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Early Childhood Development

Designed for Teaching Assistants, a series of four 45-minute live online sessions with gap tasks to embed learning.

 

14 November 2024, 3.30 - 4.15: Foundations of Cognitive Development in Early Childhood
Explore the fundamentals of cognitive development, how we think and build our understanding of
the world around us. This includes looking at memory, problem-solving, and language acquisition.
Outcomes:
• Understand general principles of how children learn and think during the early years.
• Recognise how to adapt the environment to support cognitive development.

6 February 2025, 3.30 - 4.15: Exploring Sensory Development in Early Childhood
Understand the role of the senses in early childhood development. We will look at all eight senses
and their role in learning and behaviour.
Outcomes:
• Recognise the importance of sensory experiences in overall development.
• Learn how to support sensory development within an Early Years setting.

13 March 2025, 3.30 - 4.15: Nurturing Social and Emotional Development

Examine the social and emotional aspects of early childhood development. Learn about self-
regulation and the role that social interactions play across development.

Outcomes:
• Understand the critical aspects of social and emotional development in early childhood.
• Appreciate what elements will be central to support aimed at nurturing children's social
and emotional skills.

12 June 2025, 3.30 - 4.15: The Power of Play in Early Childhood
We will highlight the importance of play in development. Discuss different types of play and how
play interacts with cognitive, social and emotional development.
Outcomes:
• Appreciate the various forms of play and their benefits.
• Understand the key ingredients to consider in designing and evaluate play-based activities.

  • Target audience:
  • Primary
  • Secondary
  • Included in package:
  • Primary
  • Secondary

£216.00

(incl. VAT)

Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) Status Training with Strictly Education

Introduction

Higher Level Teaching Assistant status is a career progression opportunity for experienced teaching assistants. This development programme has been carefully designed to guide candidates through a preparation process, culminating in assessment against the 33 national standards. Successful candidates are awarded the standard HLTA status which operates across all phases of education from Early Years to post-16 and includes special needs settings.

Strictly Education is a member of HNAP (Higher Level Teaching Assistant National Assessment Partnership) and is the only appointed provider of HLTA status in London, the South East (including Oxfordshire, Hertfordshire, Essex and Suffolk), South West, and the West Midlands.

Programme Details

 

 

The programme has been designed around a model of three face to face days and half-day school-based assessment.

Candidates are fully supported throughout the process by an experienced professional preparer. The current success rate through Strictly Education is 98%.

The seven-module programme will enable candidates to:

  • Identify and map their own knowledge, skills and attributes against the HLTA standards
  • Identify workplace experience and case examples to demonstrate competence for each of the standards
  • Understand the teaching and learning examples required for their performance evidence
  • Understand how to produce the range of written task evidence required for final assessment
  • Understand how to produce supporting documentation evidence linked to their tasks
  • Complete the assessment documentation
  • Prepare for the school-based element of assessment

Requirements

  • Level Two (GCSE A*- C/9-4) or equivalent qualification, in English and Mathematics
  • Currently be working at a higher level of TA support, including supporting teaching for 1 :1, groups and whole classes
  • Agreement with your school to be released for three full days of face to face delivery, as preparation for assessment

The programme includes:

  • Three face to face preparation sessions
  • Remote half day assessment by a Strictly Education assessor
  • Online materials and a candidate handbook
Date and Time Venue

Monday, 21st Oct 2024

9.30 - 15.30

The Tomlinson Centre

 
   

Tuesday, 22nd Oct 2024

9.30 - 15.30

The Tomlinson Centre

 

Tuesday, 26th Nov 2024 The Tomlinson Centre

8.30 - 15.30

 

Benefits

  1. Proven and highly cost-effective CPD.
  2. Recognised status, independently assessed against national standards.
  3. Schools can be confident in deploying HLTA to cover a range of teaching and learning activities.
  4. Competence to deliver whole school teaching in the absence of a teacher.
  5. Reassurance for parents of the competence of HLTA staff.

 

Please note that all applicants must complete the application form and submit to cpdadmin@hackney.gov.uk by 27th September 2024:

HLTA Application Form

HLTA-application-checklist.pdf

 

 

The cost of this course is £700.00 broken down as follows:

£250.00 (£300.00 incl. VAT) for preparation PLUS £450 (VAT exempt) for assessment.  You will be invoiced separately for the assessment.

The cost of preparation will not be charged to Hackney CPD Package Holders.

Hackney Education will also cover the assessment fee for the first 6 applicants (this applies to ALL Hackney schools)

 

 

 

  • Target audience:
  • Primary
  • Secondary
  • Early Years
  • Included in package:
  • Primary

£300.00

(incl. VAT)

Makaton Level 1

Course overview

Makaton signing and symbols can be used to support a range of learners to develop their expression and understanding. This nationally accredited one-day Level 1 course (replacing the first part of Makaton Foundation Workshop) provides a detailed introduction to Makaton’s place in supporting communication as well as practical sign vocabulary and an introduction to using symbols. Videos show how Makaton can be introduced at home or in an education setting. 

Course objectives

  • To learn signs and symbols of the Makaton language programme (stages 1-2).
  • To understand how Makaton can be used to help pupils with communication difficulties to access learning and social interaction at school.

Who should attend?
SENCOs, teachers, learning support assistants and teaching assistants in primary and secondary mainstream and special schools responsible for using and teaching.

 

  • Target audience:
  • Early Years
  • Primary
  • Secondary
  • Post 16
  • Included in package:
  • Not Included

£75.00

(incl. VAT)
Check Date

Makaton Level 2

Course overview

This nationally accredited Level 2 Makaton course builds on the previous workshop to develop knowledge and understanding of both signs and symbols up to Core Vocabulary stage 4, and explores how to use them to support communication every day.  The course will increase participants’ knowledge of AAC and multi-modal communication and there are opportunities to revise and practise signing in a fun and active way. Levels 1 and 2 together are equivalent to the two-day Makaton Foundation Workshop previously offered. 

Course objectives

  • To learn signs and symbols of the Makaton language programme (stages 3–4).
  • To enable staff to facilitate pupils with communication difficulties to access learning and social interaction at school using Makaton.

Who should attend?
SENCOs, teachers, learning support assistants and teaching assistants in primary, secondary mainstream and special schools responsible for using and teaching who have previously completed the Makaton Level 1 course.

  • Target audience:
  • Early Years
  • Primary
  • Secondary
  • Post 16
  • Included in package:
  • Not Included

£75.00

(incl. VAT)
Check Date

Phonics screening check: the administration explained

Introduction

This course is aimed at teachers or senior leaders who are planning to implement the year 2 Phonics check.

Course objectives:

  • This course provides a guide to the administration, planning and organisation of the check.
  • This course will enable you to access key documentation and updates so that you are fully aware of the implementation requirements.

This training is suitable for: 

  • Year 2 teachers
  • Teaching assistants
  • Those responsible for planning to implement the year 2 Phonics check.

This course is free for Hackney schools. Non-Hackney schools have to pay £45 + VAT pp.

  • Target audience:
  • Primary
  • Included in package:
  • Primary

From £0.00

(incl. VAT)
Check Date

Primary and Secondary Spanish Network

COST: £90 + VAT per school (once you have booked 1 colleague from your school, they can add anyone who is interested in attending from your school to our google calendar invite)

Free for schools who have bought into the package.

 Introduction 

Considering the challenges of language instruction, our community endeavours to establish a nurturing network. We understand the significance of accessing language specialists to aid educators in achieving teaching excellence. Additionally, we commend the abundance of knowledge within our group, where numerous Spanish teachers have honed exemplary methods and are enthusiastic about mutual support. United, we cultivate an atmosphere where cooperation flourishes, ensuring every teacher feels empowered and encouraged across phases.

Course Outline

 Thursday 3rd October 2024

Learning in Spanish and Science using a CLIL approach

Presenters: Pilar Gonzalez Gomez, MRA, Raquel Tola Rego, Parkwood Primary International Spanish School and Cristina Delgado, SRUK.org.uk

Suitable for primary and secondary Spanish and Science Leads.

Thursday, 23rd January 2025

Sharing Good Practice in Languages 

This is a chance for teachers to share examples of their own excellent practice. 

Who can attend? 

Suitable for primary and secondary language teachers.

  • Target audience:
  • Primary
  • Secondary
  • Included in package:
  • Primary
  • Secondary

£108.00

(incl. VAT)
Check Date

Primary Subject Leader Network: EYFS

COST: £90 + VAT per school (once you have booked 1 colleague from your school, they can add anyone who is interested in attending from your school to our google calendar invite)

Free for schools who have bought into the package.

 Introduction

Welcome to Hackney's Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Professional Learning Community, where EYFS leads have the invaluable opportunity to explore diverse settings and innovative approaches to delivering the EYFS curriculum. This community not only fosters a relaxed environment for networking and relationship building but also addresses the common challenge of releasing colleagues to attend. Prioritising workload, staying organised, and using time efficiently are essential skills for participation. Emphasising people and collaborative skills, our community supports leaders who can guide while also integrating seamlessly into their teams, leveraging colleagues' strengths. By building and sustaining strong relationships, we ensure every member feels valued and empowered.

Draft Agendas

Thursday, 5th December 2024

1. Two-Year-Old Provision

  • Reviewing current provision for two-year-olds, discuss effectiveness and areas for improvement, share best practices

2. Plans for the Year

  • Outline objectives and goals for the year, discuss planned activities, set priorities, and collaborate on planning.

3. Class Numbers / Changes in Roll

  • Review class numbers and roll changes, analyse trends and impacts, discuss strategies for managing sizes and transitions, and allocate staffing and resources accordingly.

4. Open Discussion

  • Addressing any additional questions or concerns
  • Setting action items and next steps

Thursday, 25th February 2025

1. Ofsted Readiness and Reviews

  • Provide an overview of current Ofsted requirements and expectations for EYFS, share best practices for readiness, discuss preparation for inspections

3. Equalities Duties in EYFS

  • Present equalities duties and legal requirements, discuss policy implementation and monitoring, share strategies for promoting inclusivity, and collaborate on overcoming challenges.

4. Anti-Racism Education in EYFS

  • Discuss the importance of anti-racism education, share successful teaching approaches and resources, integrate anti-racism principles into the curriculum, and plan ongoing initiatives collaboratively.

5. Open Discussion

  • Addressing any additional questions or concerns
  • Sharing ideas and suggestions for future meetings
  • Setting action items and next steps
  • Confirming date and agenda for the next meeting

Suitable for: 

Anyone who is interested in EYFS (EYFS leads, teachers and teaching assistants)

Led by Samantha Fennell, Mandeville Primary School

£54.00

(incl. VAT)
Check Date

Primary Subject Leader Network: Literacy

COST: £90 + VAT per school (once you have booked 1 colleague from your school, they can add anyone who is interested in attending from your school to our google calendar invite)

Free for schools who have bought into the package.

 

Introduction

Welcome to Hackney's Primary Literacy Professional Learning Community, a vibrant hub dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment where educators can build a strong sense of community. Here, members are encouraged to ask questions and deepen their subject knowledge, ensuring they are well-equipped and valued as leaders in literacy education. Our aim is to build capacity within schools, keeping abreast of the latest ideas and innovations in teaching practices. By sharing good practices and openly discussing the challenging aspects of teaching, we collectively enhance our skills and effectiveness, driving forward the quality of literacy education for all our students.

Course overview

  • To support the planning of a coherent learning journey in the curriculum that reflects the needs of your school.
  • To support the planning and monitoring of progression in learning, in line with Ofsted expectations.
  • To contribute to effective delivery lessons and to ensure engaged learning.

Draft agendas:

Wednesday, 2nd October 2024

1. Welcome and Introductions

  • Opening remarks
  • Introduction of new members

2. Feedback from SATs

  • Review of SATs results and insights
  • Discussion on areas of success and areas needing improvement
  • Strategies for addressing identified challenges

3. Plans for the Year

  • Outline of key objectives and goals for the academic year
  • Timeline of planned activities and initiatives
  • Discussion on priorities and focus areas

4. Sharing Expertise Across Literacy Leads and Teachers

  • Presentations from literacy leads on best practices and successful strategies
  • Collaborative discussion on innovative teaching methods
  • Q&A session for sharing experiences and solutions

5. Resourcing and Common Themes

  • Overview of available resources and how to effectively utilize them
  • Identification of common themes and trends in literacy education
  • Strategies for resource sharing and collaborative planning

Who should attend?

Anyone with an interest in literacy

Led by Kathleen O'Connor, Rosie Condon and Richard Boxall 

  • Target audience:
  • Primary
  • Included in package:
  • Primary

£108.00

(incl. VAT)

Primary Subject Leader Network: Music

These sessions will be run by Hackney Music Service (HMS) and are all FREE.

 Introduction

Our termly conferences for music practitioners are essential for fostering community among music educators, who often work in isolation as the sole specialists in their settings. These sessions provide opportunities to share best practices, resources, and teaching observations, as well as to collaborate on performances. They also facilitate cross-curricular partnerships, particularly with MFL, EYFS, and SEND networks, including a dedicated SEND Music network.

Despite being a legally required subject, music education is often undervalued and under-resourced. Specialist music teachers, who see each class weekly, deliver the most effective instruction, yet many schools rely on overstretched classroom teachers. Our network meetings, attended mainly by specialist teachers, offer critical professional development and quality assurance. They also grant access to diverse opportunities through partnerships with various professional music organisations, enhancing the inclusivity and richness of music education.

Draft Agendas (more information to follow)

Monday 9th September 2024

Please join us for a session on Trauma Informed Practice in Music Education - this will be delivered by Dr Phil Mullen who has presented at Hackney Music Education Conferences in previous years. His specialism is Inclusion and this will form part of the session, but this will be the first time he will have delivered a focussed session on TIP for us.  This is being offered to schools absolutely free of charge so please do not miss this opportunity.

 

Anyone in your school is welcome to attend.

 

Wednesday, 25th September 2024

Update on the National Plan for Music Education and the Schools Music Development Plans. This session is an opportunity to get into questions about this in more depth, and to share good practice with writing a Plan for your school, including how to best use the various Self Evaluation Toolkits and Templates there are floating around. The main drive will be to discuss how to ensure the creation of a SMDP can be something genuinely useful for your school and to move away from it being an administrative exercise that the DfE 'expects' all schools to do, without it being officially mandatory. 

Thursday, 16th January 2025

Curriculum - OFSTED, Assessment, Progression

Monday, 19th May 2025

Music transition - please book here.

Who should attend?

School subject leaders, coordinators and TAs 

 

  • Target audience:
  • Primary
  • Included in package:
  • Primary

£0.00

(incl. VAT)
Check Date

Structured Conversations: how to discuss children’s learning and needs

Parent and carer engagement is key to pupil achievement. Structured conversations give staff at all levels the tools and a framework to have conversations with parents and carers that supports; achievement; attendance and punctuality; behaviour; well being; aspirations; effective and supportive partnerships between the school and home.
Colleagues can expect to leave the session:
  • Having a framework to guide conversations;
  • A set of tools and techniques to use in communicating with parents and carers (including target setting and gaining parent/ carer support); 
  • And for senior leaders, an opportunity to develop a whole school approach in working in partnership with parents and carers. 

  • Target audience:
  • Primary
  • Secondary
  • Included in package:
  • Primary

£0.00

(incl. VAT)

Teaching Assistants as Primary Leaders of Reading

Course overview

To develop experienced teaching assistants or HLTAS in how to develop and manage reading opportunities for all children. Becoming a reading expert.  Impact building a reading team and develop reading knowledge and expertise in 1:1, small group and whole class.

Sessions

5 sessions to align with implementation opportunities in school:

  • Review of expectations across the school from Reception through to year 6. 
  • What are the rewards of reading?
  • How assessment informs 1-1, small group, and whole class reading sessions.
  • Working with exceptional children
  • Developing independence
  • Ensuring that reading is central to a school’s literacy culture.

Dates

Tuesday, 5 November 2024 This date has been postponed and the programme will now begin on 26 November 2024

Tuesday, 26 November 2024

Tuesday, 14 January 2025

Tuesday, 11 March 2025

Wednesday, 30 April 2025

Who should attend?

Teaching Assistants and HLTA

 

  • Target audience:
  • Primary
  • Included in package:
  • Primary

£324.00

(incl. VAT)