Productive, yet hugely enjoyable day in Miskin Primary. Wonderful to see everyone today and a big thank you to Emma for responding so generously to our humour - especially when Andrew did an impromptu role-play as a superhero wearing 'The cloak of divisibility' to tackle the new numeracy framework in Wales! Very much looking forward to tomorrow - maybe it will be my turn (or Emma's) to dress up?…

We shall let the photos tell the story…(you can either read the captions, or create the 2 weeks from the picture prompts alone!)

Our project with Miskin Primary School began almost a year ago. We have had the pleasure of joining the staff on their journey of 'designing for literacy learning', facilitating a mixture of INSET days, twilight sessions, design/development days and embedded CPD in the classrooms. 

The majority of our time this month has been spent in Miskin Primary and we have many moments to remember. 

On leaving the school late one evening, we reflected on the sense of community that was apparent between staff and children. There was a genuine desire to improve the lives and learning of every individual child, recognising that each had a different starting point. This was echoed around the school,  by children and adults. Learners (of all ages) were concerned about how they could each take their 'next step'. 

In the often stressful climate of educational accountability, data and reaching expected standards, the underlying importance of feeling valued, respected and 'liked' can sometimes be overlooked. Relationships are essential. The culture and mindset of a community can have a huge impact on its success and effectiveness. 

We asked the staff to watch the following TEDtalks video clip: 'Every Kid Needs A Champion' by Rita Pierson. The discussions that followed resulted in a unanimous agreement -  the principles she speaks about so passionately are actually right for every age learner…and we are all learners. Take a look - it is worth spending 7 minutes listening to Rita Pierson. 

We'd like to publicly 'thank' the staff and children of Miskin Primary for welcoming us into their school community - it has made a real difference to the project. 

It is always great to have the opportunity to spend time in a school... and even better when you are met with smiles from everyone and genuinely welcomed into the environment.

Thank you to Mark Carrington for the invitation and hosting the afternoon. A tour of the school, a brief 'hello' with every member of staff and all classes...followed by discussions about 'visions and values' - an afternoon well spent. Loved the community feeling as we walked around...children eager to engage in conversation (and loving the one who has chosen to create a PowerPoint all about chocolate!).

Really looking forward to facilitating Twynyrodyn Community School INSET day in September - we are anticipating more smiles along with a shared community focus as everyone engages in discussions about vision and values.