Isle of Man Education, Training and Careers News

Chief Minister delivers independent report on education

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 12:00:58 GMT

An independent report into the effectiveness of the Department of Education, Sport and Culture’s (DESC) management and its relationship with schools has been published.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK ordered a review of the structure and functioning of DESC earlier this year, in direct response to concern about its relationship with teachers.

In their 111 page report, Beamans Management Consultants, concluded that the relationship between the Department and teachers is ‘fractured and must be repaired.’

It also suggests that in the long-term a Manx Education board could be established to manage, co-ordinate and support the delivery of education, which would be separate from policy and inspection.

The Chief Minister, said:

‘This report is not an easy read. A situation has developed between the Department and teachers which has damaged morale and threatens the high standard of education on our Island.

‘I am committed to heal these divisions and welcome the suggested actions to allow us to move forward together. The Council of Ministers has proposed an urgent action plan to start rebuilding trust and confidence in our schools and I will be supporting the Education Minister to achieve these goals.’

In the creation of their report, Beamans consulted extensively with the Department, Tynwald members, head teachers, union representatives and school governors. It gives a frank but honest assessment of the current situation and concluded that:

The relationship between the Department and schools is fractured and must be repaired
Whilst not singling out any individual for criticism the report highlights that a culture has been allowed to develop which is antagonistic and non-collaborative
Teachers feel disengaged and demotivated by lack of consultation on development of educational policies
This gulf between schools and the department has increasingly led teachers to turn to their unions
Entrenched behaviours and actions on both sides have become more combative which has culminated in the present industrial dispute

The report believes this damaged relationship can be reset by actions including:

Structural changes within the Department to strengthen the role of separate line managers for primary and secondary schools
Separating the functions of advice and support to schools from those of inspection and quality assurance
A significant strengthening of the role of governors who would become responsible for accountability, oversight and assurance for educational and financial performance of their schools
Clear mechanisms for cooperation with teachers to consider, develop and support the implementation of educational policy

Beamans suggest an eventual board structure to oversee a school-led education service but acknowledges that the views of pupils, parents and the general public would be needed to develop this idea further.

It suggests an interim model of structural changes in the Department with more cooperation and consultation with the teaching profession to strengthen governance and repair the important relationships which drive the education of young people.

The report has been made available to Tynwald members, teachers, their representatives and the public can view it on the Government's website.

Isle of Man Government invests in education

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 15:08:14 GMT

Parents, pupils and school staff will be able to view plans for a proposed new science and technology block at QEII High School on Tuesday when they go on display for the first time.

The Isle of Man Government is seeking to develop a sustainable, low carbon building, which complements and inspires the science and technology classes it will accommodate.

The two floor extension will provide science laboratories, workshops and classrooms, together with a large flexible space linking it to the existing school building.

It is designed around a central spine which will provide collaborative teaching and study areas, serving as break-out spaces from the adjacent teaching areas. The building would be built on the west of the school and face Douglas Road.

The scheme has an existing budget of about £10m, and would represent a significant investment in education and the future of young people on the Island, whilst giving a much needed boost to the construction industry.

Chief Minister, Howard Quayle MHK, said:

‘These are exciting plans and demonstrate the Government’s commitment to investing in education. The low carbon building would also be in keeping with our climate change goals. This investment will no doubt help spark the imagination of future engineers, scientists and artists, so I fully support it.’

The scheme will also see the refurbishment and repurposing of some existing rooms to provide improved facilities for maths, computer science, drama and art. The bus lay-by and parking across the front of the school will be extended.

Sue Moore, head teacher at QEII, said:

‘It is fitting that in a week when we celebrate the success of our students with our prize giving ceremony, we can also look forward to improving the facilities for students of the future and building on our success in science and technology.’

The plans will be available to view in the school’s foyer from Tuesday 22 to Friday 25 September, and the Isle of Man Government will also publish them on their website.

Feedback is encouraged before the appointment of a design team to finalise the scheme.

*Click on the image to enlarge

Swimmer thanks lifeguards and paramedics who saved his life

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 16:36:27 GMT

A man who suffered a cardiac arrest while swimming at the National Sports Centre (NSC) has returned to the pool to thank the lifeguards and paramedics who saved his life.

Roy Higgins, 81 and from Onchan, had been swimming at the NSC on 14 July when he suddenly became ill.

After spotting a swimmer was in difficulty, the pool side team were quick to respond.

Having assessed the situation and called 999, lifeguards used their training to perform CPR, before using a defibrillator to successfully restart his heart.

The team continued to care for Roy until the emergency services arrived just seven minutes later, and once in a stable condition he was taken to hospital showing good signs of recovery.

Roy returned to the NSC this week to thank the people who saved his life.

He said:

‘It was really fantastic to meet the guardians of my life. Hopefully they are as pleased with the outcome as I am. I’m in awe of everyone involved and this is a very emotional time. I’d like to give my eternal gratitude to the full team, without their training and actions I wouldn’t be here to tell the tale.’

Pieter De Bruin, who used the defibrillator, said:

‘I have been training with this equipment for 15 years, but this was the first time I’ve needed to use it for real.

‘It was an amazing feeling to bring someone back to life and it was very emotional to see Roy again and meet his wife. They were both extremely thankful that we saved his life.’

Sean Crellin, Senior Paramedic Officer for the Isle of Man Ambulance Service, who responded to the 999 call, said:

‘The NSC team did an incredible job and it is clear that they put into practice their regular first aid training.

‘They correctly followed the defibrillator’s verbal instructions and promptly delivered three shocks to Roy, which resulted in his heart beating again.’

‘We are delighted that Roy has made a good recovery and has made contact with his rescuers, who without doubt saved his life.’

The incident happened 15 days after the NSC reopened its swimming pools following the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, and all pool side staff had recently undertaken resuscitation training.

Carl Glover, General Manager, said:

‘I’m extremely proud of the response of our staff and must pay credit to the exceptional lifeguard trainers who train them to the highest standards. We never want to see an incident like this, but it is credit to our staff and the paramedics that there has been such a positive outcome.

‘We wish Roy all the best and were delighted to welcome him back with his wife Maureen this week.’

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

‘Suffering a cardiac arrest whilst in the water is one of the most dangerous things that can happen to a swimmer.

‘All our pool side staff receive regular and rigorous training to prepare for such rare events. When a person goes into cardiac arrest, seconds count, and I am delighted this story has such a positive outcome.’

When CPR is combined with the use of a defibrillator in the first few minutes, a person’s chance of surviving a cardiac arrest increases by up to 75 per cent.

Photo: Russell Smith NSC, Jordan Barry NSC, Roy Higgins, Pieter De Bruin NSC/RLSS, Oliver Cowan. Also in receipt of a Certificate of Merit was Daryl Sibcy (not pictured.)

Pupils set to return to school with attendance compulsory

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 17:29:41 GMT

Thousands of pupils in the Isle of Man will be welcomed back to their classes next week, for the start of the new school year.

With the risk of children becoming ill from coronavirus currently considered very low, the attendance of all pupils will be compulsory when schools open on Wednesday 9 September.

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

‘Attending school is vitally important for our children’s education and just as importantly, their mental wellbeing.

‘Current international evidence has shown that COVID-19 infections and outbreaks are uncommon across all educational settings and the re-opening of schools has been associated with very few local outbreaks.

‘The Isle of Man Government will be working closely with head teachers to ensure all our schools remain safe for pupils and staff.’

As attendance rules return to normal, parents must ensure their child attends the school at which they are registered when the autumn term begins – with schools’ again required to record attendance and follow up absence. Schools will also have the option to issue sanctions, including fixed penalty notices to parents whose children fail to attend without good reason.

In order to protect people from the virus, the Isle of Man Government has maintained border restrictions, which means those who travel off Island must self-isolate for 14 days on their return. With these measures in place the Isle of Man Government recommends against taking holidays that affect school attendance at a time when teachers are working hard to enable all students to progress with their studies.

Support for students to travel off-Island by air

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 15:57:23 GMT

The Isle of Man Government has worked with Loganair to make travel for students easier and more affordable.

Next month will see many Isle of Man students starting or returning to university in the UK and further afield. Due to the current border restrictions in place, journeys by car and ferry will require travellers to self-isolate for 14 days upon their return to the Isle of Man. This is likely to make the traditional trip of taking family members to university impractical.

Working with the Isle of Man Government, Loganair has introduced new student fares on the airline’s routes from the Isle of Man to Liverpool, Manchester and London City with immediate effect.

The new student fares – which can be booked as one-way or return journeys – include an enhanced checked baggage allowance of up to 30kgs which can be split across multiple items, a discount from the normal fare levels, and extra flexibility to change travel dates without incurring extra charges.

It is hoped that the enhancements to air travel with Loganair will mean that this is seen as a practical alternative for student travel.

Connecting flights are available to both Dublin and Belfast from a range of UK airports, although the Isle of Man Government has not been able to negotiate preferential terms with the airlines providing these.

Courier firms have also been contacted regarding the shipping of personal possessions to places of study in the UK and Ireland, and an updated list of those available has been provided on the Student Awards webpage.

Welcoming the move, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture Dr Alex Allison MHK, said:

'I know many of our students and their parents have had concerns about travelling to university for the start of the new academic year. I hope these practical arrangements will help make this much easier and more affordable.'

Minister for Infrastructure, Tim Baker MHK, added:

'We have been working with a range of airlines to ensure that throughout the health emergency our critical transport links were maintained and protected. I am glad that we are able to help our students start the next phase of their education across or go back to their course to continue their studies.'

The special student fares can be booked by contacting Loganair on 0333 800 2855. Proof of student eligibility such as a college or university placement offer letter may be required when booking. Details of the fares can be found on the airline’s website at www.loganair.co.uk/fares/for-students/.

Loganair took over operating the Isle of Man’s services to Liverpool and Manchester in March following the collapse of previous operator Flybe. More recently, it has been confirmed that Loganair will be assuming responsibility for the Isle of Man to London City air link from 1 September.

Isle of Man Arts Council announces annual student awards

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 11:17:11 GMT

The Isle of Man Arts Council has announced the recipients of its annual student awards for 2020/21.

Awarded to students moving into or currently in further or higher education, the three awards are each worth £10,000 over the duration of a course.

The Jonathan Gollow Award for Performing Arts has been awarded to Fraser Rowe, who will be attending the Royal Northern College of Music to study for a BMus (Hons) degree in Popular Music.

Fraser said:

'I am extremely excited to see where this will take my musical career. As an instrumentalist I get a lot of joy out of performing live gigs and I hope to be able to one day make a career out of that in the UK or further away.

'I would also like to say that I am immensely grateful for the support that the Arts Council have provided for me and to many other businesses and creatives; the work that they do is truly amazing and opens up so many amazing opportunities to people.'

The Norman Sayle Award for Visual Art and Literature has been awarded to Laeth Quellin, who will be attending The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama for a BA (Hons) degree in Writing for Performance.

Laeth said:

'My time growing up on the Island heavily influenced my work and I find myself throwing my mind back to the memories I have there, when writing scripts or prose. Ultimately with my training at Central, I strive to impact theatre and film in a unique way with my dedication to exploring folklore, superstitions and their impact on the human psyche. I am immeasurably grateful that this award is allowing me to act on these goals.'

The Isle of Man Arts Council Award has been awarded to Joshua Molyneux, who is studying for a Diploma in Musical Theatre at the Performance Preparation Academy.

Joshua said:

'I am so happy and grateful to have won this award. Without this award it wouldn't have been possible for me to finish my course so I am so grateful to everyone at the Isle of Man Arts Council for not only considering my application but for picking me to receive it. It genuinely means the world to me and has changed my life. I'm looking forward to another great year at PPA with the Isle of Man Arts Council pushing me on!'

Chairman of the Isle of Man Arts Council Marlene Maska MLC commented:

'Knowing the challenges which are facing so many of our students and young people this year, I am privileged to be involved in this really positive news and proud that IOMAC is able to offer support to these very talented young artists. The standard of applications was extremely high which made for very difficult decisions by Council.

'I feel sure that I speak for all members of IOMAC, together with DESC, our sponsoring department, when I offer warmest congratulations to all three of our recipients and wish them well in their chosen studies on the pathway to a future career in the arts.'

The awards are named in memory of former Isle of Man Arts Council members, music promoter Jonathan Gollow and artist Norman Sayle, and are awarded annually.

Further information on Isle of Man Arts Council funding and supported events can be found at www.iomarts.com

Over 800 Isle of Man students to receive GCSE results

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 13:18:57 GMT

Tomorrow (Thursday 20 August) over 800 Year 11 students from the Island’s five secondary schools will receive their full Level 1 and 2 qualification results through their school.

Despite the cancellation of all exams in March 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, grades will be awarded to Year 11 pupils for Cambridge IGCSE, WJEC GCSE, BTEC Level 1 and 2, SQA and other vocational qualifications. School staff will be available at each school, from 8am or 9am depending on the school, to provide Year 11 leavers with their results and to support their next steps.

All national and international awarding bodies have recently made significant changes to how these grades are being awarded in summer 2020 by removing the mathematical algorithms from processes and focusing on evidence based centre assessment grades.

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

‘I hope all students get the results they hoped for and deserve on Thursday. They have shown remarkable resilience during an uncertain period.

‘It is both my aim and that of the Department that all of our young people receiving results find a positive way forward, whether they choose to enter further education in a school or UCM, undertake training, become an apprentice or enter into employment.‘

He added

‘I understand the cancellation of exams was both difficult and upsetting and I urge any student’s with concerns following their results to speak with their schools, whom will be able to provide support and guidance.’

In summer 2019, nearly 90% of 16 year old school leavers continued in education or training and this trend is expected to continue this year.

For those looking to continue their education:

UCM staff will also be available for Year 11 leavers each weekday from Thursday 20 August, at the Homefield Road Campus, to discuss options for further education at UCM. Support continues to be available through the DESC Careers Team Summer Signposts drop-ins for education leavers until the start of the new term.

Guidance on grades required to undertake different levels of study from entry level to Level 3 (A Level and other Level 3 qualifications) is available on the DESC Signposts website.

Isle of Man Sport Coaching Festival 2020

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 12:13:55 GMT

The Isle of Man Sport Coaching Festival will take place on Saturday-Sunday 12-13 September after being postponed due the coronavirus pandemic.

Now in its third year, the well-attended festival has previously welcomed some of the world’s leading coaching and performance experts from a variety of sports.

Due to travel restrictions, this year’s the festival will feature presenters who are at the forefront of the sporting community on the Isle of Man.

Festival organiser Trevor Christian said:

‘It is easy to think that all great speakers have to come across the sea and that’s simply not true. There is no better opportunity to celebrate, highlight and draw on the fantastic knowledge and experience that exists right here on the Isle of Man.’

Titled ‘Ready for Performance’, a total of six speakers will deliver talks and share knowledge on a broad range of subjects including psychology, nutrition, injury reduction and session design.

Speakers this year include:

Rich Sille - sports psychology
Ruth Cooil - physiotherapy and injury prevention
Hannah Young - sports nutrition
Aaron Quinn - leadership and club culture
Chris Brannigan - adapting coaching to unearth key behaviours
Adam Henderson - STEP process

Tickets are £30 a day or £50 for a weekend pass and can be booked through online booking system Eventbrite

Isle of Man Sport is committed to reducing the financial barriers coaches face in accessing training and this event is heavily subsidised.

For more information visit www.isleofmansport.com/coaching, email trevor.christian@gov.im or call 688590.

Island students achieve excellent A-level results despite pandemic

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 13:57:22 GMT

The majority of A-level students have achieved the grades close to what they were expecting, however many students have had their grades reduced by the examination board. This has led to problems with subjects such as mathematics and science and head teachers have lodged appeals regarding this downgrading.

Indications from headteachers are that nearly 60% of pupils will take up a place at University off-island and 8% will take up a place at University College Isle of Man, whilst nearly 20% will be entering the employment sector. These figures are broadly in line with previous years, which is welcome news given the disruption caused by the global pandemic.

More than 400 pupils received their A Level and Level 3 BTEC qualifications today, despite not sitting exams. Due to the unprecedented situation this year, a range of extra support is available for pupils throughout the day and throughout the summer holidays.

Senior staff have been on hand in each school to provide students with their grades and offer support with their next steps. The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) offers further information about results day on its website.

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

‘Outcomes at A-level are extremely significant in the lives of our young people and I’d like to congratulate all of our pupils on their achievements. Regardless of the recent disruption, these results represent two years’ of effort and application on the part of pupils and staff, as well as considerable support from parents.

‘I’d like to thank our teaching staff for their hard work, especially in submitting evidence and centre assessment grades to exam boards, and for coming into school to offer advice and guidance to pupils today.

‘For all decisions pupils choose to take, whether that’s taking up university and college places or entering the employment sector, I wish them every success in their continuing journey.’

Isle of Man Government to help schools appeal exam grades

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 09:17:01 GMT

The Isle of Man Government would like to highlight an issue that has emerged today (Tuesday 11 August) in the awarding of Cambridge International IGCSE English Language grades to students at some of the Island’s secondary schools.

Following the cancellation of exams due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the process used by exam boards to award grades this year has changed. This year it is determined by evidence based teacher assessment grades (Centre Assessed Grades) and statistical standardisation processes.

Following today’s grades some schools will be appealing the process used by Cambridge International Assessment (CIA) to award grades based on the exam board’s process to balance this year’s results with previous years.

It would appear that the data set used by the awarding body may not have taken into account the full range of historical data available for some of the Island schools.

The Isle of Man Government will work with schools to support this process.

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

‘I am angry that the hard work of our young people has not been adequately reflected in the grades published today. Students on the Isle of Man have been through several months of uncertainty and loss and this is the last thing they and their families need.’

‘We are working closely with headteachers to challenge the results which have distressed many pupils and their families.’

Results released by Cambridge International Assessment give an incomplete picture for most students. Full Level 1 and 2 results will not be available until 20 August.

Parents asked for school meal voucher feedback

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 07:00:30 GMT

Parents who receive food shopping vouchers during the school holidays are being encouraged to take part in a survey to shape future policies.

It is hoped the feedback can help the Isle of Man Government evaluate the Free School Meal Voucher Scheme which it launched to help people during the global pandemic.

The scheme was introduced in April, to help eligible parents and carers provide meals for their children, when schools were closed.

In July, Tynwald agreed to extend the scheme by six weeks to cover the summer holidays. The decision meant those eligible continue to receive a fortnightly voucher from the Isle of Man Government - equivalent in value to 10 free school meals.

The Isle of Man Government is now asking recipients to complete and return an anonymous survey, which they will receive with this week’s vouchers. It is hoped the feedback provided will build a better picture of the challenges parents, who qualify for free school meals, face when schools are closed.

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

‘I encourage all recipients to complete this important survey. Your feedback is valued and will help us better understand the pressures parents and carers are experiencing when schools close. The feedback will help us evaluate this scheme and influence any future schemes and policies.’

A freepost envelope has been provided with the survey and participants are encouraged to respond with their personal experiences and how valuable they believe it has been.

The Minister, added:

‘The survey covers a range of activities undertaken during the school holidays - so we would also welcome views from parents not in receipt of free school meals.’

The survey, which is also available on the Government website, closes on Monday 7 September 2020.

Manx goes Mainstream – Significant Moment for the Manx Language

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 12:28:31 GMT

At the July sitting of Tynwald an historic Order was passed which recognised the significant value of the Bunscoill Ghaelgagh (Manx language primary school) by making it a fully maintained Isle of Man Government school for the first time in its 19 year history.

This means that from the 1 September 2020, the school will become part of the mainstream education system – the first time a wholly Government run school has ever delivered the curriculum through Manx.

This initiative began in 1999, when a group of parents whose children were attending the recently established Mooinjer Veggey Manx language playgroup decided to establish a Manx language school.

Following an approach from the parents, the Isle of Man Government agreed to establish a trial half-day a week Manx language session for primary school children and this soon had over a dozen children regularly attending.

There was also a renewed recognition of the value of the Manx language in the 1990s, which led to the introduction of Manx being taught in schools, officers being appointed to promote and develop Manx language and the establishment of specialist playgroups and nurseries.

In September 2001, the first class of pupils started a new term sharing premises at Ballacottier School. With increased interest the classes grew and moved to the site of the old St John’s school in January 2003.

The Manx language charity Mooinjer Veggey has managed to develop the school since then. The curriculum has been expanded and the number of children benefiting from attending a truly unique school environment has grown. Pupils and staff develop a strong emotional attachment to the Manx language, one that reinforces an awareness of Manx culture and history and a strong cultural identity.

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

‘Bunscoill Ghaelgagh has been an intrinsic part of the Manx language revival, which now sees lessons taught in all our schools as well as adult courses and speaking groups.

‘Work with key partners such as Culture Vannin and Mooinjer Veggey has played a key role in helping us better appreciate the importance of our culture and it has made Manx a living language again.

‘I would like to thank all the staff at Bunscoill Ghaelgagh for their work over the years to inspire new generations of Manx speakers and both preserve and expand our native tongue.’

Phil Gawne, Director of Mooinjer Veggey, welcomed the move as a significant moment for the Manx language.

He said:

‘Since it was established 19 years ago the Bunscoill has helped around 170 pupils to become fluent Manx speakers. Prior to the Bunscoill there was never more than a handful of children fluent in Manx going as far back as the end of the nineteenth century.

‘The Bunscoill Ghaelgagh has not only radically transformed the fortunes of Manx Gaelic but has also had a significant influence on minority languages across the globe. Thanks to the Bunscoill’s lobbying, UNESCO was compelled to create a new category of 'revitalised language’ and there are now over a dozen ‘revitalised’ languages recognised by UNESCO. Manx was the first though, and we should all be very proud of this world leading school.’

The Order cements the future of the school by changing its status to a provided school. Previously the school had been operated by Mooinjer Veggey under a contract; it will now be provided and maintained by the Isle of Man Government. This move has been consulted on fully and welcomed by parents, staff and the school management.

Staff will be directly employed by the Government and be able to benefit from the terms and conditions and pension provisions enjoyed by all other teachers on the Isle of Man.

The governing body will reflect the history of the school and the cultural importance of what happens in this unique building.

Remote learning review seeks lockdown feedback

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 06:00:27 GMT

Parents and pupils are being asked to share their experiences of remote learning during the global health emergency in a survey launched today (Monday 27 July).

It is one part of a review of remote learning provided by the Island’s schools during lockdown when the majority were closed to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The review, ordered by Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture, will be carried out by the Education Improvement Service between now and September - with a final report due later this year.

As part of the review the survey will help identify areas of good practice and areas for development for the provision of remote learning. It will also enable the development of minimum standards should another lockdown be needed in the future.

Dr Allinson MHK, said:

‘It is vital that we learn from the experiences during the biggest disruption to our education service the Island has ever seen. I am committed to working with parents, pupils and their teachers, so we can build a more resilient remote learning provision, and highlight the role that a positive learning environment at home can have for a young person’s education’.

Joel Smith, who is leading the review, said:

‘In the early stages of our exposure to COVID-19, our schools had to pivot quickly to providing learning remotely, whilst also maintaining a front facing service for the vulnerable and those children of our key workers.

‘This review will enable us to focus in on some of the excellent practice during the period, whilst also providing models which the Department and schools can use to be ready for, and continue progress with a blended learning approach in the future.’

The survey is available on the Isle of Man Government’s Consultation hub until 10 August.

Teachers set for biggest pay rise in fifteen years

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 18:23:04 GMT

Teachers in the Isle of Man are set to receive their biggest pay rise in fifteen years.

It comes after Gavin Williamson, the UK Education Secretary, accepted all recommendations from the independent School Teachers’ Review Body (STRB) on Tuesday.

Isle of Man teachers are paid the same as those in England and their annual pay award, once published in a separate document called the School Teachers Pay and Conditions Document (STPCD), has been implemented by the Isle of Man Government in the same way since 1992.

The accepted recommendations will mean the starting salary for new teachers will increase by 5.5% and the maximum of the main pay range and the upper and lower boundaries of all other pay and allowances increased by 2.75%. The recommendations are equivalent to a 3.1% increase in the overall pay bill, 2% of which is already included in budgets and the remaining 1.1% will be found from within existing budgets.

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

‘The recommendations recognise the outstanding contribution teachers make to our society and will help attract the most talented candidates to teach our children and young people.

‘The Isle of Man has long mirrored the agreed pay arrangements in England - so this is the biggest pay rise the profession has seen since 2005 - with above-inflation rises to the pay ranges for every single teacher. Inspirational teachers change lives and I am delighted with this move which will boost recruitment of such valued staff.’

The pay increase is equivalent to £1,250 on average for teachers and £1,970 on average for headteachers and will, once confirmed in the STPCD, be implemented on the Island from 1 September 2020.

Main scale teachers on the Island received 3.5% pay award in 2018 and 2.75% in 2019.

Free school meal vouchers extended over summer

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 14:04:59 GMT

The Isle of Man Government is planning to extend its Free School Meal Voucher Scheme to help eligible families during the school holiday this summer.

The scheme was introduced in April to help parents provide meals for their children when schools were closed due to the global pandemic.

Although restrictions have since been lifted and the vast majority of children are back in full-time education, the Isle of Man Government, subject to Tynwald approval, will extend the scheme to those eligible until 5 September 2020.

Dr Alex Allinson, Minister for the Department of Education, Sport and Culture said:

‘We understand that many families are facing an entirely unprecedented situation over the summer holidays due to the global health emergency. To reflect this, we want to extend this important scheme to help ease the financial pressure many are facing.’

The scheme will not continue beyond the summer and only those who already qualify for free school meals on the Isle of Man will be eligible.

When schools closed to most pupils on 23 March the Isle of Man Government remained committed to providing free school meals to all eligible children. Due to self-isolation and travel restrictions a voucher scheme was quickly developed to help families buy groceries.

The six-week extension will mean eligible parents continue to receive a fortnightly voucher - equivalent in value to 10 free school meals. The value of the vouchers will be £23.00 for each primary school child and £29.00 for each secondary school child.

They can be used at approved food retailers and as before can only be used to buy groceries, excluding alcohol, lottery tickets, tobacco and non-food products. The vouchers will expire at the end of each fortnightly period and are not valid for in-store concessions.

The scheme is only available to parents of children eligible for free school meals.

Higher Education Fair to go ahead thanks to student help

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 10:54:52 GMT

An annual event to help sixth form students learn more about life after school will go ahead thanks to support from local students.

The Higher Education Fair, now in its 34th year, is normally attended by representatives from more than 70 universities and colleges, but this year that is not possible due to border restrictions. Instead, 50 Manx student delegates have volunteered to man the stalls.

Francesca Warren, a former King Williams College student, and Caitlin Allinson formerly of Ramsey Grammar School set up the social media site 'Manx Uni-Verse' to help connect current and prospective students and provide information and peer support.

Caitlin said:

‘It is an opportunity for students to get honest and authentic opinions from our amazing Manx Uni-verse student representatives, which will hopefully help Year 12s finalise their UCAS decisions. We are really grateful to Richard Karran, Gill Kirk, Adrienne Burnett and the Ballakermeen team for being so encouraging in organising this event.’

Francesca added:

‘We set up Manx Uni-Verse to help year 12 students make the most informed decisions they can about university. Having a physical fair is a fantastic opportunity for everyone looking at going to university, and we could not have done it without the incredible support of the Department for Education, Sport and Culture.’

Students looking to stay on the Island will also be able to learn about the courses available at University College Isle of Man, as well as local training schemes and work opportunities at at Ballakermeen High School on Thursday 23 July.

Adrienne Burnett, Headteacher at Ballakermeen High School, said:

‘It is great to see the community coming together to help our current Year 12 students. Many of them are taking the day off work and missing out on pay to help the event go ahead. Their efforts are a tremendous demonstration of the resilience of our younger generation.’

A time slot has been allocated to each secondary school throughout the day with additional lunch time slot made available for parents.

The event will be held from 9.30am-1pm in the Sixth Form Centre at Ballakermeen High School.

Statement from Dr Alex Allinson MHK following a statement from the Joint Trade Unions

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 10:22:23 GMT

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education, Sport and Culture has issued this statement following today's (14 July) statement from the Joint Trade Unions. He said:

The Isle of Man Government has engaged in pay talks with representatives of all of the recognised teachers’ unions, including local and national officials, earlier today.

The talks were arranged in conjunction with the Manx Industrial Relations Service (MIRS) in order to restart discussions in relation to the teachers’ pay disputes.

Having made numerous offers over the last eight months, which were all turned down by the trade unions side, the Isle of Man Government made clear that circumstances had now changed following the health emergency.

Whereas earlier in the year, it had been hoped that new resources might be available to support a pay offer over and above that agreed and implemented for teachers in England, budgetary constraints caused by the pandemic have meant that no such commitment can be given.

Therefore, any additional pay over the 2% already provided by Treasury would have to be met by efficiency savings within the Department of Education, Sport and Culture.

The Isle of Man Government made it clear that it was committed to continue negotiations on pay and conditions but did not want these to result in cuts which would affect the education of young people on the Island.

The Isle of Man Government has confirmed that the pay award for teachers in England for 2020-21 would automatically be applied to teachers in the Isle of Man. This will be announced next week. Following this, the Isle of Man Government will be in a better position to assess its budgetary position in terms of whether any additional pay offer could be accommodated. Teachers have already received a pay increase of 2.75% for 2019-20.

The trade unions reiterated their position that they were seeking the same pay settlement as teachers in England with an additional 9% spread over three years in addition to unconsolidated lump sums to the value of £1.75 million for those on the upper and leadership pay scales.

While I recognise the valuable contribution made by teaching staff during the pandemic, it is unfortunate that the English trade union representatives appeared unable to appreciate the unprecedented demands on Government’s finances as a result of the pandemic.

With goodwill on both sides we are still optimistic that trade unions and Department officers will be able to reach a positive resolution to the current pay disputes in the near future.

Teaching Union to ballot for strike action

Tue, 07 Jul 2020 16:12:01 GMT

A teaching union has written to the Isle of Man Government over plans to ballot its members for strike action later this month.

The Isle of Man Government received the letter from the National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT) on Friday.

In their letter, the Union suggests it will ballot 478 members from 21 July, regarding strike action and action short of strike, due to a dispute over pay, pensions and workload.

The Union said it will ballot members, who work in schools and University College Isle of Man about discontinuous strike action during August 2020 to February 2021 and continuous action short of strike (work to rule) within the same dates.

The dispute has been ongoing for 18 months and negotiations ended on 17 March with the latest pay offer being rejected by all four teacher unions. Further meetings were paused during the state of emergency on the Island due to the global pandemic.

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

‘I am disappointed that NASUWT have decided to propose strike action. I would again like to thank all our teachers and school staff for their ingenuity and flexibility over the last three months and the amazing effort they have put into reopening our schools for all pupils.

‘Re-starting talks had already been discussed with the Manx Industrial Relations Service and I hope better communication and dialogue can help find a fair settlement for our teachers and lecturers who provide such an excellent education for our children and young people’.

The annual pay awards for teachers is published in the UK School Teachers’ Pay and Conditions Document (STPCD) and has been applied on the Isle of Man each year since 1992. It means teachers on the Island are paid the same as those working in England and Wales and in 2019/20 received a 2.75% increase.

New headteacher for Cronk Y Berry School

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 17:00:59 GMT

Alex Quane has been appointed as the new headteacher for Cronk Y Berry School.

Mrs Quane has worked in teaching since 1998, including most recently, seven years as deputy headteacher at Bunscoill Rhumsaa.

She was educated at Ramsey Grammar School before training to be a teacher at St Martin’s College, Lancaster, and gaining the National Professional Qualification for Headship.

Mrs Quane, said:

‘I am delighted to take on the role of headteacher at Cronk Y Berry School. My aim is to build on their current strengths and successes, and I’m excited to be a part of this new chapter. I am looking forward to getting to know everybody and becoming part of the community.

‘I would like to thank everyone at Bunscoill Rhumsaa for making the last seven years so memorable.’

She will take over from Rob Sellors, who retired earlier this year following 30 years in teaching at Rushen, Arbory and Cronk Y Berry.

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

‘We are looking forward to working with Alex in her new role and we are confident the school will flourish under her leadership.

‘The department would like to thank Rob for his hard work and dedication over many years and wish him all the best for a happy and fulfilling future.’

Mrs Quane will take over the role on 1 September 2020.

School attendance nears pre-COVID levels

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 16:25:11 GMT

The number of children now back at school in the Isle of Man is close to pre-COVID levels.

On Tuesday, more than 92% of primary and 86% of secondary age pupils were back in classes, an even higher figure than the excellent take up on Monday - when schools were allowed to welcome back all children for the first time in almost three months.

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

‘It is very encouraging to see the numbers returning to face-to face-teaching, meeting classmates, and getting back into a more normal routine. I would encourage all pupils to come back to school. Your teachers have missed you.’

The obligation for parents to send their children to school has been lifted for the rest of this term and parents who keep their children at home are asked to contact their head teacher for advice and support.

Adrienne Burnett, Headteacher at Ballakermeen High School, said:

‘As a result of our Government’s assured handling of the COVID-19 crisis, unlike other jurisdictions, our children are able to benefit from specialist teaching.

‘Remote learning can never be substitute for that. Children attend school to learn, but it is also where they meet their friends and socialise and the sooner our children return to normality, the better for their wellbeing.’

The Isle of Man Government will fully engage with pupils and staff who need or choose to remain at home and will continue to look at remote learning as an option for some.

Dr Allinson, added:

‘I’d like to thank all pupils and parents for their patience. I would also like to thank all the teachers who have shown incredible flexibility and dedication over the last three months to support their students in the hub schools and at home. The overwhelming feedback is that teaches and pupils are excited to be back.’

‘I am especially grateful for the catering staff, cleaners, caretakers and those working in the special units who have worked hard to get our schools ready and ensured that they will be safe for our young people and other staff members.’

Since reopening all schools have an enhanced cleaning regime and catering staff have been redeployed to enable this. Packed lunches can be purchased from the canteen and will be provided to those eligible for free school meals or can be brought from home. Schools can make their own decisions regarding uniforms for the remainder of the term.

With the vast majority of children now back in their school – people are reminded not to use school playing fields for recreation during school hours.