News and Articles at Bookmark

On November 10th, we celebrate World Science Day for Peace and Development. This day shines a light on the incredible role science plays in advancing our society, improving our lives, and addressing the global challenges we face. It’s a reminder that science is not just a subject learned in school—it’s the foundation of innovation and progress.

Why science matters
Science shapes the world we live in, from the technologies we use daily to the medical advancements that save lives. Without science, we wouldn’t have electricity, the internet, or even something as basic as painkillers. The vaccines that protect us from diseases like COVID-19 and Ebola are the result of years of scientific research and forward-thinking.

By understanding science, we can make informed choices about our health, the environment, and the future. It empowers us to evaluate information, problem solve, and think creatively—skills that are essential not just in the science lab, but in everyday life.

Whether it’s developing new cancer treatments or discovering innovative ways to find criminals through DNA evidence, science has the power to shape a better future for all generations.

Why science education is crucial
Science education in schools plays a key role in developing the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and problem-solvers. When students learn about the structure of DNA, the chemistry behind a vaccine, or the physics of electricity, they’re absorbing facts, developing critical thinking, and problem-solving skills that will benefit them in all areas of life.

Science helps children and young adults to understand the world around them, sparking curiosity and encouraging them to ask ‘why’ and ‘how’.

This curiosity drives creativity, allowing students to explore new ideas and find innovative ways to solve problems. By making science fun and engaging, educators can inspire these future generations to better the world. 

Students who are able to see how science impacts the real world – such as tackling climate change or developing life changing treatments – are more likely to see it as not just a classroom requirement, and go on to make a difference.

World Science Day: a time to reflect and inspire

World Science Day gives us the perfect opportunity to reflect on the importance of science in our day-to-day lives and the need to keep it at the heart of education. By celebrating this day in schools, students can see firsthand how science is used to solve global problems and improve the quality of life for people everywhere.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education is essential for the future of innovation, as these subjects drive every part of the modern world. It is down to teachers today to provide the next generation with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration they need to go on and find their own success within these vital subjects.

The future of science

The future of science is incredibly exciting, with possibilities that will go on to shape the world. From discovering new forms of renewable energy, unlocking more secrets of the human body, science will continue to define the world we live in. For this to happen, we need to continue investing in science education, making sure that students not only understand scientific concepts but also the impact it has on shaping the future.

World Science Day reminds us of the importance of teaching science in schools—not just to prepare students for future careers, but by fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity. This combination of characteristics will help the next generation take on whatever the future may bring.

If you want to further your career and get involved with empowering the next generation of scientists, take a look at the services Bookmark offers here.

This month-long campaign aims to empower individuals to take charge and further their career.

Teachers are the heart of our society; by investing in their development, we’re not just enhancing their careers—we’re building a brighter, more innovative future for the leaders of tomorrow.

Here’s how we can champion and empower these key figures in our educational system.

1. Innovative training and professional development

The landscape of education is rapidly evolving, and so are the needs of teachers. As a result, innovative training programmes are needed to keep up with the educational landscape.

During Career Development Month, educational institutions and organisations should prioritise offering training that addresses the latest teaching trends and digital tools. These development opportunities should promote critical thinking, ensuring that teachers are well-prepared to engage and inspire their students.

2. Creating a supportive work environment

A supportive and collaborative work environment is crucial for teachers’ success and satisfaction.

One way this can be done is through mentorship programmes, which are a powerful tool for supporting new educators. Pairing new starters with experienced teachers can provide invaluable guidance and practical insights.

Additionally, fostering a culture of collaboration in every organisation where teachers can share resources and best practices can help promote a sense of community and support.

3. Providing access to resources and technology

Teachers need the right tools and resources to effectively educate their students. Ensuring that they have access to modern technology and teaching materials is a fundamental aspect of empowering them.

This includes evolving to trends such as through the provision of digital libraries, multimedia resources, and up-to-date software. By investing in these resources, we equip teachers to deliver high-quality education.

4. Prioritising wellbeing

The wellbeing of teachers is directly linked to their effectiveness in the classroom.

During Career Development Month, it’s important to highlight the significance of work-life balance and mental health support, reducing the chance of issues such as teacher burnout occurring.

Implementing policies that promote a healthy work-life balance and providing access to mental health resources can help maintain job satisfaction, also allowing teachers to better focus on their students and their professional growth.

6. Involving teachers in policy making

To truly empower teachers, their voices must be heard in the policy-making process.

Involving educators in the development of educational policies ensures that their experiences and insights shape the decisions that impact their work.

Creating feedback mechanisms where teachers can share their perspectives on policies and practices helps bridge the gap between policy and practice.

7. Engaging the community and parents

Building strong partnerships with parents and the community enhances the educational experience for students, building a better environment for all.

During Career Development Month, promoting initiatives that encourage teachers to engage with families and local communities can strengthen these relationships. They can provide guidance to educate parents on how to support their children’s learning, creating a collaborative effort to achieve success.

8. Recognising achievements

Recognition is a powerful motivator. Celebrating teachers’ achievements and contributions through awards, public acknowledgments, and other forms of recognition reinforces their value and dedication.

During Career Development Month, highlighting the successes of educators not only boosts morale but also inspires others in the profession. With teacher numbers needing to increase, this is a great way to promote the rewarding role teachers play.

Career Development Month serves as a reminder of the critical role teachers play in shaping the future. By focusing on these areas, we can empower the educators of tomorrow to thrive and make a lasting impact on their students and the education system.

Are you interested in embarking on a rewarding teaching career? Get in touch with Bookmark today to find out more about how we can support you.

Learning a new language from a young age has monumental benefits which can support children in a variety of ways.

As an interconnected global society, learning a language has adapted from being merely an academic requirement to now being a valuable life skill. It exposes children to diverse cultures, perspectives, and opportunities, and supports their cognitive development in a multitude of ways.

This blog explores the benefits of learning a language in school and why it is so important…

Cognitive benefits

During our early education, learning a language can greatly improve our cognitive abilities through its more hands-on approach to learning.

Studying a new language requires skills that utilise memory and retention, and practicing this from a young age can enhance these abilities going forward.

And, due to the way in which different languages structure their sentences in alternative styles, with different verb conjugations and tense usage, it unlocks the skills required for critical thinking and problem solving.

This can support children with their other subjects, such as maths and reading, supplying them with transferable skills that can improve their performance across the board.

Cultural awareness

Studying a new language goes beyond the vocabulary as it also touches on a totally new culture. Through learning a language, children gain insights into different communities and social norms, along with different traditions and ways of life.

If children are exposed to these differences from a young age, it can foster cultural sensitivity and empathy, breaking down stereotypes and building bridges between people from diverse backgrounds.

Builds confidence

The personal benefits that can come with learning a language are not to be ignored, as the effect it can have on a child’s confidence is invaluable.

Due to the patience that is required when learning a new language, along with the persistence that is needed, it can encourage resilience in children when acknowledging their progress.

Learning a language usually entails speaking in front of peers, often making mistakes and having to actively learn from them, working on verbal and non-verbal communication, which can all play into improving a child’s confidence.

CV builder

As mentioned, being able to speak another language is highly beneficial for general life now that cultures are so interconnected; and this includes being beneficial in the working world, too.

That’s why employers are actively seeking multilingual employees who can communicate with different clients, partners, and colleagues, expanding the reach of the company.

If children learn these skills from a young age, it opens up their access to opportunities, particularly in fields such as international business, tourism, translation, education and more.

In fact, people who speak a second language can earn up to 20% more than those who just speak one, and they are often in higher demand, which demonstrates just how useful learning a language can prove to be for a child’s professional development.

Are you looking for a language teaching role?

If you are in search of your next challenge and are equipped with the skills to teach foreign languages, then Bookmark can support you in finding your dream role. Alternatively, if your business is looking to hire your next language teacher, we also have the resources to help.

Get in touch with us today and we can support you with your education recruitment needs!

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Bookmark delves into the financial considerations and incentives to keep in mind when pursuing a nursery manager role and what salary range nursery managers should consider.

When considering a role as a nursery manager, it’s important to understand how salaries can vary. Several factors influence potential earnings, including location, the size of the nursery, your level of experience, and whether the nursery is private, public, or charity-run.

On average, you can expect to earn between £25,000 and £35,000 per year. However, in larger nurseries or high-cost areas like London, salaries can exceed £45,000. In smaller settings or less expensive regions, starting salaries might be closer to £22,000.

Bonus schemes

In addition to base salaries, many nurseries offer bonus schemes as part of their compensation packages. These schemes can be a great way to increase your overall earnings based on your performance and the achievement of specific targets.

Types of Bonus Schemes You Might Encounter:

1. Performance Bonuses: These are awarded based on individual or team performance. For example, you might receive bonuses for achieving goals such as improving nursery ratings, meeting enrolment targets, or enhancing overall staff performance.
2. Profit Sharing: In some private or larger nurseries, you may be eligible for profit-sharing arrangements. This means you could receive a portion of the nursery’s profits, providing a financial incentive linked to the nursery’s overall success.
3. Retention Bonuses: To encourage long-term commitment and reduce turnover, some nurseries offer retention bonuses. These bonuses are typically paid after a certain period of service and reward you for staying with the organisation and contributing to its stability.
4. Holiday and Annual Bonuses: Some nurseries offer bonuses at the end of the year or during holidays as a gesture of appreciation for your hard work. These can vary in amount and might be fixed or percentage-based.

Factors to Consider When Evaluating Salary and Bonuses

1. Location: Salaries and bonus schemes can differ by region. In urban or high-cost areas, you may find more competitive salaries and bonus opportunities. Conversely, rural areas might offer lower salaries but could provide more stable working conditions.
2. Experience and Qualifications: Your experience and qualifications are key factors in determining both your base salary and eligibility for bonuses. With extensive experience and advanced qualifications, you are often in a stronger position to negotiate higher salaries and more lucrative bonus schemes.
3. Size and Type of Nursery: Larger nurseries or those part of a chain may offer more substantial bonus schemes due to higher revenues and complex operations. Private nurseries often have more flexible bonus structures compared to charitable or community-run settings, where budgets might be tighter.
4. Additional Benefits: When considering a role, evaluate the full compensation package, including any bonus schemes. Bonuses can significantly enhance your earnings, so it’s important to understand how they are calculated and what criteria you need to meet.
5. Job Security and Work-Life Balance: While a higher salary and attractive bonus scheme are important, you should also consider job security, work-life balance, and overall job satisfaction. A role that offers a good balance of salary, bonuses, and a positive work environment may be more beneficial in the long run.

Negotiating Salary and Bonuses

When you receive a job offer, be prepared to discuss and negotiate both salary and bonus schemes. Research standard compensation packages for nursery managers in your area and consider your experience and the value you bring to the role. If the initial salary offer is lower than expected, don’t hesitate to inquire about the possibility of performance-related bonuses or other benefits that could enhance your total compensation.

By understanding and negotiating both base salaries and bonus opportunities, you can ensure that you are fairly compensated for your role and contributions as a nursery manager. Balancing these financial aspects with the nursery’s values and work environment will help you make an informed and satisfying career decision.

If you are looking into a career in a nursery, or other educational institutions, discover the recruitment services Bookmark offer at: https://bookmarkeducation.co.uk/

Teaching is one of the most vital careers in our society today. Teachers have a profound impact on the leaders of tomorrow and can directly influence a young person’s outlook on life.

Being an educator can help shape a child’s career, push them to achieve goals, build confidence, learn new skills, and communicate effectively.

Adapting to modern society

In today’s world, it can be harder than ever for young people to focus on learning due to the abundance of distractions stemming from technology and AI. It is crucial for teachers to continuously adapt to these changes.

COVID-19 is a prime example of how teachers have adjusted by learning new methods to educate and engage students. To counteract the distractions of home life, teachers had to make content captivating and relevant.

Technology can therefore be taken advantage on and enhance learning by enabling teachers to create interactive techniques that provide students with more information than ever before.

Passing on the knowledge

Being a teacher can be an extremely rewarding job. Passing on knowledge to the next generation is necessary and important – for instance, from birth to around eight years old is one of the most crucial windows in a child’s life in terms of development, so the way they are taught is important.

Finding innovative ways to educate on various subjects can be both exciting and creatively fulfilling. A teacher’s approach can impact a child’s entire educational journey and highlights the importance of fostering critical thinking skills.

Role Models

Teachers are a pillar of knowledge and can often become mentors and sources of inspiration. Many people remember the positive impact that great teachers had on their lives.

Children often strive to be more like their favourite adults, so the way a teacher interacts and educates in the classroom is particularly significant. A positive experience with a dedicated teacher can motivate a young person to want to achieve more.

The presence of role models in a young person’s life also increases the likelihood of maintaining motivation throughout their education.

Being empathetic and caring

Effective teaching extends beyond instruction and knowledge; it involves empathy and kindness. The best teachers are both passionate and compassionate, they understand that everyone’s background is different, and some children may face more challenging upbringings.  

They can identify those that might need extra support and guide them to relevant resources. Today, there is more support available than ever before, making it easier to identify early signs that a student might need additional help.

Not just in the classroom

Teaching right from wrong and encouraging participation in the correct activities is also a significant role that teachers play. It develops personal growth and therefore has an impact on confidence and people skills.

However, it is not just inside the classroom where teachers influence; encouraging participation in extracurricular activities or sport can promote teamwork, endurance and perseverance.

Such activities allow young people to discover their talents, develop hobbies, and invest their time and effort in productive areas.

Linking the community together

In the classroom, teachers promote inclusiveness and ensure every pupil has the same opportunities. Educators are vital in connecting the community and encouraging bonds to be built with everyone. This is more important than ever in today’s world.

Encouraging kindness and inclusiveness will go on to have a positive effect in how a young person perceives and engages with the world.

If you feel inspired to make a difference in the next generation through teaching or are looking for educators to join your team, explore Bookmark’s recruitment services here.

The early years of someone’s life are crucial for their development and growth, emotionally and physically, which is why nursery teachers hold such high levels of responsibility teaching children from ages three to five.

The direct impact that teachers have on children’s lives is immense, and the work involved requires hours of hard work.

Along with planning and organising appropriate activities to engage the children for learning purposes, nursery teachers often need to help with personal needs such as feeding and changing, depending on their age. 

Their responsibilities also involve being a role model for children, inspiring them and nurturing them to be able to achieve their full potential

There are countless studies on child development that show how valuable early years education is. Not only does it support and provide children with social, language and numeracy skills, but it has been proven that early years teaching can in fact boost the earnings of children when they’re older.

It is certain that no two days are the same when working as a nursery teacher, and their dedication to children’s development goes beyond academic teaching. This blog will explore the role of nursery teachers and their inspirational impact on children’s development.

The role of nursery teachers

Nursery teachers have different responsibilities to consider when looking after a classroom of three- to five-year-olds, with various ways in which they can impact their progression and learning. Through catering to the needs of different children, teachers have to consider how to achieve the following points to support their learning and development.

Creating a safe and nurturing environment

A classroom must be kept clean and tidy in order to prevent accidents, but also to promote a healthy environment. A teacher must also ensure to create an emotionally safe space, where children feel happy and able to express themselves, with the teacher able to support them through times of hesitation or frustration. 

Facilitating early learning

As mentioned, the early years of learning are extremely important for children, so introducing basic concepts such as numbers, letters, shapes and colours in the form of engaging activities is a key part of their education. A teacher must consider how to make lessons fun and interactive, to encourage a want to learn and improve, too. 

Promoting social and emotional development

Being surrounded by other children, exposed to different types of personalities and people of different backgrounds, allows children to interact with others and practice their social skills. They can learn to share, to be patient, and develop empathy. A teacher must promote this within their classroom environment, and assist children in learning how to effectively and politely communicate and interact with their peers.

Supporting physical development 

A lot of activities can be physical in nature, allowing children to enhance their motor skills, growing in confidence with their physical abilities, too. Being in a learning environment can also encourage children to develop healthy habits related to good nutrition and hygiene. This is where nursery teachers must implement a variety of activities and discussions in their lessons, so that young children are being taught about and shown the importance of movement and health. 

If you would like to make a difference by supporting children in their early education, or are looking for a qualified nursery teacher to join your team, then Bookmark is the education recruitment partner to help you.

You can contact us today via our contact form – we look forward to hearing from you.

From the 17th of June to the 23rd of June, it is National School Sport Week, a time dedicated to encouraging children to become more involved in sports and have at least 60 minutes a day of PE. In partnership with Sports Direct, this week is the time to ‘play for fun, play for 60’.

The Government advises that children should be active for 30 minutes during the school day, and then a further 30 minutes outside of school. For disabled young people, it is recommended that they carry out a minimum of 20 minutes of physical activity every day, with strength and balance activity three times a week.

This year, the week’s theme centres around the Euros, with a special one-off event that focusses on football and how it can engage young people in sport. By registering, schools will be able to have access to free resources, lesson plans, and classroom activities, all co-designed by young people specifically for young people.

Sports Direct will also be giving away free football packs that include Nike footballs, Monster Kickabout bibs, and more.

Incorporating healthy activities into a child’s daily life is a proven way to support their development, and this blog will delve into the multiple factors that demonstrate why sports are beneficial for children.

The physical benefits for children

Throughout childhood, our minds and bodies are developing and evolving, with so many changes occurring. Playing sport offers physical benefits for children during this crucial period of development, with a variety of positive contributions.

From such a young age, it is beneficial to begin developing and using muscles, and playing sports can improve coordination and motor skills in the process. It can also support cardiovascular health through the incorporation of regular exercise in children’s daily routine.

By making sport a regular occurrence in a child’s life, it can also support those who are at risk of an unhealthy lifestyle, are fighting obesity, or have any other related health conditions. And, it can help to improve sleeping patterns, too, ensuring that children can rest properly and maintain a balanced lifestyle.

The mental benefits for children

The benefits of playing sport do not stop with physical factors. In fact, playing sport can encourage cognitive growth through the increase in production of endorphins. This can further enhance brain function, whilst also supporting an improved state of mental wellbeing.

Beyond this, playing sport and being more active contributes to so many other skills such as problem-solving and decision-making, as well as an improvement in focus, attention span and information retention.

The social benefits for children

Of course, playing sport is a social activity as well as a physical one, and it can carry so many benefits for children’s social skills. It can dramatically help with communication skills, particularly in circumstances that encourage teamwork and cooperation.

Through expressing themselves in a different environment to that of the classroom, playing a sport allows children to improve their confidence, too, with dramatic improvements to their self-esteem and mental attitude.

Are you looking for your next sports career opportunity?

If you are looking for your next role as a PE teacher or a similar role and want to support and encourage children in playing and learning sports, then get in touch with us today. Here at Bookmark, we can help you to find your dream role, and we can also match up schools looking for the best suited teachers to join their team.

As a leading education recruitment partner, you will be in safe hands, so contact us today and we will discuss your next steps.

Learning Disability Week, this year taking place between 17th – 23rd June, places a spotlight on what life as someone with learning disabilities looks like.

This year’s theme, ‘Do you see me?’ highlights the need for people with learning disabilities to be seen, heard and valued.

Educators play a vital role in challenging the barriers faced by those with disabilities in schools, supporting them and aiding their development in pivotal ways from a young age.

These roles are multifaceted and incredibly rewarding, actively contributing to generating positive change in society. Here, we explore the many ways in which Special Educational Needs educators make a difference.

Providing individualised support and instruction

Special Educational Needs teachers and support staff plan and teach lessons that are entirely tailored to meet the needs of children with learning disabilities.

By receiving individualised care and instruction, children are more easily able to overcome specific hurdles and perform to the best of their abilities.

This could also include the creation of personalised learning plans that outline students’ strengths and weaknesses, learning goals and strategies for support.

Adapting teaching methods and materials

A large part of the work SEN teachers do is using different teaching strategies and tools to accommodate the needs of children with learning difficulties. As part of this, they often modify assessment methods to ensure every child’s work is assessed fairly, regardless of any learning difficulties.

This could involve multisensory learning, such as using visual aids or interactive strategies to enhance learning and retention, or technology integration to facilitate independent learning.

Through this, children with learning difficulties learn how to carry out tasks in ways that suit their learning style, also becoming more independent and self-aware.

Skill development

SEN educators help students with learning difficulties with a holistic approach, aiding the development of both academic and life skills such as communication, problem-solving, time management, collaboration and more.

This is vital in helping children achieve their full potential both while in education and later in life.

SEN teachers often address specific skill gaps by providing additional practice and reinforcement to develop proficiency, helping children with learning disabilities build confidence and overcome personal challenges.

Advocacy

When it comes to advocacy, special needs educators have a crucial role to play. By collaborating with parents and other stakeholders both within and outside educational establishments, they can help shift attitudes and improve perceptions.

There is often a lot of misinformation and ignorance surrounding children with learning disabilities, and SEN teachers become pivotal in raising awareness, being a voice for their students.

A vital part of this involves advocating for the rights and needs of children with learning disabilities within the school system, such as to ensure that appropriate resources and services are provided to support the students’ learning and development.

Empowerment

Special needs educators empower students by teaching them vital self-advocacy skills and nurturing a growth mindset. Through their work, they encourage students to recognise their strengths, overcome challenges, and advocate for themselves both in academic and social settings.

SEN teachers also offer social and emotional support to help students develop self-awareness, self-regulation, and interpersonal skills. They provide opportunities for social interaction, emotional expression, and conflict resolution, fostering a positive, supportive and empowering classroom environment.

By celebrating small achievements and progress in the right ways, educators boost children’s confidence and enhance their desire to engage in learning activities, building a brighter future for them.

Becoming a SEN teacher

SEN teachers are advocates, facilitators and contributors to the wellbeing and success of students with learning disabilities. These individuals create inclusive environments to suit their unique needs, a huge part of cultivating their independence and breaking down barriers.

These roles are vital in providing social and emotional support, offering positive reinforcement to build self-esteem as well as contributing to children’s professional development and independence post-education.

Are you interested in pursuing a rewarding career in SEN teaching? Contact a member of our team today to find out how Bookmark can help you:

April 17^th marks National Early Years Teacher Day, a dedicated date for ensuring we make an active effort to celebrate all of the work that teachers do, also providing an opportunity for people to nominate someone for the National Early Years Teacher of the Year Awards.

As this awareness day highlights, teachers play a pivotal role in the development of children, and not just academically.

The early years of a child’s life are crucial, and teachers must create a nurturing environment for their personal growth, fostering social, emotional and physical development. This also involves ensuring that children feel safe to express themselves freely, to support the building of confidence and resilience.

With so much responsibility in a child’s life, particularly with younger children, ensuring we show our appreciation for the work and dedication teachers put in is important, especially given the challenges they face.

With high levels of stress and a risk of burnout, along with keeping up to date with the latest developments in their field and discovering teaching methods to cater to diverse learners, teachers take on a lot with their role.

The importance of National Early Years Teacher Day

Emphasising the importance of young children’s education

Early years education is crucial for children’s development, and teachers have a heavy impact on this. These early ages are when children can and should learn essential skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and different emotional and social abilities.

With the responsibility of not only a child’s academic improvement, but also their personal growth, ensuring we show our appreciation and support for Early Years Teachers is vital, as is increasing people’s understanding of the meaningful nature of their role.

Creating a community for teachers

National Early Years Teacher Day also provides a setting for community, creating a supportive network for teachers to share best practices, tips, and guidance for other teachers to adopt.

Being able to share passions about the profession and collaborate with like-minded people can foster a sense of solidarity and belonging, positively affecting the working lives of teachers and therefore children, too.

How can you show your support this National Early Years Teacher Day?

You can show your support and help teachers to feel appreciated this National Early Years Teacher Day, showing them the recognition they deserve.

Whether you’re a parent or an educator yourself, ensuring you can thank at least one Early Years Teacher is sure to make a difference. With the dedication and hard work that these teachers put into shaping the future generation, our love and support is needed.

By working together and showing our support, we can improve the lives of teachers, contributing to ensuring that every child is given the chance to succeed right from the very beginning of their education.

Are you looking for Early Years Teachers or roles?

If you’re looking to fill a vacancy for an Early Years Teacher in your organisation, or you are yourself looking for your next role as an Early Years Teacher, then here at Bookmark we can support you on this journey.

As education recruitment specialists, our expansive database and team of highly trained professionals enable us to connect you with the perfect candidate, or can lead you to your dream job.

Contact us today and we can take the next steps together.