I am trying extremely hard to be innovative, by creating a new chemical element! "hornium"...  (Although I am not sure just where it will fit in the periodic table...However, I do know it will definitely NOT be located in Group 8, but is likely to slot into either group 1 or group 7...) Highly Reactive even in small quantities!

One hopes (as with any new element) ~ whether it be an element of the curriculum, an element of pedagogy, or merely a simple chemical substance, that during our very special weekend, we will be able to compound all our efforts and ideas to create an explosive mixture that will send us hurtling towards our objective; i.e. effective and appropriate changes to the curriculum, school day and current practice.

Thanks Anne

Inclusion is now higher on the agenda than ever.  The new building needs to accommodate and make provision for all students who fall beneath the umbrella of "inclusion".

It is very important for the new building to encompass a well equipped and appropriate unit to serve the needs of SEN pupils.  

My little dream would be to have a "bungalow" which would provide an ideal environment, to enable and train pupils to develop Skills for Life.  The bungalow could contain a lounge area, dining area, fully equipped kitchen, study or classroom, reading room, VI, HI and PD rooms, physiotherapy room, rest room (with a couple of bunk beds or ordinary beds), SEN office, staffroom, conference room (for reviews and interviews with pupils, staff, parents and outside agencies), storage areas (for equipment and filing cabinets) disabled toilets and shower(s) and a small garden area with a greenhouse in which pupils could learn how to sow seeds, nurture and grow plants (including fruit, vegetables and herbs).  Pupils could learn how to look after the "bungalow", prepare meals and develop appropriate Social Skills.  They could learn how to tend the garden and develop greater independent working skills.  The possibilities are endless!  Some of the SEN pupils may not be the brightest buttons in the box, but they are certainly amongst the most special!  Some of their qualities are priceless!  They deserve the very best and often struggle unfairly in the exam and qualification orientated world in which we live!  They may not make the greatest contribution to the sickening league tables, but must ALWAYS remain high priority.  They need to succeed in school with an appropriate curriculum!   Let's not forget their very special needs!  Let's be SEN Champions!  (yeah!)

I agree with Gav about the 6 week rollover before the Summer term. The timetable needs time to "bed in" before the Summer break.  In truth, I didn't think it was particularly effective this year, as I felt it all happened rather too late. Year 8 were out on camp, planning was tight, the SEN IEPs & programmes were curtailed and completed somewhat hurriedly(!)  and I personally felt a bit stressed with all the prep, but - "nothing ventured - nothing gained".  We have learnt a great deal from the experience.  I think it will be much better next year.

N.B. I would also campaign to ban the SATs!  (See footnote on CHWs most excellent contribution).  They serve no useful educational purpose other than to delimit the curriculum and prop up even more sickening league tables.  (No apologies for standing on my principles - I'm afraid!)  They also help to destroy confidence in the lower achievers & our lovely SEN people by stamping "failure" on their heads!  (I really don't wish to sound negative - I just want to be truthful and open about what I honestly feel.)