Welcome to the Wonderful World of Early Years.
Moving to Early Years? Have you just been told that you are moving from key stage one or two into early years? Or maybe you have a new colleague coming into the early years team? If you, or they are currently rocking, sweating and wondering ‘what have I done to deserve this?’ Well, they are…
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Hajj: A Sacred Journey of Faith, Struggle and Unity
Once a year, millions of Muslims from around the world pack their bags and leave behind their homes, families, and everyday comforts. They head to the holy city of Makkah in Saudi Arabia, fulfilling one of the most important spiritual duties in Islam: the Hajj. But Hajj is far more than a religious requirement. It…
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Parental Engagement of English as an Additional Language (EAL) Parents in Schools: Strategies and Benefits
Parental engagement in schools is universally recognised as an important factor in a child’s educational journey. However, for parents with English as an Additional Language (EAL), navigating the education system and actively participating in their child’s schooling can be challenging. In this article, we explore the importance of parental engagement among EAL parents, the barriers…
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The Power of Empathetic Leadership: Listening to Understand
In today’s data-driven educational environment, a crucial leadership element is often overlooked: empathy. This human-centred quality-the ability to listen, understand and share others’ feelings-creates the foundation for meaningful connections in our schools and settings. Research shows empathetic leadership delivers measurable benefits in innovation, staff commitment, and organisational inclusivity. As education systems face unprecedented challenges,…
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Flying With Fluency
At the end of 2023, I led a CPD session with a focus on reading fluency at the Linskill Centre. The session was well attended by both primary and secondary colleagues and I’ve also previously discussed the role of teaching fluency in this article. Now I’d like to share the journey we’ve been on with…
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Activating Prior Learning of English as an Additional Language Children in Schools
Recognising and building upon the prior learning experiences of English as an Additional Language (EAL) children is crucial for fostering their academic success and overall development in schools. This article explores the significance of activating prior learning, its benefits, and practical strategies for schools to effectively integrate this approach into their teaching practices. Understanding…
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Women in Maths day
To celebrate ‘Women in Maths’ day on 12th May, how can we encourage girls to believe that they can be mathematicians? Perhaps looking to some inspirational female figures is the answer. Inspiring Girls in Maths: Heroines Who Paved the Way It’s so important that all children – and especially girls – grow up believing that…
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Forest School: Learning Outdoors
As we are amid Spring and the weather improves, we naturally gravitate towards the outdoors. Learning outdoors is a fantastic tool, and Forest School is a significant part of this approach. Its popularity continues to grow, but what does it mean to have a Forest School ethos, and is it for everyone? A Very…
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Education North Tyneside Early Years Conference
The Education North Tyneside Annual Early Years Conference was held on 28th March at The Linskill Centre. 100 delegates attended from across North Tyneside, from regional authorities and North East Combined Authority. Speakers The keynote speaker was early years consultant and expert Ruth Swailes and workshops were led by New York Primary School, Shooting Stars…
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Significance of Easter Weekend for Christians
Easter Weekend is the most significant Christian celebration, marking Jesus Christ’s resurrection, which is central to their faith and practice and is a foundation for the church’s mission and community life. Christ’s act of washing His disciples’ feet and sharing the Last Supper with them, commemorated on Maundy Thursday, highlights the values of kindness, love,…
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Valuing home languages at school
A language learned in childhood at home is called home language, also referred to as mother tongue, first language or native language. Home language plays a significant role in learning and acquiring a second language. English should not replace the home language; it should develop alongside it. There are many reasons to maintain the home…
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Reflecting on an effective writing curriculum
The focus on the teaching of reading in schools for the last few years has been high following DfE guidance about teaching phonics and the Reading Framework publication in 2021. This focus has led to greater consistency in the teaching of reading and closing gaps, with a clearer focus on the aspects of reading that…
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