10 January 2007

The January meeting was hosted by Chipping Norton School and got the year off to a fantastic staff with the best breakfast (cooked by the dinner ladies) of any networking event that we've attended for a long time. The Head, Simon Duffy, welcomed us and several teachers and governors were also in attendance I n a concerted effort to improve links with the business community. David Laughlin Director of Performing Arts of Performing Arts with his colleague Deputy Head Linda Savory gave us an insightful presentation outlining the significance of the school's Performing Arts and Training Skills status. As a Specialist school they get additional funding to improve the team, the whole school and links to the wider community and as such they are looking to engage with employers. Whereas in the past there has been (as David put it) a “one way street” - the school looked to business for support - he wanted o see more of a “two-way street” whereby the school could also support business.

So what can the school offer business? In short:

facilities for hire,

• conference facilities, i.e. the main hall, with its lighting rig, PA system,
• large projection screen,

• rooms and resources for team building/training sessions

training courses

• Powerpoint,

• Presentation Skills,

• Coaching Skills,

• Team Building,

• Creative Thinking,

• Learning about learning

• Group and communication skills

• Languages for temporary workers abroad

What's the school looking for?

• Mentors

• People to lead sessions with pupils

• Developing Enterprise

Simon Duffy also stressed that he is keen to hear from businesses about any skills gaps in school leavers - he wants to ensure that the school turns out pupils with a good chance of being employed and, just as importantly, valued by their employers.

David made the point that Performing Arts whilst often denigrated as a discipline does instil a good work ethic and attitude in pupils who are expected to and get used to turning up on time for rehearsal and performances, commitment to a project, working together as a team, respecting each other etc.

All in all a superbly hosted, very enjoyable and enlightening morning.

Any business that would like to visit the school or discuss matters is very welcome to do so and can contact Simon, David or Linda on 01608 642007.

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