A revolution in education

Around fifty guests attended thebestofhaverhill business meeting at Days Inn Haverhill last week with guest speakers Madeleine Vigar, head of the Castle Partnership and Howard Lay, head of Samuel Ward Academy. 

The topic of the meeting was the revolution in education that is taking place nationally and in Haverhill. Howard Lay kicked off the joint presentation by talking about the changes in education nationally. The implications of the structural changes in the school system, with the move towards academies and free schools, and the diminishing role of local authorities would be far reaching.  Many specialist schools were losing their specialist status and accompanying funding.  Post 16 funding was being drastically reduced and all against a harsh financial climate.  Schools were being forced to be more like businesses than ever before.

In addition to the structural changes there were changes being made to standards.  The government was changing the way teachers are trained, the curriculum and the way pupils and schools were measured, with more emphasis being put on the European Baccalaureate.

Changes in education in Haverhill 

Madeleine Vigar spoke about the changes in education in Haverhill. One of her key messages was that there was nothing permanent except change but Haverhill was demonstrating that it has the capacity and desire to shape its future.  Ms Vigar explained how the transition from a three tier system to a two tier system would result in 2 secondary schools and 12 primary schools in Haverhill and the surrounding villages. These schools would be divided into two pyramids so that there would be a formal and informal joined up approach to education in Haverhill.  There would also be a collaborative Sixth form. The aims of a joined up approach to learning would be to ensure the highest outcomes for children and young people and a broader curriculum for all, raising expectations and aspirations from the start.

Outstanding colleges 

Elaine Carr, owner of thebestofhaverhill comments, “It was a privilege to have the head teachers of our two outstanding colleges as guest speakers at this event.  Madeleine Vigar and Howard Lay are inspirational leaders and have made a huge impact on the standard of education in Haverhill.  These schools are setting the standards not just in the Eastern region but nationally.  We are so lucky in Haverhill to have this joined up approach to learning and to have two head teachers with such passion and enthusiasm.

Their presentation was well received and generated several questions and favourable comments. People are pleased to see the two schools working together for the benefit and future success of the town.

The schools are keen to engage with local businesses and we must ensure that we afford them the time and resource they deserve as they develop and nurture the entrepreneurs and workforce of the future.”

CW Courier Services - highly recommended business

At the meeting local business CW Courier Services was presented with a certificate for being a highly recommended business. Chris Ward started his courier business around 9 months ago and is rapidly establishing himself in the area as the first choice for courier services, delivering nationwide with a same and next day delivery service and he also provides a man with a van service.  CW Courier Services is recommended for a reliable, prompt and efficient service and for being a rare breed of courier who delivers when they say they will.

K & A Designs Ltd win business card draw!

Keith Williams from embroidery company K & A Designs won the business card prize draw, a gift voucher from arevolution beauty sanctuary.  A timely win for Keith as wife Amanda celebrated her birthday the next day!

Photograph courtesy of Danielle Barnes, 6th form student, Samuel Ward Academy.