Race for Life

All the children at Buckfastleigh Primary School took part in a Race for Life to raise money for Cancer Research and Rowcroft Hospice. This was in response to the death of a well-loved member of the school community to cancer over Christmas. The children ran multiple laps of the playground and did themselves proud collecting sponsorship from friends and family. There was also a cake sale in the school hall with some delicious cakes baked by members of staff and parents to support such a great cause. We are very proud to say that over £1500 was raised and we would like to say a big thank you to everyone who donated. 

Director of Inclusion Update

Feedback from 28 February Training Day

Thank you to all colleagues who returned the feedback form from the Wellbeing and Safety for All training day on 28 February. We had almost a 50% return on 332 attendees. The ratings for each course are shown below:

 

5* Rating

Overall

4.3

Restorative Approaches

4.7

Looking After Number 1

4.2

PIPS

4

Wellbeing and Fitness

3.9

Culture of Safeguarding

4.9

Jay Unwin’s session on Wellbeing and Fitness were recorded and will soon be available through the staff portal on the WeST website.

Safeguarding Training

The next DSL forum with Safeguarding Network will be at 12 noon on Wednesday 30 March, and the topic will be sexual abuse. Please use this link to join the meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88103034755?pwd=L2ZXNkFHZ1BqK0gzcXUyUXpKcnZUZz09

We have also had a fantastic response to the Workshop on Raising Awareness of Prevent (WRAP) training, scheduled for 4-5pm on 26/4/22, which is now fully booked. Please contact hgreaves@westst.org.uk if you are unable to attend so we can offer the place to someone else.

A reminder that Caroline Pinsent from Babcock LDP will be offering training on Harmful Sexual Behaviours on 7/4/22 (primary session 1000-1200 and secondary session 1230-1430) it is not too late to book on this course. Please use this link: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=H74x0ghpjEO5_sDOHVTP6hJxu9XMe0pNo2-ZLlU2Iv5UOVpTT0FKUzczVUEzRDgyWjlaWjNWUUhBUC4u

Following returns from the recent survey we are in the process of organising dates for the following courses:

  • L3 initial child protection (2 days)
  • L3 refresher child protection (1 day)
  • Managing allegations (1/2 day)
  • Safer recruitment (1 day)

Staff Survey 

Thank you to everyone who participated in the recent whole Trust staff survey! We appreciate it has taken some time since the survey closed on 4th March to explore the information in detail and please do be assured that all information is considered in the analysis.

We can confirm 691 colleagues participated and equates to 31% across the Trust.  

 

 

 

 

 

Question 1: Westcountry Schools Trust have communicated a vision that motivates me.

This is a positive response with 54% agreeing or strongly agreeing. However the high volume of neutral responses was noticed (32%) as an area of improvement.

Question 2: I know what is expected of me at work in my school/business unit.

This is an exceptionally positive response with over 87% agreeing or strongly agreeing.

Question 3: Most of the systems and processes here support us getting our work done.

The Trust currently has 62% of respondents which agree or strongly agree. Research indicates a benchmark for this area is to achieve over 55% positive agreement. As a growing Trust the systems and processes are evolving however we must continue to monitor that these are effective and add value to our activities.

Question 4: At work, I have the opportunity to do what I do best everyday.

69% of the respondents agreed or strongly agreed with this area. Supporting staff to deliver their best is a key part of the values for the Trust, with particular regard for Aspiration.

Question 5: I know where to get support if my wellbeing is being impacted by work.

Over the last year the Trust has worked to increase awareness of wellbeing and support mechanisms. This has achieved over 76% positive response (agree or strongly agree). Work of the Wellbeing Network to implement an Employee Assistant Programme (from Care First) has ensured all colleagues have access to a confidential / independent source of support for both work and personal matters.

Question 6: I am treated fairly in the workplace.

The Trust has achieved 77% positive responses (agree or strongly agree). The Trust positive responses (agree or strongly agree) have declined by 5% and is a notable to consider in the development of an action plan.

Question 7: In my school/business unit, my opinions seem to count.

The Trust achieves a 64% positive response (agree or strongly agree) to this area. However, the large volume of neutral responses (representing 20%) is an area to explore in the action plan.

Question 8: There is someone at work who encourages my development and talks to me about my progress.

Positively there remain 64% of respondents who agree or strongly agree, however there is scope to further expand this, particularly as the neutral responses remain 21%.

Question 9: I am proud to work for Westcountry Schools Trust

The Trust achieves 66% of respondents agreeing or strongly agreeing. The large proportion of neutral responses (26%) and increased proportion of negative responses (doubled percentage) highlights this as an area to explore in the action plan and further demonstrates the importance of the clear visions and values work.

Question 10: There are opportunities to learn and grow my career at WeST

The Trust has achieved 52% of agreement or strongly agree.

Question 11: What things are we doing well?

This question was optional for respondents and allowed for free text responses. We received 334 individual statements which have all been reviewed

Question 12: Are there some things we could improve here?

This question was optional for respondents and allowed for free text responses. We received 336 individual statements which have all been reviewed.

Further questions explored feedback for the appraisal review project and are being explored.

The Executive Team and senior leaders are reviewing the full survey details and further information will be shared in future Whistle articles along with a copy of the action plan for next steps.

 

Thank you to everyone who shared their feedback in this process.

Dear parents / carers, governors and colleagues,

A number of local governing boards have contacted WeST to ask if more time could be given to respond to the consultation on hub advisory boards. The Trustees have made no final decisions about the membership and functions of the new advisory boards and are anxious to have the widest possible range of suggestions from colleagues, parents and communities. In light of this, the closing date for responses to the consultation has been extended by a week and is now Monday 4 April 2022.

Best wishes

Iain Grafton

Chair of Trustees

What is an Employee Assistance Programme?

There are times when we all need some extra support to balance the demands of everyday life. Care first are an independent, leading provider of professional employee support services. Including: practical and emotional issues such as wellbeing, family matters, relationships, debt management, workplace issues, and more.

How can I access this?

This service is free of charge for WeST employees to access, just quote that you are an employee of ‘Westcountry Schools Trust’.

You can call 0800 174 319 to speak to a professional counsellor or information specialist in confidence 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.

You can visit the Care first lifestyle website which offers additional resources and online services at:

Website: www.carefirst-lifestyle.co.uk

User Name: Westcountst

Password: Wellbeing1234

Mindful March 

South West Institute for Teaching ‘Literacy Conference’ 2022

The South West Institute for Teaching ‘Literacy Conference’ 2022 is taking place on Thursday 26 May at Exeter Racecourse. To book on the conference please follow the link here.

Conference includes:

  • Keynote speeches from leading national figures in education – David Didau, John Tomsett and Helen Prince
  • Choice of inspiring workshops from national and regional experts
  • Networking opportunities with school leaders
  • Exhibition from education sponsors
  • Buffet lunch and refreshments

To find out more information about this event, please go here. 

Update your Personal Details and Download your Payslip 

In April 2022, the Trust are moving to one payroll provider, Midland HR (MHR).

Many staff members currently access payslips through employee self-service. Copies of payslips and P60s stored there will not be transferring across from your current provider to MHR. Access to old payroll systems via employee self-service will cease once we have gone live.

Therefore, please ensure that you have downloaded copies of your individual payslips and P60’s from your current payroll provider, prior to April 2022. You may wish to print these or retain an electronic copy, saved to your own area.

Updating your personal details is really important. If you are yet to update details about any change (such as full name, address, contact number and personal email address) please can you ensure your data is up to date at the earliest opportunity. This will include informing your local school administrator for local systems and informing payroll systems.

If you have any questions relating to this, please contact the HR Team on 01752 891754 ext 1765 or emailing hr@westst.org.uk.

Recruitment update:

We are delighted to inform you of the following exciting career opportunities within our Trust:-  

Westcountry Schools Trust is seeking to appoint an exceptional individual with vision, energy and inspirational leadership to the position of Headteacher at Austin Farm Academy. The Headteacher will have overall responsibility for the organisation, management and conduct of the school, providing leadership and assisting with the delivery of the WeST strategic direction to ensure the achievement of the highest possible standards of education at Austin Farm Academy. For more information, please go here. Closing date: midday Tuesday 29 March 2022. 

Stowford School are looking for a Deputy Headteacher. The new Deputy Headteacher will support the continued delivery of our vision of creating a safe, happy and respectful learning environment where every child is encouraged to reach their potential. The role is to work in close partnership with the Headteacher to drive the strategic vision of the school, inspire children, parents, staff and the wider community and become a pivotal part of our strong team and contribute to the next exciting stage of Stowford School’s journey towards being the best we can be. For more information, please go here. Closing date: Thursday 31 March 2022 at 4.00pm.

Ashburton Primary School are looking for the following vacancies:

Teacher - If you are an enthusiastic and highly motivated teacher who is committed to ensuring that all children achieve high standards and enjoy their learning, then Ashburton would love you to join their team. You will need to have experience teaching EYFS as well as other Key Stage 1 classes. You will need to work Mondays (EYFS), Thursdays and Fridays (KS1) all day. These days are not negotiable due to job share. Closing date: Monday 4 April 2022. 

Teaching Assistant (Learning, Behaviour and Social Support Assistant) - You will need to be enthusiastic, have a knowledge of how children learn and be committed to a collaborative approach working with colleagues to deliver the highest quality support and best possible outcomes for each child. You should have a clear understanding of safeguarding and be passionate about working with children. Closing date: Monday 4 April 2022. 

For more information on the above vacancies, please go here. 

Woodford Primary School are looking for an inspirational EYFS classroom practitioner to join their school team. The successful candidate will be expected to have excellent research-based practice in the EYFS curriculum and curriculum delivery with a genuine drive to achieve the highest standards for all children as they start their school journey at Woodford Primary School. For more information please go here. Closing date: noon on Wednesday 30 March. 

Chaddlewood Primary School is looking to appoint a teacher with KS2 experience to work in Year 3 part time (0.5 contract). Chaddlewood are looking for someone to join their team, from September 2022, who can demonstrate passion and enthusiasm for achieving both the best for the children in their class and playing their part in our successful staff team on our journey. For more information, please go here. Closing date: 9am Monday 25 April 2022. 

Callington Community College is seeking to appoint a Cover Supervisor. The successful candidate will oversee classes during the short-term absences of teaching staff. Appropriate work will be provided and it will be your role to manage student behaviour and keep them focused on tasks. You will need to be flexible, have a desire to work with young people and a calm and authoritative manner. For more, please go here. Closing date: Friday 1 April 2022. 

Coombe Dean School are looking for the following vacancies: 

Teacher of History - The successful candidate will be an excellent classroom practitioner and passionate about working with students. The ability to engage, enthuse and inspire young people and colleagues to achieve success is key. Closing date: 1 April 2022. 

Cover Supervisor - Required to facilitate students’ learning in the absence of teachers. We are looking to appoint a confident individual who can create and develop good relationships with students and who has a strong commitment to supporting student learning. The ability to work independently and as part of a team is essential. Closing date: 9am, Friday April 2022. 

For more information on the above vacancies, please go here.

South Dartmoor Community College are looking for the following vacancies: 

  • Teacher of Maths
  • Senior Finance Officer
  • Finance Assistant
  • Site Caretaker

For more information on the above vacancies, please go here. 

Ivybridge Community College are looking for the following vacancies: 

  • PACE Coordinator
  • PACE Assistant
  • PE Assistant
  • Casual Minibus Driver

For more information on the above vacancies, please go here.

Plymstock School are looking for the following vacancies: 

Teaching Vacancies from September 2022:-

  • Teacher of Geography PLUS TLR2A
  • Teacher of Music 0.66FTE

Support staff Vacancies:-

  • Sports Centre Leisure Assistant 
  • Exam Invigilators 

For more information on the above vacancies, please go here.         

Hele’s School has a number of exciting opportunities for teaching and support staff available. Hele's School wish to appoint dynamic and ambitious team players with the capacity and commitment to provide high quality experiences and support for their whole school community:

  • Teacher of Science (Chemistry)
  • Cleaner
  • Pastoral Support Manager
  • Exam Invigilators 

The Application Forms and Applicant Information Packs can be obtained from the School’s website www.heles.plymouth.sch.uk or for any additional information required please contact blakey@heles.plymouth.sch.uk. 

Eggbuckland Community College are looking for the following vacancies: 

Curriculum Team Leader of Performing Arts to provide professional leadership and management of our Performing Arts Faculty in order to secure an ambitious curriculum built on sound principles and the effective implementation of this curriculum. Closing date: 9am, Friday 22 April 2022. 

Curriculum Team Leader of Modern Foreign Languages to provide professional leadership and management of our Modern Foreign Languages Team, in order to secure an ambitious curriculum built on sound principles and the effective implementation of this curriculum. Closing date: 9am, Wednesday 30 March 2022. 

Curriculum Team Leader of Business and ICT to provide professional leadership and management of our small but very ambitious Business and ICT Team, in order to secure and implement an ambitious curriculum that is built on sound principles. Closing date: 9am, Wednesday 30 March 2022. 

Temporary Teaching Assistant – Learning Support to provide support with our SEND students with accessing learning in the classroom, under the direction of a teacher, and leading small groups or individual interventions.  The role also includes preparation and maintenance of resources and whole college duties such as break time supervision. Closing date: 9am, Monday 28 March 2022. 

Curriculum Team Leader of Health Sciences to provide professional leadership and management of our Health Sciences Team, in order to secure an ambitious curriculum built on sound principles and the effective implementation of this curriculum. Closing date: 9am, Wednesday 30 March 2022. 

For more information on the above vacancies, please go here. 

Internal Vacancies 

Eggbuckland Community College are looking for a Teacher of Musical Drama. MPS/UPS, required from 3 May 2022. FTE 0.7727 (or 0.8500 for ECTyr1), on a fixed term contract until August 2022. An opportunity has arisen to appoint a teacher on a fixed term contract, with great drive and determination, who has the ability to inspire students and further raise attainment in Music and Drama. This post would be suitable for an experienced teacher or an Early Careers Teacher.

Eggbuckland are looking for an ambitious individual who:

  • holds QTS and ideally has a degree with a drama or music specialism
  • can build positive relationships with students of all ages and backgrounds
  • is passionate about performing arts and musical theatre
  • is a good team player, committed to raising achievement
  • is organised, efficient and flexible 
  • is excited about the opportunity to work strategically with the Head of Drama to raise the achievement of our students.

If you are interested in applying, please complete the attached Application Form and return to Carrie McCoy, cmccoy@eggbuckland.com by 9am, on Wednesday 6 April 2022.