Isle of Man Education, Training and Careers News

Parents asked to keep children home until schools reopen

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 14:12:43 GMT

Parents are asked to keep their children at home whenever possible next week ahead of the planned reopening of schools, nurseries and child-minders on Monday 1 February.

On Thursday, Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK, announced the Island will begin easing restrictions this weekend with socially distant outdoor meetings permitted and trades allowed to return to work under certain rules from Saturday.

However, parents are still asked to keep their children at home whenever possible to take pressure off hub schools, many of which are near capacity.

In Thursday’s briefing, Howard Quayle MHK announced that Government is working towards a full exit from restrictions after twenty-one days with no community transmission.

It means - subject to no further community cases – all schools and University College Isle of Man will welcome back students next month.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture said:

‘This is of course a plan and it may change - but we are now working with head teachers to organise how it will work for students and teachers.’

‘When schools and the rest of society return to normal it means social distancing and face coverings are no longer essential but can be worn for personal reasons.’

‘Our teachers have done an amazing job with distance learning during this difficult time and I would like to thank them for their resilience and dedication. I continue to ask parents to support them as we move out of the present lockdown’.

All schools closed on Thursday 7 January, except for 14 educational hubs maintained for vulnerable children and those of essential workers.

Statement from Dr Alex Allinson MHK – Re: NASUWT

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 10:38:22 GMT

I welcome the news announced on Tuesday 19 January that the National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers has agreed to suspend its Action Short of Strike.

I recognise their concerns and personally thank union members for their trust and support.

The Department and I are dedicated to resolving the ongoing industrial dispute and this announcement demonstrates the commitment of the NASUWT to work with us and the other teacher unions, so we can move forward together and deliver a resilient and student-focused education service that is fit for the future.

We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with all unions and their representatives to overcome any outstanding areas of concern, and continue to build an education service that we are all rightly proud of.

On Tuesday the Department presented its Implementation Plan to Tynwald that includes a new Interim Organisational Framework and programme for change that will provide a solid foundation for the Department in improving culture, policy development and partnerships.

I acknowledge that whilst resetting and rebuilding relationships to create a new culture will take time, considerable progress has already been made, and I firmly believe that with the continued commitment of all those that work within the service, we can improve the culture within which we all work for the benefit of all our young people.

I am extremely proud of the education service on the Island that has so many great qualities and provides an excellent education for our students.

During the pandemic our entire education service has demonstrated dedication, resilience and dynamism and has kept our services functioning, even when our schools and University College Isle of Man have had to close. And for that I would like to say thank you.

Protection of Manx Gaelic extended under European Charter

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 17:24:25 GMT

The Isle of Man Government has received confirmation that Part III of the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages (ECRML) will be applied to the Manx Gaelic language.

The charter protects and promotes regional and minority languages in Europe in order to maintain and develop Europe’s cultural traditions and heritage.

This decision significantly strengthens the protection and promotion of the Manx Gaelic language, and recognises its revival in recent years thanks to community based initiatives and targeted Isle of Man Government support.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said:

‘The Manx language is one of the Island's most important cultural assets; it is an Island success story that we can all be proud of.’

‘Regional or minority languages are part of Europe’s cultural heritage and their protection and promotion are an important part of cultural diversity. Whatever your age, it is now possible to learn Manx in nurseries, schools and the wider community.’

The Manx Language Network, Jeebin, worked closely with the Isle of Man Government to prepare the submission.

Jeebin is made up of language professionals from the Department of Education, Sport and Culture, including the Bunscoill Ghaelgagh and Manx Language Unit, Mooinjer Veggey and Culture Vannin, who work in conjunction with the language community.

Chris Thomas MHK, Chair of Culture Vannin, said:

‘By adopting Part III of the Charter, the Isle of Man is showing its commitment to our language and culture, and taking proactive steps to protect and promote this.’

By applying Part III of the Charter, the Isle of Man authorities undertake to implement 37 promotional measures covering things like preschool education in Manx Gaelic and the possibility to submit documents and applications in the language to authorities.

Manx Gaelic will also be used in broadcasts, the press and cultural activities.

Chief Minster welcomes certainty over university fees

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 15:37:12 GMT

Isle of Man students will pay home fees to attend all English universities and colleges from 2021 after clarification was received from the UK Government.

While the vast majority of universities currently charge Island students the same as those from the UK, an anomaly has meant some have charged international fees that may add tens of thousands of pounds to the cost of a university place.

An increasing number of higher education institutions in England had indicated to the Isle of Man Government that they were planning to adopt this approach in the near future.

In light of this the Chief Ministers of the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey requested the UK Government undertook a review of this position, as part of legislative work in the run up to the end of the Brexit transition period.

This week, the UK’s Secretary of State for Education confirmed that students from the Crown Dependencies will be treated the same as UK students with regard to home fee status [at English universities] in the next academic year.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK said:

‘This definitive position is welcome news that will give our students certainty over their future goals.

‘I would like to personally thank Mr Williamson for this clarity and I am also grateful to the Ministry of Justice for their involvement. It has been very positive to see officials from the UK Government working side by side with colleagues from the three Crown Dependencies to deliver a positive outcome.’

The Isle of Man Government’s Department for Education, Sport and Culture currently spends £10.3m of its £115m annual budget on student awards, supporting nearly 1,500 students in the current academic year.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said:

‘It is excellent news that gives our students entering higher education greater certainty when choosing their place of study.’

The new agreement will mean students who choose to study at universities that previously classed Island students as international such as Cambridge University and Imperial College London will now be able to attend and pay the same as if they went to any other university.

Parents asked to keep children at home where possible

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 15:51:22 GMT

Parents are being asked to keep their children at home whenever possible and only use hub schools when strictly necessary.

The Isle of Man Government is also strongly advising secondary age students and school staff who can wear face coverings to do so.

The small number of students sitting assessments or exams this week are also advised to wear face coverings and follow social distancing rules.

Strict hygiene measures will be in place when they sit their technical and vocational assessments and BTEC exams.

A small supply of disposable masks is available to those who require them but where possible students and teachers are asked to bring their own.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minster for Education, Sport and Culture, said:

‘To help us eliminate the virus we are asking parents to keep their children at home whenever possible.

‘If any student is experiencing symptoms such as a temperature, a new and persistent cough, or the loss of their sense of smell they should not enter their school and call COVID-111 for advice.’

All schools in the Isle of Man closed on Thursday 7 January, except for a 14 educational hubs maintained for vulnerable children and those of essential workers.

On Thursday and Friday 147 secondary students (3%) and 553 of primary school age (9%) attended hubs where children were grouped together in same school bubbles.

School closures are among a raft of measures introduced by the Isle of Man Government to eliminate COVID-19 from the Island, protect life and safeguard the vaccination programme.

Parents receive free school meal vouchers for second lockdown

Sun, 10 Jan 2021 20:00:15 GMT

Parents of children who normally receive free school meals will receive vouchers to spend on essential groceries while schools remain closed.

Most schools and nurseries in the Isle of Man closed on Thursday, except for 14 educational hubs kept open for vulnerable children and those of essential workers.

The Free School Meal Voucher Scheme was first introduced in April 2020 to help parents provide meals for their children during the first lockdown.

The scheme will see eligible parents receive a one-off voucher to cover the three week period - equivalent in value to 15 free school meals.

The value of the vouchers will be £35.00 for each primary school child and £44.00 for each secondary school child. The voucher can be used at any Shoprite store before it expires on 31 January 2021.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for the Department of Education, Sport and Culture said: This Government remains committed to providing free school meals to all eligible children.’

‘We understand that this 21 day circuit breaker, starting so soon after Christmas, will add to any financial pressures families might be facing, but we hope this voucher scheme will help.’

The vouchers, which were posted out at the end of last week can be used to buy groceries, excluding alcohol, lottery tickets, tobacco and non-food products.

Statement from Department of Education, Sport and Culture

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 17:37:00 GMT

Since the announcement by the British Government that most summer exams would be cancelled, the Department for Education, Sport and Culture has been in regular contact with the European Regional Director at Cambridge International regarding the future of IGCSE and I A-levels, which many of our students sit.

Whilst Cambridge International has indicated that they were still committed to running exams in Summer 2021, as planned, they have said they are open to further feedback from head teachers on the Isle of Man.The Department has contacted all our head teachers regarding their views on the possible sitting of physical exams for some subjects this summer.

All arrangements are subject to change, especially given the deteriorating healthcare situation in the UK, but the education service remains committed that none of our students are placed at disadvantage by the way their grades will be assessed this summer.

Update on nurseries, playgroups and childminders

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 14:47:29 GMT

On Tuesday, the Chief Minister ordered the closure of nurseries, playgroups and childminders for most children on the Isle of Man effective from 23.59 on Wednesday.

The Government has asked parents to keep their children at home wherever possible, and asked nurseries, playgroups and childminders to remain open only for those children who are designated as ‘vulnerable’ or are children of ‘essential workers’.

A list of Nurseries, Playgroups and Childminders who have remained open and have places available can be found here. This list is available on the Registration and Inspection Unit Website and will be updated on a daily basis.

Remote learning stepped up as schools close

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 18:17:28 GMT

Schools and nurseries in the Isle of Man are to close from Thursday except for vulnerable children and those of key workers as the Island prepares to enter a second lockdown.

The decision was announced by the Chief Minster on Tuesday after seven new cases of Covid-19 were confirmed on Island.

The Isle of Man Government will re-establish a hub school system for children of essential workers and vulnerable children and reinstate a free school meal voucher scheme.

Following the first lockdown in 2020, the Government carried out a review of remote learning to establish clear expectations should further restrictions be required.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said:

‘I know this is an unsettling time for children, parents and teachers and we will do everything we can to offer advice and practical support.

‘The review established a consistent set of standards that will help to build resilience and ensure the volume and quality of remote lessons is consistent. Heads will be organising remote learning for pupils and again, teachers will play an essential role, not just educating children, but helping maintain their wellbeing.’

Teachers will be asked to facilitate online lessons and maintain contact with pupils in line with the strategic plan at their school. Extra support will also be provided to those without suitable devices and internet access and those in examination year groups.

It is beneficial if pupils can keep up with the curriculum taught in their schools and the remote learning resources will aim to achieve this.

Following an announcement by the English Education Secretary, Gavin Williamson that GCSE and A-level exams would be cancelled for this summer the Government has been in regular contact with head teachers regarding the evolving situation and has been asking the Cambridge International Assessment board who mark IGCSEs and I A Levels whether they too will be moving to teacher assessed grades.

The Minister, continued:

‘I apologise that students and their families are again facing a degree of uncertainty around exams this summer. We will be working with schools and teachers to ensure that all our students get the grades they deserve and can progress with their future plans.’

Temporary school closures are among a raft of measures being implemented by the Isle of Man Government to eliminate the virus, protect life and safeguard the vaccination programme.

All high schools and nine primary schools with special education needs support, will be kept open to provide care for vulnerable children and those whose parents are classed as critical to the Island’s COVID-19 response.

Any pupils who are currently home educated and may be impacted by the recent changes are invited to contact DESC for advice and support.

University College Isle of Man will also stop all face-to-face classes from Thursday, but all exams scheduled for this week will go ahead as planned.

University students who were planning on returning to colleges in the UK are advised to speak to their faculties. Many courses have now been made available online and colleges are dissuading students from returning in January.

Some subjects which include practical assessments such as medicine and health related courses, nursing and education will be re-starting as planned.

Should any students require further advice on perhaps changing their higher education course, practical support or pastoral care they are invited to contact UCM which has made some of their staff available to support Isle of Man students studying in the UK.

Teachers' pay statement by Dr Alex Allinson MHK

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 10:55:57 GMT

When I was appointed Minister in March this year I committed to help resolve the ongoing industrial dispute between the Department and the teachers of our Island.

Over the last few years a culture had developed within education of mistrust and teachers not feeling valued or respected.

Our education service is a vital part of our community and shapes our society. It provides teaching and learning opportunities for our young people and helps instil the values, hopes and aspirations we have for all our futures.

I welcome the agreement by the majority of the teacher unions of a deal which recognises issues around pay and remuneration and sets out a new process of collaborative engagement with the profession on a range of issues important to them, ourselves and our students.

I would like to thank members of ASCL, NEU and NAHT for their trust and reassure them of our commitment to work with them and their representatives.

By resetting the culture, putting people and relationships at the heart of what we do, I believe we can move forward together to face all the challenges ahead and ensure we have a resilient and pupil-focused education service for the future.

I would like to thank the Office of Human Resources, the Manx Industrial Relations Service and the Treasury for their help and advice throughout this process.

I regret that the NASUWT has been unable to agree with the offer presented and understand they wish to ballot for strike action in January.

I hope that by demonstrating a commitment to listen, respect and connect with all teachers on our island we can overcome outstanding problems, face the uncertainty bought to our island by COVID-19 and look forward to develop an education service we can all be rightly proud of.

Pay Offer – Teachers (November 2020)

Following recent pay talks between the Department and the Joint Trade Unions (ASCL, NAHT, NASUWT and NEU), the Department’s offer is an unconsolidated lump sum payment equal to £1.5 million to recognise the current dispute. The arrangements for these unconsolidated lump sum payments are detailed below. These involve additional funding which have been secured from Treasury.

Main Pay Range	£850 gross*
Upper Pay Range	£1850 gross*
Leadership Pay Range	£2850 gross*
Unqualified	£850 gross*

*subject to Tax and NI according to personal circumstances

This pay offer is in recognition of the 18/19 pay award and whilst the Department appreciate that this pay offer doesn’t resolve concerns regarding pay erosion it does aim to enable the resolution of all current disputes and to reset and reshape engagement for future joint working to address this issue. The Department is committed to engaging with all teachers and trade unions on ensuring proper support and recognition of the teaching profession on the Isle of Man.

The Department’s position on this offer takes into consideration a number of factors:

The Department acknowledge the Joint Trade Unions (JTU) request for a multi-year pay deal in addition to the annual award provided for in the School Teachers’ Pay and Conditions Document (England) (STPCD) and the Department are keen to work with the JTU to consider longer pay arrangements for the Department’s teachers.

The Department has agreed to re-open teachers’ pay talks once the longer term financial situation following the pandemic is understood and specifically to re-open talks in any year where RPI (June figure) on the Isle of Man exceeds 0.5% of the average pay increased by STPCD (England) on the 1st September term each year.

In addition, the Department will:

Establish a Partnership Forum to enable a range of education policy matters to be discussed, including but not limited to those identified in the Beamans independent review, including inspection arrangements, SSRE framework and process and governance and governing body structures.

Discontinue the current appraisal and performance management arrangements whilst a review is undertaken and arrangements agreed to ensure teachers’ appraisals are focussed on support, training and development of teachers.

Work with each trade union in relation to those areas of concern within the Education Bill.

Postpone all external validations and SSRE for the current academic year i.e. until 31/8/21

Meet later this month to progress and finalise the Trade Union Recognition Agreement (TURA)

Parents urged to register primary school starters

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 16:50:52 GMT

Parents of children who will start primary school in 2021 are reminded to register them with a school by 31 January, to help make the transition smooth and enjoyable.

The registration process for children who turn five in the next school year will also enable schools to allocate staff and plan resources.

Nurseries and playgroups share consented information with school reception teams to help support each child when they start at their new school.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Department of Education, Sport and Culture, said:

‘Starting school is an exciting time and I encourage parents to register their children to help make it as seamless and enjoyable as possible.’

Parents can find out which schools are available to them online, by simply entering their postcode, or by contacting the Department of Education, Sport and Culture on +44 1624 685820 or admin.desc@gov.im.

A letter with accompanying information will be sent to all parents who have registered their children at school either via their nursery or playgroup, or to their home address in the New Year. It will include useful links to the Department’s primary school admission policy and guidance.

Any parent considering delaying their child’s start to school or whose child will not be educated in a Department school in 2020/21 must contact the Department.

Any parent considering delaying their child’s start to school as they have a summer birthday, or whose child will not be educated in a Government run school in 2020/21 must contact the Department.

New headteacher for Ramsey Grammar School

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 07:00:21 GMT

Sarah Findlater has been appointed as the new headteacher for Ramsey Grammar School.

Mrs Findlater is an experienced headteacher having led British Curriculum schools in the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates and Asia.

Born in Devon, Mrs Findlater was educated in London before completing a BA honours degree in English and Philosophy at the University of Liverpool, followed by a PGCE in Secondary English at the Institute of Education at University College London.

She said:

‘It is a great honour to accept the role of headteacher at Ramsey Grammar School and I am looking forward getting to know the students, staff and families.

‘I can see what a wonderful group of young people I am about to work with having already met some of the pupils remotely. The students spoke fondly of the sense of community and were proud of the things their school has already achieved.

‘It is clear that there are great things already happening and I look forward to building upon these successes further.'

Mrs Findlater will take over from Annette Baker, who after six years leading the school, and 37 years in teaching, will retire next year.

Mrs Baker, said:

‘It has been a joy and a privilege to lead such a fantastic school. I will leave with great memories and lasting friendships and I wish Sarah every success in the role.’

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture said:

‘I am delighted to welcome Sarah who brings a wealth of experience. I would like to thank Annette for all she has done for the children and young people at Ballakermeen and Ramsey.’

Mrs Findlater will begin her new position in May 2021.

Returning students offered space to study

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 11:21:03 GMT

Students returning home early from their studies in the UK are being encouraged to take up an offer of help from University College Isle of Man (UCM).

Many students from the Island have been faced with uncertainty as restrictions, including a second lockdown in England, have been stepped up due the global pandemic.

UCM has offered to provide a place to study and free access to its library and some computer resources to help students to continue their studies.

Those interested must present their UK student card on arrival and can check opening hours by emailing library@ucm.ac.im.

Jo Petty, UCM’s Principal, said:

‘Students have been faced with a difficult situation in what has been a year full of challenges. Any returning students who would like advice regarding their future Higher Education study options can also take advantage of a one-to-one session with our higher education manager.’

Any undergraduates in their second or third year of off-Island studies, and considering deferring their UK studies for this year, are invited to contact UCM to find out more about their new paid internship learning company programme.

UCM have a few additional places available starting in January and anyone interested can email learningcompany@ucm.ac.im.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said:

‘It is an exceptionally challenging time for students and I am delighted that UCM have made this offer. I encourage returning students to see what is available.’

According to a recent survey more than 90% of overseas students plan to return home to the Isle of Man before Christmas. Anyone who does so must isolate for 14 days on arrival.

Douglas faith school changes admission policy

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 10:08:36 GMT

St Mary’s Roman Catholic Primary School will welcome children of different faiths, or no faith, to enrol in the new school year after making changes to its admission policy.

The school on Somerset Road in Douglas, is under the trusteeship of the Archdiocese of Liverpool and is maintained by the Department of Education, Sport and Culture.

The change is in line with the admission policy of the Archdiocese and means all applications will be considered equally from January 2021.

Donna Martin, the school’s headteacher, said:

‘We recognise and celebrate the diversity of all children and want to provide a learning community that reflects our wider local, national and international communities whilst respecting our Catholic history and ethos.

‘Providing such an inclusive environment helps children to grow up as tolerant, respectful individuals who recognise we all have a place of equal value within society.’

The school has recently undergone a £4.5m refurbishment that included the addition of new classrooms, improved disability access, and the extension of the main hall. It means the school, which currently has 229 pupils, will be able to accept up to 350 in the future.

From January parents who live within the schools’ catchment area will be able to apply to enrol their children as well as parents of Catholic children who live in any parish.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said:

‘I welcome the progressive changes to the admission criteria at St Mary’s. The recent refurbishment has expanded the facilities and learning opportunities for all the pupils who attend this fantastic school.’

Parents can bring their children for a look around at the revamped school at an open day on Sunday 22 November, between 2pm to 4pm. Any parents wishing to enrol their child can contact the school office on +44 1624 673807.

Island school amongst first in Britain to use Lego’s Braille kit

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 09:32:07 GMT

An Isle of Man school is amongst the first in the British Isles to use a system designed by Lego as a new method of teaching pupils who have a visual impairment.

The Danish toy maker launched Braille Bricks earlier this year following a successful pilot project that saw their 300 piece toolkit tested in seven countries and multiple languages.

It has now been made available to select schools and services that cater for blind or visually impaired students in those countries, with Ballakermeen High School amongst the first to try it out.

The bricks look like normal Lego, but unlike regular pieces, the studs are arranged into the system of raised dots that enable blind people to read.

Evie Roberts, 11, who was born blind and joined the school in September, said:

‘They’re really cool. It feels like a really creative way of working on ideas and I love the feel of them. It feels like more fun than using the standard Braille that I use most of the time.’

Adrienne Burnett, the school’s headteacher, said:

‘We are delighted to be amongst the first schools in the world to use Lego’s wonderful system. It means blind and visually impaired pupils can learn while engaging with classmates in a fun and creative way.’

According to the Lego Foundation’s Senior Play & Health Specialist, Stine Storm, the system that includes ideas for brick-based activities, has received overwhelming support from pupils, parents and teachers.

Mr Storm, said: ‘The possibilities for learning through play are endless and we look forward to witnessing how this can inspire children in their journey to learn Braille.’

Jonathan Roe, Head of the Government’s Visual Support Service, said:

‘The most impactful and long-lasting learning occurs when children are engaged in activities they enjoy and Evie has given it a glowing review. As well as students at Ballakermeen, the kits will be used to introduce other young children to Braille on the Island and I’m confident it will be a fantastic resource to help with reading and writing.’

The Vision Support team is receiving training by LEGO and The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), to help deliver learning through focussed activities and on key aspects of learning and development including exploration, orientation, literacy, numeracy and social skills.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture said:

‘The Lego Foundation has created an exciting and engaging way for blind and visually impaired children to learn critical thinking, problem solving and collaboration through play.

‘Braille is an important tool and these cleverly designed bricks mean visually impaired and sighted classmates can learn together in a fun and inclusive way.’

Braille takes its name from Louis Braille, the French educator who devised the system of reading and writing for people who are blind or visually impaired.

School pupils receive free access to Microsoft apps

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 15:12:23 GMT

School pupils and educators on the Isle of Man have been given free access to a range of computer applications and learning tools under a scheme run by the Education Service.

The Microsoft Office 365 package includes industry-standard programmes such as Word, PowerPoint and Teams that can be used to support learning and communication.

Students and teachers can simply log in using their school username to download the apps to a computer, tablet or mobile phone.

The software has been made available, at no extra cost, as part of the general Microsoft licence agreement paid for by Isle of Man Government, and the full package will remain available for as long as students remain in full-time education.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said:

‘The way we use technology is now an intrinsic part of learning and a good understanding of these programmes is a requirement in many walks of life.

‘This arrangement allows pupils to access world leading apps on any device in just a few clicks – and opens a world of possibilities at no cost to themselves or their families.

‘As we’ve experienced over the past year, young people require the tools to pursue their learning both at school and remotely and this scheme can play an important part.’

The scheme was originally launched in 2018 and pupils and school staff are now being reminded of the benefits following the recent disruption to schools and a review of the provision of remote learning.

Laptop scheme to help digitally disadvantaged pupils

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 09:48:54 GMT

School pupils in exam years will be able to borrow laptops and get help accessing the internet as part of a new scheme launched this week.

The E-Learning Pupil Access Subscription Service (E-PASS) will help pupils whose education was affected when schools closed due to the health emergency.

The service is being funded using a charitable donation from the Scheinberg family, who set up the Scheinberg Relief Fund in March 2020, to help tackle the direct impact of COVID-19.

The fund supports initiatives and charitable organisations in a number of countries where the family has a personal or business presence, including the Isle of Man.

The service will mean pupils who are studying towards their GCSE or A-level exams, and are eligible for free school meals, will be able to borrow a new laptop and a router to connect it to the internet.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister of Education, Sport and Culture, said:

‘I am really pleased that the E-PASS scheme will help digitally disadvantaged pupils. We are very grateful to the Scheinberg family, whose donation has enabled us to pilot the lending of brand new devices, which may pave the way for further provision in the future.’

The closure of most schools on the Island in March meant pupils studying towards their exams lost out on three months of face-to-face lessons. The unprecedented situation also highlighted the fact that some pupils did not have access to the internet or a device to allow them to study from home.

It is hoped the scheme will give these students an opportunity to catch up and the ability to continue their studies from home should schools close again.

The scheme is being piloted in all five secondary schools, who will be in touch with eligible families over the coming weeks.

Lockdown remote learning review published

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 11:50:17 GMT

A review of the remote learning school pupils received during lockdown has been published.

It was commissioned by Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Department of Education, Sport and Culture (DESC) and carried out by the Education Service between July and September.

The report makes 10 recommendations and establishes a consistent set of standards for remote learning should schools again close due to the ongoing health emergency.

All schools shut on 23 March, with the exception of 14 educational hubs that were kept open for the most vulnerable and children of key workers.

The majority of schools remained closed for three months as part of the general lockdown – meaning no face-to-face lessons could be carried out.

During their review, the Education Service listened to feedback from pupils, parents and school staff and examined all relevant learning data before publishing their findings.

Dr Allinson, Minister for DESC, said:

‘I fully endorse the recommendations that can help all of us involved in education to build resilience and confidence in our service and ensure our young people can achieve their potential.

‘We had to adapt quickly to an unprecedented situation in March, and we must learn from this so that we are better prepared should a further lockdown materialise.

‘I would like to thank all those teachers who have contributed to this important review. The quality and consistency of lessons and feedback and the support and technology needed must all now be considered so that all our pupils receive the best education possible.’

The review also identifies best practice and compares the Island’s response to the health emergency with other countries.

It found that schools adapted quickly to their sudden closure and used a range of platforms to deliver remote learning including a variety of online resources.

Dr Allinson added:

‘The review has sought to establish clear expectations so that pupils, parents and teachers will know what to expect, should the Island have to face further restrictions.’

The recommendations cover areas including:

The consistency, quality and volume of lessons
Consistency of feedback from teachers to pupils
Access to devices and internet at home
Extra support for examination year groups
Appropriate training for school staff and guidance for parents
Developing a team of remote learning experts

Temporary head appointed for Manor Park

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 16:00:00 GMT

Rob Coole has agreed to take temporary charge of Manor Park Primary School after the current headteacher announced her resignation.

Mr Coole is the headteacher at Anagh Coar and will oversee both schools, with the support of the deputies, until a permanent replacement can be found.

He will take on the extra position from January after Tuyet Ramzy decided to leave her role for family reasons.

Mrs Ramzy, who was appointed in January, said:

‘I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Manor Park, and it is with great sadness that I now say goodbye. Although my time here was brief, the experience is one that I will remember fondly for years to come.

‘This decision was not taken lightly. However, in a year many of us have been forced away from loved ones, I am reminded how terribly I miss my family, and therefore I have made the decision to return to England to be nearer to them.

‘I believe I gave the school and pupils all I could in the time I was here, and I leave with no regrets and optimism for their future - thank you all so much for this amazing opportunity.’

Mr Coole, who has been headteacher at Anagh Coar since 2010, said:

‘I am delighted to take on the role and continue with some of the positive initiatives Tuyet has introduced.

‘We already have a good working relationship that has given me an insight into the Manor Park School community and I am really looking forward to getting to know it even better. I am excited to work with the great teams at both schools to make sure the children receive the best possible opportunities and education.’

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture said:

‘We are extremely grateful to Rob and the deputies for stepping in to help. Tuyet has done some excellent work in the last year and I can understand her personal reasons for leaving. I wish her all the best in the future.’

Mr Coole will begin to oversee Manor Park in January 2021.

Additional Educational Needs survey launched

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 12:50:59 GMT

Parents, pupils and school staff are being asked for their views on the effectiveness of support given to children with Additional Education Needs (AEN) on the Isle of Man.

The feedback will help the Education Service to develop of a Code of Practice (CoP) for schools, nurseries and University College Isle of Man, and to give clear guidance ahead of the Education Bill.

The term Special Educational Needs is more widely recognised and is closely related.

The survey will run until 11 December and be supported by a number of public meetings to give people an opportunity to find out more about the CoP, and how it will be used to enhance inclusion for children with AEN.

People are encouraged to give their honest opinions on the effectiveness of current support, how children transition between educational settings, and improvements that could be made.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, said:

‘I would encourage anyone who can to take part and submit their views. We hope the feedback can help develop a Code of Practice that will better enable children with additional needs to make the best possible progress.’

The events will be held between 6pm – 7.30pm at Bunscoill Rhumsaa (Infants site) on 3 November, St Mary’s school on 4 November, Victoria Road school on 10 November and Peel Clothworkers school on 11 November.

Anyone wishing to attend is welcome to simply turn up at any of the sessions.