Current Focus:
Extension of EY good practice project into Y1

“Dedicated communication of the future”.

Our shared goal was to extend the philosophy of Early Years Quality Standard into Year 1 whilst embracing the principles of “Excellence and Enjoyment” and “Every Child Matters”.

The diversity of our schools and the sharing of good practice strengthened our network as we are all strongly committed to enriching the curriculum of our schools and broadening our horizons through professional development and thereby challenging our existing practice. 

As our communities are different, we were able to support one another and learn from each other whilst sharing our experiences.   Initially, we consulted with all staff and agreed the aims of the network through common agreement.  All staff were given the opportunity to be involved in our project and each school ensured that there were direct links to the School Improvement Plan and Self-Evaluation Process.

We asked for support from the Early Years Team, following this an action plan was produced and agreed by all, which we have used as a basis for our development and expanded as the project developed.

The funding provided has enabled the staff from each school to be released for quality time and share their expertise and ideas and build up positive relationships; which has had a huge impact upon the success of the project.  There has also been opportunity to observe practice in one another’s school and to share resources.

The Wigan Early Years Quality Standard Audits were used as a basis to develop new documentation to be used as a Seal of Approval for Key Stage 1 practice.  All schools completed the new audits for the six areas.  Reception and Year 1 teachers from each school met regularly to develop the audits, translating them into action plans for their school systematically.

Currently, networked schools have either been, or are shortly to be re-accredited under Wigan Quality Standard and combining this with the Seal of Approval for KS1.  Each networked school will take responsibility for delivering the training on one audit area supported by the Early Years Q&I team. 
  
The next stage of the project is that a pilot group, made up mainly of schools already accredited with WQS, are to be invited to a showcase event in June at which they can learn more about our work and “sign up” to be involved in the network.  This will culminate in these schools being accredited with the Seal of Approval.

The benefits of collaborative working has encouraged four of the Headteachers from the original partnership to continue to work together on identified local and national issues, eg value added and pupil progress in the Foundation Stage.