‘Inspiration and collaboration’ at Primary Inset Day

On Thursday 5 January, primary and nursery colleagues from our Trust met at Marleigh Primary Academy for a day of collaboration and inspiration during their annual Inset Day. This event provided an opportunity for colleagues to share best practice and meet new faces from our Trusts’ 10 primary academies.

Primary leaders, teachers and support staff focused on the topic of reading with guest speaker, Christopher Such, author of The Art and Science of Teaching Primary Reading.

James Puxley, Headteacher of Linton Heights Junior School and organiser of the event, said “It was fabulous to join Trust teachers and teaching assistants from our primaries for our annual joint inset. Collectively, we were inspired by Christopher Such, author of The Art and Science of teaching Primary Reading – and reading expert.

The training provided important takeaways for all year groups, and I know that the impact of this training will be very positive across our primaries.”

Meanwhile, nursery colleagues started the day with a Phonics and Learning Environment session, later discussing In The Moment Planning and then working together on action planning in the afternoon.

Louise Scott, Deputy Head of The Pines Primary School and organiser of the Early Years activities, said “It has been exciting to have the spotlight on developing practice in our Nursery and Preschool settings.

Lauren Davis from Stapleford Nursery shared how to incorporate Phase 1 Phonics within our play and creating inspiring enhancements to engage our young learners. This was followed by ‘In the Moment Practice’ training from Hayley Ward at Pinecones Preschool.

Both will support the development of best practice across all our Early Years settings, ensuring the children get the best possible start to their learning journey.”