Working Together
As we approach the end of the first full term I thought it might be a nice idea to share some of the ways schools inside the Balcarras Trust have worked together this term. One of the major advantages of being in a Trust is that you get to collaborate with colleagues from other schools. This year the Trust has established three working parties.
The Balcarras Trust Staff Development Working Party (chaired by Helen Wood Headteacher of THSL and Trust CEO) has been set up to coordinate professional development and ensure a positive impact for both staff and students. It has met twice this term to share updates on current CPD priorities. One major achievement of the group was to plan and deliver the Trust’s Teaching and Learning Conference in November. The keynote speaker was Laura Spence from the Gloucestershire Research School. She was followed by several workshops delivered by colleagues from across the Trust. It was a great success.
Laura Spence talking at the Balcarras Trust Teaching and Learning Conference
The second working party is dedicated to Inclusion across the Trust (chaired by Parin Gohil Headteacher of Winchcombe). Colleagues have met to share expertise and strategies aimed at boosting inclusion and removing barriers to learning. The group is also looking at strategies for teachers to use in the classroom to aid inclusivity.
The third working party is focussed on Enrichment. I have had the privilege of leading this group and it has been genuinely very interesting. We are looking at ways to enhance enrichment across the Trust to compliment the already outstanding provision we have in our schools.
As well as the working party the Trust organises subject network meetings which bring subject specialists together to share ideas and expertise. There are also networks for the SENDCOs and the Designated Safeguarding Leads.
Behind the scenes the Trust also organises training for staff and governors. Earlier in the term I attended training on the new OFSTED framework.
Being inside the Trust provides all sorts of opportunities for our teachers and staff.
Dominic Burke