Governors - July 2024 - S-CAT Internal Newsletter

Shireland Collegiate Academy TrustGovernance Newsletter

July 2024

GOVERNANCE UPDATES

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HIGHlights from our academies

Innovate, inspire, collaborate

Update from sir mark grundy

Contents

Dear all, It brings me great pleasure to share with you the latest edition of our Trust newsletter. As you read through the following, you will see just some of the wonderful work that has been happening across our Trust, both within our schools and Central Team. From cross-Trust project groups and charity fundraising events to fantastic opportunities working with external organisations like The Salvation Army and Birmingham Hippodrome Network; there are some excellent examples which really exemplify all three of our Trust values – innovate, inspire and collaborate. We also continue to grow as a Trust and look forward to Wednesfield Technology Primary’s official opening in September, where it will welcome its first cohort of nursery and reception pupils. Meanwhile, work on Coseley Technology Primary has resumed, and we are excited to witness the progress leading up to its completion.Your dedication to our students and each other fuels our success. We look forward to reconnecting with you in the next academic year. Your commitment drives our success, and we deeply appreciate your unwavering support.Sir Mark Grundy, CEO

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A message from our CEOSir Mark Grundy

As the academic year draws to a close, the Governance team extends its deepest gratitude to all our dedicated volunteers. Your unwavering commitment has made this year exceptionally successful. We’ve worked tirelessly to streamline our processes, ensuring that we better support you in your crucial roles within our Trust. Together, we’ve navigated nine Ofsted inspections—a remarkable achievement that wouldn’t have been possible without your steadfast support. As we look ahead to the next academic year, we’re excited to continue developing governance practices. Your dedication fuels our progress, and we can’t wait to build upon this foundation. Thank you for being the backbone of our Trust. Thank you,S-CAT Govenance Team

A Year in figures

Governance: A reflection

Over 40 Virtual and in person meetings

35 new Governors/Trustee appointments made

+40

+ 30

Over 30 Lnk visits have been completed

Members, Trustees and Governors are now volunterrring at the Trust

+30

+90

Governance updates

Schools week: Labour manifesto 2024: All the schools policies

• Schools to cooperate with local authorities on admissions and SEND inclusion.
• Enhance mental health support.
• Introduce free breakfast clubs and supervised tooth-brushing schemes.

Inclusion and Mental Health

• Focus on improving maths teaching, balanced assessment methods, and early-language interventions.
• Support creative and vocational subjects until age 16.
• Address healthy relationships and provide work experience.

Curriculum Review:

• Replace single-word Ofsted inspections with report cards.
• Include multi-academy trusts (MATs) in inspections.
• Introduce annual reviews on safeguarding and attendance.

OFSTED Inspections

What does a Labour government mean for the education sector?

As we anticipate potential changes in education, a Labour government brings forth a vision that could reshape our schools. Their manifesto outlines ambitious proposals, from curriculum reviews to mental health support. For governors, this means staying informed and engaged. To delve deeper, explore the detailed article in Schools Week:

• Labour aims to recruit 6,500 new expert teachers.
• Initiatives include updating the early career framework (ECF) and improving teacher training.
• Support staff negotiations will be reinstated.

Pay, Recruitment, and Retention:

The Hoot- Are you part of a governing board where everybody feels at ease and able to contribute?

Inclusion within a Board or Committee refers to actively involving diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and expertise. It means ensuring that all voices are heard, regardless of gender, ethnicity, abilities, or other differences.Here’s why it’s crucial:

• Better Decision-Making: Inclusive Boards consider a wider range of viewpoints.
• Diverse perspectives lead to more robust discussions and innovative solutions.
• Equity and Fairness: Inclusion ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute.
• Role Modeling: Inclusive governance sets an example for the entire educational community. It shows that we value every individual’s input.

• What should I do if I don't feel included?Reach out to fellow SPC/Board members, your Chair or your Governance Professional. Express your feelings honestly and constructively.
• How can I make our Committee more diverse?Actively seek out potential committee members from diverse backgrounds, look at the community surrounding the Academy.

Are you part of a governing board where everybody feels at ease and able to contribute?

Governors Support in Disciplinary Committees Form

Reminders of outstanding Skills Audits will be sent out by the Governance team.

We kindly remind you to complete the Skills Audit—a crucial tool that will shape our training plan and enhance your understanding of governance.

&

Skills Audit

Reminders of documents & froms that need to be completed will be sent to all Trustees, Governors and Members.

2. Gifts and Hospitality Forms- Please ensure they are completed for both the Autumn, Spring and Summer term.

1. Exclusions request- We ask that you complete the exclusion panel availability form

Reminders

Do you know anyone who would be interested in becoming a Standards and Performance Committee Governor? We have vacancies across our estate.If you know anyone who would be interested, please ask them to email Emma Billingham - ebillingham@shirelandcat.net

School places available

Trust vacancies

• Tinywoods Preschool: Availability for three and four-year-olds.
• Tameside Primary Academy: 18 Reception places available.
• Lightwoods Primary Academy: 8 Reception places available.

Governor vacancies

View the teaching and non-teaching vacancies available across our Trust

Staff vacancies

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Innovate, inspire, collaborate

Trust Projects

This year, a number of centrally funded projects are being undertaken to develop our organisation for the benefit of staff and students. Here are our project updates from this term:

This term marks a significant milestone as Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust receives the keys to Wednesfield Technology Primary from construction partner, Tilbury Douglas.A key highlight of this special project is the school’s design to classic Passivhaus standards, emphasising sustainability and environmental responsibility. Claire Keeler, Principal Designate at Wednesfield Technology Primary, said: “We eagerly anticipate the opening of our brand-new technology primary in September and are excited to welcome our first cohort of nursery and reception pupils and their families.”“At Wednesfield Technology Primary, we’re not only working to secure a better, brighter future for our pupils but we’re also ensuring a better and sustainable future for the environment. We look forward to working closely with the communities in and around Wednesfield and to providing our pupils with a unique and exceptional education.” Sir Mark Grundy, CEO of Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, said: “After years of meticulous planning and ongoing development, it has been wonderful to see our brand new Passivhaus school take shape and approach its completion, bringing us closer to a future where education and sustainability seamlessly intertwine. It’s more than just a school – it’s an investment in the future of our young people and our planet’s future. “As a Trust committed to reducing our carbon footprint, this energy-efficient school embodies our dedication to environmental stewardship. It helps towards securing a better future for all by bringing the best opportunities that a Shireland education has to offer and cultivating responsible and environmentally conscious leaders of tomorrow.”

Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust Receives Keys to Wednesfield Technology Primary

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Highlights fromour Academies

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Pupils were abuzz with excitement this term as they went on a memorable sleepover experience at the Sea Life Centre in Birmingham. The trip began with a visit to the iconic Library of Birmingham, where pupils explored its vast collection of books and amazing architecture, sparking a newfound love and appreciation for reading and the arts. As the afternoon approached, pupils’ anticipation grew as the group made their way to the Sea Life Centre, where they were treated to an exclusive VIP tour after dark, complete with fascinating stories about the underwater world. The highlight of the trip was settling down for a night beneath the centre’s aquarium tunnel, offering a very unique sleepover as pupils drifted off to sleep surrounded by marine wildlife including sharks and stingrays. The excitement continued the next morning as pupils awoke to a special breakfast experience with the penguins, followed by a special VR workshop where they explored the depths of the ocean in virtual reality. This immersive session helped deepen their understanding of marine ecosystems and the importance of marine conservation. This was a truly unique and unforgettable experience for the children at Holyhead, who are incredibly grateful to the Sea Life Centre for their warm hospitality and amazing learning programme, which has significantly enhanced pupils’ educational experience.

Holyhead Primary AcademyPupils Enjoy a Night Under the Sea at Birmingham’s Sea Life Centre

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In its first Ofsted inspection since joining Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust in 2021, Lightwoods Primary Academy has achieved a good rating with outstanding features.The education watchdog rated the Oldbury primary school as good, the second highest rating, following an inspection last month. Inspectors highlighted the outstanding standard of a number of areas including behaviour and attitudes, personal development and leadership and management. During the inspection, conducted in May 2024, Ofsted highlighted the Academy’s calm and nurturing learning environment, where pupils demonstrated a strong commitment to learning from early years onwards and exemplary behaviour described as ‘praiseworthy’. The inspection report said that at Lightwoods children make the ‘most of every moment’ while teachers expertly deliver a ‘broad’ and ‘rich’ curriculum that extends beyond academics. Described as ‘challenging’ and ‘engaging’, the report says that the curriculum provides diverse opportunities for young learners to explore and develop their passions both inside and outside of the classroom. It also said that the curriculum is enhanced by the Academy’s ‘strong’ and ‘positive’ reading culture, which nurtures pupils’ love of reading from the moment they start school. Ofsted said that pupils requiring extra support are ‘quickly’ identified and provided with tailored support. Staff regularly receive training and ‘expert’ guidance to ensure they have a ‘clear understanding’ of learners’ needs and ‘effective’ support put in place, with Ofsted noting that pupils with special educational needs and disabilities ‘do very well’.Ofsted commended the school’s leadership for its effective management and strategic planning, which fosters a culture centred around the ‘highest expectations’, supported by robust systems. The report stated that leaders seize ‘every opportunity’ to provide regular professional development for staff, enabling them to ‘excel’ in their roles.

Lightwoods Primary Academy‘Pupils Excel’ As Lightwoods Primary Academy Earn Good Rating with Outstanding Features

Pupils from Shireland Technology Primary were invited to participate in the Poetry By Heart Showcase, where they performed a selection of poems before an audience, including students from other schools across the UK. Held in May at Birmingham Hippodrome, the Poetry By Heart Showcase offered pupils a unique and exciting opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of poetry and performance. Pupils were able to freely explore their creativity and expressive talents, building their skills and confidence as they committed selected pieces of poetry to memory before delivering their impressive recitals. The poems performed included Wes Magee’s ‘The Boneyard Rap’, William Blake’s ‘The Tyger’ and Pam Adams’ ‘There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly’. These were the culmination of many weeks’ preparation and practice, beginning with a special workshop delivered by a professional from the Hippodrome Education Network in March. Participating in such events allows children to explore and find poetry that speaks to them, offering a transformative experience that can influence and shape thoughts, philosophies and beliefs, becoming a significant and unique part of our identities. The skills developed when learning and performing poetry are manyfold, with groups poetry recitals requiring co-operation, trust and co-ordination. Managing pace and timing, engaging directly with audiences and using expressive body language to communicate during performances are invaluable skills that pupils develop through these enriching experiences. Poetry By Heart is a national speaking competition for schools and colleges across England and aims to develop a love and confidence for poetry among young people, making it more engaging and accessible. The programme allows pupils to discover and connect with poetry that resonates with them on a personal level, creating a more enjoyable learning approach and experience.

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Shireland Technology PrimaryShireland Technology Pupils Shine at Birmingham’s Poetry By Heart Showcase

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Pupils enthusiastically participated in the Sky Arts Week this term, part of the nationwide Access All Arts Week designed for primary schools. The free programme, now in its third year, involved 9,500 schools across the UK and Ireland, highlighting the arts’ value in supporting young peoples’ health and wellbeing. From 17 to 21 June, the children embarked on a creative journey exploring this year’s theme of ‘Connections’. Using various art materials and techniques, they connected with themselves, their peers, and developed a deeper understanding of their community. Additionally, pupils participated in Sketch for Survival Junior, an international competition raising awareness about critical global issues such as wildlife trade, climate change, and animal extinction. In 2023, the event attracted over 3,000 entries from 93 countries, gaining significant traction. In a recent art and history project, pupils explored the newly unveiled portrait of King Charles III, a compelling masterpiece by acclaimed artist Johnathan Yeo. They honed their observation and imagination skills by creating their own versions of the portrait, deepening their appreciation for art and historical figures. The school is immensely proud of the creativity displayed by pupils and looks forward to partaking in more artistic projects in the future.

Tameside Primary AcademyInspiring Creative Connections and Raising Awareness Through Art

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Wallbrook Primary Academy Celebrating Academic Achievements and Developing Talents

This term, Wallbrook has enjoyed a vibrant celebration of academic and extracurricular achievements, marked by engaging events hat have inspired and excited our pupils. In June, children in years one to four were delighted to welcome children’s author and football coach, Tom Oldaker, to the school. Renowned for his book ‘The Adventures of Alex the Pirate: Treasure Island’, Tom led interactive sessions that combined reading with physical activity.Pupils had the opportunity to explore themes from the book while participating in games designed to promote exercise and teamwork. The children’s air was abuzz following Tom’s visit, with the children’s enthusiasm and excitement as they eagerly discussed plan for future games. July brought an energetic visit from Sprint Active, where children across the school took part in activities inspired by the Euros taking place this summer. Pupils learned new a range of new football skills and enjoyed friendly matches against one another, fostering sportsmanship and camaraderie. The excitement surrounding the Euros also got the children ready for Wallbrook’s Sports Day, which took place a couple of days later. On 17 July, Wallbrook hosted a Celebration of Culture Day which was organised by the Pupil Forum, including Head Boy and Girl. The day was filled with an array of cultural crafts, dance workshops and culturally diverse lunch menu featuring international dishes that truly celebrated the vast array of cultures that make up the community of the school. As another action-packed term comes to a close, the Academy reflects on a year filled with enriching opportunities and broadened horizons, wishing its pupils, families and staff a restful summer break filled with quality time with loved ones.

Listen to the Newfield Parkcast

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Newfield Park Primary AcademyExciting New Podcast by Pupils Hits the Airwaves

Pupils at Newfield Park Primary Academy step into the world of podcasting as they launch ‘Newfield Parkcast’. Created and produced exclusively by pupils with support from staff, the podcast is available to listen to across a range of platforms, including Spotify, YouTube and Apple Music. Newfield Parkcast features short, bite-sized episodes that focus on a wide range of themes and topics, including countries and their cultures, gender equality, dance, homelessness and social media. Each episode showcases pupils’ ingenuity and creativity as they give up their spare time during school breaks to develop ideas, record and edit content. This has resulted in pupils developing impressive technical and broadcasting skills, making the podcast an ideal platform to showcase their dedication and collective talents. The podcast is due to run until the end of the summer term, with plans to restart in September when the new school year begins. This ongoing project has not only been a source of pride for the school, but also a valuable learning experience for the young broadcasters involved. Steve Payne, Principal at Newfield Park Primary Academy, said: “We are incredibly proud of our pupils for their initiative and hard work to produce and launch such an amazing podcast. “It’s a fantastic addition to our school, providing a unique platform for pupils to share their voices and ideas, while learning valuable skills from storytelling and teamwork to technical editing. It truly shows what our young people can achieve when they are empowered and supported to pursue their interests and passions.”

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Shireland Collegiate Academy has proudly received the School of Sanctuary Award from City of Sanctuary UK, which recognises the school’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming culture for all. The School of Sanctuary Award is a testament to the dedicated efforts of the entire learning and wider community at Shireland Collegiate Academy, including teachers, staff, parents, governors and community groups. Through their collective efforts, the Academy has demonstrated exemplary practice in creating and nurturing an environment where individuals feel valued, respected and supported. Becoming a School of Sanctuary is an achievement marked by intentional reflection and continuous improvement, with schools needing to meet set criteria before they can receive the award. Shireland Collegiate Academy embraced the process wholeheartedly, dedicating itself to learning, embedding, sharing and promoting the values of Schools of Sanctuary across its community. Upon the Academy receiving the award, a lead verifier from City of Sanctuary UK commented: “It was a pleasure to visit this morning, and I for one was quite overwhelmed by the logistical challenges you have overcome. Everything you showed us was so impressive, and the award is well deserved.”Shireland Collegiate Academy joins a growing network of over 680 primary and secondary schools, nurseries and sixth forms committed to creating a culture of welcome, understanding and belonging for those who may be seeking safety from their unique circumstances. As the Academy celebrates this amazing accomplishment, it reaffirms its commitment to the City of Sanctuary Vision that the UK will be a welcoming place of safety for all. Through ongoing initiatives and partnerships, including Schools of Sanctuary, Shireland Collegiate Academy will continue to play a vital role in building a more inclusive and compassionate society for all.

Shireland Collegiate AcademyShireland Collegiate Academy Receives School of Sanctuary Award

This term, staff from Shireland Biomedical UTC participated in Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, raising over £200, including more than £45 in Gift Aid. Held in June at Sandwell, the event was a tremendous success for the Academy’s team - Miss Aldridge, Mr Williams, Miss Banks and Miss Smith – who demonstrated remarkable commitment, teamwork and stamina leading up to the race and on the day itself. Not only did the event inspire students by showcasing the power of collective effort, but it also united the school and wider community in support of this vital cause. Gulfam Shahzad, Acting Principal at Shireland Biomedical UTC, said: “We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of our school and community. On behalf of the Academy, thank you to all who donated and supported our team for this amazing charity. “Our staff continue to set an inspiring example for our students, demonstrating that every contribution can make a significant difference and encouraging them to become active participants in driving positive change.” Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life is a pivotal event that brings communities together to fund life-saving research, support patients and raise awareness about cancer prevention. The donations raised will aid in advancing cancer treatments and improving patient outcomes. Over the past 40 years, cancer survival rates have doubled thanks to the charity’s consistent progress and innovative research, which has played a crucial role in saving millions of lives.

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Shireland Biomedical UTCAcademy Raises Over £200 For Cancer Research UK

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Tim Clark, highly respected lawyer and former Senior Partner at law firm Slaughter and May, visited Thorns Collegiate Academy to share his professional experiences and careers journey with students recently. The visit, arranged by Speakers for Schools, provided a unique opportunity for students to gain insights into the legal profession and learn about the pathways to a successful career in law.Blending his expertise in commercial law and passion for history, Clark’s visit was particularly poignant as it coincided with the 80th anniversary of D-Day, where he also discussed his book inspired by his parents’ experiences during the Second World War. During his career sessions, Clark recounted his unexpected journey into law after initially aspiring to specialise in History and become a researcher. Following his work experience and training at Slaughter and May, Clark went on to develop a highly successful career in commercial law. His candid account of navigating the vast array of career choices, seizing opportunities and remaining open and adaptable resonated deeply with students as they contemplate their own futures. In addition to his legal accomplishments, Clark discussed his extensive involvement in cultural and charitable organisations, where he has held prominent positions on the boards of companies including Water Aid, the Wellcome Trust, the National Theatre and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts. In line with the 80th anniversary of D-Day, Clark also hosted a round table discussion with a group of the Academy’s history students to talk about his book, ‘Monopoli Blues’. The book delves into his parents’ unique story during the Second World War, including his father’s harrowing ordeal after being betrayed and captured as a prisoner of war during a critical mission, and the impact of being separated by conflict. Clark’s exploration of his parents’ extraordinary story brought history to life for students, offering them a new profound understanding of the realities and complexities of war behind the headlines of the time.Tim Clark, reflecting on his visit to the Academy, said: “It was a huge privilege to come to the Academy as part of the Speakers for Schools programme and a huge pleasure to talk about some of the possibilities for a career as a lawyer and discuss part of the history of World War II and how it affected my family. “I enormously enjoyed my time with the staff and three groups of students – such interesting and impressive groups, who clearly have great potential for their futures. One of the joys of the Speakers for Schools occasions is meeting talented students and hopefully helping to stimulate their thinking about how they might realise their potential in their future careers. I hope that my visit achieved this. I want to thank all the team at the Academy for organising such a brilliant visit and looking after me so beautifully while I was there. Above all, my thanks go to the students who made the visit such a stimulating experience for me.”

Thorns Collegiate AcademyLawyer and Author Tim Clark Inspires Students

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West Bromwich Collegiate Academy Students Shine in Literary Competitions

In July, a group of students and staff from the Academy travelled to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre in London to support year 8 student Ceyenjae in the finals of this year’s Poetry By Heart competition. Ceyenjae’s captivating performance on the main stage was an inspiration to her peers and impressed both the audience and judging panel, for whom she performed again at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse. The event featured some inspiring presentations, including those by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage and Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho, along with an exciting sword-fighting demonstration by the Globe’s talented company of actors. In addition to Ceyenjae’s achievement, year 9 student Samsritha also celebrated literary success as the runner up in the National Literary Trust’s Wicked Writers competition. Samsritha’s poetry was published in the National Literary Trust’s Anthology, earning her and a group of fellow students an invitation to attend ‘Wicked the Musical’ at the West End. Before the performance, students also enjoyed a day exploring some of London’s iconic landmarks, including Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, Leicester Square, Chinatown and Piccadilly Circus. The group then savoured a picnic lunch in St. James’ Park before being captivated by the show.

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Shireland CBSO AcademyShireland CBSO Academy Launches Uniform Donation Drive with The Salvation Army

Shireland CBSO Academy in West Bromwich proudly announces its partnership with The Salvation Army, a collaboration aimed at supporting families in need and promoting sustainability. The joint initiative focuses on recycling and redistributing Shireland CBSO Academy uniforms to families in need, ensuring every child has the essentials required to help them succeed in their education. At the heart of this collaboration lies a deep commitment to supporting families facing financial hardship, particularly amid the cost-of-living crisis. Part of Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, this initiative underscores the Academy’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community support. With uniform donations totalling an impressive 100kg to date, the scheme also provides a sustainable alternative to discarding clothing and promotes recycling.   Donated uniforms are sorted and delivered to the school for discreet distribution to students in need. The partnership not only relieves many families of the financial burden associated with school uniforms but also fosters a deep sense of pride and belonging among students. This promotes an environment where they feel fully prepared and motivated to engage in their learning. In addition to supporting families in need, the Academy integrates donations into its daily practices. Students arriving without the correct uniform are provided with appropriate items during the day, ensuring they can rejoin lessons without disruption. Shireland CBSO Academy welcomes uniform donations, which can be made directly at the school via the donation box in reception or at The Salvation Army Donation Centre in Dudley Street, West Bromwich.

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First Steps NurseryFirst Steps Nursery and Pre-School Celebrates 20 Years of Nurturing Young Minds

First Steps Nursery and Pre-School is proud to celebrate its 20-year anniversary! Over the past two decades, we have been dedicated to providing a nurturing and exciting learning environment for children of all ages. Recently, the children have been enjoying learning about the wonders of colours and rainbows. In the Baby Room, the little ones have been discovering colours by mixing paint, engaging in rice play where they have been making various patterns and shapes, and exploring the world with various sensory materials. Meanwhile, our toddlers and preschoolers have been busy matching colours, moulding rainbow play dough and immersing themselves in the delightful story of ‘Elma the Elephant’. On May 20, First Steps celebrated World Bee Day by creating adorable bees with play dough while also learning about the vital role bees play in our ecosystem, raising awareness about the importance of protecting our environment. Our preschoolers have also been eagerly preparing for their transition to primary school. They have been talking about their new schools, practicing putting on their uniforms and even going on virtual school searches, helping them feel ready and confident for the changes ahead. As the academic year ends, First Steps also held its annual end-of-year graduation ceremony for the preschoolers, where we celebrated their achievements and said our long goodbyes as they head off to their new schools. While we are very sad to be saying goodbye to our preschoolers and will miss them dearly, we wish them every happiness and success in their future endeavours. We are confident that they will thrive in their new schools and continue to grow into amazing, confident young people.

Tinywoods PreschoolExciting Changes and Sunny Days at Tinywoods

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This term, Tinywoods has been abuzz with activity, with the highlight being a transformative makeover thanks to the dedicated efforts of Miss Wilkinson and Ms Koasha. The Pre-school now boasts a fresh, new look, much to the delight of children and families. To celebrate, we hosted a Parents’ Opening Night, welcoming feedback and further suggestions from the community. The positive responses and support were gratefully received, reinforcing Tinywoods’ commitment to providing a nurturing and stimulating learning environment for its children.The newly refurbished pre-school has also become a vibrant hub of artistic expression. Pupils have been diving into an array of creative projects this term, producing their very own animal prints using a range of techniques including painting and collaging. These artworks now proudly adorn the walls of Tinywoods, adding a more homely, personal touch to our pre-schools’ makeover and showcasing the children’s boundless creativity. With the arrival of summer, our young learners have also been taking full advantage of the sunny weather, where they have been revelling in a range of outdoor activities, enjoying the fresh air, exploring and connecting with nature and making time for friends. These outdoor adventures are always a delight for the children, contributing greatly to their overall wellbeing, happiness and readiness to learn.