ESE: Unit Course Outlines

Supporting Learning in the Primary Classroom

Teaching Assistants perform a vital function in our classrooms. This course explores approaches, techniques and strategies which TAs can use to support pupil learning without developing dependency or encouraging lethargy in pupils. We look at how to ensure good communication between TAs and teachers, how TAs can manage individuals and groups, dealing with challenging behaviour and making good use of your time.

Using Mind-Mapping and Visual Tools to raise standards in English, Maths and Science in KS1 and KS2

Professional development on the use of Mind-mapping and Visual Tools to structure pupils' thinking. The session provides introductory training on Mind-Mapping and its organising principles, with examples of using Mind-mapping in the classroom. A range of Visual Tools, such as Bubble Maps, is introduced, explained and demonstrated.

Pupil Centred Learning in KS1

This course explores the theoretical foundations of young children's learning and introduces tools, tips and techniques for supporting oppportunities for brain-friendly learning in Foundation classes and into KS1. In particular, we consider how KS1 classes can extend and develop Foundation Stage best practice whilst meeting parental expectations and satisfying curriculum requirements.

Leading a Creative School

This course considers the challenge of promoting cross-curricular learning from 3-14. We explore how to provide pupils with opportunities to be creative. We think about the challenge for Headteachers who wish to promote creativity in their schools, whilst ensuring that standards are maintained or raised. The course addresses the principles of creative thinking and considers how this can best be served in an educational context.

Effective use of Assessment to promote learning at KS1 and KS2

This course considers the difference between formative and summative assessment and looks in-depth at the principles and practices associated with 'Assessment for Learning'. We consider how to give pupils feedback that leads to learning and we discuss 'Marking for Improvement'. We also address how we can engage pupils in their learning and consider systems and structures we need in order to establish a manageable whole school approach to assessment.

How to be a successful Subject Co-ordinator

We consider the role of the subject leader both in terms of personal skills and attributes and professional responsibilities. In particular, we look at: What are the differences between leadership and management? What does a leader do? What are the personal attributes that foster successful leadership? How can I get a strategic overview of my subject across the school (using data, professional discussion, observation, etc)? What evidence do I need to collect? From whom? In what form?

The Art of Communication

Communicating in groups and one-to-one. Getting your message across effectively. Presenting to an audience. Styles of communication. Avoiding misunderstandings. Communication Styles and techniques.

More Effective Teaching and Learning in English at KS1 and KS2

More Effective Teaching and Learning in Maths at KS1 and KS2

More Effective Teaching and Learning in Science at KS1 and KS2

These subject specific courses provide teachers with a wide range or relevant and helpful tools, tips and techniques for delivering more effective learning. In each case, we look at the characteristics of the subject, how it is best approached in Early Years education and the process skills and basic techniques that are essential to success. We will also consider how teachers can promote a culture of learning in their classrooms.

Supporting Gifted and Talented Pupils in KS1 and KS2

This course addresses the key principles of provision for gifted and talented pupils, from identification through to provision. We consider gifted underachievers, enrichment and extension and participants are given tools for effective self-evaluation of their school's current performance.

Effective Differentiation for improved Pupil Learning

Differentiation is a much discussed and much misunderstood concept. We look at why, when and how to differentiate. We consider teaching styles and approaches, which make differentiation easy and natural. We explore manageable ways to build differentiation into planning so that the needs of individuals and groups are met. We consider aspects of differentiation across the curriculum.

Peer Coaching

How to develop a culture of peer coaching in your school. Encouraging reflective practice and reducing dependency. What a coaching culture looks like. The philosophy and practice of coaching. The coaching cycle. How coaching and mentoring differ.

Building an Effective Team

A day of practical and theoretical team building, self-review, identifying traits, strengths, areas for development. Learn how to use leadership strategies effectively. Dealing with difficult people.

Pupil Voice

How to develop Pupil Voice to improve pupil engagement in your school. How to listen to pupils' views. How to use pupils to promote improved strategic thinking about the school, learning etc. How pupils can be researchers into school systems and practices.

Dealing with Difficult People

Education is essentially about communication. In this course, we look at how to improve our communication skills, especially when dealing with people we find difficult (whether these are parents or colleagues). We address assertiveness, managing disruptive emotions and how to give hard messages.