Netherthorpe Nursery Infant & Junior School, Netherthorpe Street, Sheffield S3 7JA

CURRENT INITIATIVES

GRADUATE TRAINING PROGRAMME ~ In conjunction with Hallam University, a programme of training has been devised to support and guide students on the path of their teaching career. This 'on the job' training has mutual benefits - a realistic taste of school life for the students and different perspectives and personalities for the pupils to experience.

THE BEACON SCHOOL LINK ~ We are linked to Nether Green Junior School, which has beacon status. The agreed strategy for the last three years has been to encourage the development of writing through the Primary years. We have benefited from this by implementing extra activities to promote a high focus on the growth of writing opportunities. This year, the focus has changed to looking at different styles of children. We are sure that this will increase the efficacy and enjoyment of pupils work.

STUDENT VOLUNTEERS ~ The partnership with Sheffield Students Union goes from strength to strength. This year we have sixteen

volunteer students who come in and support pupils in lessons throughout the school. Y2 receive Spanish lessons and have shown enthusiasm and ability in learning a new language.

FAMILY LEARNING COURSES ~ Working with the Sheffield College, Amanda Bonnington has organised courses designed to bring the community into school life and produce an end product which will benefit the pupils as well. At present the parents have been making 'Book Bags'. These exciting packs are based around a popular reading book for younger pupils. It may include finger puppets, soft toys for role play. Future plans include creative arts and ICT skills. These activities have accreditations as well as developing school community partnership relations.

EAZ ~ Netherthorpe is part of the 'Learning Together' Education Action Zone. The schools in this partnership aim to enhance children's learning and enrich their experiences across the curriculum. This can mean using the creative arts to add extra dimensions to Literacy and other lessons. It also can include grants for developing community involvement and provide training and materials the school identifies a need for.