21 September 2019 weekly update

Dear Colleague

Virtual School Kent 8^th Annual Awards ceremony

On Sunday 15 September, I was privileged again to attend the Virtual School Kent 8^th Annual Awards ceremony to celebrate the academic and wider achievements of our Children in Care.

So many nominations were received from Schools, Social Workers, other KCC staff and foster carers; which resulted in 308 children in Early Years, Key Stage 1, 2, 3 and Year 10 receiving awards this year. There were an array of different awards - Megastars, Superstars and Headteacher Heroes along with Bronze, Silver and Gold winners. Another 34 young people received VSK’s ‘Stars of 2019' award for their involvement with and contribution to the Super Council and our Children and Young People's Council.

The ceremony was attended by children and their carers, elected members and KCC staff. The beautiful sunny day started with a fun packed Awards Ceremony for our younger students, led by Tony Doran, Headteacher of Virtual School Kent, with awards presented by Roger Gough and myself. This was followed by a BBQ lunch and fantastic entertainment for the children to enjoy including lots of giant inflatables, arts and crafts, CSI forensics and funny photo booths. The ceremony for Key Stage 3 and Year 10 followed in the afternoon. The VSK Participation team were on hand with lots of fun ways children and young people can get involved and have their voices heard.

One entertaining highlight was a surprise appearance from ‘Magic Alan’, a former Kent Care Leaver who delighted the younger children with his unique take on a magic show that certainly got the party started and the children very over-excited!

We are now looking forward to VSK’s next Award Ceremony to celebrate the achievements of our Year 11 and Post 16 young people which will take place on 16 October and I am very much looking forward to hearing some amazing achievement stories from our young people.

Kent Welcome for Newly Appointed Headteachers: Monday 30 September, 8am to 11am

A reminder to any newly appointed Headteacher to confirm your attendance at the breakfast welcome event taking place on Monday 30 September from 8am to 11am at the Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel. If you need further information or if you wish to confirm your attendance, please RSVP to CYPESupportTeam@kent.gov.uk.

Matt Dunkley CBE
Corporate Director
Children, Young People and Education