In Wales, the ongoing shadow of Covid is putting continuing stress on the school system.

Wales

Simon Thompson, Deputy Headteacher / Dirpwy Bennaeth at Cardiff High School / Ysgol Uwchradd Caerdydd  writes that education in Wales continues to move at pace. “ Regionally and nationally, the educational landscape is shaped by the ongoing reform agenda with the preparation for a new national curriculum, reforms and pilots to the school day and term, as well as a wholesale consultation relating to qualifications reform. All this in the continuing backdrop of the global pandemic which continues to throw unexpected twists and turns at every opportunity. Covid cases have continued to remain stubbornly high throughout the whole of the Autumn Term, with more cases of Covid being seen in both pupils and school staff than at any other time in the Pandemic. This has of course continued to put enormous stress on the system. All this before the entrance of Omicron and the current concern and media frenzy about this new variant and the potential threats that it brings.

“At Cardiff High School, we have been determined, as best we can, to put strategic developments including the continued enhancement of learning and teaching approaches, a diverse and rich programme of professional learning, the conceptualisation and realisation of a new curriculum, as well as of course a strong focus on the wellbeing of all, at the heart of our school agenda. We have tried to provide a sense of normality for our students and staff through the reintroduction of regular routines, standard school processes and systems, in addition to the welcome return of school-wide enrichment opportunities to ensure students once again benefit from high quality learning experiences.

“Borrowing the concept of +1 from OLEVI programmes, we have not, however, simply reinstated and brought back what was put on hold for 18 months. As a reflective and progressive team of leaders, we recognise the cultural depreciation that has occurred in our school, and thus have taken the opportunity to reflect, redesign and reinvigorate key aspects of school provision, including of course our whole-school learning and teaching model and bespoke professional learning entitlement for staff.

“Rekindle, Regenerate and Realise has been our leadership mantra. To rekindle a love of learning in both pupils and staff. To rekindle confidence, routines, and resilience. To rekindle a passion and culture of aspiration and achievement for all. Borrowing the concept of regeneration from Dr Who has allowed us to  bring a revised approach to familiar systems: tweaked and enhanced to take us to not where we were but where we want to be in the future – where the essence of “The Doctor” remains at the heart of the character but the process of regeneration brings a fresh approach, new look and an exciting new chapter. And finally, to realise our school vision, values and to take our school forward, aligning this to the changing and evolving landscape of education in Wales.

“Has this been a difficult term? Of course. Have there been bumps along the way? Undoubtedly. But what has once again struck me is how committed, passionate, and dedicated our staff are to making a positive difference to the lives of the students who we have the privilege to teach and nurture. I am reminded that the school community in its entirety is a powerful force. Leaders, teachers, support staff, administration teams, estates officers, and catering and cleaning teams working cohesively like a patchwork quilt all closely knitted together. This cohesion and unity of purpose has the power to drive us forward to new and exciting times. Roll on 2022.

“May I take this opportunity to wish you all a Merry Christmas and best wishes for the new year.”

This article concludes the contribution from our global correspondents as we go into the Christmas break. What they will all return to in January, especially in the United Kingdom, is difficult to assess. BBC online asked on December 17,  Will schools be open in January? The article explains that a number of schools in England are already making preparations to return to home schooling in January and schools in Wales have been given an extra two days at the start of the term to assess the situation.

This follows a rise in daily new cases of Covid in the United Kingdom to  88,376 and the Queen’s cancellation of her Christmas lunch. The total number of cases has now risen to 11 million. This current figure is a daily record and the number of cases has not as yet peaked. The figures are attributed to the rapidly spreading Omicron variant, though we are informed it is less dangerous.

Schools in the United Kingdom go into Christmas with the possibility of uncertainty and restrictions on the other side. For others it is less so. Whatever your personal and professional circumstances are, I hope you have a good break and that 2022 is successful for you, your family, friends and colleagues.

Take care and stay safe

George

Professor Sir George Berwick, CBE