-related investigations on behalf of the School
42 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools HR and Business Support
Procurement
What we offer Customer feedback Our strategic procurement support can be provided as part of our financial management support service package ‘We don’t do procurement very often and the (Agresso) or as a stand alone service. Procurement Team supported me through the whole complex process. Couldn’t have done it without them’. To complement the support we offer with the practical application of Agresso, we can also provide: n Purchasing and procurement advice and guidance for projects of all sizes; n Facilitated group purchasing across schools; n Standard templates and robust terms and conditions to support value for money and effective supply; n Access to many Public Sector pre-tendered frameworks to reduce administration costs and take advantage of aggregation discounts; n Opportunities to be included in Council frameworks; n Set up and support for the VISA Government Procurement Card and management of statement and billing; n Support sales of surplus assets via the Council’s eBay account; Contact n Facilitate access to national frameworks where the prequalification of suppliers has already taken place. Sarah Bass ( 01952 382470 Why choose us? @ [email protected] You will receive: n Access to a dedicated procurement team who have experience of buying and procuring a wide range of public sector services and supplies whilst keeping you compliant within the Public Procurement Directives; n Market intelligence and trends to help inform purchasing decisions; n Provision of training to staff within schools including regular update training; n All processes are subject to, and in accordance with, the Council’s Internal Audit requirements;
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 43 HR and Business Support
Research and Intelligence
Creating intelligence that is meaningful and actionable requires specialist expertise, knowledge and tools and the Research and Intelligence team can provide it all to support you or your organisation in the way that you need.
What we offer Making better use of your data can help transform what you do. We can show you: n What’s important - see your information clearly in graphs, maps and infographics; n Where’s important – help you to understand where to focus your resources with community profiles and maps; n Who’s important - better understand who’s using your service or the community you serve; n What’s next - use your data to create business plans, manage and improve performance.
Why choose us? n We have an in-depth knowledge of the borough helping you to understand the local picture; Contact n Our specialist expertise enables us to analyse and Research and Intelligence Team accurately report on data in a format suitable for any ( 01952 380131 audience; @ [email protected] n We have a wide range of contacts and effective partnership working with many local businesses and organisations.
Visit us at www.telford.gov.uk/factsandfigures to see some examples of our work
44 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools HR and Business Support
Telford & Wrekin Training Services
What we offer n We provide Automated External Defibrillator Training (AED) free of charge on all our First Aid at Work and Telford & Wrekin Training Services offer a range of high Emergency First Aid courses. quality training courses across Telford and Wrekin and further afield. Benefits We offer a comprehensive range of courses in a number of n We offer a FREE no obligation consultation to advise areas ranging from Health and Safety, Manual Handling to you through health and safety legal requirements. Food Safety. We endeavour to deliver training which helps n We use our own facilities to keep costs to the you to make informed decisions which meet your needs and customers down to a minimum but also have the the health and safety needs of your workforce. flexibility to go anywhere anytime not just 9am-5pm.
We pride ourselves on delivering a high quality service that n We have a duty of care for your employees after the places client satisfaction at the forefront of what we do. Our training ends and offer all clients health checks for all team of professional trainers use a variety of unique and their employees. interactive training techniques to keep you engaged and involved while you learn. Customer feedback To accommodate your needs we offer both in-house and ‘Steve Carter has trained me over the past 10 years, tailor made off site training. maintaining the high standard of training initially given, which I have to put into real use in October 2014. We offer courses in the following areas: The training I had received gave me knowledge and n First Aid at Work (includes free automated external confidence to deliver CPR and use an AED on a customer defibrillator training) who had collapsed while using Telford and Wrekin n Emergency First Aid Leisure facilities and working with my colleague Roy, we successfully saved their life. I can only thank Steve for all n Paediatric First Aid the support and knowledge he has passed on to me.' n Food Safety n Manual Handling n Health and Safety in the Workplace n Driving for Work Training (including mini buses) n Swimming Pool Management n Occupational Water Safety
Why choose us? n We are a trusted authority with ultimate responsibility for the health and well-being of our local community and partners. Contact n Our trainers have over 35 years of combined experience. Steve Carter n We tailor our training to meet your needs. ( 01952 380161 n We are an approved training centre for both the Royal @ [email protected] Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) and the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health (CIEH).
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 45 Property, Facilities Management and Catering apT Development Management Services
What we offer n Commercial viability: Assisting clients to add real value to sites by ensuring that developments are both apT are an innovative, experienced team who are able to commercially viable and deliverable. We specialise in provide you with a full range of Development Consultancy unblocking sites. Services which support and guide you through the Planning and Building Control process. As part of Telford & Wrekin Council we offer services within our own Borough and Why choose us? further afield including Shropshire, Staffordshire and the Hosting extensive experience within our team of specialists West Midlands. we provide reliable, regulatory quality advice with fresh new ideas that meet the quality and standards needed. apT specialise in : n Planning: Our team can help you with pre application Our full range of services save time and money for our advice, submitting planning applications and co customers, getting developments started and helping ordinating a team of specialists required to support your businesses meet their needs. planning application. n Building regulations: Working together with you and our partners in the LABC we ensure your building works are safe and efficient. n Highway Design: Our team will work with your development aspirations to plan, design and facilitate safe transport movements across all scales of developments. n Built Heritage: We provide specialist advice on specific developments and the management of historic assets. We are sensitive to changing economic and social pressures whilst working to preserve and enhance uniqueness. n Ecology: Recognising the importance of our wildlife and its impact on development our Ecologists can provide a range of surveys and ensure the advice you receive complies with best practice and that Contact you comply with the necessary regulations and Siobhan Martin responsibilities relating to protected species. ( 01952 384113 n Healthy Spaces: Whether you need design, @ [email protected] implementation or long term management advice of recreational facilities, we can support in the delivery of safe play and recreational areas from supporting grant applications through to the delivery of sustainable, bespoke schemes. n Urban Design: Working with public or private sector clients in the development industry, apT can provide instrumental design advice from strategic design and site specific master planning to design and access statements, building for life assessments and expert evidence for Public Inquiries and Hearings.
46 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools Property, Facilities Management and Catering
Eatwell Project
What we offer Our sessions empower children and adults and give them the confidence that they can make healthy fast food at home We provide a unique, exciting and fun experience for primary cheaper and quicker whilst having fun. aged children, their parents the whole school community and other organisations to cook healthy food from scratch. Evidence shows that children are more likely to try new
things if they are involved in the cooking process. An overview of our practical sessions: n Knife skills; n Food and hygiene safety; n Healthy eating information; n Cooking and tasting what you have made; n Having fun in an interactive environment with fully qualified staff.
An overview of our classroom based sessions: n Healthy eating sessions encompassing the Eatwell guidelines; n Why Five A Day and the importance of vitamins and minerals in our body; n Reading food labels; n How much hidden sugar is in the food we eat and what impact does it have on our health.
All our sessions can be tailor made to meet the individual needs of each group.
Why choose us? The Eatwell project supports primary schools to achieve the national curriculum aims set out in September 2014 n How to apply the principles of healthy eating and good nutrition; Contact n To teach children how to cook. Project leader - Niki Andrews ( 01952 380959 @ [email protected]
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Engineering, Geotechnical and Structural Engineering
What we offer Why choose us? We are an experienced and qualified team available to We provide: provide a wide range of specialist services to help you along n An in-house service that does not include additional the way including: costs which may be incurred by using external Engineering Services: consultants; n Project management; n Extensive experience across two teams; n Civil engineering design and build; n A geotechnical team which has received numerous n Highway design; awards for completed projects and holds comprehensive records, some of which are not n Drainage design; available to external third party consultants; n Use of Civil Engineering term contract; n Sustainable drainage system design; n Flood risk assessments/desk studies; n Use of sewer services jetting contract; n CDM Services (Health and Safety Advice).
Geotechnical and structural services: n Project management; n Civil engineering; n Construction design management; n Desk studies; n Ground investigations, ground movement and groundwater monitoring; n Mining assessments and Mines and Quarries Tips Act inspections; n Foundation design; n Geotechnical and earthworks design; n Geo-hazard risk assessments; n Topographical surveys; n Building surveys; n Structural design; Contact n Structural monitoring; Steve Hollins (Engineering) n Land stabilisation. ( 01952 384652 @ [email protected]
48 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools Property, Facilities Management and Catering
Free School Meals Assessment Service (Year 3 and above)
What we offer Telford & Wrekin Council can provide your school with a cost effective and efficient solution to assessing your pupil’s entitlement to Free School Meals.
We provide: n Fast, simple assessment of entitlement; n Web based application and electronic entitlement of notifications; n Dedicated support for school administrators.
Why choose us? We can provide the following: Contact details n The ability for parents to complete an online application; Rebecca Owen-Jones, (Benefit Assessment n Fast, same day assessment service; Group Manager) n Decisions sent to parents electronically by email or sms ( 01952 383881 text; @ [email protected] n Automatic cancellation of entitlement when the income of the parent changes; n Weekly updated lists of pupil entitlement provided to your school electronically; n Telephone support for school administrators.
Price band Simple pricing model for a whole academic year based on the number of pupils entitled to Free School Meals.
Price guaranteed for 2 years! Simply provide the number of children who currently receive a free school meal, and we will provide a no obligation quote.
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 49 Property, Facilities Management and Catering
Let's Clean
Let's Clean Buildings n Relief staff in the event of holidays or sickness n A bespoke quality cleaning service tailored to meet Infection control cleaning individual customer requirements. n Specialist carpet cleaning n Floor care Let’s Clean Buildings is managed by Telford & Wrekin n Cleaning training: Floor care, Health & Safety, COSHH Council, with over 20 years’ experience of cleaning across a n Full DBS checked employees variety of buildings. The team have particular knowledge and experience of managing schools, office buildings and leisure n Cleaning site audits centres.
With over 350 members of staff across the Borough and Customer feedback a mobile support team, Let’s Clean Buildings is a fully 'Their wealth of experience makes them the team to managed service that comes with the reassurance and trust.' reliability of consistent staff attendance. Staff are trained by the management team at Telford & Wrekin Council who are qualified to deliver the British Institute of Cleaning Science training and are also IOSH (Institute of Occupational Safety and Health) certified. Let’s Clean Windows A professional window cleaning service using suitable equipment to achieve outstanding and visible results. Telford & Wrekin Council provide a quality and trusted window cleaning service to schools, office buildings and sporting facilities. As part of Let’s Clean Services, the team can offer 20 years of experience and a fully integrated package which includes Let’s Clean buildings, window cleaning and site support services.
The specialist window cleaning vans are fitted with the latest pole fed window cleaning systems, using ionic technology Let’s Clean Buildings are a member of the British Institute ensuring no residue is left on windows. These systems are of Cleaning Science and were recently awarded the environmentally friendly and avoid harsh chemicals which Association of Public Service Excellence award for cleaning, can cause damage to paintwork and glass. Let’s Clean assuring an efficient and safe cleaning solution to your Windows pride themselves on a quality finish. business demands. Passionate and diligent about the environment, Let’s Clean Buildings use environmentally friendly cleaning products, provide energy efficient cleaning equipment and have recently received a green achiever status for their commitment to this.
What we offer n A fully managed cleaning service n One off cleaning n A loan of cleaning equipment n Mobile Support Team
50 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools Property, Facilities Management and Catering
For particularly large sites the team can operate two poles The large pool of Site Support Staff enables a mobile care from each van, reducing the disruption to the working taking team to cover schools in the event of holidays or day and time spent on site. This efficient process can be sickness, ensuring a consistent and reliable service is obtained. completed on both internal and external glass. To complement the existing fully managed service, Site Let’s Clean Windows can attend at a convenient time Support Services also offer a one off service through a agreed with the customer, and are fully compliant with health mobile team offering small repairs, decorating tasks or cover and safety legislation – taking the worry out of window for planned sickness and holidays. cleaning. What we offer What we offer n Site Security n Latest technology n Playground equipment inspections, sweeping and litter n Full DBS checked employees picks n Bespoke packages n Fire Alarm Testing n Fully inclusive service including window frames n Small repairs n Porterage n Customer feedback Snow Clearing n Painting and decorating 'It’s really convenient for us to buy into all three services at Let’s Clean, it means we have one contact and one contract to manage.' Customer feedback 'We can sleep easy at night knowing our school is in safe hands with Site Support Services.'
Site Support Services A fully managed caretaking service ensuring school facilities are safe and secure. Let's Clean won a national award in 2017 at the Association for Public Service Excellence Awards in the Team Of Telford & Wrekin Council have been offering site support The Year category. This recognised the team's creativity services for 20 years and have a wealth of experience and how it delivers tailor-made cleaning services for our looking after schools. Through a fully managed service, customers. the team are able to meet individual school needs with a bespoke package tailored for each school. Contact By dedicating a staff manager to each facility, Site Support Kate Sumner Services provide efficient and fully trained staff who are DBS checked according to government requirements. This ( 01952 384414 involves staff attending workshops to ensure health and @ [email protected] safety and mandatory training is up to date and in line with legislation. The team pride themselves on being fully trained in manual handling, ladder training, safeguarding, asbestos and legionella monitoring.
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Property Maintenance, Facilities Management & Building Design (part of the biT Group)
in professional services. They also help to ensure that the buildings are maintained and are operated correctly and that all alterations or changes are carried out to a good standard. Depending on the level chosen the following benefits can also be realised: biT are an integrated building maintenance, facilities management, design and project management consultancy n One point of contact for all your building and site needs. that specialise in full project delivery, from initial project n Clients will be included in contracts that include other conception through the entire property lifecycle, including properties. This will offer cost savings achieved from in use maintenance and operation. Our innovative, highly economies of scale. skilled professional team consists of Project Managers, n The use of the in house facilities management team Architects, Principal Designers, M&E Engineers, Building to undertake small maintenance works, which helps Surveyors, Cost Consultants and Facility Management to keep costs down and reduce unnecessary external Officers and delivery staff. contractor costs. n Planned maintenance activities are carried out when Working alongside our Asset Team, Maintenance Service they are programmed in to be undertaken. This ensures Delivery Team and the 24 hour biT helpdesk, we are able to statutory compliance, the reliability and appearance of plan and deliver every aspect of our clients requirements. the school, its equipment, services installations and its Our aim is to take away the day to day responsibility from grounds. our clients, for buildings and their maintenance, to enable n All works including maintenance activities are specified them to concentrate on their main function whilst ensuring in accordance with up-to-date legislation. The liability that their buildings are repaired, modified, maintained and for the design stops with the biT team. operated correctly within all relevant legislation and the needs of the users. n We obtain all necessary planning and building regulation approvals on our client’s behalf. What we offer: n We take over the day-to-day worries of dealing with repairs, contractors, and market testing, ensuring best We offer a range of building related services to schools, to value, compliance with legislation, standing orders and support clients and users in delivering building projects and financial regulations on our client’s behalf. carrying out maintenance activities. n We operate a help desk and emergency out-of-hour’s service that will be accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days Buildings and the services within them are becoming much a year. more complex. Our team of property professionals has extensive knowledge and experience of this. We keep up to n All of the contractors that we appoint to work at our date with these developments and also with the continually client’s properties will be pre-qualified to ensure they changing legislation that surrounds buildings, which not only are competent to carry out the works, which we are applies during their design stages, but also during their use. requesting them to do. This enables us to deal with all property issues and give n All contractors employed have appropriate DBS checks correct advice to our clients, design and deliver extensions, undertaken where this is necessary. new builds and planned maintenance programmes correctly n We have in place contractual arrangements to ensure and undertake the majority of projects in house. that contractors attend to response maintenance works within agreed response times; Building Maintenance and Facilities Management n We include key performance indicators in our contracts Service Delivery and framework agreements, which assist in delivering To help and support our clients we offer two service plans the service within the specified terms and drive down (Essential and Premium) which encompass the majority of unnecessary costs. the services that our clients need in order to operate and maintain their buildings. In the past our clients have found inclusive plans to be a more cost effective way of buying
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n We give our clients access to a computer system, which we are continually developing. This system holds Customer feedback real time data. This enables our clients to monitor 'The Facilities Management service provided at short all jobs from the moment they are raised to their notice was second to none. It enabled us to keep the completion. Also, clients will be able to view information school running throughout a difficult Winter.' relating to their property including building maintenance financial information and all certification received following the inspection and the servicing of equipment. n Our clients receive regular newsletters keeping them updated on what is happening regarding building related issues, contracts and contractors performance. n We provide a yearly reminder on what services are available to our clients to encourage maximum usage of Contact the plans entered into. Claire Sieradzki In addition to service plans, we also offer pay as you go ( 01952 384502 services for schools considering one off services or projects. @ [email protected] www.bit-group.co.uk Why choose us? We have been delivering building related services since1998, offering a wide range of services using our own internal multi-disciplined team, consisting of architects, building surveyors, cost consultants, project managers, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers and a full facilities management team.
This team has considerable knowledge and experience of commercial buildings, community buildings, libraries, leisure centres and schools. We will work closely with you to ensure your requirements are translated into an affordable building which meets your needs.
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Radiation Protection Advisory Service (for Secondary Schools)
Did you know that it is a legal requirement for all schools holding radioactive sources to have access to an appointed Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA)?
It is the employers responsibility to appoint or consult with an RPA to ensure ongoing compliance with current regulations and best practice. In the case of Academies, the employer is the school governing body or board.
This direct link to an RPA can be very expensive and, for routine monitoring and advice, there is a much lower cost alternative: the CLEAPSS RPA scheme for local authorities. Contact Anthony Snowden What we offer ( 07581 109477 Our Radiation Protection Officer (RPO) is accredited through @ [email protected] CLEAPSS to carry out the routine monitoring role by visiting schools periodically, checking their records and procedures, and liaising with the RPA where necessary. The school should not normally need to deal directly with the RPA.
You can subscribe to the RPO service through the Secondary School Improvement Service.
For an annual fee we will provide: n Access to a designated RPA through the local RPO; n An inspection by the RPO of your school/college every two years, to ensure compliance with CLEAPSS (Consortium of Local Education Authorities for the Provision of Science Safety) doc L93; n A comprehensive report from the inspection, including recommended action points; n Access to the RPO via e-mail and telephone.
Why choose us? We provide: n Access to a cost effective alternative Radiation Protection Advisory Service; n A Secondary teaching and learning specialist trained to carry out the RPO duties on behalf of CLEAPSS.
54 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools Property, Facilities Management and Catering
Recycling Service
What we offer n Munch and the Funny Tummy. (Learn what recycling is, with a little magic and the story of a special truck called The Recycling and Waste Team can provide a competitive Munch). recycling collection from your school premises. We offer n a fortnightly collection of plastic, cans, glass, paper and Assembly. (Giving an overview or introduction to the cardboard collected in either sacks or wheelie bins. topic; can also be done with pupil participation at the end of a project). n Our Streets. (Children learn how and why it’s important to look after our streets by completing a street audit, litter picking and learning how to report environmental issues to the council).
All the workshops are free of charge however we do ask that you provide your own transport to the site visits. On completion of a number of workshops the school will be presented with the Junior Street Champions accreditation certificate.
Contact Molly Hooper Contact: @ [email protected] Ruth Jones @ [email protected]
In addition to recycling collections, we offer the Junior Street Champion scheme - a set of free workshops for primary Why choose us? schools. The workshops support the curriculum and teach Our collection service: children about the importance of recycling and looking after the environment. n Offers excellent value for money n Mirrors the existing household collection making it easy Workshops offered to use n The Household Recycling Centre. (Site visit to see n Savings are passed onto you as this service is in Hortonwood Household Recycling Centre). addition to the household recycling service n Composting. (Learn about and have a go at composting - a compost bin is available for the school). Existing customers n The Recycling Process. (Site visit to see how the purple If you are already receiving a recycling collection and need top bin recycling is sorted with the latest technology to report a missed collection please visit our website including magnets, before being baled up to go to it’s www.telford.gov.uk/recycleonline or use the MyTelford app. next destination). n The Magic of Energy from Waste. (Site visit to see the process by which the red top (non-recyclable) bin waste is burnt as a fuel to create electricity). n Recycle Races (learning what materials can be recycled and which container they go in at home). n Food Waste and the Lunch Box Challenge. (Reflect on how much waste is created with a packed lunch - what can be done to reduce how much waste is created?).
www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools 55 Property, Facilities Management and Catering
Schools Catering Service
What we offer n Parent information on school meals with printed menus; n We are committed to working in partnership with our 98% of kitchens we manage have a 5 star rating (4 Star customers to provide a catering service to meet your being the lowest); school’s needs. n We endeavour to cater for special dietary requirements whether it be for medical or cultural needs; Your pupils are important to us as we understand the n The Eatwell team visiting schools to promote healthy importance of providing a healthy meal at an early age and eating, this can include cooking sessions with pupils how this can support children’s development and education. and parents, class room based interactive activities promoting healthy eating and lifestyle, working within We will develop menus to meet your pupils’ needs, procure the eat well guide lines i.e. 5 a day, sugar awareness all the ingredients, provide all the equipment and staff to and tackling obesity; (first session free) prepare and serve the meals on site and ensure your dining n Support for school events and can bring along our furry room is left neat and tidy, ready for lessons. We can also friends Ollie and Germima; provide nursery provision. n We can support school with UIFSM/FSM in increasing the uptake and increase pupil premium and support We also offer hospitality catering for Governors’ meetings the school and service. Talking to parents and working or high profile events in your school. We have a range of within the Community; buffets which can match your budget. n Most importantly we believe we provide value for money Why choose us? and we are a not for profit service. We provide: n Staff who are all DBS checked; Customer feedback n Freshly cooked food all prepared on site; No challenge is too big: 'Over the years Telford & Wrekin n All light equipment; School Catering have supported many events at our n Menus and recipes for healthy school meals using school. Last year they even managed to serve hundreds locally sourced high quality ingredients; of hot school dinners from the top of the Wrekin as part of n Choice of two main courses, a main dessert and a our Poppy day event! The catering team are always keen choice of fruit, yoghurt and cheese and crackers; to go the extra mile and to listen to suggestions about how to improve their service. We are very settled with their n Themed food days for fun or linked to the curriculum; provision and wouldn’t go anywhere else!' n Confidence that you are complying with the nutritional standards in line with the school food plan, with supporting evidence for Ofsted Inspections; n We have been awarded the Bronze Award from the Soil Association; a national accreditation for our menus and they are compliant with the School Food Standards n Cashless catering allowing parents and guardians to pay for meals online optional; n A fully managed free school meal service including provision of the Universal offer along with all the evidence for you to claim funding back from the Government; Contact n As an accredited training centre, this ensures we have Lorna Hicks highly skilled and professional staff; ( 01952 380959 n Support for schools with intake and parent events @ [email protected] promoting schools;
56 www.twccommercial.co.uk/servicesforschools Property, Facilities Management and Catering
West Mercia Energy
WME is a leading purchasing organisation with over 20 years experience of managing energy contracts in for the Customer feedback public sector. The majority of our customers are in the 'I have found WME to be consistent in their support education sector and we currently supply energy to 1,600 and advice and they have provided an excellent level of schools and academies. customer service with queries and requests for support being provided as required. We have also benefitted from What we offer annual meetings to discuss changes in our requirements WME has a small, highly experienced team based in and ways to develop partnership working. As well as their Shropshire. We are able to supply your school with Gas, service, WME have delivered under their capped rates Electricity, Oil and LPG. consistently over the past 5 years which has resulted in a much welcome budget saving for the School' Why choose us? Our mission is to provide a cost effective, trusted and hassle free solution to all of your energy needs. Our innovative capped price gives budget certainty and the benefits of discounts off our capped price should market prices fall throughout the year. In the last 12 months, customers have benefited by £1.7m in discounts from our capped price. n We validate all bills before issuing to protect from supplier overcharging n We provide you with an online portal to manage billing and consumption information n EU compliant energy procurement n Siteworks support n Proven long term value for money
Switching Changing your gas and electricity supplies to WME is simple. We will manage the process and keep you up-to- date on the transfer ensuring an efficient, straight-forward and simple switch.
Please contact us to arrange a switch, or to request a visit from one of the WME team to discuss your energy Contact requirements. Nigel Evans, Director ( 0333 101 4353 @ [email protected] www.westmerciaenergy.co.uk
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