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Dear Colleagues,

As we approach the final two weeks of term, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the incredible dedication, energy, and collaboration that define our work across the Trust. This week has been a wonderful showcase of the strength of our work through inspiring achievements, impactful training sessions, and meaningful collaboration.

Yesterday, the Department for Education (DfE) published the national dataset for summer 2024 GCSE performance. While we already knew how our Year 11 cohort had performed, we were awaiting the national comparison. I am thrilled to share that our students’ achievements surpass national averages, reflecting the determined efforts of our schools.

Our Progress 8 (P8) score is +0.07, compared to the national average of -0.01. Additionally, 49.7% of our students achieved a strong pass (grades 9-5) in both English and Maths, outperforming the national average of 45.9%. This 4% difference across a large dataset is a tremendous accomplishment and highlights the dedication of our staff, students, and their families. A huge congratulations to everyone involved in making this success possible!

Throughout the week, I have had the privilege of visiting several of our schools, witnessing firsthand the inspiring day-to-day experiences our children benefit from.

It has been particularly heartening to see the many collaborative networks and groups meeting to share and develop best practices, ensuring continuous improvement across the Trust.

Maths Primary Network Meeting

On Tuesday, Maths leads from across our primary schools gathered for the latest Maths Network meeting, led by Claire Duncan, Headteacher at Morley Meadow Primary School. The session was alive with enthusiasm and innovation, with colleagues exchanging ideas and practical strategies for teaching challenging concepts. It’s always a pleasure to see how our educators continually push boundaries to ensure our students receive the highest quality education.

SENDCOs Meeting

Our Primary and Secondary SENDCOs also met this week, focusing on strengthening their expertise in supporting children with additional needs. These sessions are critical in ensuring that every child in our care receives the tailored support they need to flourish. Thank you to everyone involved for your commitment to inclusion and equity within our schools.

NPQSL 

Congratulations are due to our NPQSL participants, who completed another intensive and rewarding session this week. As emerging leaders within our schools, your dedication to honing your leadership skills is inspiring and crucial to the Trust’s ongoing success. Your hard work ensures that we are nurturing the next generation of leaders who will continue to drive excellence in education.

Premises Team Meeting

Behind the scenes, our Premises teams play an essential role in maintaining safe, functional, and welcoming school environments. This week, they came together for a highly productive meeting covering key areas such as improved asset management through Parago, strategies for managing fire risks and third-party equipment, and updates on maintaining boiler and asbestos registers.

The team also discussed plans for the 2025/26 SCA timeline, focusing on safety, sustainability, and educational needs. They reviewed the installation of door guards in early years and SEND areas, aligning with DfE guidance. A heartfelt thank you to our Premises teams for their proactive approach and hard work in keeping our schools running smoothly.

As a Trust, we remain united in our shared mission to provide the best possible education for every child. This week has been a reminder of the power of collaboration and the incredible talent within our community. Whether through leadership training, network meetings, or behind-the-scenes efforts, every contribution helps us achieve our ambitious goals.

As we move into the final stretch of the term, I want to extend my sincere thanks to each of you for your hard work and unwavering commitment. Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of our children and communities. Let’s finish the term strong!

Best wishes, 

Rob Haring

CEO

Initial Teacher Training 

The WeST Training Institute are excited to announce the launch of our Initial Teacher Training (ITT) Programme, starting in September 2025, in partnership with Ambition Institute. For those who would like to explore the incredibly rewarding world of teaching, we are hosting an online webinar on Wednesday 18 December from 4pm - 5pm, with our Executive Director for Training and Learning, Amy Pearce. During this session, Amy will provide an in-depth introduction to the Secondary Initial Teacher Training Programme starting in September 2025.

The webinar will highlight its innovative approach, tailored support, and the exceptional training experience offered through the WeST Training Institute. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about what makes our programme unique and how it will equip you with the skills and confidence to excel as a teacher. Please email us to secure your space.

In the meantime, you can find out more about the programme and how to apply here: Westcountry Schools Trust - Train to Teach (ITT)

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Flu Vaccinations - 2024/2025

WeST continues to support staff wellbeing and is pleased to offer staff access to flu jab vaccinations this winter. Last year we issued over 350 flu jab vaccination vouchers to staff members across the WeST network!

Following your feedback, this year we have partnered with Doctorcall to deliver a limited number of e-voucher flu vaccinations via participating pharmacies. 

We are enhancing the NHS free flu vaccination by offering vaccines to staff who are not eligible via this pathway. These vaccinations are provided at no cost to staff members and we encourage all staff to take up the offer of a flu jab.

Flu vaccination voucher

To request you flu vaccination voucher, please visit here or scan this QR code:

Vouchers are to be used at one of the participating pharmacies (Found here: https://doctorcall.co.uk/pharmacy-finder).

You will be able to book an appointment at a time and location that suits you.

Pharmacies include Tesco, Day Lewis, +Well and Asda.

For further information please contact WeST HR via hr@westst.org.uk

Early-Career Payments for eligible teachers

Eligible chemistry, languages, mathematics and physics teachers can apply to the DFE directly for early-career payments between October and March.

You can can apply from 14 October to 31 March for the 2024 to 2025 academic year.

For more information, please visit: 

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/early-career-payments-guidance-for-teachers-and-schools

Do Good December

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Recruitment update:

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

   Eggbuckland Community College are looking to appoint Casual Exam Invigilators. As an invigilator, you will assist examination staff with their examination processes. This activity may include setting up examination venues by laying out stationery, equipment and examination papers in accordance with strict procedures. For more information on the above vacancy please click here. Closing date: 9 January 2025.