We've listened to users' feedback and over the summer, we've been implementing a number of changes and improvements to the Rotherham SEF system. These include:
- permitting read-only access to the SEF for SIPs if required
- making it more evident which are the mandatory Ofsted questions
- a review/edit/approve process for answers
- case study submission form to enable schools to share their own good practice via the SEF system
- an improved case study 'resource library', which will better handle the anticipated increase in the number of case studies
- improved What's new page.
“Successfully nurturing our most gifted and talented young people not only makes them individually higher achieving and happier but drives our economies and success as countries as a whole.” Andrew Adonis Schools Minister August 2007.
In Rotherham our major aims are to develop the potential of the most able, tackle underachievement and enrich their lives. We will promote and evaluate these aims through the development of Leading Teachers and the use of the Institutional Quality Standards.
The Leading Teacher initiative launched in September 2007 will support you through its training & networking in your development of exemplary practice.
The Institutional Quality Standards (IQS) will help you to evaluate your provision for the most able & provide judgements to contribute to your SEF.
Contact Bev Attwell bev.attwell@rotherham.gov.uk or Joy Baker joy.blaker@rotherham.gov.uk for details.
Most schools make "a valuable contribution to pupils' health and well-being" according to a recent Ofsted report.
Schools that contributed most effectively to pupils' health and well-being had leadership teams that:
- recognised the link between physical well-being and the readiness to learn and achieve
- created an ethos which promoted health and engaged pupils, parents and staff.
The most successful schools implemented a school fruit and vegetable scheme and ensured pupils had two hours of physical activity each week. Other examples of positive work include:
- guidelines for parents on healthy lunches
- out-of-school physical activities organised by parents' associations
- 'walking buses'.
Weakness in some schools included:
- lack of consultation with parents and pupils to help promote healthier lifestyles
- continuing poor quality of school meals where they are not produced on the premises
- lack of importance attached to facilities for physical activity.
For more information on the survey, visit the Ofsted website. The Wired for Health website contains useful advice and resources on the National Healthy Schools Programme.