It is a programme that has been successful around the world. It is a preventative approach with a strong evidence base. Zippy’s Friends and Apple’s Friends help all children develop emotional resilience and a wide range of coping strategies. They practise and develop effective coping and social skills through stories, role-play, drawing and discussion, activities and games.
Before the launch we will be inviting parents to attend a short series of workshops, but in the meantime click on this link if you would like to find out more about the programme.
A visit from the Mathsmagician
Last Thursday in Primary School we welcomed visiting Maths Consultant, Mr Andrew Jeffrey, the internationally renowned ‘Mathsmagician’. Andrew provided staff with a full-day of professional development on making big impacts through small changes in mathematics.
Andrew has taught for more than 20 years and has been an inspector, lecturer and author. His passion for helping children learn was demonstrated in the five lessons he taught across Key Stage 1 and 2. These lessons allowed STA staff to observe and share pedagogy.
Staff were introduced to new strategies using Numicon and Cuisenaire and worked on embedding the Concrete, Pictorial and Abstract (CPA) approach using manipulatives in class. Andrew gave an inspiring keynote speech on Growth Mindset in Maths.
This visit was an invaluable and positive experience. There was a real buzz amongst attendees. Staff not only enjoyed the event, but went away with ideas of ways to stretch and challenge children in maths.