How’s the autumn term going for you so far? Hopefully you’ve had magical learning moments aplenty.
If school is leaving you anxious and sleep-deprived, though, John Dabell (p17) is worried you might be trying to remedy things in the wrong way.
We have some lovely literacy features this issue. On page 63, Jo Cummins has put together a KS1 book topic for Lanisha Butterfield’s gorgeous Flower Block, which is a heartfelt exploration of nature and community.
On page 54, Topsy Page explains how you can boost oracy across your class by harnessing the power of simple hand signals. Meanwhile, Pie Corbett offers expert advice on how to create a reading spine for your school (p57).
Our latest WAGOLL (p60) is taken from James Fox’s The Boy in the Suit, which follows 10-year-old Solo Walker and his mum as they struggle through the cost-of-living crisis.
On which note, our leadership section is all about financial stability, with guidance on finding new funds, keeping up with procurement procedure and taking difficult decisions (p39).
We also have an interesting case study from Darren Eales, Tes’ Primary Curriculum Leader of the Year, who breaks down how he went about transforming his school’s approach to science (p36).
This issue’s lesson plans have a seasonal theme. On page 76, Sabina Khanam takes KS1 children on a jaunt into the woods, and Matthew Lane explores Advent with KS2 (p74).
And in our maths section, Jacob Merrill ponders creativity and offers ideas to get children making mathematical works of art (p44). Nicola Adams wants you to bring more games into your lessons (p52) and Ian Connors (p49) explores the history and use of manipulatives.
As ever, do drop me an email if you have a resource or idea you’d like to share with Teach Primary readers.
Enjoy the issue!
Lydia Grove – Editor
