  We all suffer from worry and stress in varying forms so this month we’re looking at activities that not only have a link with SMSC but can go a long way to reducing stress and promoting wellbeing. Last month I briefly mentioned the new category, Personal Development, in the new Ofsted Framework due to come into force in September 2019. This alone is probably the biggest change we have seen since September 2011 and has far reaching consequences should there be a lack of provision. The idea of this category is to look beyond the academic to develop and promote values and characteristics designed to improve life chances and unlock potential in each individual. Ofsted acknowledges that the impact of this will not be evident for several years, however, evidence of the quality and intent of what the school provides will be needed. Interestingly, SMSC remains separate and will be looked at as it is now by Inspectors. GridMaker already has SMSC, British Values and PSHE on the system, and when the RSE criteria is finalised we’ll have a grid for that too. Because GridMaker allows all of these values to be monitored under one activity at the same time, in about one minute I might add, getting the staff involved by adding one or two activities per week cuts down on everyone’s workload and as the picture of provision emerges on GridMaker, it’s very easy to see gaps in provision. We’ve been helping schools with SMSC for over 10 years. Take a look at GridMaker yourself by requesting a free trial. April is Stress Awareness Month  Everyone seems to be under pressure nowadays and that can lead to stress. It’s a good idea to have tools to prevent and control stress when it manifests. http://www.stress.org.uk/national-stress-awareness-month-2019 Successful Habits I can still hardly believe that I found this little gem - a free online programme for primary and secondary schools about habits and how they can help us be healthy and productive and reduce stress. It is an American non-profit production, however, if it’s useful, take a look. https://programs.howidecide.org  And Breathe .........  There are plenty of ways to reduce stress - these are all good suggestions, however, number 10 is the best way to exercise facial muscles. https://floraproactiv.co.uk/healthy-living/active-lifestyle/how-to-relieve-stress-10-fun-relaxing-activities
Preparing for life in modern Britain, understanding the consequences of actions, developing personal qualities and using social skills. Understanding human feelings and emotions. National Pet Month April is National Pet Month. We are a nation of animal lovers, however, there is a science behind us falling in love with our favourite pet - read on …….  More than a Pet  Most of us have a four legged friend, hamster, horse and all in between, however, it’s been proven that having a bond with an animal has many benefits including an impact on well being. (This cutie is mine) https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cambridgeshire-44137717 Story Time - Woof! While a ‘bring your pet to school’ day would be complete chaos, the Kennel Club created the Bark and Read Foundation in 2011 to support and promote the amazing work of charities that take dogs into schools as reading volunteers to help tackle the UK's literacy problems.
 In Service  This has got to be the best and most heartwarming reason to train a dog for special purpose - so many people suffer from PTSD and the comfort of owning a service dog who has been specially trained to spot signs or trauma must be life changing. https://www.servicedogsuk.org/what-we-do/ptsd-assistance-dogs Exploring, understanding and respecting diversity, developing and expressing personal views of values, understanding how communities and societies function, understanding human feelings and emotions. SMSC is everywhere and forms a large part of self-evaluation and action planning in schools. With a template that caters for the Self-evaluation of SMSC provision, iAbacus makes the whole process simple and insightful. National Gardening Week 27th April is the start of National Gardening Week and there’s nothing more peaceful than a beautiful garden - gardening is very therapeutic and providing the lawn mower isn’t broken, another great way to relieve stress. https://www.rhs.org.uk/get-involved/national-gardening-week  School Garden  School gardens are popular and some even profitable - this article explains some of the benefits the writer found when implementing a garden at her school. Preparing for life in modern Britain, developing personal qualities and using social skills, experiencing fascination, awe and wonder, using imagination and creativity in learning. 29th April - International Dance Day Dancing - spontaneous, sequenced or otherwise, gets those endorphins flowing promoting a sense of wellbeing and joy. https://www.international-dance-day.org  The Greatest Dancer  The Greatest Dancer finished it’s first season on BBC One in February and the winner - a 14 year old girl called Ellie who overcame her nerves and let her talent shine. Inspiring proof beyond doubt that getting lost in the dance can conquer all. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VjHrKz_XG2E Participating and responding to cultural activities, understanding and appreciating personal influences, understanding human feelings and emotions, using imagination and creativity in learning. and finally ......... 25th April is International Penguin Day and who doesn’t appreciate the antics of such a wonderful creature, however, penguins can be brave too. https://www.reddit.com/r/videos/comments/acay0z/the_feisty_penguin_hero_this_made_me_laugh_for_a  Bye for now Tricia Cadman - T: 0115 942 8912 E: tricia@opeus.org Technical Support Diane T: 0115 942 8913 E: diane@opeus.org Nick: T: 0115 942 8911 E: nick@opeus.org iAbacus Dan: T: 0115 942 8914 E: dan@opeus.org Chris: T: 0115 942 8910 E: chris@opeus.org *Previous editions of our Newsletter can be found on our website |
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