The NDNA is expanding its training programme to provide more focused support to nurseries. Following the launch of its online quality development scheme, e-Quality Counts, the NDNA is now looking at introducing an accessible range of courses and recruiting for a range of posts in-house - including a national workforce development manager, a training manager responsible for accredited training and a training manager who will head up the NDNA's continuing professional development and business support programme.
The NDNA is making skills, practice and sustainability its priorities, and four new directors have been appointed to drive this forward. Claire Schofield becomes director of membership, policy and communications, Anne Naylor is director of finance and support services, Stella Ziolkowski is director of quality and workforce development, and Patricia Jackson is director of strategic partnerships and development.
Chief executive Purnima Tanuku says, 'Last year we appointed the full board and reviewed our governance structure and appointed regional and national chairs. This year our new director posts will enable us to ensure that our services meet the needs of members in the current rapidly changing environment. We believe our training and support services will support members to develop their staff as the workforce reform agenda continues to roll.'
Montessori Seminars
The Montessori Centre International still has some places left on its summer programme of workshops.
On 28 June, 'Introducing Synthetic Phonics' looks at how the Montessori reading scheme meets the requirements of the Government's synthetic phonics programme and explains activities designed to prepare children for phonics.
On 5 July the seminar 'The Mathematical Mind' discusses Montessori's idea of the mathematical mind, linking it to Piaget's theory on the development of logico-mathematical thought.
Other seminars and workshops include 'Preparing for Teaching Practice' (26 July), which advises students on creating their teaching practice file, and 'Introducing Two-year-olds to the Early Years Setting' (6 September), which explores materials and activities suitable for this age group.
See www. montessori.uk.com/seminars.asp
Fair play
There is still a month to respond to the Government's 'Fair Play: A consultation on the play strategy'. Proposals in the strategy aim to create strong communities with a variety of places for children to play and actively involving them in the in design and decision making. Go to www.dfes.gov.uk before 18 July.
