Narrow The Gap - Could Change A Child's Life
Tuesday 16th November
2010
Head teachers from across the borough are
invited to consider strategies that are proving effective in
narrowing attainment gaps for children eligible for free school
meals. The much anticipated ‘Narrow the Gap’ conference takes place
on Thursday 18th November, from 9 – 4pm, at the Robinson Executive
Centre, Wyboston Lakes.
The ‘gap’ is measured as the attainment
between children entitled to free schools meals and those who are
not.
The Department of Education holds considerable
evidence of the nature and significance of differences in outcomes
for young people and the reasons for these differences. Similarly
much is already known about how much impact variations in
school/service provision has on these differences. This ‘Narrow the
Gap’ conference is intended to help promote understanding of these
issues and develops strategies that can be taken back into
schools.
Speakers on the day include Estelle Morris,
University of York and Member of House of Lords and, John Bangs,
Visiting Professor at Institute of Education, University of London
and Fellow of Wolfson College.
Cllr David Sawyer, portfolio holder for
Children’s Services, at Bedford Borough Council, said: “Narrowing
the attainment gap is a key priority. Every child is equal and we
need to reflect this in their schooling experience. This event will
provide an opportunity to discuss alternative ways to support our
schools in assisting them in addressing the particular attainment
and achievement gaps in each school.”
Those expected to attend the conference are
Head teachers, staff from education departments, governing bodies
and individuals working within broader vulnerable children
services.