29 January 2010
A delegation of officials from Moscow will visit three schools in the Caerphilly county borough this week to learn more about innovative projects that are benefitting children in the area.
The group, consisting of government officials and education professionals, will first call in to St James Primary School in Caerphilly to see its 'Flying Start' provision, then Pontllanfraith Primary to learn more about their Foundation Phase and finally on to the impressive Integrated Children's Centre in New Tredegar.
The visit, on Wednesday 27th January, is part of a wider, week-long itinerary organised by the Welsh Assembly Government that will see the group visit a number of projects across south Wales as well as meeting ESTYN and the WJEC.
The delegation has particular interest in the way education assessment and inspection is carried out in Wales. They will visit a number of schools and education settings that showcase specific Welsh Assembly Government education policies, such as Foundation Phase, Welsh Baccalaureate and bilingual education provision.
CCBC cabinet member for education, Cllr Phil Bevan, said, "We are delighted to host this high level visit and hope we can all use the opportunity to forge new links and share our experience and knowledge. We have a number of exciting projects taking place across the county borough that are helping to improve standards and give our pupils the best educational opportunities possible."
The group will find out about the following projects: -
St James Primary School - Young Explorer's Flying Start Childcare
The scheme offers quality childcare to support children's development with a highly qualified and dedicated team of staff. Based in the Early Years wing of the Primary School, the project has two classrooms, which have been specially converted for use by the team. The Flying Start provision at St James opened in September 2008 and currently has 59 children attending from 56 families.
Pontllanfraith Primary School - Foundation Phase pilot scheme
The pilot is now in its seventh year at the school. It is based on the experiential way of learning which mixes activities and creativity with knowledge and understanding. The foundation phase curriculum, aimed at pupils aged 3-7, places play at the centre of learning and there is also a focus on outdoor learning.
New Tredegar Integrated Children's Centre
Located on the same site as the impressive new White Rose Primary School in New Tredegar, the centre was the first ICC to open under new guidance from the Welsh Assembly Government. The popular community facility offers activities including a parent/carer toddler group, 'Come and Play' sessions, a playgroup, wraparound care, an out of school club and a range of other opportunities for parents.
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