‘My statement (today) is to provide Members with an update on progress made and our continuing commitment in line with our Programme of Government to fund high quality buildings and ICT provision through the 21st Century Schools Programme.’
The Digital Classroom Materials Task and Finish Group has been working since September to review how technology can best be used to improve learner experience, teacher collaboration and drive up performance. The original timetable was for the review to be completed in January 2012, but the Minister has agreed to extend the original deadline to March in order to allow for a more detailed report. The chair of the group, Janet Hayward, is seeking examples of good practice of using technology in schools and lecture theatres that can be shared and potentially showcased as part of the group's final report. If you would like to offer up an example, please send brief details and contact information to the following mailbox. The deadline for responses is 3 February 2012.
The Welsh Government has updated its frequently asked questions on free school meals, to include further clarification on who is entitled to free school meals and whether a local authority can register pupils for free school meals if no formal request has been submitted by the parent/carer.
The Welsh Government is organising a series of 'Raising School Standards' conferences across Wales. The purpose of these events will be to provide practitioners with an update on progress since 2 February 2011 when the Minister laid out his plans to Raise School Standards. The Minister for Education and Skills will be the key speaker at the first event on 8 March, All Nations Centre, Cardiff. Other dates and venues: 13 March - Parc Y Scarlets, Llanelli; 15 March - Venue Cymru, Llandudno and 20 March – University of Glamorgan. Please e-mail us to register your interest in attending one of the conferences.
The Equality Act 2010 is a key piece of legislation that has been introduced by the UK Government. It replaces the previous 116 different equality statutes in one all encompassing statute. The purpose of these documents are to provide schools with an information and reference tool, which they can use when developing Strategic Equality Plans, a requirement under the Equality Act 2010’s Public Sector Equality Duties.
A half-termly online magazine for KS2 and KS3 pupils, addressing geographical issues arising from current news items.
The Pupil Voice Wales web-site aims to support professionals and pupils in developing effective pupil voice. The Welsh Government wants to know what you think of the site, and how it can be improved. Please take a few moments to complete this questionnaire by 29 February 2012. Your opinions will help to make the site even better!
Two Swansea schools which are leading the way in their pioneering use of digital technology in the classroom have been praised by Education Minister Leighton Andrews.
The Remit sets out the advice being commissioned by the Department for Education and Skills (DfES) in 2012-2013.
