Southwark schools bulletin
Welcome to the Southwark schools bulletin archive page.
November 2026
Hello everyone,
As ever in education, time passes quickly. I can hardly believe it is now seven months since I joined Southwark Council as Head of School Support and Admissions Services. During that time, I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Southwark's schools, leaders, governors and Council colleagues.
While every borough has its own unique context, many of the challenges facing education are shared across London. One of the most significant is declining pupil numbers, highlighted in Finding the Balance, a recent report from London Councils. Falling birth rates, housing pressures and population movement mean that pupil numbers are expected to continue declining for some time. What began as a challenge primarily affecting primary schools is now increasingly being felt across the secondary sector, with implications for school sustainability, finances and workforce planning.
One of the report's strongest messages is that these challenges are most effectively addressed when partners work together. Local authorities, academy trusts, diocesan boards, governing bodies and schools all have a role to play in understanding local needs and shaping provision for the future. The report highlights that the best outcomes are achieved where organisations collaborate, share intelligence and take a collective view of what is in the best interests of children and young people.
My experience during my first seven months in Southwark has reinforced this message. While difficult decisions are sometimes unavoidable, I have been struck by the willingness of school leaders, governors and trust colleagues to engage openly and constructively in finding solutions. Maintaining that strong partnership approach will be increasingly important as we navigate both the challenges and opportunities ahead.
Collaboration has also been central to our work on Fair Access. With the support and valuable feedback of secondary headteachers through SASH, we will shortly publish a new Secondary Fair Access Protocol. The revised process will be more data-informed, promote shared accountability across the system and, most importantly, strengthen support for some of the borough's most vulnerable young people.
Alongside this, a task and finish group consisting of primary headteachers and local authority officers has been developing proposals for a new Primary Fair Access Protocol. We expect to share the draft arrangements with primary schools early in the new year, ahead of implementation later in 2027.
The Education and Local Economy Scrutiny Committee recently considered two important areas of work: Pathways into employment for young people and our Local SEND Reform Plan. Although these are very different areas, both reports highlight the importance of taking a system-wide approach, using data intelligently, identifying needs earlier and maintaining a clear focus on improving outcomes for children and young people.
At the meeting, we heard from members of Southwark’s Youth Parliament who explained the challenges faced by young people when trying to find work experience, careers advice or connect with businesses for employment opportunities. If this sounds familiar to you, please reach out to our Education Business Alliance by emailing eba@southwark.gov.uk – the team can support your school to secure meaningful work experience, mentoring, skills development and business visits.
On the subject of data and intelligence, I would greatly value your feedback on the support services we provide to schools. Understanding what is working well and where improvements can be made will help us ensure our services continue to meet the needs of schools effectively. Strong support services enable school leaders to focus their efforts where they matter most: improving outcomes for Southwark's children and young people.
I would therefore be grateful if you could take a few minutes to complete our feedback survey. The survey will remain open throughout the year, allowing schools to provide feedback at any time on our Schools HR, Governance, School Improvement, Southwark Music and Education Business Alliance services.
Looking ahead, I am delighted to share that Southwark's first Annual Headteachers' Conference will take place on Friday 19 March, so please save the date.
Thank you to everyone who submitted a response to the Southwark Education Partnership’s survey showing strong support for establishing this annual conference. Respondents favoured a one-day, in-person event and identified SEND and inclusion, leadership development, wellbeing, and navigating educational change as priority themes. The importance of high-quality keynote speakers, practical professional learning, and opportunities for networking and collaboration were also highlighted. Those who expressed an interest in supporting conference planning have already come together and planning is now underway.
Our next in-person Headteachers’ Breakfast Forum will be on the 18 November, kindly held at Alfred Salter Primary School, SE16. We’ll hear from Jude Wilson, Ofsted’s Senior HMI for the London region, including what to expect from an inspection; a session on Experts at Hand funding; and an update on Early Years and Southwark’s Best Start in Life Plan, so please do register to attend.
Thank you to everyone who has made me feel so welcome since joining Southwark. I look forward to continuing to work alongside you as we respond to the challenges ahead and build on the many strengths of education in our borough.
Suzanne Wright
Head of School Support and Admissions Services
Key updates
- Finding Our Voice: Headteacher Oracy Conference
- Experts at Hand School and Partnership Development Fund
- Reminder: roundtable sessions to help shape Experts at Hand offer
- Building a borough-wide picture of SaLT provision
- Safeguarding briefing: AirTags and consumer tracking devices
- New DfE attendance communication guidance
- FFP social care reforms recording for education safeguarding leaders
- Share our new budget conversation with parents and carers
- Confirm your designated teacher for looked after children
- Southwark Council staff updated letter of assurance
- Update on the implementation of Benedict's Law within schools
Finding Our Voice: Headteacher Oracy Conference
Identity, Leadership and a Culture of Oracy
Friday 15 January, 9.30 am to 6.00 pm
Ashworth Centre, Lincoln’s Inn, central London
In partnership with The Honourable Society of Lincoln’s Inn and The Bar Council.
With Education Secretary Lucy Powell announcing equal status for oracy alongside reading and writing in the revised English curriculum, what does this mean for Southwark’s schools?
Headteachers and executive headteachers are invited to join a day of practical learning, fresh perspectives and meaningful discussion, including the launch of Southwark’s Oracy Hub.
Geoff Barton, Chair of the Oracy Education Commission, will deliver the keynote. Professor Rob Drummond will explore language, identity and belonging, alongside our panel discussion: Speaking as ourselves, building a culture of authentic voice. The Violence Reduction Unit will share its Talk Matters impact report, with school-led workshops celebrating local practice.
The Chair of The Bar Council and barristers will contribute expertise through practical discussions, with proposed themes spanning advocacy, Ofsted conversations, parental complaints and routes into law.
Enjoy a complimentary hot buffet lunch and evening networking drinks in Lincoln’s Inn’s inspiring surroundings.
Each Southwark school can reserve two complimentary places: one for a headteacher or executive headteacher and one for an oracy lead or colleague championing this work.
Book by 30 November 2026 to secure your places before remaining tickets are offered to other boroughs.
SEND improvement
>> Experts at Hand School and Partnership Development Fund
Schools are invited to submit innovative SEND and inclusion proposals through the Experts at Hand School and Partnership Development Fund. Funding is intended to strengthen inclusion, build workforce capacity and improve outcomes for children and young people. Applications must be submitted by Friday 13 November. For guidance, support and access to the application form, please contact your Family Lead.
>> Reminder: roundtable sessions to help shape Experts at Hand offer
As part of the next phase of co-production of Southwark’s Local SEND Reform Plan, headteachers and SENCOs are invited to help shape our Experts at Hand (EAH) offer through two upcoming workshops, each held from 10.00am to 12 noon:
- 10 November – Working protocols: how will schools and EAH work together to understand needs, deliver and review EAH support.
- 8 December – Training and inclusion development offer: how can we strengthen support for schools to deliver OAP and Inclusion Strategies?
To attend any of these workshops, please complete the registration form.
>> Building a borough-wide picture of SaLT provision
The Southwark Speech and Language Therapy (SaLT) Delivery Group brings together representatives from schools, health services, the Council and commissioners to improve speech and language support across the borough.
The group is focused on both immediate improvements and longer-term system change. As this work progresses, schools can expect greater transparency about available services, improved coordination between education, health and commissioned providers, and ongoing work to increase assessment capacity and reduce delays in the EHC needs assessment process.
A key priority is developing a borough-wide understanding of current SaLT provision. To support this work, all schools are asked to provide the names of any SaLT providers they commission directly by 17 November. Read the full letter to find out more.
Other updates
>> Safeguarding briefing: AirTags and consumer tracking devices
Please make yourself aware of the safeguarding risks associated with Bluetooth tracking devices such as Apple AirTags, which can be misused to stalk, monitor or control children and young people. This short briefing explains what safeguarding professionals, parents, carers and organisations should do to protect them.
>> New DfE attendance communication guidance
The Department for Education has published A guide for schools on communicating with parents about attendance, offering practical tips and examples to help schools have supportive, empathetic and effective conversations with parents. The guidance encourages a partnership approach, helping families understand the importance of attendance while ensuring they feel listened to and supported when challenges arise. It is a useful resource for attendance leads, pastoral staff, SEND colleagues and senior leaders.
>> FFP social care reforms recording for education safeguarding leaders
On 13 October, the DfE held a webinar for education safeguarding leaders on the Families First Partnership (FFP) social care reforms, focusing on the relevant measure in the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026, and the strengthened role of education and childcare in Multi-Agency Safeguarding Arrangements. You can find a recording of the webinar above. We will continue to keep you informed about local changes through this newsletter, individual meetings, and wider briefings.
>> Share our new budget conversation with parents and carers – until 13 November
The council faces a £102 million gap in its budget over the next three years. The gap is being driven by reduced government funding, growing demand for social care, rising costs and the increasing cost of temporary accommodation. We want as many people as possible to share their views online and tell the council which services matter most, where money could be used better and how it could raise more income. Help us share this important conversation with parents and carers about how we navigate one of the most challenging financial periods Southwark Council has faced.
>> Confirm your designated teacher for looked after and previously looked after children
We do not have a complete list of all the designated teachers for looked after and previously looked after children for each of our Southwark schools. As the role is a statutory role, even if your school currently does not have any looked after children or previously looked after children, we would be grateful if you could complete our form.
>> Southwark Council staff updated letter of assurance
Staff from Southwark Council’s Children's Services are regularly required to visit schools and meet with children. Please see the updated letter which explains the arrangements for this, including that staff shouldn’t be required to show a physical copy of their DBS. Please ensure your safeguarding and office staff (and any other relevant colleagues) are aware of these arrangements.
>> Update on South East London's approach to the implementation of Benedict's Law
The publication of the DfE’s final statutory guidance ‘Allergy safety in schools’ (July 2026) places the responsibility on schools for implementing the statutory requirements, including allergy policies, staff training, emergency preparedness and the provision of spare adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs). South East London ICB will focus on providing system leadership, coordination, and support to facilitate effective implementation. Read the ICB’s full statement to find out more about South East London's approach and support for schools.
>> Allergy training for school transport staff
Southwark Council and its transport providers are providing allergy awareness and anaphylaxis training in line with the requirements of Benedict’s Law. Training is currently being delivered to transport staff, including drivers and passenger assistants, and providers are ensuring that all staff complete the required training. In the interim, providers have confirmed that allergy awareness forms part of existing training programmes, with additional allergy-specific training being rolled out.
>> Free online counselling for LGBT+ young people
The Mosaic LGBT+ Young Persons’ Trust has capacity for counselling for young LGBT+ people aged 12 to 18 and 18 to 25. Interested persons should register as members first after which they get link in welcome email on accessing counselling.
>> Air quality project for children with asthma
Southwark families of primary or secondary school children with asthma are invited to take part in an exciting study about air quality and asthma.
Each family will get a tailored plan to help manage your child's asthma and improve air quality, insights into the air quality of your home and Southwark schools, a £20 shopping voucher, and a prize draw entry to win a £100 shopping voucher.
>> Funding opportunity opens 6 November: The Laurel Trust
Schools are invited to apply for funding from The Laurel Trust to support innovative school-based projects that enhance learning, wellbeing and opportunities for pupils. The Trust provides grants to help schools develop and deliver creative initiatives that make a positive difference to children and young people's educational experiences. Fine out more from 6 November.
>> Book on to one of our upcoming CPD events
With sessions including our English Subject Leaders Network on 9 November (online), Preparing for Year 6 Statutory Assessment 2026/2027 on 24 November (Tooley Street), and the AI for Leaders/Digital Strategy Session on 7 December (online) there’s a wide range of CPD opportunities available this autumn. Browse the programme and book your place.
>> ‘Where the lines are drawn’ theatre-in-education production
Little Fish Theatre is delighted to announce the return of our powerful theatre-in-education production and interactive workshop for Year 8 to 10 pupils. Exploring hate crime, discrimination, misinformation and the influence of social media the project is completely free, touring secondary schools 22 February to 19 March. Email suha@littlefishtheatre.co.uk with as many possible dates and times as you can. Watch the showreel to find out more.
>> School Food Matters bringing Young Marketeers to Borough Market
Giving primary school children the chance to grow, market and sell their own food. School Food Matters, a national charity delivering food education and school food transformation programmes is currently recruiting Southwark schools for their Young Marketeers. The programme is fully funded so delivered at no cost to participating schools. Please email enquiries@schoolfoodmatters.org if you are interested in bringing Young Marketeers to your school.
>> SC1 Pathways: health and life science careers resource
A new online jobs, skills and careers hub has launched, designed to support Lambeth and Southwark’s communities to build an understanding of career pathways and opportunities across the health and life sciences sector. Explore SC1 Pathways with your students and share with your career and STEAM leads.
>> TCS London Marathon teacher places – deadline 5 Nov
Every school in London is eligible to apply for two guaranteed staff places in the 2027 Double TCS London Marathon.
Emails with details on how to claim the places have been sent to either each school’s Headteacher (where this information is available) or to a general office email address, from no-reply@marketing.londonmarathonevents.co.uk. Applications must be submitted by 4.00pm on 5 November.
>> TCS Mini London Marathon – 23 April
The TCS Mini London Marathon will open with one-mile mass events and culminate with the 2.6K TCS London Marathon Championships: London Borough Challenge. The route starts on Horse Guards Parade and ends at the iconic Finish Line on The Mall. Find how schools can enter.
>> Raising awareness of Erasmus+
The first funding call for the 2027 Erasmus+ programme is expected to open this month, with application deadlines in February/March. A further funding call for schools is also expected later in 2027. Ahead of the launch, the DfE and British Council are raising awareness of the opportunities available with schools.
>> Rotary clubs annual youth competitions
Rotary clubs across the country run annual youth competitions such as Young Artist/Writer/Photographer/Environmentalist/Musician/Chef and Youth Speaks. Some competitions lead on to regional and national finals. For more information, visit their website or contact shirleyfaiers@gmail.com.
Governors
>> Southwark Governors' Association networking event
To mark Governor Awareness Day, we're holding an online Southwark Governors' Association (SGA) networking and discussion event on 11 February at 6.00pm. Join fellow governors to share experiences, discuss key issues, and exchange ideas through facilitated discussions and breakout rooms. More information will be available soon.
What's on
>> Children's flu vaccine parent and carer information webinars
The South London Children and Young People's Community Immunisation Service has shared details, including promotional posters, with all schools.
- 10 November, 1.00 to 2.00pm
- 19 November, 4.00 to 5.00pm
Please register to attend. A copy of the recording will be shared after the event.
>> Community cohesion webinars – 5 November to 8 July
Culham St Gabriels' Trust has recently launched materials and webinars to support schools in thinking about how they promote the Freedom of Religion and Belief, starting with the ‘Exploring mutual respect and tolerance in education’ webinar on 5 November.
>> Interfaith Week for Schools – 8 to 15 November
This year’s theme is ‘Lighting the Way to a Shared Future’ in celebration of the belief that, even in challenging times, communities can come together to build understanding, trust and friendship, drawing on the symbolism of light across faiths and traditions, including Diwali, which takes place on the first day.
>> Introduce students to the exciting world of health and life sciences – 17 November
Join the free SC1 Pathfinders event and explore health and life sciences with your students aged 14–19. For questions or group bookings email sc1London@kcl.ac.uk.
>> 8th Inclusive London event – 25 November
9.00am to 1.00pm, Islip Manor High School, Ealing, UB5 4HP. Join the GLA’s Violence Reduction Unit for their free Inclusive London event, looking at inclusion spaces and neurodivergent initiatives in schools, the benefits and challenges to schools acting as community cohesion hubs, and the role of family zones.
>> Schools Safeguarding Forum – 26 November
9.00am to 12:30pm, Tooley Street. DSL, DDSLs and school leaders are invited to attend our Safeguarding Forum to hear key safeguarding updates from Children’s Social Care and other key partners. No need to register – use the link above to add a reminder to your calendar. Keep an eye out for more information shared in our weekly safeguarding bulletin.
>> Workshop: Building resilient, efficient and sustainable schools – 3 December
9.30 am to 12.30pm, Tooley Street. RAFT (Retrofit Action for Tomorrow) training to support premises/site managers to sustainably manage your school buildings, reduce energy costs and become more efficient. Please share.
>> Barristers’ Access and Insight Day – 4 December
Designed to give Year 12 or 13 students from disadvantaged backgrounds with an interest in law a first-hand insight into legal careers. Students will spend the day visiting barristers’ chambers, Inner Temple, and the Technology and Construction Court (TCC), meeting practising barristers, a High Court Judge and court clerks.
Students must be eligible for Pupil Premium/Free School Meals or otherwise come from a disadvantaged background. Email Lulzim.Osmani@southwark.gov.uk or IMunro@4pumpcourt.com.
>> Governor’s Forum 2027
Our upcoming 2027 Governor’s Forum dates for your diaries:
- 19 January 2027, Zoom – 6.00pm. Please register in advance to attend.
- 5 May 2027– 6.00pm, Tooley Street