C.E. Jottings

Values and CE organisations

Do Values matter? The question “How should Paces be, that parents will invite us into their lives?” has intrigued me before. In essence, this is a question about our Values. How we present ourselves, how we are perceived, of course, matters. Customer satisfaction is crucial. Similarly, there can surely be no need to argue that we should comply with our statutory responsibilities. Likewise, that we should be well-run, aspiring to excellence in our services, needs no emphasis. In recent weeks,... Read more →

Easy guide for those still needing catch-up on SEN Green Paper

The subject line says it all really. If you're still needing a quick and easy catch-up on the essentials of the SEN Green Paper, then here's one that does the job very well, with thanks to @FBMeducation on Twitter. Read more →

Policy contradiction at heart of guidelines for Special Free School application?

Is there a fundamental policy contradiction at the heart of the DfE's guidance “Free Schools in 2012. How to apply – Special Schools”.? Does the detail of the guidance on applying to open a Special Free School conflict with the stated Aims of the Free School Programme and seriously undermine Government policy to extend parents’ choice and schools’ freedom from Local Authority control? Consider this: one of the Aims of the Free School Programme sets out a clear expectation to... Read more →

New Schools Network announces event for SEN Free School proposers

The New Schools Network is announcing an event for those wanting to open special Free Schools. It will take place on Monday 18 April from 18.30 to 20.00, in the Ideas Space at Policy Exchange in Westminster. DfE is shortly to publish application forms for new SEN and AP (Alternative Provision, including Pupil Referral Units) Free Schools. This NSN panel event will provide advice on the new SEN/AP Free School application form and the specific requirements for those wishing to... Read more →

Busy. Busy. Busy

Susie Mallett reminds me in an email that I have not posted in a while. Actually, I've just been so busy - nearly all of it positive and productive. For instance .... Top priority continues to be the governance changes and the renewed sense of energy and purpose flowing from our new Chair and Trustees. This is massively encouraging. A close second is our application to become a Free School. Our experience of the process so far is helping is... Read more →