Skip to content

A message from Matt Dunkley CBE:

6 July 2018 weekly update

6 July 2018

This week, Matt introduces some key DfE policy developments and shares the presentation from his recent Headteacher Briefings.

Dear colleagues

Thank you to those who attended my recent Headteacher Briefings - I found the discussions about High Needs Funding very helpful in how we move forward. I am still keen for comments from other colleagues who were unable to attend and I would ask that these are sent to EYPSsupportteam@kent.gov.uk.

As promised, the Headteacher Briefing presentation (PDF, 600.0 KB) from my meetings is now available. A reminder that I am keen to hear from Headteachers about how we shape future meetings, any further suggestions are welcomed to the above email address.

I would also like to highlight the following key DfE policy developments that were discussed at the Briefings:

  • Support for schools with least able pupils - Extra support for schools with pupils working below the national curriculum. Pre-Key Stage standards have been developed to better support these pupils to transition onto the national curriculum. The guidance also gives school information on how to develop their own curriculum and assessment to meet the needs of their pupils.
  • Funds to raise standards among bright disadvantaged young people - Future Talent Fund - The DfE announced a £23m Future Talent Fund programme to support the brightest pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds. Its aim is improve these young people’s academic attainment. The programme will test new ways of helping these pupils at KS2 and KS4 to remain on their high performing trajectory.
  • Strengthened guidance for schools and colleges in safeguarding - Revised Keeping Children Safe in Education statutory guidance has been published by the DfE. It provides additional advice to help school staff deal with allegations of child-on-child sexual violence and harassment.
  • Carers Action Plan - A new plan published by DfE setting out the cross-government programme of work to support carers over the next 2 years. It is structured around the following themes:
    • Services and systems that work for carers
    • Employment and financial wellbeing
    • Supporting young carers
    • Recognising and supporting carers in the wider community
    • Building research and evidence to improve outcomes for carers.

Matt Dunkley CBE
Corporate Director
Children, Young People and Education