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National Day of Reflection

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Today on the first anniversary of the first UK lockdown, we are supporting The Marie Curie Day of Reflection to reflect on our collective loss, support those who've been bereaved, and hope for a brighter future.

You can read our special DET Dispatch: https://bit.ly/3lJ7IOz

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Latest News

Croxley Danes School featured on BBC One's The One Show Posted on: 6/03/2025

Croxley Danes School featured on BBC One's The One Show

Croxley Danes School was visited by presenter Angellica Bell and a camera crew from the BBC show to interview staff and students about their involvement in a Europe-wide study. The study, called the BootStRaP project, is led by the University of Hertfordshire and aims to reduce the harmful impact of internet use on mental health. The research intends to recruit up to 10,000 young people from across Europe over five years to explore internet use, identify harmful behaviours, and find ways to address these. Andy Harris, headteacher of Croxley Danes School, said: "While we don’t have issues with phone and internet use at Croxley Danes due to us having very clear rules and systems in place, it is a significant issue outside of school that is impacting our young people’s mental health and peer relationships. "We decided to get involved with the BootStRaP project because we think it’s a really fantastic opportunity to gather the data needed to better understand and address issues around problematic internet use, that will inform effective strategies for improving our students’ well-being, their online safety in and outside of school and ultimately their academic success." The BootStRaP project stands for Boosting Societal Adaptation and Mental Health in a Rapidly Digitalising, Post-Pandemic Europe. Read the full story in the Watford Observer
ESA stands out with 'outstanding' Ofsted report Posted on: 4/03/2025

ESA stands out with 'outstanding' Ofsted report

Demonstrating its commitment to improvement and success, Elstree Screen Arts Academy (ESA) has been honoured with top rankings in a recently published report by The Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted). This recognition underscores ESA's unwavering dedication to providing an outstanding education that not only meets but exceeds national standards. The recent report published in February 2025 lauded the quality of education at ESA, a part of Danes Educational Trust, celebrating the academy's innovative approach to teaching and learning. Students at ESA were commended for their exemplary behavior and positive attitudes, contributing to a vibrant and respectful learning environment. The academy's commitment to the personal growth and development of each student was a highlight of the report, showcasing the holistic approach to education that ESA champions.  The robust leadership and management at ESA were recognized as pivotal in driving the academy's success and fostering a culture based on a ‘character curriculum’. "We have been proudly advocating for our unique approach to education and keenly telling all who will listen that we are up to something here," said Chris Mitchell, Principal of Elstree Screen Arts Academy. "We are seeing young people engage, connect and find their creative voice." Special mention was made of the inclusive and supportive sixth-form provision, which plays a crucial role in preparing students for their future endeavors. ESA Academy scored ‘Outstanding’ in all five categories of the report. This prestigious recognition from Ofsted is a reflection of the collective efforts of the dedicated staff, enthusiastic students, and supportive parents who together make Elstree Screen Arts Academy a paragon of educational excellence. “Receiving Outstanding in all five categories of the report is a testament to the exceptional creativity, innovation , and dedication of the entire Elstree Screen Arts Academy community. Moving from ‘Good’ to ‘Outstanding’ is a remarkable achievement, especially in today’s ever-evolving educational landscape,” said Dr Josephine Valentine OBE, CEO Danes Educational Trust. The report not only celebrates the academy's current achievements but also highlights its ongoing commitment to improvement and innovation in education. ESA continues to lead the way with outstanding outcomes for students in specialist training and creative courses for the film, TV and Theatre industries.
Learner Voice Council (LVC) Primary Induction Day Posted on: 6/02/2025

Learner Voice Council (LVC) Primary Induction Day

On 21 January, we held our third Learner Voice Council (LVC) Primary Induction Day, hosted at De Havilland Primary School. "We were delighted to welcome all six primary schools, including The Cranbourne Primary School and Roselands Primary School, which has recently established its own LVC. The day brought together students and staff from across Danes Educational Trust, fostering collaboration and leadership." Attendees participated in a dynamic workshop carousel, featuring sessions on oracy (led by Nicola Spencer, DET English Lead) and self-confidence (led by Anna-Maria van Der Spoel, Assistant Headteacher at OSA), both outstanding practitioners. A highlight of the day was two of the sessions that were led by secondary school students. Students from Chancellor’s School delivered a session on LVC Top Tips. Many of their members have been part of the LVC for years, and they shared their knowledge and experience with the primary school students. Onslow St Audrey’s Sixth Form Leadership Team delivered a session on teamwork. These sessions provided essential tools for young leaders as they embark on their LVC journey. Now in its fourth year, the Learner Voice Council serves as a platform for students to influence teaching and learning across their schools. The LVC empowers students to make meaningful changes by conducting research through planning, auditing, implementing, and evaluating. Miles Conway, Trust Learning Lead for Learner Leadership, shared: "It was truly wonderful to see all of our primary schools come together in collaboration. The LVC students showed incredible dedication and enthusiasm, and I look forward to the meaningful impact they will have across all levels of the Trust. A second passion of mine is transition, so it was great to see the primary and secondary schools working together. Special thanks go to the dedicated workshop leaders, facilitators, and student leaders who made the day a resounding success. Thank you to the staff at De Havilland Primary School for being so accommodating and allowing me to host this event at their school." The LVC would not run successfully without the support of our dedicated team of in-school facilitators: Alii Hewitt, Emma Smart, Henry Arkill, Liz Black, Liz Shipp, Matt Clarke, Steve Cove Juliet Ford, Mitchell Sanderson, Rachana Shah, Sarah Edwards, and Shannon Anthony.  
Roselands Primary School Celebrates ‘Good’ Ofsted Rating Posted on: 31/01/2025

Roselands Primary School Celebrates ‘Good’ Ofsted Rating

We are delighted to share that following our recent Ofsted inspection, His Majesty’s Inspectors have confirmed that Roselands Primary School continues to meet the standards of a ‘Good’ school. The report recognises our commitment to ensuring every pupil experiences a nurturing, supportive, and enriching education, benefiting them now and in the future. The inspectors noted that pupils at Roselands “...grow in confidence at this happy school. They feel part of a kind community. Pupils and adults care about, and look out for, each other. Pupils know there is a listening ear for any troubles they may have. They know and trust the adults who keep them safe.” The report also highlights the strength of our curriculum, stating, “Teachers help pupils to make links in their learning across subjects. For example, pupils learn about the artwork of William Morris in their history study about the Victorians.” Additionally, inspectors recognised the value of our enriching educational experiences, noting, “Practical activities in lessons, along with an ambitious range of trips and visits, help to make learning memorable for pupils.” This recognition reflects the values we hold dear at Roselands, fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and supportive environment where every child feels valued, cared for, and empowered to thrive. We also welcome Ofsted’s feedback on areas to strengthen further and remain committed to ensuring that teaching activities consistently build knowledge and skills across the curriculum. Together, we are creating a positive, enriching environment at Roselands where every child can flourish.