Articles

Welcome to articles from the Education North Tyneside team.

Here our team of passionate educators and experts come together to provide you with a diverse range of articles, covering everything from events, innovative teaching and leadership methods to practical advice for educators.

Whatever your role, you’ll find valuable resources and thought-provoking content designed to empower and elevate education in North Tyneside and beyond.

 

Dive in and discover what’s shaping the future of learning today!

Festive Computing Activities for the Classroom

By Claire Graham

So, Christmas is coming and what better way to bring a bit of holiday spirit than to add a bit of sparkle to your computing lessons. Here are three festive activities that not only bring the fun but also enhance their computing skills. 1. Create a Festive Animation There are many ways to create a…

Read More
.Christmas book recommendations for primary schools

Christmas book recommendations for primary schools

By Eve Morton

The build up to Christmas is well underway in schools: performances and end of term activities adding to children’s excitement! Amidst all this, it can be enjoyable to find some quiet time to enjoy a Christmas story or two. Here are two of my favourites which can be explored as a class, or by children…

Read More
Creative Christmas Learning in Early Years

Creative Christmas Learning in Early Years

By Rebecca Sowden

Ah, Christmas time in the Reception classroom – where the joy is contagious, the excitement is palpable, and the tinsel crowns are perpetually slipping off little heads. It’s a time full of giggles, chaos, and, of course, a certain cheeky elf or two. Now, settle in, my friends, because I have a little tale to…

Read More
Choosing Tech Gifts for Kids at Christmas

A Guide for Parents: Choosing Tech Gifts for Kids This Christmas

By Neil Brown

As Christmas approaches, tech gifts are often at the top of kids’ wish lists. While these gifts can be fun, educational, and engaging, parents should consider a range of factors to ensure their choices are age-appropriate, safe, and beneficial. Here’s some guidance to help you with choosing great tech gifts for your kids at Christmas.…

Read More

Support the Big Give Christmas Challenge 2024

By Neil Brown

Our team at Education North Tyneside work closely with the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) to deliver FIRST® LEGO® League programmes across the North East. The IET are a fantastic non-profit organisation who strive to inspire young people to pursue STEM learning and careers and hopefully become the next generation of engineers, and this…

Read More
Two children playing with toys with their backs to the camera.

The government’s wraparound care offer for families

By Maddy Kennedy

The government has an aspiration that all primary school aged children (4 – 11 years) in England, will be able to access wraparound care from 8 am to 6 pm. What would this wraparound care look like? It would be during term time. It would be provision such as breakfast clubs and regular after school…

Read More

Embracing Inclusivity: The School of Sanctuary Award

By Diane Embley

In a world often fraught with division and discord, the concept of sanctuary holds a profound significance. It evokes notions of safety, acceptance, and refuge. In educational settings, creating a sanctuary goes beyond mere physical structures; it encompasses fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and included. The School of Sanctuary Award finds…

Read More
A group of women with raised arms. Their fingers are touching. This is a positive, happy image.

Supporting Staff Through Perimenopause

By Janice Gibson

Introduction Perimenopause is a transitional phase that typically * occurs in women between the ages of 40 and 50, leading up to menopause. During this time, those born with ovaries may experience a range of physical, emotional, and mental symptoms due to fluctuating hormone levels. Symptoms can include hot flushes, fatigue, mood swings, brain fog,…

Read More
two children drawing on an easel side by side

Mental health and well-being of new arrivals 

By Shallu Duggal

What is mental health? Mental health is a state that enables children to cope with the stresses of life, realise their abilities to learn well, work well, and contribute to their community. It is heart-wrenching to consider the immense challenges and losses that many new arrivals have faced before reaching the UK. Mental health plays…

Read More

Activating Prior Learning for EAL Children

By Diane Embley

Recognising and activating prior learning in English as an Additional Language (EAL) children is essential for their academic success. This article delves into the importance of acknowledging their knowledge, experiences, and cultural backgrounds to foster better learning outcomes. Understanding Prior Learning Prior learning encompasses the unique skills and experiences EAL children bring to the classroom.…

Read More
Decorative image of teacher with pupil to demonstrate effective safeguarding practices

The Role of DSLs in Effective Safeguarding Practices

By Gareth McQuillan

Safeguarding in schools is a crucial responsibility that ensures the safety and well-being of all pupils. At the core of this is the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), a role dedicated to protecting children from harm and promoting a secure learning environment. The importance of the DSL and their deputies cannot be overstated. Why the DSL…

Read More

The impact of coaching for leaders new to role

By Richard Kielty

Coaching has emerged as a valuable tool for supporting new leaders in schools, providing them with the guidance and support they need to navigate the complexities of their roles and develop the skills and mindsets necessary for effective leadership. Research has consistently demonstrated the positive impact of coaching on new leaders, highlighting its ability to…

Read More