Browse News Articles

Imagine having a bunch of evidence-based programmes and practical resources, all in one place, to improve the lives of parents while ensuring that the lives of the most deprived little ones under five got off to the best possible start? That’s what the Sure Start programme was all about, but while it sounds great on paper, did it deliver on all the glittering promises it made?

Well actually… yes, yes it did.

When it comes to working in special and hospital schools, and alternative provisions, no two days are the same.

Things are constantly developing and evolving (not always for the best), which is why Schools North East, through our partner NNoSS (National Network of Special Schools), always ensures the lines of communication are open wide with our network of colleagues.

Recruitment and retention within the education sector has long been an elephant in the (class)room. Over the past ten years, the overall number of teachers in state-funded schools has failed to maintain the same rate of progress as pupil numbers.

The pupil to teacher ratio has increased from 17.1 in November 2010 to 18.0 in November 2022.

Can you believe we’re seven months into the 23/24 academic year already? We imagine it feels like only a few weeks ago you were psyching yourself up for a fresh start in a brand new school year, and now?

Well, dare we say it, the summer holidays are on the horizon once more…

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Until then, there’s more work to be done, and all you can do is keep trying your best despite the hurdles that are placed in front of you.

Yesterday marked our fifth annual Curriculum Conference… and 2024 certainly proved to be one for the books!

Gathering our region’s remarkable school leaders, teaching practitioners, and learning leads under one roof is always a cause for celebration, and it was truly inspiring to see everyone come together to learn, connect, and grow.

A Social Impact Review, commissioned by Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation (DCSF), highlights the various ways that the Foundation has contributed to the lives of thousands of young people. Not only in Durham, either, but across the wider North East and beyond! We are all in this together, after all.

Schools North East partnered with the Community Foundation to make a staggering £100,000 of funding available for schools wishing to develop their cultural, sporting or careers provision for disadvantaged and looked-after children. Funding of up to £4,000 was available per bid for schools across Tyne and Wear.

Pupils at St. Bede’s Catholic Primary School, South Shields, demonstrated no problem springing into action when it came to their recent gymnastics competition.

In fact, pupils at the Primary school, which is part of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust, did so well that they were named South Tyneside Champions 2024.

As part of our commitment to understanding the current landscape of all factors affecting education in the North East and beyond, we regularly orchestrate roundtable events and surveys specific to topical challenges. Together with The National Network of Special Schools for School Business Professionals (NNoSS), a network facilitated by Schools North East, we amplify the voices of those working in the specialist sector across the length and breadth of the country.

We’re only six weeks into 2024 and already this Sunderland school has achieved something huge! Thornhill Academy, a proud member of Consilium Academies, recently announced its accreditation with the prestigious International Schools Award. This fantastic recognition emphasises the school’s dedication to building international awareness and understanding among its students. Well done to everyone involved; a brilliant step in a brilliant direction.