#ukedchat Archive
Join teachers and educationalists for #ukedchat each Thursday between 8-9 pm GMT for Edu chat. Education news, resources, and @UKEdSch website with @UKEdMag
Thursday February 25, 2016
Welcome to this Thursday's everyone. Remember to use the hashtag. As we're discussing time, here's Q1. https://t.co/v1cAcQ3mHC
A1 Many extra-curricular activities but only low-risk
we are a PRU and chn often get the chance to bake cakes to help raise money. does this count?
Hi Nicole. Looking forward to sharing ideas this evening.
. I run a sub-aqua, Pre-Prep games and Digital Leaders clubs. Horse riding is for the warmer months! School offers lots.
Low-risk like I said, too
Absolutely. Sounds great!
Wow! Exciting list! https://t.co/suyvriT3sF
. I run a sub-aqua, Pre-Prep games and Digital Leaders clubs. Horse riding is for the warmer months! School offers lots.
A1 I think it is a shame that risk assessments are putting stop to more adventurous ways of volunteering and activities
That's a lot of extra clubs and sounds like something Ss would want to sign up to keenly
Q1 from What extra curricular activities do you run in your setting?
Yes. This is a problem. What can we do to break those barriers?
I think most schools offer many activities, schools take duty of care and experience seriously
Just our 2 pence this week,however one of the benefits of extra curricular activities in our opinion,is exploring diverse interest.
Yes, they are popular. I like offering too! Seeing Chn in different 'settings' is helpful, I feel.
we offer a variety from sports to academic to homework.
In dept we do revision, plus creative writing & public speaking projects. In school all sorts.
I think key is to get parents involved then children remain parental responsibility and schools have it easier
Think you could combine all of those for the most bonkers after-school club ever!
the year 6 have booster sessions. we have lunch clubs too
Lots of sports, dance companies, drama groups, extra support for subjects.
my club also has a active family worker who runs parents help groups etc. Engaging the local community.
Hi ! This is our first one so nice to meet you all. We create dynamic learning environments for schools in our modular classrooms.
A1 I wonder how much teacher workload is impacting on the number of enrichment activities that take place out of school hours
don't you have a stock base of RA's that can be amended should the risk level change (e.g based on weather)
A1 Private schools offer cadets and duke of edinbro too, but many state don't for the risks..
True. Once a club has worked well once, it's easier to repeat.
interesting to see how many people rub. Sessions that are not totally academic.
Yes, but shouldn't we try to diversify...
There's also sixth form enrichment including sign language, Further Maths A Level, work with primary schools, university courses
A2: you get to see another side to your students and build stronger r/ships for lessons. They see you as more than the subject T
A2 Chn relationships can be improved when not in a 'structured' environment. Chn like seeing teachers out of the class.
That sounds incredible. Global outreach and ensuring your students are global citizens.
But school doesn't need to be academic only. We raise children and holistic approach needed
A2: they're essential and add so much value. No point churning out quals and forgetting character... Communication, team work etc
It's a worrying trend, I think. That said, there are pockets of brilliance out there: 😊
Adapt for the current cohort in the club?
Q2. We think they really enrich education and offer opportunities that children might not get otherwise.
In independent sector clubs are used to increase values and confidence in pupils
a1 fencing, football, choir, gardening, computers, cooking.
an all round approach is needed. Investing in the whole child.
Absolutely and increase confidence and possibly discover new talents
I do think workload is having an impact on extra curricular provision, sadly.
Fabulous! Range of skills taught is amazing!
Wow. They sound like fun!
love the sign language! Well done 👍🏼
I think extra curricular activities are more relaxed too.
agree! Used to run a football, movie and cricket club. Not anymore!
Not necessarily needed to go off site. But many schools out stop. I wasn't allowed take kids out to snow
A2: So many benefits of extra curricular activites that include increased support for students & developing confidence & skills!
An eclectic mix. Your students are incredibly fortunate 😊 https://t.co/JXGhdckBKB
a1 fencing, football, choir, gardening, computers, cooking.
Really does develop the holistic child or young adult as they experience something beyond school building.
. Xtra-Curr societies can generate a love for learning which transcends ability
a2 so many skills and learning can be incorporated and other avenues explored which is hard to fit into school day.
We're starting it in two weeks. Students v excited!
Seeing your chn in a different light - broadens their horizons, and yours..
Agreed. Debating clubs teaching about argumentation. Show and tell for presentation. Simple things
Yes, in that Chn generally interested and keen to be involved. Discipline/behaviour less of an issue.
Q2thinking of setting up an extra-curricular society? Extra Curricular RE : Running a Philosophy Society –
https://t.co/yyg6h5VPWl
q2 I did lots of volunteering through school and uni. Workload has prevented me from getting back to Guides
As an I find running extra-curricular clubs (PE) allows to build rapports with other year groups.
A3 Risk assessment and management's reluctance to accept risks
A3: Workload and spare time are my issues. Haven't found a fix yet. Any ideas
A2: CPD for staff, enriches children's experiences, allows less academic children to thrive
A2) Learners often get opportunities to see their teachers in a different light during ASCs. https://t.co/qiwb479XWw
Really does develop the holistic child or young adult as they experience something beyond school building.
I alway enjoy doing them. Its having the time and resources to make them good for the children
Very important! Teachers need downtime and protect their wellbeing, so yes, activities are not done
One of my placement schools years ago insisted all pupils did at least 2 extra-curricular activities per week.
Yes - it's great for them to link learning with fun and enjoyment.
the enjoyment for me. I like engineering clubs which engage pupils and often turn into a career for them
Show and tell is my favourite! You can do it in MFL, too
A1 Digital Leaders - would recommend if you haven't introduced this yet, music lessons, cross country, football, dance, bee club...
A3 I once ran a film club for 2 hours one afternoon a week. I often did my marking once the kids were set up.
indeed. The extra curriculum activities should be something they enjoy. Not something they feel they need to do
Great links there with and so many other projects
did that help to increase take up and pupil engagement?
Why the change? Any clubs you would/do still run?
can you expand on digital leaders a little more?
https://t.co/MpwealITVz
A1 Digital Leaders - would recommend if you haven't introduced this yet, music lessons, cross country, football, dance, bee club...
A3 I am sure this is well known. Time, workload and teacher's skills/ability.
Tonight's discussion is hosted by & we're discussing the importance of all things extra curricular. Do join in!
we are have TA who offer clubs like this. Getting everyone involved within the school
. Q3 time & timetabling top challenges- Extra Curricular RE : Running a Philosophy Society –
https://t.co/yyg6h5VPWl
Yes, enjoyment is important, but student should also be challenged and be pushed outside comfort zone
I find this really useful too and I'm not NQT
Digital Leaders is great, but worried that some companies are trying to commercialise the concept :-/
A2 use volunteers from access LA system plus lots of other solutions to teachers running clubs
great idea! Doesn't have to be onerous or 'effort' for great impact
combination of lack of time, increased responsibility elsewhere and lack of a space to use.
None for me in last 4 years as I'm based at a PRU.
A2) What happens to schools whose children go to mosque after school? How do you encourage inclusion?
From memory, yes. But also pressure on staff to offer activities too
Exactly.. going forward this is something that I will continue to do as I find it really positive
a3 time, space, subject knowledge, adult support.
That happened with me once. I set up a club that i knew no chn would sign up for. *guilty*
I think that's a good point and it's important that the staff enjoy what they are doing as well as the children!
An interesting point
https://t.co/xTqq0fq6yI
depends on the age. I feel too many young children go to clubs to boost their academic performance
we've done fab projects. Great potential + opportunities for themed projects
I can imagine clubs are more challenging in a PRU. But are they more valuable in a PRU?
Agreed! Where there's a will, there's a way.
Good point. Could there be clubs linked to their interests around religion. Reach out to the wider community?
In London, only top 10% of children can match the maths skills of average 15-year-old in Shanghai https://t.co/TJXNOJiS2m
think quiet a few teacher have.
A knew a school where running a club was part of your PD action plan. - happened often
Funny thing is though you still end up with a group....
A3 I think finding the space and time can be issues.
need to encourage all types of clubs.
I'd say so! Learning and engagement through doing (without even realising at times!)
busy schedules, lack of interest from children? Overcome by promoting positive attitudes to further learning.
Exams check - a training session must be held for any new invigilators. An update meeting must be held for existing invigilators
Thanks. will take a closer look later - it's on the 'to do' list ;-)
a lots of local schools in Leicester do this. Fantastic opportunities.
Does it come back to workload everytime?
Probably yes, but wellbeing of teachers crucial so must accept it
I think so! At least a considerable amount of the time. https://t.co/KTOjLBBYjb
Does it come back to workload everytime?
Interactive sharpens critical thinking skills. Vital in development of analytical reasoning. https://t.co/WmZUVsmoc8
I have but really enjoying it beyond the initial thought of staying late
unfortunately with all other pressures, workload is a contributing factor
A3: Time and workload - ensure responsibility of leading extra curricular activities is fair and even between staff
We all do, like the interaction with kids, that's why we teachers
I run a Supernatural club and a criminal minds club where we watch an episode a week. Kids love it
I always made sure that I did a club I would enjoy running.
think you need to be careful! Lots of other protected characteristics
Workload seems to be an increasingly frequent problem
I think that goes without saying.. sadly missed by many I guess though. https://t.co/fBiX0IxdvE
I always made sure that I did a club I would enjoy running.
one that needs addressing
and play to the strength of each staff member too so they are running activities they are passionate about.
a very complicated issue.
Now they are intriguing! https://t.co/lDvOKmmHGv
I run a Supernatural club and a criminal minds club where we watch an episode a week. Kids love it
I am at a state boarding school and our boarders have to do 2 clubs a week, Days have to do 1.
And that is what I mean with allowing risks...
Running a after school event should be a bind!
Yes. Helping each other really is an incentive. The Ss appreciate it too.
In a way it is good though. They exposed to new things...
Think of running your club as one of the activity
The Ss knew I watched them and asked if I would do it, so I did. Leads to interesting conversations.
It certainly drives all to go the extra mile
agreed think about it positively
I had a cartooning club because kids wanted it....
i think many teachers do. Just do not like it being forced
Yes. While ever it's a choice, it's great to get stuck in.
agreed. Embrace it with arms wide open
Finding time to balance marking. I do debate, drama, radio & soon netball and run w/ 2 other teachers
Great example of Pupil Voice & Pupil Action 😊. We have to find out what makes children tick https://t.co/DJnjFjtlQA
I had a cartooning club because kids wanted it....
A4 if they are offered new expereinces they are happy to volunteer and help out, even with proper volunteeering in community
. A4: strong pupil teacher relationships are crucial- if you are excited about your subject they will be too!
Yes, but I enjoyed the learning for myself in the process.
Q4 Our 6th form curriculum includes a Weds afternoon voluntary placement in Y12.
Wow! that's a lot of clubs!! How do you manage that? https://t.co/OizUP4cjl2
Finding time to balance marking. I do debate, drama, radio & soon netball and run w/ 2 other teachers
...and kids enjoyed being teachers for me
our society thrives due to a strong pupil leadership and genuine interest in the subject
Do you need certain qualifications to do that? Goes back to people's own interests.
a4 tap into their passions, bring in experts/real life inspiration.
vice-chair of governor at a school (totally different to own setting... grammar, selective and single sex)
I used to volunteer with girlguiding but due to workload I no longer can
How many other participants are on school governing bodies?
A5 Family time takes precedence outside school, generally, but I am a governor at a local school. If that counts.
Inspiring! https://t.co/5FsqEA3xzJ
Time management! It was hard at first but I love it. I also help w/ sports fixtures when I can!
How does that make you feel in terms of choosing between your two passions?
Q5 rugby coach for a U15s side!
I have been practising it for 19 years. I am a full qualified instructor
A Ambassador supporting in other schools, promoting European collaborative projects
agreed, people interest. need to play to them? unitise them?
Family time crucial. I run a club but don't have kids at home. I think that is a huge factor.
agreed. Its all about give and take.
Very important indeed but family can be brought into some of the activities...
I purposely chose teaching as a career. Hoping once I'm more used to teaching I'll go back to Guiding
That is a shame. I think most teachers would offer more activities like this if workload was not so demanding.
I used to be a Girl Guide Leader, but with my current job I haven't been able to find a unit.
Children's aspirations grow when working alongside talented artists, musicians, film makers, dancers etc https://t.co/3QakT0OzAt
a4 tap into their passions, bring in experts/real life inspiration.
Lots of school communities nationally not so fortunate. Pupil Premium money really helps there.
a5 do them at lunchtimes, run them on rotational basis.
That's a really valid point. The may be a will, but not a way for some staff! https://t.co/NDuIyzw6SD
Family time crucial. I run a club but don't have kids at home. I think that is a huge factor.
definitely. We considered a science/re debate club. GCSE revision commitments got in the way!!
. Definitely. We run a book club and have managed to get an author to come in.
Food bank is my son's interest mainly, i have to be there for age reasons
A4: promote activities, praise those that give their time, recognise them in assemblies & give them important responsibilities
Great point well made. But Gov ideas to make us stay later are asking us to choose.
Really inspired by you guys... keep it up!
Great idea. uses so his learners can talk to real authors 😊
Juggling is hard. I do things later on days where family is late, too, due to their activities
I believe you hit the nail on the head. Most of what we do/volunteer is all about inspiring
A5 I was a primary school governor, found it immensely rewarding
inspiring is so important in a young persons life
We recently had an awards evening which recognised a number of students who volunteer in own time.
now on Q6: World Thinking Day was on Monday. How do you raise awareness of global issues in your setting? https://t.co/LWW014gdzw
A6 - I play BBC News during Tutor and PSHE periods- great stimulus for discussion
That's why I love my job and what we do! helps re my own and inspires
Has anyone ever thought of / heard of / run a primary school philosophy club?
time and pressure to replace fun activities with revision session
In lower years or primary teachers use First news. Frankly, I read that newspaper myself every week...
P4C Philosophy for kids. Offers many resources for free if you sign up, but also offers training
An incredible shame we need food banks in this age, but an awesome response from your son. Huge respect https://t.co/G22FW83OtE
Food bank is my son's interest mainly, i have to be there for age reasons
We have weekly video which summaries a range of issues & we watch & discuss in form time. Today we got stuck into Brexit & Trump.
And to learn from mistakes. Definitely.
A6: again... ! Amazing free resources, safe online portal, great CPD + European collaborative opportunities
Thanks so much! Will definitely take a look. https://t.co/kUObSzgKWF
P4C Philosophy for kids. Offers many resources for free if you sign up, but also offers training
That's for sharing this. Looks great. I'll be passing it on.
We have weekly video with global/local issues. Watch & discuss in form time. Today we got stuck into Brexit & Trump!
Ha. I'll give you that one! Goes back to and Co again...
it's amazing. Can also gain national and European awards and prizes for school and students
Some teachers have asked us to create National Test revision sessions. Ready to roll 😅 https://t.co/LmO7MWYcJ8
Can revision not be made fun?
I like to involve my SEN students in online projects and they love to collaborate online in with others students
Did you not end up throwing things at the screen?
For me extracurricular should be about skills other than academic
but with the pressure of SAT/GCSE etc. Is this feasible?
Yes, indeed. Therefore I prefer First News. Less negative.
yp4c is really powerful. Check out if you don't already. And his club Power to the Pupils
Ha! Our chaplain produces the video but my Y12 form enjoy a good debate.
Yes. Applying skills, a lowing creativity to florish & thus deepens understanding.
by being a Governor at other schools.
Agree completely. ECAs should be to develop the individual and broaden their skills and horizons. https://t.co/tOUw6YWjT7
For me extracurricular should be about skills other than academic
but surely the other skills gained make them better more engaged learners.
When planning HOT questioning set aside time for a tangent for the students to voice their opinions.
A6: try to weave lots of news stories/issues into Y8 tutor time. Tutee just made his own gen knowl. for the form!
Agreed. We simply responded to requests. Welcome to 'Tag National Tests' 😅
I wholeheartedly agree. But just sometime it seems the other “pressures”
Honestly, I think being allowed PPA offsite (at home) is helpful thinking time!
Agree, just wanting to make sure there are likeminded people out there.
“A range of creative and stimulating approaches fully engage pupils in activities.” Great feedback! https://t.co/Y2iKo0G2em
We need to remember our core values & reasons we chose to work in edu
United in voice and striving to do the best by out kids. Agreed.
Watch this space for Qu 8 then
Q8: How do you encourage other educators to consider running projects or join chats like this...etc? https://t.co/hcY4rIliGT
a sand timer or large digital clock on the activboard. Nice and visual. Or thinking glasses or time out space
Leading by example and talking about how I benefit from it...
Why do Risk Assessments prevent the activities? Do you have an example? https://t.co/LUeNmxpY8r
A1 I think it is a shame that risk assessments are putting stop to more adventurous ways of volunteering and activities
I was told too dangerous to take kids outside into snow or out walking
the hardest question so far. Particularly getting colleagues to give up their time to extra curricular activities
I just keep telling them all the new ideas I'm picking up..or say things like "if you'd been on Twitter..." :)
