Page 17 - link magazine

See us on the net @ www.i-way.co.uk/-swindonlink The Link Magazine • March 1998 17
Unlocking potential in teachers and students Exams? Don't panic!

A former Olympic champion is working with Hreod Parkway School to raise levels of motivation, The GCSEs are just a few weeks
confidence and ability using sports and business management coaching skills. away and Hreod Parkway School
and Quantum Training are offer-
In an exclusive interview with the curriculum but their training ing the Lightning Learning Pro-
The Link, David Hemery, 400 me- doesnotincludemuchaboutstrat- gramme during the Easter holi-
tre gold medallist at the 1968 egies for approaching the task." days to students from any school.
Mexico Olympics, said that Hreod In the autumn Hreod's 54 teach- Working in a lively, confidence
Parkway headteacher Andrew ers took part in a day course and building way with a team of tu-
Fleet had approached him last year parents and governors took part in tors, participants will receive in-
with primary school colleague an evening discussion. tensive guidance on revision, time
Anthea Hilson, headteacher of In March a pilot project will be management, and the chance to
Moredon Infants, after a presenta- launched with year 10 students pick up useful exam preparation
tion to the Swindon Education taking part in eight enrichment techniques.
Business Partnership about new days before the end of the year. Don't drop those marks that
approaches to education. These will develop their sense of could make all the difference to
"For the last 10 years I have been ; ' personal responsibility, leadership your future. Call the Lightning
running courses for managers in ability,confidenceinpublicspeak- Learning Administrator on 521335.
business which help them unlock , ing and set them challenging prob-
the potential in their staff," sai lem solving tasks.
David. "As a former teacher, I am Andrew Fleet and David Hemery " Much of what we are develop-
interested to explore how similar Andrew Fleet said that whilst ing is awareness of life skills - how
methods can be applied in educa- teachers question children daily, people relate to each other by lis-
tion, to draw out abilities and skills the focus is often just facts, rather tening, contributing, taking and
which traditional teaching and the than the issues surrounding them. giving, encouraging people to do
national curriculum do not cover. "The courses do not replace facts, better," said David.
"The coaching courses encour- or direct teaching. It's a powerful "The bottom line is improved
age teachers, students and alsopar- complimentary strategy which performance by participants,
ents, to develop questioning skills makes different demands on those whatever their ability - within
which will help them achieve their involved, school and in the next stage of
goals in different ways." "Teachers learn how to deliver their careers. Self-confident young
people who use their minds better
will be more employable."
International Women's Day crafts The coaching skills project is
being funded by business spon-
The Swindon WEA Women's WEA has a workshop to explore sors and an educational trust and
Branch is organising a hands-on some of the issues about self-im- could be a model which is followed
crafts workshop to celebrate In- age through creative exercises and closely on a national level.
ternational Women's Day on 7 discussion with other women.
March, 10am - 4pm. Working with tutor Katina No-
It takes place at the Octobus ble, the aim is to help participants
Project, Penhill Youth & Commu- move towards a more positive
nity Centre, Cricklade Road, Swin- view of themselves. i & Art & GFOR etosses
don. The cost is £13 .80 (women on g
The cost is £13.80 plus £2 for benefit free). 'e crotivi grad h i 'e cuD
materials (women on benefit free). For more details, and to book,
On 28 March 10am - 4pm the call 618233. Let the to ' ck sjou in forir eassj tessons to
.
pwint AGnerican Fotk. A-rt onto kxn
Easy way to learn folk art crwftekWoocank fw'rics. Grasses are
Ever fancied one those attractive but simple folk art pieces in a craft ri.ernt,frin Alnr 5uitxka for art a.9es
shop or a garden centre? f
Sue Gardner, right, from Stratton z For details of classes,
St Margaret says they are really ring Sue on Swindon 826788
easy to make and she has set up a
studio to teach the techniques.
Known as American folk art, or
tole art, virtually any surface can
be decorated with to achieve a va-
riety of finishes. "Folk art was O
developed by people to illustrate a all Link readers on all framing
and arts & crafts products and
an idea and to provide simple, 2 O /O 0 selected pictures in gallery
pleasing decoration, not perfect
copies," said Sue. "It really is an Cut out this advert and take it along to Tunleys
easy craft which anybody can have * All types of framing (trade & retail)
a go at, and enjoy." * Graphic materials/ art materials
Sue's classes are relaxed social
* Fun stamps and stencilling
gatherings where even the most * Pictures for sale including original oils, water colours
timid will come away confident in
and prints and posters
their abilities. She says that after 4 * Specialist limited editions, signed prints including
classes, pupils will have three items David Shepherd, Sir William Russell-Flint etc
they will be proud to display. dence will grow. Folk art items
"It doesn't matter if you have make delightful, unique gifts, or Tunleys, 40-41 Fleet Street, Swindon. Tel: 522152
never painted before; you won't unusual home decoration. Est 1880!
have pre-conceived ideas," says To find out more, call Sue
Sue. "Have a go and your confi- Gardner on 826788.