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Introducing the GTC Networks.
Good teaching needs good networks and good networks need good teachers.
The GTC Networks provide support by linking teachers nationally and putting them in touch with the latest research and evidence. They let teachers have a voice at national debates on changes to education.
Durham’s award winning resources
Durham LA has developed a number of tools and resources to ensure that schools and teachers are better able to support Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) children and their families. As a result of this work, the Traveller education service from Durham have won a national Children and Young People's Service award.
As part of the local development partnership project with Achieve, Durham produced an intensive race equality support package for five pilot schools. Its aim was to provide a consistent approach to meeting race equality priorities.
Details of the support package
Monitoring
Schools were supported to monitor the attainment, attendance and exclusions of all pupils of GRT heritage. As part of the school’s commitment to inclusive practice, the monitoring included Traveller groups not covered by race legislation such as fairground and circus people, bargees and New Travellers.
Curriculum development
Schools were encouraged to provide an inclusive curriculum that celebrated different cultures and lifestyles, including those of GRT communities. The curriculum was to be used to proactively, to promote diversity and challenge stereotypes.
Tackling discrimination and challenging racism
The Traveller education service provided support and training to both pupils and teachers to help them tackle discrimination and challenge racism.
Parental engagement
Parents and other positive role models from the GRT communities were encouraged to share their knowledge, skills and expertise with schools.
Training
A one day event brought together all the pilot schools, with three members of staff from each school including a teacher, parent support adviser and a governor acting as equality champion.
Outcomes and resources
Each school designed and produced its own self evaluation tool-kit and its own resource box. Specific resources included:
- On the way to Appleby, a booklet produced by Durham LA about a popular social event for Travellers. Download a copy (PDF, 1280kb)
- A card game using GRT vocabulary to develop literacy skills for all children and young people and to promote and demystify GRT culture. The aim of the game is to guess the object named on one side of the card from the clues printed on the other side. Download a set of cards (PDF, 1280kb)
- One primary school, West Rainton, supported by Durham Traveller education service, features on a best practice DVD for the National Strategies GRT programme.
