Vulnerable pupils

The framework may have changed but one thing remains consistently important. Safeguarding is one aspect of school life that it is vital for school leaders to keep on top of. In this article, Suzanne O’Connell outlines what has been emphasised in the latest Ofsted inspectors’ guidance. Summary In line with the new Ofsted framework, the safeguarding guidance for inspectors has been updated.Although much of the guidance is the same, there are some changes that should be taken into consideration.Peer-on-peer abuse has a high profile in this new guidance. The latest inspection safeguarding guidance was published in May 2019, ready for…

Some changes to attendance can be made with relative ease. Others require a much more concerted effort. In this article, Nicola Finch-Turner explains what Michael Drayton Junior School has done to improve attendance, beyond those who are easily reached. Summary It is important that children want to come to school.Attendance rewards work well with some children, but do not work for everyone.For some children, the issues behind poor attendance are complex and need unpicking. Attendance in schools often feels like a constant battle. You can send letters and offer incentives but still there seems to be a group whose attendance…

Looked-after children deserve to have a good education. In order for this to be possible, they need to be in school. In this article, Alex Colclough Explains how schools can develop their practice to support looked-after children and help them achieve. Summary An awareness of attachment theory is vital to understanding why some children behave the way they do.It’s important that schools demonstrate that they will never give up on a child. Professionals should look closely at what is motivating children to behave in the ways they do. I’m lucky. The value of education was drummed into me from an…