This week, I attended the spring term Supplementary Schools forum organised by Camden Learning’s Supplementary Schools Officer, Suzie Yassin. I was delighted to make the introductions and outline some of the successes and challenges we collectively have to ensure all our children are safe, and achieve the very best outcomes. Suzie gathers intelligence from around Camden’s Supplementary Schools, with a particular focus on safeguarding, including the Prevent Duty, best practice, training and compliance. I was able to talk to our community and Supplementary School leaders about our priorities pertaining to achievement, the gaps, and how we can add value by working together.

I was reflecting this week on the work of our governors and Chairs of Governors, particularly during an intense period recruiting a new Headteacher. This term, four of our schools are in the midst of recruiting a new Headteacher and I have been delighted to work with and advise governors during the planning, shortlisting and during the actual interviews themselves. Our governors in Camden are a dedicated, committed and interested group, providing a high level of challenge, scrutiny, in the various network meetings, and in the diligent manner, they have undertaken organising the recent appointment processes. Let’s hope that we are able to appoint over the next week, further complementing to our impressive group of school leaders.

I am delighted to note that St Eugene de Mazenod Primary received a joint letter from the Secretary of State and Minister of Schools congratulating the school community on the very high level of progress-always great to know when our Camden schools are recognised by the department for their stunning work.

As I mentioned last week, we have organised a New Ofsted Framework briefing session on Monday 25th February from 1:30pm-3:00pm at Regent High School. The session will be led by John Seal, Senior HMI who will outline the proposed new framework and the key areas that they are seeking feedback on. We have promoted the event suggesting the head and Chair of Governors attend, however, we are blessed with plenty of space at Regent High School as we are using their theatre facility, so if you do want to add an additional delegate, please feel free to sign up using this link New Ofsted Framework Briefing.

Thank you for your continued hard work and dedication this half term. I’m sure you’ll agree it has flown by, and I can imagine you are all looking forward to a week of rest and recuperation, enjoy.

Jon Abbey

Managing Director, Camden Learning