Research and resources
Attendance: the 'second transition' and why it matters
A new report from Schools Week highlights a second transition point which may be particularly important for secondary schools to improve attendance. The article refers to current research and suggests that building a sense of belonging between the pupil, their family, and the school is key. Additionally, it considers how 'small wins' appear to be more effective than a sanctions-led approach in improving pupil attendance. Read the report.
Bereavement awareness
In partnership with Child Bereavement UK, St Mary’s University, Twickenham will be holding online training courses addressing bereavement awareness in schools. Find out more on our bereavement awareness training page.
Counting the cost of cuts: how austerity increases inequality
Dr Viki Veale, Senior Lecturer in the School of Education, considers the inequalities presented by cuts to educational funding and the impact this has on the most vulnerable learners in our schools. Exploring policy, adverse childhood experiences, the care system, and the wider profession, Viki proviides insight into how we can work to promote good outcomes for all pupils.
Equality Act 2010: A research and literature summary
A summary of this important piece of legislation, including key considerations for practice and prompts for professional reflection.
Grief Matters: Exploring the impact of bereavement and grief on learning for all
Professor Anna Lise Gordon from St Mary's University shares research into bereavement, grief, death, and loss in school settings and how practitioners can respond to this in their context. Sharing a recorded presentation given at BERA 2023, Anna Lise provides insight into the impact of bereavement on learning and shares guidance on this important topic.
Mental health in schools
Sophie McGeogh, Deputy Headteacher & Designated Safeguarding Lead, Hollyfield School leads this themed talk time concerning mental health in schools and considerations for practitioners. This important content explores implications for students, staff, and wider school communities.
Online safety (KCSIE 2023)
Sam Lovatt, Lecturer in Computing at St Mary's, provides input on this important topic. This video will enable you develop or refresh your ability to:
- understand the responsibilities of a teacher in relation to online safety within KCSIE
- develop an awareness of the online safety considerations across phases of education
- know how to respond to online safety concerns appropriately
- know how to safeguard yourself online.
In addition, the online safety audit will support trainees, ECTs, and expert colleagues in responding to the fast-paced nature of online safety and safeguarding children when using the internet.
Persistent absence and support for disadvantaged pupils
This report from the House of Commons Education Committee considers the impact of absence from school on disadvantaged learners, details barriers to learning, and considerations for school-based colleagues.
Reckoning with Racism: A conference for schools on Friday 5th July 2024
Anti-racism in schools: pain, perspectives, and possibilities. With confirmed speakers, Jeffrey Boakye and Annie Tagoe, this important conference is not be missed. The flyer contains more detail for both proposals and attendees.
Safeguarding: local priorities
Safeguarding remains an essential aspect of a teacher's professional responsibilities. Adam Gladstone joins the St Mary's team for a Themed Talk Time to explore the phase-specific safeguarding priorities in local secondary settings.
Offering the input on the same topic from a primary perspective was Louise Fleming, who explored the impact of specific safeguarding concerns in her setting.