The objective of the Virtual Schools Networks is to create a network of "Partnerships" to form a collaborative framework in order to maximize the teaching and learning impact.
The Network Principal sets the ethos and purpose of the Network and provides a centralised "Portal" to information, resources, exemplars and case studies using the dedicated Virtual Schools Platform.
Hubs, Spokes and Virtual RuckSacks -The mechanism for cascading information between Network Partners and Network Members (Schools, Colleges, Staff, Students and Partners).
Hubs are the "Primary Locations" controlling the dissemination and evaluation of the purpose of all activity across the Network. Hubs require a dedicated website with a bespoke design and content to their own needs linking to the Network Principal and with "Spoke" microsites.
Spokes are the "Secondary locations" whose job it is to interpret the central ethos and purpose (via the Hubs) and then coordinate activity across their network area and all network members using Virtual RuckSacks. Spokes require a dedicated "microsite" adopting the lead design from their "Hub Website".
Virtual Rucksacks provide a secure individual and personalised web environment for all members of the Network. Network Principals and administrators, network managers, network champions, staff, students and mentors. Rucksacks allow secure communications between all network members using e-mail and Virtual Schools Video Mail, collaborative working areas with shared resources and most importantly creation of individual e-portfolios and evidential proof of teaching and learning impact.
In March 2006 Kings' School, Winchester was selected as the Enterprise Hub for Hampshire with the core objective of facilitating Enterprise CPD for all teachers in all schools in the hub area. In order to optimise the potential of the network Stuart Johnson, Hub Leader at Kings' School, met with the six enterprise spoke school leaders to collaborate to form the Hampshire Enterprise Learning Partnerships - HELP! Click here to visit the 'Hampshire Enterprise Learning Partnerships' website.
