Stevenage 14 - 19 Partnership News - Stevenage 14 - 19 Partnership

Post 16 - Summer information

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

Post 16 Information - Summer 2012

Centre	Study Leave	Lessons End for Year 13	Lessons Begin Again for Year 12	Lessons End for Year 12
Barclay	No	Friday 1 June	Monday 11 June	Friday 6 July
Barnwell	Students will be expected to attend lessons until completion of subject exam	On completion of subject exam	Monday 11 June	Friday 13 July
Marriotts	Students will expected to attend lessons until completion of subject exam	On completion of subject exam	Monday 25 June	Friday 13 July
Nobel	From Monday 14 May students will be expected to attend lessons until completion of subject exam	On completion of subject exam	Monday 11 June	Monday 2 July
NHC	No	On completion of subject exam	Monday 11 June	Friday 22 June
Thomas Alleyne	From Monday 14 May students will be expected to attend lessons until completion of subject exam or in certain subjects until all work is completed to the expected standard	On completion of subject exam	Monday 11 June	Friday 20 July

This information can also be downloaded:

Post 16 Information - Summer 2012

Post 16 Courses 2012

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

Further information about the courses will be available shortly.

Examinations 2012

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

In 2012 all examinations will be taken at the Centre where you are taught.

Learners who are taught away from their ‘home’ base for some of their courses will, therefore, need to ensure that they are absolutely sure of when and where each of their examinations are taking place. In many instances, the actual examination room will not be the usual teaching room so it is critical, should this be the case, that you locate and familiarise yourself with this room well in advance of the date. Additionally, you should be aware that examination times will vary from Centre to Centre – you should not just assume that all your examinations will start at the same time!

The Teaching Centre will make a point of informing you when and where each of your examinations is going to take place. However, given the complexity of learner numbers, courses followed, and consequent examinations the final responsibility has to lie with you – the learner. If you discover that there are any clashes of examination dates / times you must see the Examinations Officer within your home institution without delay. As a ‘back-up’ you may wish to know that you can produce your own timetable by logging onto www.modernisationonline.org.uk/comptimetable which will link you to the various exam board websites.

All Home Centres will have all the results for all their learners on Results Day – Thursday 16 August. However, should they wish to do so, Guests can collect their actual exam board slip from the Teaching Centre on the day.

Note: GCSE results will be released on Thursday 23 August.

Thank you – and best wishes for your success!

Richard Westergreen-Thorne

Changes for 2012 - 2013 - Update

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

Over the coming weeks the website will be amended to show the changes to the Post 16 offer from 2012 - 2013. Whilst the town wide Year 13 offer will be across all 5 days, as at present, there will be significant changes in Year 12.

When the Partnership was first established the Post 16 offer in each Centre was much smaller than it is now and there was a need to provide opportunities for students to Guest in other Centres to allow them a wide range of subjects. With a bigger offer in each Home Centre there is now less need for students to go elsewhere to pick up a subject. However, there is still going to be a range of subjects available across the town on a Thursday to give students the flexibility to pick up subjects they want to follow in another Centre to their own.

Look out for further information over the coming weeks and in the meantime ask your Home Centre staff if you have any questions.

End of Year and Study Leave dates

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

End of Year and Study Leave dates for Year 12 and Year 13 are being prepared by Centres and will be published shortly on this website.

Stevenage Educational Trust (SET) website

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

The Stevenage Educational Trust (SET) website will be available shortly and will provide information and resources for staff who work in Stevenage Schools.

In the meantime you can continue to contact SET via set@educationtrust.org.uk and also use the same phone number as the 14 - 19 Partnership which is 01438 310044.

Ros Blackburn - Change of Venue

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

Due to circumstances outside our control the venue for the session led by Ros Blackburn on Thursday 1st March (3.30pm for 4.00pm) has been changed to Barnwell School (West Campus).

Working with the Stevenage Educational Trust (SET)

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

The 14-19 Partnership continues to work closely with the Stevenage Educational Trust (SET) which covers all 45 schools in Stevenage and the surrounding area plus North Herts College.

The SET website is planned to be launched by Easter and in the meantime you can contact SET via:

email: set@educationtrust.org.uk

telephone: 01438 310044

UCAS Applications for Sept 2012

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

You may be interested in the following press release from UCAS at the end of January 2012.

"There has been a headline drop of 7.4% in applicants with a slightly larger fall in England.

"The more detailed analysis of application rates for young people takes account of population changes. This shows a fall of just one percentage point in the application rate in England, with little change across the rest of the UK.

"Our analysis shows that decreases in demand are slightly larger in more advantaged groups than in the disadvantaged groups. Widely expressed concerns about recent changes in HE funding arrangements having a disproportionate effect on more disadvantaged groups are not borne out by these data.
"However, I remain concerned about the wide and increasing gap between the application rate of men compared to women.

"Although applications are down for mature applicants, this is in the context of some very substantial increases in recent cycles. Applications from mature groups are also set against a backdrop of increasingly higher HE participation rates at their school leaving age.

"The indications are that demand for HE will continue to outstrip the number of places available in 2012. Applications are already 50,000 ahead of the number of acceptances in 2011 and last year UCAS received over 100,000 further applications between January and the close of the cycle."

Ros Blackburn talk

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

The 14-19 Partnership is pleased to promote the session from Ros Blackburn "Logically Illogical" on 1st March 3.30pm for 4.00pm at Heathcote School.

This session, organised by the Stevenage Educational Trust (SET) is for staff - schools. Ros will discuss her experience as a person with Autism and her talks are highly regarded as providing an insight into working with children on the Autistic Spectrum and their parents.

Over 100 people are already booked to attend and if you would like a place then please contact your School Family Worker or set@educationtrust.org.uk , telephone no. 01438 310044.

Post 16 Offer - Sept 2012

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

There will be significant changes to the Post 16 offer from September 2012.

Current 2 year courses, at present, in their first year will continue on the same days into Year 2 from September 2012.

New courses available across the town will in the main, be limited to one block for Guest students on a Thursday (some subjects on other days will also be available from NHC).

When the 14-19 Partnership was first established there were 7 relatively small school Sixth Forms and NHC. From September there will be 5 larger Sixth Forms and NHC so that each Centre is able to offer a wider range of subjects itself. For this reason, from September, the subjects offered to Guest students will be on a Thursday.

It is being planned that this block will include a range of new and minority subjects that will make it easier for students to find the right combination of subjects.

More details will be published as soon as possible. In the meantime all Centres have a copy of the draft Thursday offer and will be able to advise you.

You are also welcome to contact the 14-19 Partnership for up to date information and advice.

As soon as it is available the provisional timetable will be placed on this website.

Important changes

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

There are important changes taking place to the way that the 14-19 Partnership offers subjects to Guest students from September 2012.

See the item in the 'Partnership News' section for the latest information.

Partnership Reports

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

Post 16 Reports are due to be published shortly by all Centres for students in Years 12 & 13.

These reports which are for students and their parents provide an up to date picture of progress and performance.

Full details about reports are available from individual Centres.

E-Safety Competition 2012

Thu, 2 Feb 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

Safer Internet Day is taking place on Tuesday 7th February 2012.

To support this event we are running a competition to 'Design a poster for e-Safety'. The competition will be judged by key stages 1, 2, 3, 4 & Post 16.

1st Prize - T Shirt with your winning design printed on the front

2nd Prize - £10

3rd Prize - £5

If you wish to take part the competition flyer will provide you with all the information you need.

Good Luck!

Social Science Conference

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

The conference will be held at NHC Stevenage Centre on Friday 10th February. Registration/refreshments will be available from 09.30 with the conference formally being opened at 10.00 with lunch at 13.00. The conference will close between 14.30-15.00.

Guest speakers include Dr Jack Fawbert from University of Bedfordshire who will talk on his research into ‘Hoodies’ and Dr Ben Kotzee of Birkbeck College, London who will speak on the subject of research in education. A member of the police force will speak on how social science informs police practice. There will also be guest speakers representing Psychological research and professional practice.

The conference is free, including refreshments during the day. A lunch voucher can be purchased on the day if required for £1 per head.

The event should be of interest to any AS/A2 Social Science students and it is an attempt to show how social science knowledge informs the ‘real world’.

If students would like to attend please contact Jan Green JGreen@nhc.ac.uk by Tuesday 24th January

Social Science Conference

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

The conference will be held at NHC Stevenage Centre on Friday 10th February.

Registration/refreshments will be available from 09.30 with the conference formally being opened at 10.00 with lunch at 13.00.

The conference will close between 14.30-15.00.

The conference is free, including refreshments during the day. A lunch voucher can be purchased on the day if required for £1 per head.

The event should be of interest to students studying AS/A2 Social Science and it is an attempt to show how social science knowledge informs the ‘real world’.

If you are interested please check with your Post 16 co-ordinator and confirm your interest to Jan Green at JGreen@nhc.ac.uk by Tuesday 24th January.

Find your Future Event 2012

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday 18th January 2012, 4pm - 8pm, North Herts College, Stevenage are holding an event on Apprenticeships.

Find out more about Apprenticeships and how to plan your progression by attending this event.

It is open to students (Year 11, 12 & 13), parents and carers.

Apprenticeship flyer

Workshop Programmes

Organisations attending the event

Happy New Year

Thu, 5 Jan 2012 -1:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to the start of the Spring Term.

The offer for September 2012 will soon be available and published on the website.

End of another year!

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

We would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas.

Thank you for all your help and support during the year.

Oxbridge Event

Fri, 2 Dec 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

All Year 9-12 students and their parents in Stevenage Centres interested in attending Oxford or Cambridge University are invited to the Information Evening on Monday 23rd January 2012 in the Community Hall, North Herts College Stevenage , at 7.30 - 8.30 pm.

Details are to be found on the flyer. If you would like to attend just turn up on the evening.

If you would like some further information or advice before deciding whether to come along then discuss it in school/college with your tutor. Alternatively, contact the 14-19 Partnership on 01438 310044 or email to: sv1419@lea.herts.sch.uk .

We held a similar and very successful event two years ago which was very useful to those who came along.

Stevenage Educational Trust

Fri, 2 Dec 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Our sister organisation Stevenage Educational Trust (SET) is planning to get its website operational shortly.

Whilst the 14-19 Partnership concentrates upon the collaborative work of the secondary schools, SET is a collaboration between all of the 44 schools, North Herts College and the Education Support Centre in the town and surrounding area.

In the meantime you can contact SET via:

Telephone: 01438 310044

Email: set@educationtrust.org.uk

or read a copy of the flyer outlining its activities.

Planning for 2012 - 13

Fri, 2 Dec 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Curriculum heads from all of the Centres are currently planning the curriculum arrangements for 2012 - 13.

They are looking at alternative models of delivery of the curriculum and hope to have an outline agreement in place by late January 2012. Once this is agreed it will then be published as a draft on this website.

In the meantime please contact your Home Centre for up to date information.

Oxbridge dates

Fri, 2 Dec 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

5th January 2012
A one day conference for Year 12 students considering applications to Oxford or Cambridge in Autumn 2012.

Details from Heads of Sixth form

23 January 2012
An open event at 7.30 pm for Year 9 - 12 students and parents interested in Oxbridge - details to follow shortly.

e-Safety Week 2012

Fri, 2 Dec 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

The Partnership along with Primary Schools in the town will be supporting the National e -Safety Day on 8th February 2012 with an e-Safety Week 6th - 10th February 2012.

As last year, it will be an opportunity for schools to be involved in a range of activities to raise awareness and provide information.

Communication with students and parents

Fri, 2 Dec 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

The ICT Group is holding a session on Wednesday 18th January 2012, 4.00 - 5.00 pm led by Hertfordshire University.

They will be outlining ways in which they communicate with students, prospective students and the wider community.

This is an opportunity to see how their practice may be transferrable to a school setting and how they address issues such as e-safety.

Contact your ICT Group member or the 14-19 Partnership directly if you would like to attend.

Interested in Photography?

Thu, 1 Dec 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

The Partnership is supporting the Rotary Club Photography Competition (deadline 2 February 2012).

If you would like to enter and your school is not taking part then do contact us. We can supply you with details and information to allow you to participate.

Please email sv1419@lea.herts.sch.uk with your name and we will send you all of the information you will need.

New Ofsted Framework Published

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

The new Draft Ofsted Framework for Inspection of Schools from January 2012 has now been published.

It can be found via the following link: http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/news/shape-of-school-inspection-2012-0

Interested in Oxbridge or a Russell Group Uni?

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

The Partnership is organising a number of activities and events for students in Year 9 - 12 interested in Oxbridge entry.

Further details will be published shortly on this website and will be available in all Centres.

Changes for September 2012

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

The way in which the curriculum and timetable is organised across the Partnership will be changing for September 2012.

Students already in the first year of a two year course will not be affected by the changes as they only apply to new courses starting in 2012.

The number of common options across the town is likely to reduce from 5 to 2. This will mean that students will still be able to be Guest Students at another Centre but that this option will be limited to the two option blocks.

As in previous years the arrangements to be a Guest Student will be made for you by your Home Centre.

This website will be updated regularly with further details as planning for next year continues.

Changes to the timetable for 2012

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Planning for the 2012-13 curriculum and timetable within the Partnership is already underway.

Whilst the number and range of subjects is likely to remain roughly the same there will be some significant changes to the way in which the timetable is organised.

The number of common blocks across the town is likely to reduce form 5 to 2. In these blocks will be placed some of the 'minority' subjects and those which the Centres have agreed to offer to Guest Students.

The arrangements for applying to take acourse as a Guest Student will remain the same as now - via your Home Centre.

Students currently in the first year of a two year course will not be affected.

This website will be updated regularly with developments as the planning for Sept 2012 continues.

Post 16 Information Evenings

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

The dates of the Information Evenings for Year 11 Students about their Post 16 options have been published in the Comet Newspaper.

Full details can be found by contacting individual Centres but the key dates and times are available below:

Post 16 Information Evenings

Welcome to the Stevenage Educational Trust

Fri, 9 Sep 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

This term sees the start of the work of the Stevenage Educational Trust (SET).

Representing all 40+ schools in Stevenage and the surrounding area plus North Herts College it aims to support the schools in providing the best opportunities for all Stevenage young people.

Amongst its first activities are employing 6 Family Workers to support schools, children and parents. In addition, it has been sucessful with a Big Lottery Bid to run a Speech and Language initiative in the town.

We wish the SET all the very best in its work.

Post 16 Parent Evenings

Fri, 9 Sep 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

We will soon be publishing the dates and details for all Post 16 Parent Evenings and Year 11 into 12 Evenings this year.

Watch this space for details.

Oxbridge Entrants for Sept 2012

Fri, 9 Sep 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

A full day event is being held for all potential Oxbridge applicants for September 2012 entry on Monday 26th September.

The event is for all aspiring Year13 Oxbridge entrants in the area and will include help with making the application, mock interviews, etc.

All Heads of Post 16 have the details and will be discussing the day with those students who are preparing to make an application.

Welcome back

Fri, 9 Sep 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to the new term.

If you have any questions or queries the best place to start is usually your Home Centre, Head of Post 16. Alternatively you can contact the Heads of Post 16 in each Centre which are shown on the website.

If you have any general queries or do not currently attend a Stevenage school, or North Herts College then you are welcome to contact us on 01438-310044 or email sv1419@lea.herts.sch.uk

Helpful Advice

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

When you receive your exam results this summer there are various places that you can go to for help and advice.

The best starting point for most people is the Centre where you have been studying this year. However, there are a number of other places which offer helpful advice.

When you get your results this year your Centre should give you a copy of one of the letters shown below that gives extra information.

Year 11 letter

Year12/13 letter

Changes to School Performance Tables

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

The Government has just announced changes to the way the School Performance Tables wil be drawn up.

The changes include decisions to downgrade or omit some qualifications from counting in the Performance Tables for schools.

Stevenage Educational Trust

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the Stevenage Educational Trust (SET).

The SET has just become established in the town and is a coming together of all 44 schools and North Herts College to promote "the best possible opportunities for Stevenage young people".

It has a very promising future and will work alongside the 14-19 Partnership to support the work of young people in the town.

Exam results days

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Results days
	A2/AS - 18th August	GCSE - 25th August
Barclay School	8.30am for A2 9.30am for AS	9.30am
Barnwell School	8.00am for Y13 10.00am - 12.00pm for Y12	10.00am - 12.00pm
Heathcote School	10.00am - 1.00pm in 6th Form Common Room. N Monk will be available.	10.00am - 12.00pm
Marriotts School	8.30am at Lonsdale School	8.30am - 12.00pm at Lonsdale School
Nobel School	8.30am for A2 10.00am - 12.00pm for AS in Main Hall. J Marshall, J Saville & S Morley will be available.	10.00am - 12.00pm
Thomas Alleyne School	10.00am - 12.00pm in the Exams Office. P Dawson will be available.	10.00am - 12.00pm
NHC	8.30am for A2 9.30am for AS K Turner, A McLean and the A Level Team will be available.	-

New Ofsted Framework

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Consultation on the proposed new Ofsted Framework is now closed but it can still be viewed via the following link:

Inspection 2012: proposals for inspection arrangements for maintained schools and academies from January 2012

(Published Monday 21 March 2011)

Ofsted launches consultation on changes to school inspection in England

(Published Monday 21 March 2011)

The BEW Report

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

If you are interested , the BEW Report on KS2 Testing, Assessment and Accountability has just been published and is available via the DfE website

New website

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

We hope that you find the changes helpful to you in navigating yourself around the site

The Post 16 offer for 2011 continues to be updated daily if there are any changes announced by Centres. Do keep checking and consult the Head of Post 16 at individual Centres if you have any detailed questions about their offer.

Young Enterprise competition

Wed, 11 May 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to the Young Enterprise winning team from Barclay School.

The team, named Ambition, will represent North Hertfordshire at the County Final on 14th June 2011.

Good luck!!

EMA

Wed, 11 May 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Education Maintenance Allowance

The Government has just started a consultation process on what the new arrangements should look like. The link to the consultation is:

http://www.education.gov.uk/consultations/index.cfm?action=consultationDetails&external=no&consultationId=1754&menu=3

You may find this helpful and wish to respond.

The EMA Helpline are waiting to see what will appear, and the DfE and Directgov websites have only limited information.

The helpline number is: 0808 1016219

The key points however are that:

Arrangements in 2011/12

You’ll receive payments while you study in 2011/12 if:

you first applied for EMA in 2009/10 (you’ll receive the same weekly payment)
you first applied for EMA in 2010/11 and you receive the maximum EMA payment of £30 (reduced to £20 a week in 2011/12)

If you’re in care, a care leaver or on income support your weekly EMA payments will be replaced with a guaranteed bursary of £1,200 a year from September 2011.

All other students aged between 16 and 19 who face financial hardship can apply for a bursary through their school, college or training provider.

Studying Abroad

Fri, 6 May 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Thomas Alleyne School has a speaker visiting them on Wednesday 22nd June to talk about Studying Abroad, in particular universities in Australia.

The talk is aimed at Year 12 students so if you have any students interested in coming along please contact Mrs Giovanna Newbery at:

newberyg@tas.herts.sch.uk

The talk will run from 2.00pm to 3.10pm

Alternatively if this time is not convenient then schools can contact Degrees Ahead directly to arrange a talk earlier/later in the day.

The contact details are as follows:

joanna@degreesahead.co.uk or telephone 0207 193 7932

Lessons post AS exams for Year 12 students

Wed, 4 May 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

The date when A2 lessons begin for current AS level students is the week commencing 6 June 2011. Students are expected to attend all lessons from 6th June unless they have an AS level exam on the day in which case they should notify their teacher in advance if possible.

The date of the final lesson of term will be confirmed later.

Dancing to success!

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to Bradley Sapsford, Year 13 from Marriotts School who was selected to dance in a music video by Nerina Pallot.

View the video from the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2D7GGkrJPM&feature=player_embedded

Consult your Home Centre

Wed, 6 Apr 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Now that the Partnership offer has been published on this website you are able to see the full range of courses available across the town.

Don't forget that if you are interested in taking a course in a Guest Centre then you need to discuss this with your Home Centre. If they agree to the arrangement, they will organise it for you.

A2 Lessons Restart

Wed, 6 Apr 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

The Centres in the town will be agreeing shortly the dates when A2 lessons start after AS exams are completed.

We will publish the dates here when they are known and these dates will apply for all Year 12 students moving into Year 13 and continuing from AS to A2 in their subjects.

New Ofsted Framework

Wed, 6 Apr 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Ofsted have recently issued the proposals for it's new inspection framework from January 2012.

The links to the consultation document can be seen by following the link below:

Inspection 2012: proposals for inspection arrangements for maintained schools and academies from January 2012

(Published Monday 21 March 2011)

Ofsted launches consultation on changes to school inspection in England

(Published Monday 21 March 2011)

Post-18 Financial Help for Students

Wed, 6 Apr 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

From 25th March 2011 student finance applications will be transferred from Hertfordshire County Council to Student Finance England.

Existing students

All existing students will be contacted directly by Student Finance England to give advice of the new arrangements.

New students

All new students starting courses in September 2011 use the link below to access the application process:

www.direct.gov.uk/studentfinance

September 2011 Courses

Fri, 1 Apr 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

The Partnership Course Offer for Post 16 has been updated for September 2011 and is now available to assist students in making their choices.

E-Safety Logo Competition results

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

E-Safety week encouraged a number of schools across the town to hold a number of events.

The E-Safety Design a Logo Competition attracted a large number of entries from students aged 6 -17.

The standard of the entries was very high and we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who took part.

The winners were:

KS1

1st Cameron King

2nd Pembe Pekoz

3rd Leo Ferrari

Commendation: Kayleigh-Mai Atlee Turrell

KS2

1st Tyler-Jean Vander Merwe

2nd Millie Cook

3rd Robert Phillips

Commendation: Gina Beaven

KS3

1st Esme Barrington

2nd Una O'Malley

3rd Dominic Barnes

Commendation: Harry Flint

KS4

1st Danny-Lee Ellis

2nd Tobi Olasupo

Post 16

1st Olu Laguda

The competition entries can be viewed in our picture gallery.

Accountancy Apprenticeship offer

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Are you aged 16-18? Do you have 5 GCSE's at C grade or above including English & Maths?

North Herts College are offering a fast track accounting apprenticeship covering all three levels of the AAT in 12 months.

For more information download the Contact information sheet and the Factsheet.

If you are interested in this wonderful opportunity contact Mike Day on:

North Herts College - 01462 424242

email: mikeday@3aaa.co.uk

Minimum grade entries for 2011-12

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

The website will shortly be updated with information about minimum entry grades for acceptance onto Post 16 courses for 2011 -12.

Most requirements relate to A and AS level courses and whilst some are agreed minimum grades across the Partnership there are also some Centre specific requirements.

The information will be in our 'Course' section soon after half term.

E-Safety 2011 Competition

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Entries are coming in for the E-Safety competition held in conjunction with The Comet newspaper.

Just a reminder to those taking part that entries must be sent to:

Stevenage 14-19 Partnership, BTC, Bessemer Drive, Herts SG1 2DX

or emailed to:

sv1419@lea.herts.sch.uk

by 2nd March 2011

Good Luck

Post 16 reports

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Full reports are issued this week to Post 16 students across the Partnership.

Curriculum Planning Day

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

The next Curriculum Planning Day is on Wednesday 16th March.

Shortly after this date we will be able to publish the draft courses list for 2011-12 for all Centres.

Student Reports

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Full reports have now been published for all Post 16 students including guest students in all schools.

They are being issued this week by Centres to students and parents.

At the same time the usual half termly tracking of progress is taking place.

Minimum entry grades

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

We are soon to publish information about the minimum entry grades for all subjects and centres in the Partnership.

Most entry requirements apply to Level 3, A and AS level courses. There are minimum requirements to take Level 3 courses and specific grades required for some subjects.

Whilst some minimum grades are common across the Partnership each Centre also has specific requirements for some courses.

Once published the information on entry requirements will be found in the 'Courses' section of the website. It will be updated regularly in conjunction with the course offer for 2011-12, which will be published in early April 2011.

ESafety Logo Competition

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

This is a reminder to all students who are planning to enter the E-Safety Logo competition. Entries must be received by 2nd March 2011.

Please send your entries to:

Stevenage 14-19 Partnership, Business & Technology Centre, Bessemer Drive, Herts SG1 2DX

or email to:

sv1419@lea.herts.sch.uk

Young Enterprise

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

In Business with the Games (flyer)

There will be two wonderful opportunities for students to take part in Young Enterprise 'In Business with the Games' events.

The two events are:

23 March

9.30am - 2.45pm

for Level 3 students. We identified Business, Economics and Sports student as those most likely to benefit.

29 March

9.30am - 2.45pm

for predominantly Level 2 students. We can be flexible on both days as to who attends.

On both days:

teams of 6 (can be less if necessary)
1 or 2 teams per Centre (if you want to send more then let me know)
£10 per head - lunch and all resources provided, just bring a pencil case
staff are welcome to stay but do not need to do so as YE will staff it
any staff who can attend for 1.45 - 2.45pm can help judge the event

Provisional numbers to the Partnership are required by Friday 4th March.

National E-Safety Day 8th February 2011

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Stevenage schools across the town have initiated a number of activities to bring awareness to staff, students and parents about online internet safety.

The week of activity started 7th February tying in with National E-Safety Day on 8th February.

Events such as special assemblies and lessons run on an E-Safety theme are taking place.

View the photos of two E-Safety Superheroes sending the message across Barnwell School.

Students across the town are also invited to enter a competition to design an E-Safety logo. Entries must be submitted by 2nd March.

The results will be announced on 11th March 2011.

Apprenticeship Week Tasters

Fri, 4 Feb 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

During Apprenticeship Week, 7th to 11th February 2011, you can arrange a number of taster sessions at NHC.

The sessions are free and will provide you with information to learn more about becoming an Apprentice.

More details are available

If you are interested please contact:

North Herts College - 01462 424242

or to register visit www.apprenticeships.nhc.ac.uk/register

Apprenticeship Week Taster

Fri, 4 Feb 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

During Apprenticeship Week, 7th to 11th February 2011, you can arrange a number of taster sessions at NHC.

The sessions are free and will provide you with information to learn more about becoming an Apprentice.

More details are available

If you are interested please contact:

North Herts College - 01462 424242

or to register visit www.apprenticeships.nhc.ac.uk/register

Post 16 courses

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Post 16 courses for September 2011 will be available on the website from end March 2011. The current information provided will give you a guideline of what will be offered.

Young Chef Competition 20th January 2011

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 -1:00:00 GMT

Sponsored by Waitrose in Stevenage, the annual Rotary Young Chef Competition was held on 20th January 2011 at Barclay School.

Students who took part were asked to prepare, cook and serve a healthy three course meal for two people.

A number of marks were awarded to each competitor ranging from preparation to presentation of the dishes. The standard was as usual very high.

The result of the competition was as follows:

1st - Toni Cannon - Barclay School

2nd - Adam Stout - Heathcote School

3rd - Erin Jones - Thomas Alleyne School

Congratulations to everyone! Toni will go on to take part in the District competition and, if successful, take part in the National event where major prizes will be awarded.

View our photo gallery

Year 11 student interviews

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Following discussion, an information session will be held for staff who interview Year 11 students in their Centres about their Post 16 options.

The session has been arranged for Tuesday 11th January at BTC from 3.30pm - 5.00pm

The aim of the session is:

to update staff on the Partnership offer
to update staff on alternative options such as Apprenticeships, alternative Level 2 offers etc.
to discuss the issues of students on appropriate courses, entry requirements for courses, drop out rates,etc.

Further details will be published at the beginning of term.

Introduction of the English Baccalaureate

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Read the Statement of Intent 2010 - Addendum (English Baccalaureate)

Ofsted Annual Report 2009-10

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Read the latest Ofsted Annual Report 2009-10

January 2011 moves

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Are you finding your current study programme does not fit your plans?

Does your course of study no longer meet your career aspirations?

Do you need a fresh start without wasting the remainder of the year until September?

North Hertfordshire College will offer you support in making the right decision and guide you through the transition process.

For more information contact:

Matthew Bean at North Herts College on

01462 424242 ext.3102 or mobile: 07800 910 130

email: mbean@nhc.ac.uk

Apprenticeships

Fri, 3 Dec 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Read about Apprenticeships and find out if they are right for you.

Guest Student Progress Tracking

Fri, 5 Nov 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The first round of Guest Student Progress Tracking across the town for this year is due to take place next week. Focussing upon Year 12 and 13 lessons colleagues from all the centres have been paired up to observe lessons and look at the guest student experience in classes.

From this activity the results will be pooled to reflect the Guest Student experience in Year 12 and 13 lessons and inform training and support. Colleagues whose lessons will be visited during the week will be informed in advance by the member of their staff who is coordinating the activities in their centre.

CPD

Fri, 5 Nov 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Following the CPD session in most centres this week a reminder about events later this year. All of the training days and twilight insets for all of the centres can be found in the partnership calendar. This includes all shared and coordinated events as well as the activities run by centres on their own. For access, follow the links to the calendar on this website.

Curriculum Planning Day

Fri, 5 Nov 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The first of the Curriculum Planning Days for the town wide Post 16 curriculum is on 24 November. Representatives from each centre will be meeting to begin to put the Post 16 curriculum in place across the town for 2011.

Just a reminder

Fri, 5 Nov 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Just a reminder that the Post 16 progress tracking reports for all Year 12 and 13 students will be issued at the end of next week (12th Nov.). These reports will be made available to staff and students to reflect student progress over the first half term of the academic year.

Guest Student Progress tracking

Fri, 5 Nov 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Oxbridge students mock interviews

Fri, 5 Nov 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Seven Stevenage Year 13 students will be having mock interviews later this month in preparation for interviews at Oxford and Cambridge Universities. This follows a programme of support for Oxbridge students this year that has included a session for parents and students and a visit to Clare College Cambridge in July.

The mock interviews will help prepare the students for the 'real thing' and hopefully boost their chances of success.

Tracking reports to be issued

Fri, 5 Nov 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Tracking reports will be issued next week for all Year 12 and 13 students in Stevenage. These reports will show your progress in your subjects since the start of the academic year and will help you, your parents and your teachers have a good understanding of your current work and progress.

You will receive your second report of the year at the end of term and this will be followed by further tracking reports and a set of full reports later next term.

Mock interviews

Fri, 5 Nov 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

7 Stevenage students who have applied to Oxford and Cambridge Universities for 2011 entry will have a set of mock interviews later this month. These interviews will help them for the real thing later this year.

This is part of an ongoing programme of support for students applying to university and further opportunities will be made available to students in years 10-12 later in the academic year. If you want further advice and guidance about these events or if you have any more general queries about university applications then please see your Head of Post 16 in the first instance.

MP Visits Stevenage Schools

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Stevenage MP Stephen McPartland visited 5 Stevenage Secondary schools in October in order to have a tour of the schools and meet each of the Headteachers.

Spending time at Barclay, Barnwell, Marriotts, Nobel and Thomas Alleyne schools Stephen had a tour of each site, visited classrooms and met staff and students.

Participation Games

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Well done to the 120 plus students who took part in the Post 16 participation games just before half term. The event was organised by the School Sports Partnership and involved staff and students running events and organising teams.

Teams of Post 16 students representing the schools in the town took part in what was the first ever Post 16 Participation Games. The event built on the regular sporting events organised for students and the work of the students who are Sport Leaders in their schools.

As a first event the hope is that it will become part of the regular calendar and involve more students and more sports next time.

Find Your Future

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Apprenticeships are an excellent way of gaining qualifications and experience in the workplace plus you can earn money as you are earning.

To read more about the developments in Apprenticeships visit the website

Post 16 dates published today!

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Post 16 Open Evening and Parent Evening dates are now available on the website.

The dates can be found in the 'Student' and 'Parent' sections of the website.

Post 16 dates published today!

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Post 16 Open Evening and Parent Evening dates are now available on the website.

The dates can be found in the 'Student' and 'Parent' sections of the website.

Exam Result Boost

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The exam results from across the town have now been added together. The good news is that they show a very big rise in GCSE performance from all of the schools.

In 2010 a total of 1067 Year 11 students took their GCSE exams at Barclay, Barnwell, Heathcote, Marriotts, Nobel and Thomas Alleyne Schools. Every school improved their scores and their combined results showed a massive increase in performance:

% of learners achieving 5+ A* - C inc. English and Maths = increase of 10.5%

% of learners achieving 5+ A* - C = increase of 15.0%

In addition, there was a town wide increase in both the total and the average points score per student at A level.

Young Photographer Competition

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

This is a National Competition and therefore area heats select the winning set of photographs for the regional and national finals.

Entries to the competition must comply with the rules at national level. Be sure to read these rules carefully before entering the competition.

This stage of the competition will be run by the Stevenage Rotary Club and entries along with the completed entry form must be received no later than 1st February 2011.

We will be contacting the centres and colleges asking staff to get involved but if you wish to enter the competition on an individual basis please inform the Stevenage 14-19 Partnership and send your entry to us at the Business & Technology Centre, Bessemer Drive, Stevenage SG1 2DX.

Are you considering Oxford University?

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

If you are applying to university, are you considering Oxford? Would you like to hear more about it including from current undergraduates?

You are invited to an Open meeting at:

Stanborough School

Lemsford Lane, Welwyn Garden City, Herts. AL8 6YR

Thursday 30th September at 7.00pm

The meeting is aimed at students in years 11, 12, and 13, parents and teachers

Speakers

Lottie Coleman, Chair

Dr Dominic O'Brien, Admissions Tutor Balliol College

Panel discussion on 'life at Oxford'.

There will be an opportunity for questions after the talks. Talks finish at 8.15pm. Light refreshments will be provided.

If you wish to attend please inform your class teacher or head of sixth form. Some schools organise a school minibus.

Latest update to exam results dates in 2011

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The latest update to the exam results dates for August 2011.

AS and A level results are available to candidates on Thursday 18th August 2011.

GCSE results are available to candidates on Thursday 25th August 2011.

For more information follow the link http://www.ocr.org.uk/news/2010/item_046.html

Find Your Future

Thu, 9 Sep 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Your one stop event for : Jobs, Apprenticeships, Training Advice & Support

Read the flyer and register at findyourfuture.org.uk

Congratulations to staff and students

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Congratulations are in order for the staff and students in Stevenage for the record breaking exam results this summer. Not only have individual centres seen impressive increases in results but the overall results for Stevenage young people has also increased.

Full details of the town wide results will be found here shortly when the results from across the town have been compiled.

A full set of dates of meetings are available on the website

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The full set of dates and times of meetings for the year are to be found on this website. Any amendments will be noted on the site as the year progresses.

Staff can also access minutes and notes of meetings by use of the staff area on the site.

Training Opportunity

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

There will be a training opportunity for staff new to teaching Post 16 students in September. Full details will be available in your Centre and on this website shortly.

Heads of Post 16 Meeting

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The initial Heads of Post 16 meeting for the year will be held on Monday 6 September at 4.00pm at the BTC.

Welcome back

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Welcome back to the new year for all students.

If you are using this site to look at available courses for September 2010 then we will keep the list of courses available as up to date as possible and alert you to any changes as soon as we receive them from centres.

You will also find full information on the site about how to apply for courses as well as advice about choosing the right combinations of subjects, etc.

All Centres will be interviewing and discussing courses with students over the next few days and your starting point for any discussions should be to contact the Head of Post 16 at your Home Centre. They can also arrange for you to take courses as a Guest Student at another Centre.

Changes to the course offer

Wed, 1 Sep 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

There have been a few changes to the course offer involving NHC and Marriotts School. These will be entered on the course grid shortly but you can see them here now:

NHC

withdrawn AS Law on Friday
Society, Health and Development BTEC Diploma (Health) offered on Tuesday is now called BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Health & Social Care

Marriotts School

Monday - Biology GCSE moved to Friday
Tuesday - Core Science GCSE moved to Friday and now called Core & Additional Science GCSE
Wednesday - Physics GCSE moved to Friday
Friday - new offer - Science BTEC National, Chemistry GCSE moved to Wednesday
Friday - new offer - Mathematics GCSE (B or above) and Spanish GCSE

Summer exam results 2010

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Students collecting their 'A' level and GCSE exam results will find details of the school open times and additional information by reading the Examinations Results - 2010 document.

Schools take part in 'End Polio Now' Campaign

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Stephen McPartland MP, joined Stevenage Rotary Presidents Chris and Bob in going purple last Friday! They were presenting certificates and class dictionaries to acknowledge the great efforts made by young people of the town in raising some money towards the campaign to ‘End Polio Now’.

Five primary schools – Almond Hill, Giles, Martins Wood, Shephalbury, and Trotts Hill – and two secondary schools – Barclay and Thomas Alleyne – took part in a wide range of activities to raise the cash, including using purple-ink pens, selling purple-iced buns, and having handprints preserved in purple paint.

Children in Afghanistan, India or Pakistan have their little fingers painted with a purple dye to show they have been immunised.

In all they raised some £3,500 and, through Rotary’s partnership with the Bill Gates Foundation, this will result in a total of 17,500 young people in Afghanistan, India or Pakistan immunised against the crippling disease.

Stephen, Chris and Bob were delighted to celebrate this success with them. “I am proud to be associated with a group of young people who have so clearly demonstrated their awareness of, and commitment towards social awareness and community cohesion. They have set a good example to us all”, said MP Stephen.

Cambridge Trip Success!

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Friday, 9^th July saw the success of an enlightening visit to Clare College in Cambridge.

Under the glorious weather, Will Knock, Schools Liaison Officer gave 34 students and staff a tour of Clare College, a walking tour of the city and other Faculties.

The students from Years 9 to 12 who are interest in going to Cambridge also had the opportunity to meet Jonathan Goodman, a College Admissions tutor to discuss how to apply to the college.

Not only did Will provide the group with valuable information, some history and interesting facts, he incorporated a visit to the homemade fudge shop for free tasting!

An enjoyable day was had by all and thanks goes to Will for arranging the visit.

Cambridge Trip Success

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Friday, 9^th July saw the success of an enlightening visit to Clare College in Cambridge.

Under the glorious weather, Will Knock, Schools Liaison Officer gave 34 students and staff a fascinating tour of Clare College, a walking tour of the city and other Faculties.

The students from Years 9 to 12 who are interest in going to Cambridge also had the opportunity to meet Jonathan Goodman, a College Admissions tutor to discuss how to apply to the college.

Not only did Will provide the group with valuable information, some history and interesting facts, he incorporated a visit to the homemade fudge shop for free tasting!

An enjoyable day was had by all and thanks goes to Will for arranging the visit.

Partnership Calendar now available

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The Partnership Calendar for 2010 - 2011 is now available and can be found in the Staff section of the website.

If you have any questions or queries please contact the Partnership Office.

Cambridge Visit 9 July

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The date has been fixed for the visit to Cambridge University for those students who attended the Oxbridge evening in February.

The visit will include time at Clare College and possibly time at Gonville and Caius College as well. Will Knock from Clare College, who spoke at the February meeting, will meet us and will also provide lunch for everyone. There will be an opportunity to meet an Admissions Tutor and tour the College facilities. There will also be some free time in Cambridge.

Details of the trip are now in your School or College and you should receive an invitation to join the trip shortly. As numbers are limited do not delay in handing in your slip as soon as possible to ensure your place .

Open Day Trips for Year 12 students

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Details are with all Heads of Post 16 about the University Open Day Trips this year for current year 12 students. The first one is this Friday 18th June to Reading University led by Barclay School.

Full details of all of the visits that have been arranged over the coming weeks can be obtained from your Sixth Form Office and Head of Post 16.

Calendar 2010 - 2011

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The Partnership Calendar for 2010 - 2011 is currently being completed. Copies of the draft calendar have been sent to all members of the various Partnership Groups and it will be updated on a regular basis over the coming weeks.

If you have any questions or queries about next years calendar then do contact the Partnership Office.

Dress Code Meeting

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The meeting for student representatives from each Centre to consider the Dress Code for 2010 - 2011 will be held at the BTC on Thursday 1 July at 1.30pm.

Heads of Post 16 will be inviting students to represent their Centre at the meeting.

Staff Training Opportunities

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

There will be a number of staff training opportunities in July and September for staff teaching 14 - 19 students.

The sessions will be led by colleagues from the partnership and will focus upon aspects of teaching and learning. There are 6 sessions in total and CPD Co-ordinators in each Centre have the details and will arrange bookings.

The sessions are practically based and focus upon key issues for staff in supporting the quality of teaching and learning. The September session will be for staff new to teaching Post 16 students and will be made available in early September for staff to apply to join the group.

Contact your CPD Co-ordinator for further details.

Important changes to exam dates and results dates in 2011

Thu, 20 May 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

There have been important changes to exam dates and results dates in 2011 for both GCSE and A Level examinations.

The JCQ have recently published provisional dates for the summer 2011 examination series. The examinations have been brought forward a week which means that the written papers start on Tuesday 10 May 2011 for both AS and GCSE subjects.

The major impact is on the timing of AS and A2 examinations. The start of the written papers is only 9 days after the start of the summer term for most schools and colleges and there are concerns about the loss of teaching time particularly for the AS programmes.

The results have also been moved forward with the AS and A level results available to candidates on Thursday 18th August. GCSE results will be available on Thursday 25th August.

New Ofsted Report on Good Professional Development in Successful Schools

Thu, 20 May 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

This report examined good professional development in successful schools and was a follow up to a 2006 Ofsted report on the same topic. The latest report evaluated the progress made in the two years (2008 and 2009) since the first report was published and aimed to identify the features of good practice of professional development. The study was based on visits to two nursery schools, 13 primary schools, 24 secondary schools and one special school. The schools were selected on the basis of previous inspections which indicated that practice in continuing professional development was good or outstanding. The inspectors also considered other evidence, including the findings from school inspections and monitoring visits and from subject reports published since 2007.

Key findings from the report

In the schools visited, leadership was assessed as being strong at all levels. There was also found to be a shared understanding of the important contribution that professional development made to improving the quality of care and welfare and to raising standards.

The leaders who managed professional development well were found to demonstrate high levels of trust in their staff and involved them closely in identifying and implementing the necessary improvements. As a result, staff were seen to respond very positively to change.

The schools had clear policies which achieved consistently high quality in teaching and learning. Such policies included using the statutory five non teaching days to in phase in new teaching programmes for tackling a particular dimension of school improvement.

In the most successful schools visited, planning for school improvement involved careful identification of priorities, based on information from a wide range of sources.

The case study schools provided professional development for the whole of their workforce. They made well-considered use of a good variety of activities (e.g. inviting teaching assistants to join research and development groups), and often involving close collaboration within and between institutions

School-based professional development, with judicious use of external support, was judged to be the most effective means of improving staff skills.

In the schools where professional development was assessed as most successful, staff discussed and reflected on what they were learning. The leaders of these schools were prepared to create the time for this to happen.

The schools used coaching and mentoring effectively as part of their professional development programmes, although they did not all have a common understanding of what these terms meant.

As in the previous report, the weakest aspect of continuing professional development was the extent to which schools evaluated its impact and value for money.

Recent surveys of subjects by Ofsted had shown that staff rarely received training in subjects other than English and mathematics. This situation was confirmed by the current report.

A2 Lessons start for current year 12 students on 14 June

Thu, 20 May 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Students across the town currently sitting their AS exams in Year 12 will begin their A2 lessons on 14 June.

With AS exams being taken by Year 12 students they will soon be turning their attention to A2 modules and lessons resume for Year 12 students on 14 June.

With exams brought forward in 2011 it is important that students begin their new courses as soon as possible to allow the maximum time for teaching of the new modules.

Post 16 lessons will begin on Wednesday 8 September

Thu, 20 May 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Post 16 lessons will begin on Wednesday 8 September 2010. Schools start back on Monday 6 September and the first two days of term will see students interviewed and undertake induction activities ready to start on the Wednesday.

NHC students also start on Monday 6 September and A Level lessons will also beigin on Wednesday 8th September.

Visits to University Open Days

Thu, 20 May 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

A programme of University Open Day visits have been organised for Year 12 students across the town.

Details of all of the visits are held by Heads of Post 16 and this includes flyers and application forms. The cost to students of all visits is £5. The visits will provide an excellent opportunity for students to help prepare for making their UCAS applications in the Autumn Term.

UNIVERSITY OPEN DAYS

A chance to visit various Open Days to help you plan your UCAS application and find out more about university life. This is an excellent opportunity for you to talk to staff and students, visit facilities and deparments, and get a feel for life at university.

18 June Reading

23 June King’s College, London

2 July East Anglia, Norwich

12 July Queen Mary’s College, London

Don’t forget you can also visit the University of Hertfordshire Open Day on your own on Saturday 12 June.

To book your place on one of these visits, just complete the reply slip and hand, with £5.00, as a contribution towards the cost of transport, to your Head of Post 16/Post 16 Office.

First come, first served. (You will receive confirmation of your place and further details once you have booked.)

CPD in successful schools - an Ofsted report

Thu, 20 May 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Ofsted have recently published a report in to CPD in successful schools.

Key findings from the report

In the most successful schools visited, planning for school improvement involved careful identification of priorities, based on information from a wide range of sources.

School-based professional development, with judicious use of external support, was judged to be the most effective means of improving staff skills.

The schools used coaching and mentoring effectively as part of their professional development programmes, although they did not all have a common understanding of what these terms meant.

As in the previous report, the weakest aspect of continuing professional development was the extent to which schools evaluated its impact and value for money.

Recent surveys of subjects by Ofsted had shown that staff rarely received training in subjects other than English and mathematics. This situation was confirmed by the current report.

Enhanced Level 2 Offer

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

If you look at the Post 16 courses on offer to students this year you will see a much wider range of Level 2 subjects than in previous years in the grid. These Level 2 courses are open to Guest Students from other Centres in the same way as Level 3 subjects. This means that we can offer you more subjects and opportunities than in previous years.

Level 2 subjects can be taken alongside Level 3 courses or as part of a full level 2 programme. If you are interested in taking one of these courses then you can look up the details on this web site. To be able to take one of the subjects you will need to discuss it with your Home Centre who will make the arrangements for you in September.

Course Descriptions Update

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

All of the subjects likely to be available from September are in the Partnership offer on this website. Most of the information on this website is up to date but we are still in the process of checking the subject and syllabus details to make sure that you have the very latest information available to you.

Details are being checked and added daily and if you are interested in a subject then you need to come back to the website on a regular basis to make sure that you are up to date. The last few Level 3 courses are being checked at the moment. There are some additions to the Level 2 information that will be added to the website over the next couple of weeks.

Centres may also make small changes to what they are offering as they get closer to September and we will continue to update the information on a daily basis.

Don't forget that the best way to answer queries are:

- general queries can be covered by using the Q and A section on the website where there is a facility to ask us questions or you can use the enquiry form under the Contact Us heading

- more detailed queries should be made to staff at your Home Centre who will be able to help you with your particular question

National Commissioning Framework (NCF) published

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The NCF has been published by the Young People's Learning Agency (YPLA). The framework sets out the structures within which local authorities will commission education and training for 16-19 year olds from 2011.

The system of working with providers will be based upon 10 principles and the NCF says 'the system will operate in the interests of the learner'. The aim of the system is to shift money from providers who significantly under-deliver on learner numbers to those that significantly over-perform.

The NCF can be downloaded form the YPLA website

Year 12 Visits to University Open Days

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

This summer sees the partnership organising several university visits for students.

The 60+ Year 10 - 12 students who attended the recent Oxbridge evening will be able to spend a day in Cambridge later this term as a follow up to the event.

In addition, the partnership is organising a series of visits to University Open Days in June/July which will be open to all Year 12 students.

Full details of the visits and how to sign up to attend will be available via Heads of Post 16 in a few weeks time. Details will also be published on this website.

Year 6 Open Evenings

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The Stevenage Secondary Schools have agreed the dates for their Open Evenings for Year 6 students and parents in the Autumn Term.

The dates are:

Thursday 16 September - Thomas Alleyne

Tuesday 21 Sept - Marriotts

Tues 28 Sept - Barclay

Tues 5 October - Barnwell

Thurs 7 Oct - Nobel

Further details of timings and arrangements will be published later in the year.

Post 16 Courses for 2010

Thu, 1 Apr 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The September 2010 Post 16 course grid for Stevenage is now available on the website.

There are likely to be a few minor changes to the offer before September but we will regularly update the information in this section over the coming weeks.

The Partnership Grid provides a very good guide to the wide range of courses which will be available to students across the town.

The information can be found in the Courses area.

Post 16 Courses for 2010

Thu, 1 Apr 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The September 2010 Post 16 course grid for Stevenage is now available on the website.

There are likely to be a few minor changes to the offer before September but we will regularly update the information in this section over the coming weeks.

The Partnership Grid provides a very good guide to the wide range of courses which will be available to students across the town.

The information can be found in the Courses area.

Oxbridge Update

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

It was good to see 75 students and parents at the recent Oxbridge event for Year 10 - 12 students.

We will shortly be writing to everyone who attended with information about how we will follow up the evening.

In the meantime, if you attended and have any questions that you would like answers to please use our Q&A facility on this website. We will provide you with an answer as soon as possible.

Oxbridge Evening 10th March 2010

Thu, 4 Mar 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Stevenage Oxbridge Evening

Interested in applying to Oxford or Cambridge University?

Like to find out more about studying at these universities?

If the answer is YES and you are in Years 10, 11 or 12 then this evening is for you.

The schools in Stevenage and North Hertfordshire College have joined together for an information evening about Oxbridge entry for students and parents in the town.

The meeting is in the Community Hall at North Hertfordshire College on

Wednesday 10 March at 7.00pm

The evening will be led by:

• Dr David Frost, Faculty of Education, Cambridge University
• Will Knock, Schools Liaison Officer, Clare College Cambridge

There will be an opportunity to ask questions and the event will be followed up by a trip to Cambridge in the Summer Term for interested students who attend.

The evening will also be useful to anyone thinking of applying to other Russell Group Universities with demanding entry requirements, for which further information will be available through UCAS preparation and University visits throughout the year.

Do come along to what should be a very helpful and interesting evening – further information about the event can be found on the Stevenage 14 – 19 Partnership website www.stevenage1419.org.uk

Oxbridge Evening 10th March 2010

Thu, 4 Mar 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Stevenage Oxbridge Evening

Interested in applying to Oxford or Cambridge University?

Like to find out more about studying at these universities?

If the answer is YES and you are in Years 10, 11 or 12 then this evening is for you.

The schools in Stevenage and North Hertfordshire College have joined together for an information evening about Oxbridge entry for students and parents in the town.

The meeting is in the Community Hall at North Hertfordshire College on

Wednesday 10 March at 7.00pm

The evening will be led by:

• Dr David Frost, Faculty of Education, Cambridge University
• Will Knock, Schools Liaison Officer, Clare College Cambridge

There will be an opportunity to ask questions and the event will be followed up by a trip to Cambridge in the Summer Term for interested students who attend.

The evening will also be useful to anyone thinking of applying to other Russell Group Universities with demanding entry requirements, for which further information will be available through UCAS preparation and University visits throughout the year.

Do come along to what should be a very helpful and interesting evening – further information about the event can be found on the Stevenage 14 – 19 Partnership website www.stevenage1419.org.uk

Ofsted National Strategies Report

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

This report evaluates which aspects of the National Strategies’ programmes had been effective and which less so, and how leaders and managers at regional and local levels of the National Strategies judged their impact.

Almost all the schools visited considered that the National Strategies had contributed to improving the quality of teaching and learning and the use of assessment, and valued their materials. However, the frequent introduction of new initiatives had led to overload and diminished their potential effectiveness.

Evaluation of the impact of the National Strategies’ many programmes was also a weakness at national and local level.

The National Strategies: a review of impact
(Published Wednesday 24 February 2010)

Safe use of new technologies

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Date : 10 Feb 2010
HMI: 090231
Publisher: Ofsted

Summary
This report is based on evidence from a small-scale survey carried out between April and July 2009 in 35 maintained schools in England. It evaluates the extent to which the schools taught pupils to adopt safe and responsible practices in using new technologies, and how they achieved this. It also assesses the extent and quality of the training the schools provided for their staff. It responds to the report of the Byron Review, Safer children in a digital world.

The safe use of new technologies

Student internet users safest when managing own risk

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Students safest using the internet when they are trusted to manage their own risk: published by Ofsted 10th Feb 2010.

Pupils in schools that use ‘managed’ online systems have a better knowledge and understanding of how to stay safe when using new technologies, according to a report published today by Ofsted, the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills.

‘Managed’ systems are systems that have fewer inaccessible sites than ‘locked’ systems and so require pupils to take more responsibility for their own safety. ‘Locked’ systems make many websites inaccessible and although this ensures pupils’ safety in school it does not encourage the pupils to take responsibility for their actions or prepare them for dealing with systems that are not locked.

Framework for Excellence

Thu, 4 Feb 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The Framework for Excellence is currently being piloted in preparation for its use from Sept. 2010 across School Sixth Forms and Colleges.

This is, to quote:

The Framework for Excellence is the Government’s performance assessment tool for further education colleges and post-16 education and training providers who receive funding from the Learning and Skills Council.

It includes performance indicators for centres to judge their provision such as success rates, learner destinations, learner views, etc.

All Centres will be using the Framework from September 2010 and it is worth following the link shown below and reading through the information about the Framework and its implications for Centres.

http://ffe.lsc.gov.uk/ffe/

Student Reports to be issued

Thu, 4 Feb 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

Annual Reports for all Post 16 students across the schools are to be issued at half term.

Each half term staff in all of the centres complete Progress Checks on students covering their targets, progress and attitude to learning. In addition, staff also write an annual report for parents. It is this annual report that will be issued at half term. Students who attend courses as Guests in other centres and students who are Guests from North Herts. College also receive reports on their progress.

The annual reports include feedback from subject teachers as well as comments by tutors and are designed to help students and their parents focus upon the last few months of the year when most students face very important exams and coursework deadlines.

Level 1 and 2 Planning Meeting

Thu, 4 Feb 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

A reminder to Centres that the next Level 1 and 2 Planning Meeting is to be held at the BTC on Wednesday 10 February at 2.00pm.

Level 3 Planning Meeting

Thu, 4 Feb 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

The Level 3 Planning Meeting 3 will take place at the BTC on Tuesday 16 March at 10am. At the meeting we will be firming up curriculum, blocking and related matters in readiness for next years curriculum offer across the town.

Stevenage on the Map

Fri, 8 Jan 2010 -1:00:00 GMT

As you may be aware the Government is raising the staying on age in education and training in 2013. This means that the current Year 8 students are the first year group affected by this change.

To help publicise this important change the Government turned to Stevenage to make a video for use across the country.

Marriotts, Heathcote and Barnwell Year 8 students were invited to a careers day giving them information and advice - the Barnwell students were filmed for the video.

The students received plenty of praise from the Government for their contribution and it reflected the esteem in which Stevenage is nationally held by being chosen as the venue for the video.

Read more about Raising the Participation Age and watch the video.

UCAS Deadline Fast Approaching

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 -1:00:00 GMT

A reminder that the deadline for all applications to Higher Education centres such as universities for 2010 entry is the 15th September 2010 with the exception of a small number of Art courses. All other entries have to be received by UCAS on this date to be considered for 2010 entry and further information can be found on their website at www.ucas.com

Specialist School Accreditation

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 -1:00:00 GMT

The government has recently confirmed the redesignation process for the specialist status of schools. As had been anticipated schools will need to redesignate in future every three years. The link to the schools Ofsted Inspection has been taken away and it will now be done as a seperate process.

In future redesignation will be carried out by the school's SIP following a timetable covering all schools over a three year period with schools given, by the government, a specific year in which to to be redesignated.

To see the names of the schools on the list for 2009 - 2010 just follow the link to the following website:

http://www.standards.dfes.gov.uk/specialistschools/

The detailed arrangements and the paperwork to be used for the redesignation of schools is expected to be published early in the Spring Term.