The Primary Strategy Learning Networks

The Context

The Primary National Strategy has launched a programme to support Learning Networks in primary schools, with the intention that, by 2008, the vast majority of primary schools will be part of an effective network that supports good teaching. Long term the aim is that every primary school is part of an effective Learning Network. In addition, this national development fits very well with the LEA's priorities for raising standards in English and mathematics.

The aim of the Learning Networks is to:

• Raise standards in literacy and mathematics; and
• Increase the capacity of schools to deliver a rich, broad curriculum.

To support these aims the focus of the networks should be on strengthening effective teaching to support pupil learning and implementing appropriate continuous professional development programmes. Opportunities for staff might focus on improving teachers' classroom practice, enriching curriculum provision and raising the attainment of particular groups of pupils. The expected outcomes are that better teaching and learning driven by the network activity will lead to improvements in English and mathematics. There is no blueprint for an effective network.

Norfolk has £506,00 to support 28 networks between April 2005 and July 2006. Eighteen networks can begin from the summer term 2005 and a further ten can begin from autumn 2005. Fourteen of these networks may request an additional sum for expertise in mathematics, irrespective of whether mathematics is the main focus of the network

Next steps and funding

There are three stages to becoming a Learning Network. The first stage is completed in the Spring term 2005, the second stage over the summer term 2005 and once endorsed, the Learning Network becomes fully functional from the autumn term 2005.

Stage 1- Preliminary
The group of schools wishing to become a Learning Network completes a short statement of intent. Once the LEA endorses this statement, the LEA pays the sum of £5,000 to the school identified as the fundholder for the network.

Stage 2 - Planning
After the Statement of Intent has been endorsed planning materials are provided for each school that form the Learning Network. The network produces a timetable for the planning process (a maximum of a school term) and identifies a focus for pupil learning and determines new opportunities for adult learning. The leadership, management and organisational arrangements must also be submitted. The network submits its action plan ON-LINE. The network then has to be accepted by the LEA and Primary National Strategy.

Stage 3 - Action
The network receives £12,000 (plus £2,000 for those developing mathematical expertise) from the LEA. Staff in the network engage in collaborative, cross school adult learning related to the focus of the network.

Small Schools in Norfolk

We are particularly keen to give small schools in Norfolk the opportunities to develop Learning Networks, as they will help to strengthen collaboration between schools with a focus on supporting good teaching and learning strategies. Small schools may also want to link with larger establishments including high schools although the network funding is only available for primary schools.

Further guidance

Headteachers interested in becoming a Learning Network are asked to read the additional information in the appendices below:

Appendix 1 Principles and Priorities for Learning Networks in Norfolk

Appendix 2 How do you apply to join a network?

Appendix 3 Criteria for selecting a Primary Strategy Learning Network in Norfolk

Appendix 4 Education Systems Areas and Indicative Clusters (draft)

A reminder too that the website below also contains further guidance, including the proforma for the initial Statement of Intent, which has to be submitted on-line via this DfES website and NOT directly to the LEA:

www.standards.dfes.gov.uk/primary/wholeschool/learning_networks

NB Statements of Intent have to be submitted on-line to the DfES by Monday 21st March 2005. We intend to respond to your initial statements by Friday 15th April.

LEA contacts- Tel 01603 433276
Heather Tyrrell, adviser (general enquiries)
Chris Snudden, Primary Strategy Manager (general enquiries)
John Harris, adviser (small schools network contact)

We look forward to hearing from you,

Fred Corbett
Assistant Director and Chief Adviser