Open Schools Programme 2014

Visits to Norfolk schools this half term: spaces still available!

Norfolk's three headteacher associations - Norfolk Primary Headteachers' Association (NPHA), Norfolk Secondary Education Leaders (NSEL) and Norfolk Association of Special School Headteachers (NASSH) - have organised for a number of schools across the County to open their doors to visitors later this term.

The attached flyer provides information on what these visits are, why they have been instigated and who could attend, plus the programme of visits. Note that this can be for heads, senior or middle leaders, teaching staff if you feel it is appropriate, or governors.

You will see that many of the visits have a particular focus to them, on areas that those headteachers feel works well in their school and may be of interest to you. Others are more general to give opportunity for those visiting to bring their own slant. The secondary school visits are all on 'school culture' and these schools are inviting visitors to question the schools' assumptions about how ethos is reflected in the school environment and behaviour and attitudes of the school community; the idea is that this will help those visiting to contemplate their own school culture with a more objective eye and perhaps to gather some ideas about how to embed ethos.

Those thinking of attending can stick with the schools in their phase of education or try crossing phases.

All schools were happy to be involved but also keen to stress that they do not have all the answers and are looking forward to learning from you, too! There are many other Norfolk schools that should also be part of this kind of programme and - if these visits prove a success - some of these will be asked to participate in another round to be set up during Autumn Term.

Finally, if you would also look at schools beyond Norfolk, have a look at the 'Open Schools East' website which provides case studies and visit dates. It's planned that these Norfolk visits will be included on this website in the future.

For further information or to book a place please Email Helen Norton or call 07795904006. Places will be first come, first served.

Helen Norton
NSEL & NPHA Executive Officer