Headteacher and SENDCO update on the School year 2024-2025
As we embark on a new academic year, we are filled with optimism and excitement about the journey ahead. This year marks a significant transition for The Write Time, not only as we welcome a new Senior Leadership Team but also a number of enthusiastic new staff members who bring fresh perspectives and a wealth of experience.
As a small Special Educational Needs (SEN) school, our primary objective this year is to continue to create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student can thrive academically and personally. We do so by effectively linking therapies to teaching and learning, aligning our strategies with the outcomes outlined in each student’s Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
Our therapy offer is increasingly solid, and all pupils are accessing one or more therapies in school. The Speech and Language Therapist works very closely with teachers and parents and provides an ILP (Individualised Learning Plan) with strategies and targets, which can be used not only as support, but also when setting new outcome targets for EHCP reviews. Furthermore, in addition to Art and Occupational Therapies, pupils have access to Music Therapy and this year we have added an extra day, which means more pupils can access this support. Going forward, we will also be introducing ELSA sessions and we will look into introducing Lego Therapy as part of our offer.
Particularly, we reviewed the curriculum and made changes which reflect the journey TWT is on as a Glasser Quality SEN School. One of the major changes was to change the vocational subjects board we follow to AIM VOC, supporting our staff’s feedback. In addition, the curriculum has a focus on ‘Stepping Stones”, which means that pupils work towards achieving different stages to achieve different stepping stones. This broadens and enhances their learning experience.
We have also introduced Humanities and Wellbeing to the KS3 Curriculum. Humanities has sparked great interest, and pupils have not only embraced this new subject, but are also fully engaging and enjoying what they are learning. The stepping stones here will be to explore different trips they can go on which tie in with the topics they are learning. The Wellbeing sessions are led by the Headteacher, who is Choice Theory certified, and these sessions are an opportunity for pupils in KS3 Nurtures 1 and 2 to explore a range of scenarios and to be introduced to Choice Theory. The stepping stones here will be for pupils to be more confident within themselves while learning to use CT to reflect on what needs are not being met, understanding their own choices and evaluating if what they are doing is getting them what they want and needs. We aim to extend this to all KS3 groups next academic year.
There are also some new clubs this academic year. Our Breakfast Club has become a social hub in the mornings: there are games, music, toast, cereal, milk and pupils have a chance to start the day in a positive way. At lunch and break there will be a Computer Club, where pupils will take old computers apart and learn how to put them back together, while others prefer the Art and Mindfulness Club, the UNO Club or the Switch and PS4 Clubs.
Lastly, one of the most notable changes this year is our revised uniform policy. We believe that a smart and cohesive appearance not only enhances the sense of belonging among our students, but also sets high expectations for behaviour and engagement. We are confident that this approach will contribute positively to our school culture and instil a sense of pride within our community. We can safely say that this has been successful and, as a school community, everyone looks smart and ready to learn. Engagement in lessons has improved along with support from parents when ensuring their child is in correct uniform, while the levels of behaviour incidents have reduced.
In conclusion, this year will focus on unity and collaboration. We are excited about the potential this year holds for our students, staff, and the wider school community. Together, with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to our core values, we will strive for excellence and make significant strides towards achieving the best outcomes for every child in our care.
