SWIFT UPDATE | Issue 39 | November 2025

To intro this first newsletter of the second half of the Autumn Term, our ​Executive Director Martin Smith reflects on the new Ofsted Framework and how SWIFT is keen to support school leaders as they navigate the new Framework:

"As the debate on the relevance and suitability of the new Ofsted Framework continues to rage amongst school leaders, it is important to recognise that the inspection process in England is a highly contentious issue."

Later in this issue, our Sponsor SchoolPro SEND look at understanding the New Ofsted Framework and the new ‘Inclusion’ evaluation grade and Whole School SEND showcase how they can support inclusion for your School and Trust through training, tools, and upcoming events.

Read on to find out more about the recently published report on Mind the Engagement Gap: A National Study of Pupil Engagement in England’s Schools by The Engagement Platform. 

School Business Managers began the new term with purpose with their Professional Community learning about how to reduce food waste, wising up to Artificial intelligence, CPD pathways for School Business Managers, eco-friendly printers and the thorny issue of school recruitment.
 
If you are interested in language learning, you will surtout enjoy this issue. 
Our November interview is with Harriet Sleath, Teacher of Modern Foreign Languages at Teign School and 
Devon Research School's blog is by Georgia Fielding on her research into inclusive language learning and motivations. 

Meanwhile from our other sponsors, Educatering shares their good news about a visit from the local MP who praised their food services at Stokenham Primary School. Whilst Exeter Supply Partnership (ESP) also celebrate a buoyant start to the term welcoming new team members, reconnecting with teachers and Teaching Assistants across our region.

As the dark November evenings set in and brings shorter days, if you are looking for a good read, you might like to take a peep at Mr T’s instructional series (AKA Christopher Tribble, Headteacher at Honiton Primary School). 

FINALLY, it is the last call for the final few places for Cohort 5 National Professional applications.
Seize the opportunity and apply before the extended deadline of Wednesday 19 November 2025.
Don't miss out if this fits with your professional development plans.
  
It is all here for you and we hope it adds value to your work in the classroom and across your teams. 

swift update | november 2025 | read here