Support Staff Networking

Introduction

Delegates were nominated at the first ever Support Staff conference at Walkers Stadium to establish a Network for Classroom Support Staff.

Purpose of Network The Network provides an

opportunity for classroom support staff to share practice, knowledge and ideas

Develops support staffs roles as professionals and enriches children’s learning.

Principles of Networking A forum for professional dialogue. Identify strategies for

communicating. with all classroom support staff.

Reduce isolation of colleagues. Strengthen communication between

primary and secondary schools. Act in a professional manner, and

respect the views of all members.

First steps to establishing a network Target Heads of schools to seek their

approval – outlining the benefits of networks.

Create a newsletter to distribute to all schools give information of benefits, set meeting dates and agenda.

Invite one or two colleagues from each school to attend meeting, they can then go back into their school to liase with their staff members.

Benefits of a Network Share specialist skills – talents Support for planning ideas and

resources for PPA cover. Observe colleagues in other settings. Share training Support Staff deliver training, give

advice Share resources e.g. Costumes, plans,

visual display resources etc

Benefits of a Network cont’d Links between KS1, KS2, KS3, KS4 Share information and strategies to

gain smooth and successful transitions.

Share strategies for behaviour management.

Visit lead settings Raises profile of Support Staff

Ways of communicating with members Email Newsletter Website Forum

Outwoods Message Board Post questions Respond to other people Post advice: plans, strategies Dates and information Web link… http://pub19.bravenet.com/forum/1605204102 Password = outwoods