The notion of a forest school is to create outdoor classrooms which allow children to get involved with nature. It allows youngsters to develop confidence through hands-on learning.

Sue Owen, acting head teacher comments “We recently took 25 of our year four students to visit Heswall. Our pupils were fascinated with the forest classroom project, and we witnessed some real enthusiasm to learn. We would absolutely love to mirror the good work and benchmark our schools progress in the same way”.

New Directions Education Ltd is working closely with the Egremont School to help raise funds to realise the ‘forest school’ status. Branch manager Lisa Harper comments “We really want to support the school to achieve this ambition. It has already been acknowledged that the programme works, and New Directions ultimate ambition is to support the education community. We implore the business community; and anyone who can to donate to this excellent cause”.

The school has a site to develop the project within their grounds. Recently staff members and parents volunteered time to clear the ground in preparation for the project.

Alan Doyle, business manager for the school adds “We are looking for any donations which will directly allow us to implement this project, from soil to secateurs or perhaps a nominal financial contribution”.

For more information on how to donate, contact the New Directions team on 0151 515 3010.

New Directions Jennifer Morrison, acting head Sue Owen and business manager Alan Doyle

It is made up of 14 pupils, 2 from each year group. To be included in the F.E.S.C group, children have to be nominated and a vote takes place. They meet regularly to discuss school issues.

In November the school were awarded their second Eco Flag and have also achieved Fairtrade status – the first primary school in Torfaen to have done so!

To gain Fairtrade status the F.E.S.C group organised a Big Brew event where they organised and ran a cafe for the local community in the school hall which was a free event aimed at raising the profile of Fairtrade. They also organised and ran a school Fairtrade Harvest assembly. Fairtrade is now an integral part of school life which was emphasised by their biggest achievement in writing to Torfaen Catering and persuading them to supply Fairtrade orange juice with the children's school lunches.

Gaining Fairtrade status was a contributing factor towards the second Green Flag. Other projects included the development of a global link with The Gambia where the school established links with a school in Kassa Kunda, Brikama. The children organised fund-raising activities to help the children in Kassa Kunda and have sent over basic stationery items, toys, books and have sent money to help provide a safe Well for a new school that is being built. Mrs Davey and Mrs Spooner visited the school in February, and hope to return in 2013 to develop this link further.

The children were actively involved in encouraging safer parking around their school grounds and the development of a school travel plan. They are now excited about a new venture as a meadow area is being proposed alongside the school, this would provide a wonderful opportunity for outside learning and the study of local plants and wildlife.

Mrs Davey, Assistant Head, has guided the F.E.S.C children and is very proud of the schools achievement.

The school has been supported throughout their Fairtrade journey by Martha and David Holman who have set up  www.ilovezimbabwe.co.uk

Mr James retired from his head teacher post in August 2011. He left the position having led the school to an 11% improvement on GCSE grades from 2010.
Upon receiving the honour he comments “I am obviously delighted at receiving this award, it has been a truly humbling experience. Whilst I am privileged to receive the MBE, I have worked alongside many wonderful people throughout my career who have been continuously supportive. I hope to continue my work within the sector with my role at New Directions”.

Gary Williams, Managing Director for New Directions Education Ltd adds “We were delighted to welcome Meredydd to the team. With his knowledge, passion and commitment to the education sector we knew he would add great value. The MBE is thoroughly deserved”.

The MBE award was established in 1917 by King George V. It acknowledges and recognises individuals work within their communities. Mr James has dedicated over 40 years of his career to the education sector.

The school commented "Janet is so enthusiastic and helpful, she always interacts well with the pupils and staff. She is punctual and a true team member who is always willing to help others and will go above and beyond her duties. She is reliable and professional at all times".

 A big well done to Janet and a big thank you from all the team at New Directions Manchester for all your hard work.

Mr Roberts lead the children of Parc Lewis Primary School to victory after receiving their new strip  which was  originally a parting gift for the ex-head of the school, Elaine Williams, who has now moved onto the luxury of retirement.

Parc Lewis will be sporting their new kit as one of many schools that attend New Directions yearly South Wales football tournament where each school will compete for the winning Trophy.

Gerald Lyons, Chief Economist for Standard Chartered remarked “the UK has already slipped back into recession this quarter, and firms are thinking twice about making investments”.

In direct response to the report John Andrews, Group Director of Operations for New Directions Holdings Ltd says “As one of Wales recognised fastest growing companies, we continue to thrive despite the reported downturn. We acknowledge any change within the country’s economy cannot be ignored; so as we look to the future we try to develop new markets to keep Wales buoyant.”

New Directions Holdings Ltd continues to diversify into new markets. In recent years they have expanded into the rest of the UK with offices in Bristol, Liverpool, Manchester, Nottingham and London.

 Justin is a regular most days and most weeks at Archbishop Beck Catholic Sports College in Liverpool.

Our contact who organises cover at the school says;

" He is, I believe, a life saver . His work ethic and ability are of the highest calibre, he is very personable and does a lot of charity work within the local community too. I only wish there were more candidates to work with like him.

 Pictured is New Directions Kevin Mercer presenting Justin with the vouchers

In response to the latest youth unemployment figures the New Directions Education team will be visiting schools in the region. This will include both Downend School and

Marlwood School to offer students the opportunity to take part in mock interviews.

Office Manager Gez Parker says: “We recognise the need to ensure school leavers are completely ready for the job market. At a time when the youth unemployment figure is over one million we have a responsibility to contribute to the Bristol of tomorrow. We were happy to respond to the invitation from the schools.”

New Directions Education Ltd has regional offices across the UK, and look to partner with schools and colleges to enhance regional growth.

The day was a huge success and the school managed to raise a total of £700.64. 

Well done Wentworth!!

Pictured is Manchester Branch Manager Amanda Stothard handing out the vouchers to Sam Mellor

Various events were held throughout the day including henna mehndi, eyebrow threading and facial massages.  There were food stalls,  tombolas and lots of goodies on sale. 

The day was a huge success and they managed to raise well over £500.00

Happy Christmas from all at New Directions.