Early understanding of number is a crucial building block for mathematical achievement and must be thoroughly explored using concrete manipulatives before moving to the abstract. There are many wonderfully colourful and tactile resources available, but one of the best-loved by children and teachers alike are number frames. Read more

Have you heard about the new English Hubs? Could your school benefit from extra support and funding in phonics and early language skills? Read more

STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths. This is a forward-thinking, integrated approach to learning that combines these subjects to guide children’s inquisition and critical thinking. Read more

What happened at Easter and what does it all mean? Big questions and big ideas for Christians. If you are teaching Easter to your primary pupils this term then a box of Easter artefacts (including a chocolate rabbit) could help to make it all rather more thoughtful. Read more

In my Special Educational Needs Advisory Teacher role, I am often asked to recommend a dyslexic friendly intervention that will help pupils make progress in the classroom by developing their basic literacy skills. Whilst intervention to support the development and maintenance of literacy skills is very important, it is also useful to go back to basics and look at what is happening in the classroom to support curriculum access. I often find that a few minor tweaks to quality first teaching will not only support the intervention happening away from the classroom but also makes a huge difference to classroom learning. Read more

Balance allows children to have better control over their bodies. Once balance is mastered it occurs naturally; allowing children to move their attention and focus onto other things. Read more

Why not plan a staff meeting outdoors to explore the possibilities in your school grounds or surrounding area? This could come not only under maths improvement, but also link to an active curriculum agenda. Active learning is proven to stimulate children's brains and will help to vary lessons and raise standards. Read more

Many sandpits become neglected over time as the sand migrates around the site or becomes dirty and full of algae. So whether your sandpit holds a few bags of sand or a few tons, why not give it a bit of TLC and a spring clean, a bit of raking, sieving or a top up and see just what an essential play resource it is? Read more

Bee-Bot’s simple and child friendly layout is a perfect starting point for teaching control, directional language and programming. With a wide range of cross curricular mats to program with, and fun accessories to personalise, Bee-Bot is the must have programming resource for any KS1 classroom. Bee-Bot can accurately move in steps of 15cm, turn in 90° turns, and remembers up to 40 steps! In this teaching guide we show how easy to use the lovable Bee-Bot is. Read more

The 2014 SEN Code of Practice made very clear the importance of schools being able to work effectively with parents and the huge benefits that real and meaningful partnerships can bring. The Lamb enquiry, 2009, also found that “In the most successful schools, the effective engagement of parents has had a profound impact on children’s progress.” Read more

It’s hard to make the most of the weather when we are constantly worrying about the alarming effects of the sun. But it’s also important to make the most of whatever elements are thrown at us. Vitamin D is very important for our wellbeing and the sun is the best source of vitamin D you can get! So how do we allow children to play in the sun and be safe about it? Here are some hints and tips to guide you over the next few weeks. Read more

These appealing, miniature characters are wonderful catalysts for creative adventures. Enable children to incorporate them into their small world play. Read more

A unique full day CPD training session for all Secondary teachers of Art & Design led by two of the UK's leading Art & Design consultants. Read more

These easy to make spiders are ideal as an autumn or Halloween project. They make great decorations for Halloween discos and Halloween parties. This Halloween craft for children has 3 easy steps with minimal materials needed. Read more

Explore the power and possibilities of dried butter beans, sprayed gold - to give them that extra sparkling jewel-like appeal! Magic Beans! Read more

This festive Gingerbread House is simple to make and would make a great class project or after school club craft. Read more