Training & CPD in London

HEC offers a number of core training packages for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to schools and teachers.

Place Based Learning - 'Putting ourselves on the Map'
This project develops mapping skills and an understanding of students' own place within their local environment. Taking students' views as the valuable starting point for any understanding of their place within the local community, the process includes a walk around the area, being taught to upload their ideas onto an electronic map, an exploration of the uses of maps, and an opportunity to express, share and reflect on their own identity.

Philosophy for Children
'P4C' is a well established methodology for allowing children to discuss and debate issues arising from a given 'stimulus'. In the process, a 'community of enquiry' explores issues together, with everyone having the chance to share and respond in a supportive and respectful environment. Students learn about 'philosophical' (as opposed to 'factual') questions and gain skills of listening, responding, following on, forming an argument, as well as reviewing their opinions in the light of others' views. It is a valuable process particularly for issues with no 'easy solution' or where there is likely to be a range of perspectives and opinions. HEC Global Learning Centre specialises in stimuli and that may lead to discussion around environmental awareness, active global citizenship, and an understanding of injustice and inequality.

Student voice and participation
Most educators accept that a positive learning environment can only be achieved when students know that their opinions are valued and taken into account. How can student voice be incorporated in the daily life and running of the school and how can students be introduced to important democratic principles and processes. This courses shows how we can seek to do this in various ways in the authentic context of school life? School councils are an important aspect of this, and are looked at thoroughly in this course, but there are many ways to involve students across the school community. A practical course for those keen to develop authentic children's participation and student voice in their schools.

The sessions will be running from September 2010 and are offered at a reduced rate for Tower Hamlets schools as part of services offered by the borough; all enquiries, please contact HEC: hec@gn.apc.org