We have reached, finally, the end of term. I am fully aware that several of our schools have once again had to deal with significant staff absences. Thank you to everyone for the fortitude and determination you have shown in keeping our schools operating as close to normal as possible.

From Pagan times, Easter was a holiday to celebrate “the season of the growing sun” or “the season of new birth.” As such, I hope that when we return to the new term we are able to do so without the associated turmoil of COVID and all its ramifications.

I’m pleased to share a couple of recruitment announcements in case you have missed them. We have made some super appointments.

  • Sue Costello has been appointed as Director of Education from 1 September 2022
  • Paul Boyes has been appointed as Headteacher of Plymstock School from 1 September 2022
  • Ruth Baptiste has been appointed as Headteacher of Austin Farm Academy from 1 September 2022

The eagerly anticipated White Paper was published at the start of last week. The White Paper is a set of policy proposals that are likely to become legislation and as such determine the direction of travel for our sector for the coming years. Indeed, it is the first education White Paper since 2016 when the then Education Secretary was Nicky Morgan!

  • Since Nicky Morgan, we have experienced four further Secretaries of State for Education, several of whom were in post for less than two years!
  • In short, then, this is the first time in six years that we have received clarity of direction - whether we agree or not!
  • The White Paper has four chapters with significant implications for us at every level.

Chapter 1

  • Has a focus on the ‘Golden Thread’ of high quality Initial Teacher Training and on-going professional development.
  • We are currently re-working our Primary ITT programme through TLI with the support of University of Worcester. We will deliver the University of Worcester School Direct Primary ITT to include PGCE and QTS with a training base at WeST HQ. WeST will be the Delivery Partner. We hope to run the 2022-23 cohort on a moderate scale with all trainees benefitting from a teaching practice placement in WeST.
  • The White Paper refers to ‘world-class’ professional development but means through the Early Career Framework (ECF) and subsequent NPQ suite of qualifications.
  • WeST is currently delivering the NPQLTD as a sovereign cohort to WeST teachers who have, or would like to have, responsibility for mentoring and coaching teachers etc. A second cohort will run in September 2022.

Chapter 2

  • This chapter focuses on a knowledge rich curriculum from early years onwards.
  • This chimes with our heavy investment in early reading (RWI), and the great work the SI team are leading on curriculum development.
  • The White Paper sets ambitious goals at the end of KS2 for RWM%  (90%) and raising the bar for Basics at GCSE.

Chapter 3

  • Focuses on post pandemic catch-up with a notable emphasis on English and Maths.

Chapter 4

  • This is the chapter that outlines the completion of the system reform journey with a stated goal of all schools being in a strong trust by 2030.
  • We start to see the characteristics of a strong trust being defined by the DfE.

I sign off by wishing everyone a safe and restful Easter Break.

Best wishes, 

Rob Haring, CEO 

HR Update

Dear Colleagues

Change of payroll provider and April pay changes

There are a number of local and national changes to pay which came into effect on 1st April 2022. These are likely to impact on the pay everyone receives at the end of this month. Alongside this we are also moving to our new payroll provider, MHR. Please therefore note that changes to your pay are highly likely to be attributable to the national and local changes noted below, and not as result of the switch to a new payroll service. We have systems in place to compare and check levels of gross pay upon transfer, any differences in net pay should be explained through the changes below. If you are unclear or require further explanation please contact your local finance and administration teams in the first instance who will be able to assist with net pay queries after pay day.

Changes to National Insurance – Health & Social Care Levy

This has been widely publicised in the medial over the last few days. From this month the Government has introduced the Health & Social Care Levy of 1.25%. This will mean that many staff members will see higher National Insurance deductions.

Alignment of support staff annual leave entitlement from 1st April 2022

Common leave entitlements for all support staff across the Trust have been introduced from 1st April 2022 as follows:

Employee Groups

Annual Leave Entitlement from 1st April 2022

Status of Days for Term Time Only Staff

Christmas Closure Days

Total

NJC < 5 years’ Service

22

Factored into pay

3

25

NJC 5-9 years’ service

27

Factored into pay

3

30

NJC 10-14 years’ service

28

X1 day taken during term time to be mutually agreed

3

31

NJC 15-19 years’ service

29

X2 days taken during term time to be mutually agreed

3

32

NJC 20+ years’ service

30

X3 days taken during term time to be mutually agreed

3

33

New Local Government Pension Scheme bandings for support staff

The contribution bands for the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) have been updated from April; the contributions you pay may therefore change. The new bands are available at: https://www.peninsulapensions.org.uk/members/local-government/your-contributions/  

New Teachers’ Pension Scheme bandings and change of pension scheme transitional protection  

The contribution bands for the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS) have been updated from April, so the contribution rates paid by members of this scheme may also change. The new bands are available at https://www.teacherspensions.co.uk/employers/managing-members/contributions/calculating-contributions.aspx

In addition, the period of protected membership in the Final Salary section of the Teachers’ Pension Scheme will end on 31st March 2022 and affected members will be moved to the CARE (Career Average) section of the pension scheme. Further information is available at https://www.teacherspensions.co.uk/members/faqs/transitional-protection.aspx  

Many thanks

The HR Team

Break the 'Cycle of Stress'

As part of stress awareness month, Care First have shared the following information for colleagues of WeST.

Have you ever tried to relax, only to find that your mind quickly wanders back to worries about work, pupils, money, relationships, or world events? Perhaps it seems that the more you try to relax, the more tense you get. Well, you're not alone. This is the common "cycle of stress." The good news is that there are some simple ways you can break this cycle.

Often, it's simply a matter of remembering ... remembering to breathe ... to be in your body ... to be mindful of what's really happening ... and to remember to smile.

Here are four quick pointers that may help you break the cycle of stress, especially when you find yourself right in the middle of it!

Breathe

Think about how you are breathing; make sure you are sitting comfortably with your back straight.

Now slow down your breathing making sure you fully inhale and then expel all the air from your lungs as you exhale. Concentrate your mind on achieving a regular slow but comfortable rhythm.

Be in Your Body

In the midst of stressful situations, remember to let your body help you release tension. There are numerous ways:

  • stand up
  • touch your toes
  • stretch your legs
  • roll your shoulders
  • rub your feet
  • force a yawn
  • take a walk
  • shake your arms loosely
  • scratch your scalp
  • exaggerate a sigh
  • rotate your neck
  • massage your jaw

The list is endless ... and all of these can help you break out of the cycle of stress.

Be Mindful

This is just a matter of paying attention to what is really happening.

The idea of seems simple but try to ask these questions of yourself in the moment:

  • What am I noticing?
  • What am I feeling?
  • What are my thoughts?
  • What do I need or want right now?
  • What action is called for, or what am I willing to do?

This is intended to help recognise options, make wiser decisions, and to honestly /accurately communicate your experience to others. In other words, you will be more likely to break the cycle of stress.

Remember to Smile

It's important to keep a sense of genuine curiosity and natural inquisitiveness about yourself and your personal journey to well-being. A little cosmic giggle now and then is a healthy part of maintaining balance in your life.

And it actually takes fewer muscles to smile than it does to frown!

Disclaimer.  This article is for general information only. We cannot be held responsible for any actions you might take as a result of it. Please seek medical advice before making any significant change to your habits or lifestyle.

We also have a brilliant opportunity at WeST for colleagues to complete an Introduction on mindfulness Taster session which is led by Richard Woodland, Director of Inclusion. 

Online Taster Session: Tuesday 3 May, 4.15 – 5.30pm

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=H74x0ghpjEO5_sDOHVTP6kReAnkfXnZDgs6uabBrt_RUNExGWjJLS1hEWDE1WDg5RjcwTTFXTFVLOS4u

Registration form for 8-week mindfulness course (Thursdays 4.15 – 5.45pm from 19 May to 14 July)

For those colleagues who have already attended a mindfulness taster session (e.g. such as the ones delivered on 28 February INSET day at Morley Meadow)

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=H74x0ghpjEO5_sDOHVTP6kReAnkfXnZDgs6uabBrt_RUMExYRjFFQlhKSTVKSTIzV1JFUlM2OEFHMS4u

05 Apr 2022
Executive Director for Science
We are seeking to appoint an exceptional individual with vision, energy and inspirational leadership to the position of Executive Director for Science.
Read more

Savings for Education Staff!

All WeST colleagues are eligible to sign up for FREE to the Discounts For Teachers service online to get access to hundreds of exclusive discounts with online retailers. They have a number of exclusive offers running in recognition of the current circumstances and to reward key workers. Please share with all colleagues to access this fantastic opportunity.

Online at: https://www.discountsforteachers.co.uk/

Modern Slavery Statement of WeST

You may recall that WeST has a statement on Modern Slavery. The full statement is available on the public website here and sets out our commitment to prevent modern slavery and human trafficking. This forms part of the Trust’s responsibilities under Section 54 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015.

Modern Slavery is a serious and often hidden crime in which people are exploited for criminal gain. The impact can be devastating for the victims. Modern slavery comprises slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour and human trafficking. In addition a range of resources and information is available from Gov.UK – click here.

The WeST Modern Slavery Statement focuses on key areas that as a Trust we can ensure best practice, including:

  • Due diligence in our supply chains
  • Due diligence as an employer
  • Training and Policies

Further Steps

During the next financial year, the Trust will seek to further develop our commitment to resolving modern slavery issues with:

  • Embedding the revised whistleblowing policy with supporting information and activities to raise awareness of this to increase confidence in the process of raising concerns.
  • We will continue to develop effective communications with our suppliers to confirm their understanding and compliance in line with our expectations.
  • We will seek to develop internal audits and reviews of our control systems and procedures to ensure best practice and that they are effective in countering modern slavery.
  • We will implement specific CPD on modern slavery risks for relevant groups of staff.

Please take a moment to review the statement and consider the impact in daily operations you are involved in. If you would like to discuss further, please liaise with the HR Team directly on email: hr@westst.org.uk.

Safety and Wellbeing for all Training Day 

The session from the Safety and Wellbeing for all training day on Fitness and Wellbeing is now available to watch on our staff portal.

To login on our staff portal, please use the details below. 

Username: staff@westst.org.uk 

Password: west  

Westcountry Schools Trust - Wellbeing and Safety for all Training Day (westst.org.uk)

Please go to the Health & Wellbeing section to watch the session. 

This day was aimed at helping colleagues understand the 5 pillars of a fit and healthy lifestyle and explore actionable strategies to change habits around mental and physical fitness. It was delivered by Jay Unwin, from Fit Body Fit Mind. 

Active April 

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 Executive Director for Science. The Executive Director for Science is a key role that will promote and implement strategies for raising attainment and progress in science predominantly across all WeST secondary schools, but also promoting cross-phase alignment/approach. For more information, please go here. Closing date: 9am, Tuesday 3 May 2022. 

Morley Meadow Primary School are looking for an enthusiastic, inspiring and highly motivated teacher to join their dedicated and hardworking team at Morley Meadow Primary, rated good by Ofsted in January 2022. This is an exciting and unique opportunity for an experienced EYFS teacher to lead our EYFS phase and be fundamental in the design and set up of our new nursery. For more information, please go here. Closing Date: Noon, Friday 6 May 2022. 

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. 

Coombe Dean are looking for the following vacancies: 

Cover Supervisor - Coombe Dean 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. The successful applicant will demonstrate an understanding of the issues related to the motivation of students and have a good education with a minimum of 5 GCSEs A-C or equivalent. For more information, please go here. Closing date: 9am, Friday 22nd April 2022. 

Teacher of Geography - 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. The postholder is immediately accountable to the Subject Leader for Geography who will undertake the postholder’s appraisal review. For more information please go here. Closing date: 9am, Monday 25 April 2022. 

Eggbuckland Community College are looking for a 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. For more information, please go here. Closing date: 9am, Friday 22 April 2022. 

South Dartmoor Community College are looking for the following vacancies: 

  • Casual Exams Invigilators;
  • Teacher of Maths;
  • Senior Finance Officer;
  • Finance Assistant;
  • Site Caretaker;
  • Student Health Care Assistant;
  • SEND Teacher (CAIRB).

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

 Ivybridge Community College are looking for the following vacancies:

  • Assistant Principal – Teaching and Learning, Inclusive Education
  • Assistant SENDCo
  • Pastoral Leader roles
  • Teacher of Science (Maternity Cover)
  • Designated Safeguarding Lead (Non-Teaching)
  • PACE Coordiantor
  • PACE Assistant
  • Assistant HR Administrator
  • Community Sports Duty Supervisor
  • Caretaker
  • Casual Examinations Invigilator

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