President's Blog - September 2011

Submitted by Claire Lockwood on 10 September 2011 - 12:09pm

Optimistic for a Better Year

Welcome back from what I hope has been a relaxing and enjoyable summer break.

Last year was a difficult year in Gypsy, Roma and Traveller education up and down the country seeing many TESs reduced or disappear.

The impact on access, attainment and life long opportunities for our client groups could be damaged by these cuts. NATT+ is actively involved in confronting this by working closely with the Department of Education.

At a meeting on the 1st September Angela Overington from the ‘Narrow the gaps’ division of the Department said, and I quote, "there is a real buzz around the department regarding Gypsy, Roma and Traveller education." She went on to say there would be announcements in early October. To this end we have invited Angela to the next NATT+ meeting on the 8th October where members will be one of the first to find out about these new initiatives and gain a better understanding. These meetings are for NATT+ members only.

It is a great time to join NATT+ for all colleagues who work with Gypsy, Roma and Traveller children and young people. NATT+ has now a dedicated area on this website for members which includes forums, resources including National strategy resources and DfE consultations. In addition all NATT+ members can have 2 free copies of our Famous Gypsy, Roma and Traveller poster sets and a free copy of the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month storytelling and poetry books.

There are two free annual NATT+ meetings where members are informed on latest practice, initiatives and resources and one annual conference at a much reduced rate.

NATT+ members can also become actively involved in the 5 different groups:

  • Roma Group
  • ICT and Resources Group
  • Education Partnership Group – (working with Showmen and Circus)
  • Policy and Strategy Group
  • Professional Development Group

Please look on the website for more information. If you have an interest in joining any of these groups please contact the chair of the group.

I feel much more optimistic for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller Education this year and look forward to working with you all and seeing you on the 8th.

Claire Lockwood

Joint President