VIEWS
BRITISH EDUCATIONAL SUPPLIERS ASSOCIATION (BESA)
Setting high standards for educational excellence: BESA’s Code of Practice and Supplier Directory and the Education Resources Awards
In his latest column this month for Education Today DAVE SMITH, Head of Partnerships and Events, BESA, talks standards and awards.
The British Educational Suppliers Association (BESA) continues to be at the forefront of promoting high standards
and excellence in the education suppliers sector through our Code of Practice and Supplier Directory. These initiatives, outlined on the BESA website, are instrumental to ensuring a trustworthy and reliable framework for both educators and suppliers. The Code of Practice, accessible at
www.besa.org.uk/code-of- practice/, is a comprehensive set of guidelines that BESA members adhere to, underscoring their commitment to maintaining the highest ethical and professional standards. The Code emphasises transparency, accountability, and integrity in all interactions within the educational supplies industry. BESA members pledge to provide accurate information about their products and services, ensuring a fair and ethical relationship with customers. One of the key aspects of the Code of Practice is its focus on promoting a positive and collaborative relationship between suppliers and educational institutions. By fostering transparency and trust, BESA aims to enhance the overall quality of educational resources and services available to schools and educators. In tandem with the Code of Practice, BESA’s Supplier Directory, available at
www.besa.org.uk/supplier-directory/, serves as a valuable resource for educational professionals seeking trusted suppliers. The directory offers a curated list of BESA-approved suppliers from our broad membership, providing educators with a reliable platform to find high-quality products and services tailored to their specific needs.
Educators can easily navigate the Supplier Directory, exploring a diverse range of offerings from reputable suppliers. This not only streamlines the procurement process but also ensures that educators have access to a network of suppliers who align with BESA’s rigorous standards.
BESA’s commitment to maintaining a robust Code of Practice and Supplier Directory underscores our ongoing dedication to setting these high standards in educational supplies. BESA continues to play a pivotal role in shaping a trustworthy and collaborative environment within the sector, ultimately benefiting students, educators, and institutions across the UK and beyond. This commitment extends to our support of the Education Resources Awards 2024, which recognises outstanding achievements in the educational resources sector that showcase the dedication of individuals and companies committed to enhancing the educational experience for students and educators alike.
The Education Resources Awards acknowledge the efforts of companies who go above and beyond in creating effective teaching materials. Last year’s ceremony featured keynote speakers who emphasised the importance of investing in educational resources to nurture a generation of critical thinkers and problem solvers. The winners were praised for their commitment to fostering an inclusive and engaging learning environment. Winners of the 2024 Education Resources Awards will be announced at a gala awards ceremony to be held on Thursday, 18 April 2024 at The National Conference Centre Birmingham.
As the education sector continues to evolve, events like the Education Resources Awards, Bett Show and BESA’s LearnED – Education in Action play a crucial role in highlighting effective resources, services and approaches to improving outcomes in education sector.
March 2024
LEADERSHIP WITH CHARLOTTE ROWLEY
The importance of effective communication (part one)
In the first of a two-part piece on leadership, CHARLOTTE ROWLEY, Principal at St Austin’s Catholic Primary school in Stafford, this month looks at the importance of effective communication.
How many times have we assumed that our message was easy to understand? On how many occasions have you frustratingly said, ‘I thought I have already mentioned that?’ thinking back and believing that your instructions were communicated
with clarity. Maybe you have been shocked at how an e-mail you sent had been misinterpreted or feedback that you felt was fair has actually upset someone, resulting in mixed messages, confusion and even distress. Communication is so vital in any educational setting and is not to be underestimated. Effective communication among stakeholders can contribute to higher levels of productivity, confidence and most of all, a sense of team and togetherness, which can help well-being ad morale for all.
Communicating with staff
We know that days and weeks seem to fly by in schools. I am often convinced that we are in a different time zone, as it frequently feels like I blink and half term is upon us! Things move quickly and this everyday fast pace means that sometimes time feels as if it runs out, but there is never an excuse for failing to communicate with staff. ‘I just didn’t have time to explain/ revisit/ discuss’ are inexcusable. Assuming that people know things is also not acceptable (and yes, this may seem frustrating at times) and not reflecting on the initiatives, messages, direction and communication that you have given is also an error. We can all probably think of an example – maybe several – where we genuinely believe that we have told staff or pupils something, perhaps we feel that we have been crystal clear in the explanation, only to find that no one has understood. This simply means that something is amiss, and the actions/ tasks/ instructions were not smart. Changes to a marking policy? Be specific, explain and follow up with an e-mail. Rewriting or sequencing the curriculum? Invite people for thoughts and comments and where possible, please involve colleagues in the process. It will pay dividends.
Communicating with pupils
Pupil views should be valued in every school. Giving our children a voice will give confidence, empower and also enhance general communication and oracy skills. In addition, involving our pupils in processes and particularly key changes in the day-to-day running of the school can also eradicate any nerves and uncertainty. A School Council is therefore an invaluable resource. For pupils, consistency is key. If all staff regularly communicate and refer to the School Mission Statement, school rules and expectations when referencing behaviour and these are communicated verbally, shared in pupil-friendly language when displayed in the classroom and visually presented, this will avoid any confusion for learners. If learning expectations are shared with positivity and enthusiasm and lessons are taught with joy, but challenge is also instilled, this communicates high expectations and sense of belief in the children. Also, on the other hand, if books are not marked, feedback is not regularly given and praise is not embedded nor an integral element within the school culture, this can speak volumes. Often, what is not said or done can communicate a lot – and not in a positive way!
I’ll be looking at communicating with parents next month, and summarising everything I’ve learned – I hope you’ll join me then!
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