Education
Action to improve fortunes of vulnerable learners
EDUCATION MINISTER, Huw Lewis has set out plans to improve the fortunes of some of Wales’ most vulnerable and disadvantaged learners.
At the National Pupil Referral Unit (PRU) conference in Cardiff, the Minister outlined initial plans aimed at driving up standards and improving the provision offered to learners in PRUs through a fresh and strategic approach.
The Minister will announce that the Welsh Government will draw up a new framework for improving PRU provision that is focused on the six areas of leadership, accountability, resources, structure, learner wellbeing and outcomes.
The Minister has established an Education other than at school (EOTAS) Task and Finish group, chaired by Ann Keane, to drive forward the necessary changes.
Speaking ahead of the conference the Minister said: “Pupil Referral Units can provide an opportunity for some of our most vulnerable young people to get back on track, both emotionally and educationally.
“For many young people the PRU might be their last chance of formal learning so it is vital that we ensure the experience is both enriching and positive.
“We know that provision in some PRUs delivers exactly that, but in others the experience is less positive and this is not acceptable.
“The evidence cries out for a fresh and strategic approach. That is why the Welsh Government is working on a new framework to improve PRU provision. I have established a Task and Finish group, chaired by Ann Keane that will focus on identifying actions that can improve the sector and drive forward progress.
“I want PRU staff to be involved and engaged with the work of the Task and Finish Group so they can help to shape and improve future PRU provision.”
Ann Keane said: “I am pleased to have an opportunity as chair of the Task and Finish Group to discuss ways of securing improvements in the education delivered to learners in the sector and establishing a framework for change. I look forward to taking forward this work with other members of the group.”
In his speech the Minister will highlight that the PRU sector is represented in wider work to develop a curriculum for Wales and that PRUs are being considered for Capital Investment as part of the Welsh Government’s 21st Century Schools and Education programme.
As part of 21st Century Schools £1.4 billion is being invested between 2014 and 2019 to refurbish and rebuild over 150 schools and colleges in Wales.
However, in West Wales – especially in Pembrokeshire – Councils are planning to close Pupil Referral Units and subsume their functions within mainstream education.
Education
Don’t miss out on help with school essentials
88% of those eligible have claimed their free School Essentials grant to help with costs like school uniform, shoes, bags, sports kit and equipment. Have you claimed yours?
Children of families on lower incomes who receive certain benefits, those seeking asylum and children in care can claim £125 per year to help with school costs. Because of the extra cost families might face when their children start secondary school, £200 is available for eligible pupils going into year 7. It could also mean extra funding for your school.
There’s still time to check eligibility and apply for this year’s funding now before applications close on 31 May.
You can apply every year for each of your children. Pupils from all kinds of education settings are eligible as long as they are aged 5-16. This applies to pupils in all schools and settings, including special schools and pupil referral units.
Headteacher of Ysgol Gymunedol Trimsaran, Steffan Jones, explained how the grant helps pupils at his school: “You want every child to be treated the same, and you want every child to have the same experiences. These grants do help, so that all children can get involved and enjoy their time at school, not just those who can afford it.”
The grant can be used to pay for:
- school uniform, including coats and shoes.
- school activities, like learning a musical instrument, sports kit and equipment for after school activities.
- classroom essentials, like pens, pencils and bags.
Even if your child already receives a Free School Meal, you still need to check eligibility to access the School Essentials Grant and extra funding for your school. To find out more about the Schools Essentials Grant and to check eligibility, visit Get help with school costs | GOV.WALES
Charity
Bags of Books returns to Milford Haven and surrounding areas this Easter
THE INFAMOUS Bags of Books is set to return to Milford Haven and surrounding areas over the Easter holidays.
Milford Haven School who launched the project with Milford Youth Matters over 3 years ago are continuing in their bid to improve literacy skills and encourage a love of reading for pleasure by giving away over 700 books.
Thanks to funding from the South Hook LNG Community grant they have purchased books for young people of all ages and reading abilities and will be hanging them on the fences of the schools in their catchment area.
The community are invited to come and choose a book from the following locations over the Easter holidays:
- Neyland Community Primary School – Monday 25th March
- Johnston Community Primary School – Tuesday 26th March
- Coastlands Primary School – Wednesday 27th March
- Gelliswick Primary School – Tuesday 2nd April
- Milford Haven Community Primary – Wednesday 3rd April
- St Francis Community Primary – Wednesday 3rd April
Milford Haven Secondary School will also hang over 150 books on their fence after the Easter Holidays on Wednesday 10th April for those in our community who cannot attend the other locations.
Education
Milford Haven School’s Aspire Celebration Evening 2024
THIS week, Milford Haven School celebrated the achievements of Year 11 pupils from the Class of 2023 at the Milford Haven School’s Aspire Celebration Evening.
Chair of Governors Dayle Gibby opened the evening by welcoming past pupils, parents and carers and guests from the community as they joined together to proudly celebrate the outstanding achievements of their past pupils. Mr Gibby said “Tonight is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate your achievements academically, and achievements that go far beyond the classroom like sporting, musical, through drama, enterprise, environmental and those that reach into the heart of community. Throughout your time here you have all showed, resilience, determination, and aspiration. With these attributes you have set yourself targets and goals to achieve, manage difficult problems and overcome unexpected events.”
The annual Aspire Celebration evening recognises the exceptional talents, dedication, and hard work demonstrated by these pupils throughout their academic journey. The evening was an enjoyable one that showcased the remarkable accomplishments of the young people, highlighting their academic excellence, leadership skills,and contributions to the school and wider community. Among the many accolades awarded were prizes for outstanding academic achievement, extra-curricular participation, personal development and services to the community.
One of the highlights of the evening was the inspiring address from guest speaker and former pupil of the former Milford Haven Grammar School Ms Makala Jones. Pupils, staff and guests were captivated and inspired by her stories of cold water swimming and how joining the world renowned Blue Tits changed her life and played a big part in her accomplishments of recently swimming the English Channel completely solo. Her motivational speech, insights and personal anecdotes resonated deeply with the entire audience, encouraging them to pursue their passions fearlessly, love themselves completely and embrace opportunities that lie ahead.
As pupils received their well-deserved awards, there was an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment filling the room. Headteacher Ms Morris said “This evening is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our young people. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and the positive impact they have made on our school community. I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the prize winners. I have no doubt that you will continue to excel in whatever task you choose to do next. I am personally proud of each and every one of you and wish you continued success in your future endeavours.”
For more information and a full list of prize winners please visit: www.milfordhavenschool.co.uk/aspirecelebrationevening
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