Perseid School

Staff Blog

Each month, a member of our team at Perseid contributes to our staff blog, sharing with our community different aspects of the Perseid School experience, ranging from teaching practise, therapies, the importance of enrichment and strategies used every day within the school. 

April 2024: Karen Brennan, Swimming at Perseid School

Perseid School is unique, in the sense that it has two hydrotherapy pools across both campuses which not only enhances their pupil experience and offers the chance for pupils to regularly swim, but first and foremost, it allows pupils the chance to develop their water confidence.

With simple instructions and support, pupils can experience the feeling of floating and moving independently around the pool. Some of our pupils really benefit from a program of stretching and weightbearing exercises that are developed by our onsite physio, whilst others enjoy the sensory benefits of jumping, splashing or going underwater.

Swimming lessons at Perseid enable all the pupils to exercise together, play games, socialize and have fun.

There are many benefits to the pupils at Perseid who access swimming, from the warm water and specialist teaching enabling pupils to improve their strength and stamina in a safe and fun environment, to allowing pupils to develop coordination and social skills through structured learning, play and sensory exploration.

Since completing a degree in Sport and Recreation I have worked at various sport centres and have enjoyed coaching several different sports. I was inspired to work at Perseid because I love to help other people enjoy being active and help to develop their ability and confidence. Perseid school has great facilities and the fact that many pupils start when they are very small enables you as a teacher to see huge progression as they grow up.

For me, the best part of my career and working at Perseid School is the fact that swimming can be such a positive experience for many of our students, some pupils are so happy they can’t wait to get in and don’t want to get out, it really is their happy place, when that happens you feel like you are sharing their joy.

March 2024: Katie Muffett, My Journey of Career Progression

Before joining Perseid School, I had eight years’ experience working in primary settings, including lunch time play coordinator and after school play worker roles. Whist in this role, I worked closely with a child with SEND, interacting and playing with them, and I always felt incredibly proud when I witnessed the pupil’s achievements and interactions.

Working with this pupil made me feel like I had the opportunity to make a difference, and suddenly I realised I was quite passionate about this – wanting to do more and support the most vulnerable. From that moment on I sought out SEND schools, and came across Perseid. I applied to for a Level 1 Teaching Assistant role, and was thrilled when I was offered the position.

Since 2021, I have had the opportunity to develop from a part time Level 1 Teaching Assistant to a full time Level 3 Teaching Assistant, and qualified as Rebound trained.

Throughout the years of working at Perseid, I have been fortunate enough to be encouraged to speak up and seek further learning and career opportunities, and sought out by management and invited to further my career. After expressing an interest in wishing to develop my career, I was offered the opportunity of a full-time position, which enabled me to build on my knowledge and gain more experience. When I was offered the position of Senior Teaching Assistant in January 2024, I was truly grateful that my desire to progress and my potential had been recognised, alongside the ongoing support from Senior Teaching Assistants, Class Teachers and SLT.    

My colleagues and Senior Leaders at Perseid are truly one of a kind, always seeking to grow from within and offering training prospects to ensure what we deliver to pupils has their development at the forefront. In January 2024 I embarked on a Level 3 Childcare and Education course, recommended to me by the Executive Headteacher and funded by the school. My class team have also been amazing, they have been highly understanding and supportive with my change in job role and have been a massive help within our team. The range of training throughout my time has enabled me to best support every pupil in my care, understanding that every pupil is different and that we need a range of approaches and skills to provide the best education for every child.

I really enjoy my job as I feel like I am being a voice, a safe space, a teacher and play friend to the most venerable children who really need us most. I really enjoy witnessing the pupils enjoying their learning and engaging in the highly motivating activities that are available to them. Reaching achievements and milestones, and knowing I was part of it.

Perseid School really is the best place for the pupils to learn and grow, and every staff member strives to do their best to help the pupils along their journey. I know that the care we provide our pupils has a positive impact on the children’s wellbeing and learning, it is a truly rewarding job to be able to have.

February 2024: Josie Ames, Forest School

Forest School is a long-term, child-centred learning process where children regularly visit a natural wooded environment to play, explore, and take supported risks. At Perseid School, both campuses have dedicated Forest School facilities, in addition to an Edible Garden.

Our Forest School is designed to encourage learning and nature connection through play. It follows 6 key principles set out by the Forest School Association:

Principle 1: Forest School is a long-term process of frequent and regular sessions in a woodland or natural environment, rather than a one-off visit. Planning, adaptation, observations and reviewing are integral elements of Forest School.

Principle 2: Forest School takes place in a woodland or natural wooded environment to support the development of a relationship between the learner and the natural world.

Principle 3: Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.

Principle 4: Forest School offers learners the opportunity to take supported risks appropriate to the environment and to themselves.

Principle 5: Forest School is run by qualified Forest School practitioners who continuously maintain and develop their professional practice.

Principle 6: Forest School uses a range of learner-centred processes to create a community for development and learning.

At Perseid School, the benefits of engaging in Forest School activities are unlimited. Pupils enjoy the chance to climb, run, chase, play games, build dens, observe nature, play with water, mud kitchen activities, natural art, singing and story telling activities. As Forest School Lead, I will always champion the benefits of these activities for pupils – it provides an enriching and exciting way for pupils to connect with nature, enhance their wellbeing, gain confidence and resilience by overcoming challenges and being set practical and achievable tasks, and provide opportunities for holistic development. The feedback from pupils about their time at the Forest School is always rewarding.

I look forward to seeing what the future holds for Perseid’s Forest Schools!

January 2024: Jason Teasdale, Looking After the Rabbits

Over the Christmas holidays, I volunteered to look after our Lower School resident rabbits, Comet and Star.

Having had pets when I was younger, I felt that the rabbits would be best looked after with me. The rabbits can get stressed when moved to a new environment, and my history working with animals and caring for them meant I knew they would be comfortable and safe.

It was fantastic to see the rabbits running around playing with heir toys, and trying to drag the bin lid away whenever I tried to clean them out! They tended to be more active in the afternoon, burrowing in the dirt and enjoying hiding their food for them to rediscover later. A very jolly Christmas break indeed!

December 2023: Rebecca Sanderson, Joining Perseid as an Assistant Headteacher, 

Working with children and young people with SEND is my passion and consequently this has been the main focus of my career over the years. I joined the Perseid Upper School senior leadership team in September 2023.

My career began teaching in Early Years in a mainstream school, and then in primary and secondary SEN settings. Seeing the impact education, alongside strong relationships, can have on children and young people, particularly in a specialist setting, is hugely rewarding and is what motivates me every day.

From my first visit to Perseid it was clear that pupils sit at the heart of every decision. I discovered the relationships pupils have with the dedicated staff team to be hugely inspiring, and was impressed by how well the pupils have their voices heard and validated and enjoy coming to Perseid’s fun and vibrant learning environment.

I have much admiration for the staff, Governors and SLT and their high aspirations for their pupils with so many exciting, age-appropriate opportunities – the enrichment programme comprising outdoor learning, drama performances and working with external partners truly makes the school stand out.

What do I most look forward to every day? It is knowing that pupils benefit from strong relationships with their teachers, allowing them to enjoy the exciting, fun and playful approaches to learning, developing a love of learning whilst feeling safe and secure.

November 2023: Fiona Copeland, A New Role as Executive Headteacher

I have been part of the Perseid School community for over 25 years, working closely with Senior Leaders, the Governing Board and families as the school  transformed on its journey from a single campus named St Ann’s, to the vibrant and trailblazing Perseid School, serving pupils aged 2-19 across two campuses. 

Following teaching in EYFS and KS1 in a mainstream school and across the primary age range in an additionally resourced provision, I found Perseid School. To me, Perseid was a place that had begun an interesting journey of  inspiring and strategic vision, with an emphasis on sharing good practice and an idea that one day this setting would blaze a trail for holistic learning. Enough was said! This is where I wanted to be. 

Passionate about ensuring every learner has access to the best possible education, be safeguarded and celebrated, I was drawn to the teaching profession. I love being part of the learning and development of children, believing that fundamentally they are the future and what is offered to them will make a difference to society. 

In my role as Executive Headteacher, I relish being able to work with staff, pupils, Governing Board and families to shape the direction of the school, whilst networking with external partners and colleagues to ensure the very best for every child at Perseid. My hopes for the future? That we are able to continue expanding to increase the number of learners the school can accommodate and even further enhance the offer, with more opportunities for learning in and outside of the classroom, working collaboratively to continue on this journey of outstanding holistic education. 

“I am inspired to be part of an educational setting which pushes the boundaries of what is possible for learners facing complex challenges to achieve. Pupils at Perseid form positive relationships with trusted adults and peers, enjoy their safe spaces that the environment offers, love the different opportunities to learn new skills and feel enriched by a wide range of learning experiences Our school is designed for every child to feel pride in themselves, be celebrated, be respected, understand their rights and experience positive wellbeing”. 

October 2023: Lizzie Shannon, Progression to An Early Careers Teacher

I began my career working on exciting projects such as the regeneration of Battersea Power Station as a retail property advisor, following gaining my Geography degree at the University of Exeter. Slowly, I realised I wanted a career change, and undertook a new role which I found to be a breath of fresh air: working as a behavioural teaching assistant in a SEND school and assisting pupils to positively participate in a varied school curriculum. In 2021, I embarked on her teacher training, at Perseid Lower School.

Inspired by my time as a teaching assistant, I felt I had acquired the knowledge and experience from the role and was inspired to further pursue this, deciding to further refine my practice and develop academically by studying to become a teacher. Having researched lots of schools online, Perseid stood out among the crowd due to its Ofsted Outstanding rating and its clearly structured policies, in addition to its positive reputation and established route for trainee teachers.

On completion of my training, I was resolute in her decision to not return to my native Cornwall. Having formed strong relationships with my colleagues and benefitting from the network of support, I decided to stay at Perseid School, knowing that the opportunity to work in Yellow pathway would challenge and enhance my teaching, with a desire to learn more about a range of additional needs.

Over the course of her time as a PGCE teacher, I benefitted from class observations, which served to broaden my experience of SEN teaching. As I progressed to ECT, I has gained access to in-house training such as Attention Autism, Intensive Interaction and PROACT-SCIP. I am so grateful to my colleagues and senior leaders and the open-door policy which means I feels supported at all times. The school environment encourages a culture of sharing best practice – through in formal chats and regular observations, colleagues have shared information and knowledge and shared feedback, allowing me to hone in on specific areas.

As an ECT, I have bi-termly online lectures run by the school, which focus on breaking down the Teacher Standards in a way that is applicable to SEN schools. These lectures are incredibly insightful, allowing me the opportunity to network with other ECT’s working in SEN schools across London, and my school-based mentor Louise develops sessions to ensure they are relevant to teaching pupils with SEN, and always on hand for guidance.

In the future, I look forward to continuing to developing my knowledge and practice through the training offered by the school. Over the course of the first year, I have developed an interest in the PMLD field, and look forward to embarking on targeted training, which could contribute to overall knowledge, whilst allowing me to refine and improve teaching practices for my class, ultimately improving outcomes in alignment with the school vision.

“As I continue to progress throughout my first year as an ECT, I have been given more independence and opportunity to explore different pedagogies and routines in my classroom, with are now embedded and well established with both staff and pupils. I am incredibly grateful for the support and opportunities to enhance my practice delivered by the school, SLT and my mentor, and I look forward to progressing as I have done so far, with Perseid School”.

September 2023: Liane Walker, Transitioning from Mainstream Education

I joined Perseid School as Assistant Headteacher at Lower School in 2019, from a mainstream school.

With outcomes in the forefront of my mind, I was inspired to teach because I wanted, and enjoyed, teaching children the knowledge and skills they need to progress, and feel a great sense of reward witnessing pupils own pride when they achieve something they have persisted with, and accomplished. My career began in mainstream primary, where I led in Arts and Maths. Shortly after I progressed to teach in a base for pupils with autism, with a focus on English and Attention Autism, where I became Head of the base and SENCO for the school they were attached to.

Drawn to Perseid School due to the inclusive practice and range of needs met through the carefully planned curriculum provision,I commend the school for their inspiring commitment to pupils. From the curriculum to the facilities, everything is carefully curated with the child in mind. I was blown away with the dedication staff appeared to have to pupils during my first visit, and since joining, this has only been further confirmed.

The unique opportunity and the freedom to design individualised curriculums with additional strengths and needs cemented my decision to transition from mainstream education into a SEND school. At Perseid, I knew she would thrive and relish the opportunity to teach in a different way, and quickly became very passionate about inclusion and ensuring all pupils had the same access to education and opportunity. 

Through a thorough induction, supervision with a senior leader and extensive CPD, I was supported at every stage into her role. Alongside gaining an Masters degree, NPQSL and becoming a licenced Thrive practitioner all with the support of Perseid SLT, I have developed as a leader and fulfilled the role to the best of her ability.

In the future, I hope to support staff as I was, and develop initiatives to ensure the school is always striving to deliver practice that allows pupils to achieve and reach their personal potential.

It is exciting to have so many opportunities at Perseid, one thing I really enjoy is delivering training and upskilling other professionals and hope to continue to deliver more of this both internally and externally.

July 2023: Danielle Marks, My Journey at Perseid School

I joined Perseid School 7.5 years ago in a part time role. I had a well-established career in banking, but I was looking for something new, fresh, different and exciting and as soon as I saw there was a role advertised on Perseid's website, I knew I wanted to pursue it. 

I interviewed for an admin assistant role, and the second I walked through the doors for the interview and witnessed the colourful and vibrant environment, met the staff and pupils, I knew I wanted to work here. 

I was incredibly fortunate to get the job, where I remained for four years, before being offered the chance to go full time and progress to the Administrative Office role. Once again, I felt priviledged to step into a new role at Perseid School.

I have loved every aspect of my role - working with pupils, building relationships with parents, supporting families, watching teachers create interesting and engaging lessons and witnessing pupils blossom. Pupils truly love their experience at Perseid, they relish the opportunities and adore the friendly staff that care for them. All staff at Perseid are dedicated to pupils' happiness, well-being and learning, the ethos puts the child at the centre of all that we do, and the belief that every child has the right to an education underpins our vision. I believe that is what makes this school stand out from the crowd, and our pupils so happy. 

Throughout my time here, I have always felt supported. I have had many opportunities for training to expand my knowledge, worked with colleagues across the school and under inspiring leadership. I look forward to my future here.

June 2023: Rhiannon Yarranton, My New Role at Perseid School

I have worked at Perseid School for over six years, starting my career as an MSTA Administrator and progressing to PA to the Leadership Team last September. 

Just before starting at Perseid I was working from home for a small charity which I loved but I missed working closely as part of a team and so I welcomed the opportunity to join the team at Perseid. I knew a few people who worked at Perseid and they were very positive about working at Perseid, and I was really excited to start my career at the school.

 

I enjoy working with colleagues all across the school. The dedication, creativity and care from all teams across the school is always inspiring and seeing the impact on pupils makes all the hard work worthwhile. I like the friendly, professional, and calm atmosphere of the school.

I love seeing the 6th form pupils get ready to leave on the last day of the summer term. So much care and thought goes into making it very special for each pupil and it is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate their achievements and their time at Perseid. As they leave the school building, all staff members line the route and cheer and clap each pupil as they leave. It is always emotional!

 

From the moment the pupils arrive in school they are welcomed by a sea of friendly faces, their days are structured with lots of engaging and varied activities which promotes learning in a fun and interesting way. This is how I know that pupils love their school experience

For me, I believe that the dedication of staff, attention to detail and high standards and expectations are what sets the school apart from others. There is shared understanding that our pupils deserve the very best, and that makes their experience truly special. 

 

Throughout my time at Perseid School, I have been well supported by the various teams, including those I work closely too and other colleagues across the school. The duty of care extends beyond the pupils and to all stakeholders. I have been lucky enough to benefit from wide ranging and regular training opportunities, shared the chance to learn from colleagues and been inspired by leaders. I am looking forward to my future here. 

May 2023: Emma Westwood, Working with the MSTA

The Merton Special Teaching Alliance was formed in 2021, working to deliver support for school effectiveness and specialist best practice, through a range of CPD and strengthened by professional relationships with external organisations.

As Assistant Headteacher, I have been working with the Alliance as an SLE since 2021, providing bespoke support for pupils with SEND, bespoke Middle Leader Development, supported schools to develop their environments, supported individual teachers to work effectively with pupils with SEND, run courses including AET, NPQML and NPQs and participating in projects working towards better meeting pupils’ needs, in partnership with external organisations including the Gypsy Hill federation.

Currently, I am working with the London Borough of Merton as an SEN Advisor and facilitating the Merton cohort of the NaSENCo award course. Overall, it is my aim to improve outcomes for pupils with SEND, and support the school in meeting their needs effectively, via high quality teaching.

April 2023: Tina Harvey, Achieving the SSAT Leading Edge Framework for Exceptional Education

Perseid School is an active member of the SSAT network, the largest and most active network of schools in the country, which aims to help teachers empower their pupils to succeed as part of its Leading-Edge Partnership Programme.

The SSAT’s Framework for Exceptional Education is a school improvement and planning tool, built on the philosophy that school improvement is an ongoing process focused on self-evaluation and a celebration of strengths. The Framework helps schools to implement strategic, principled decision-making and supports ongoing school development and improvement.

We are delighted to share that we recently attained accreditation of Transforming Practice in Leadership through Moral Purpose, meaning that Perseid School has met the highest standards of the Framework for Exceptional Education, and that our work in this field is amongst the most effective practice, nationally.

As a school, we chose to focus on this area within the Framework as it impacts all that we do. It addresses the ‘why’ in our role and mission, and our shared moral purpose guides all that we do at Perseid.

The importance in leading through moral purpose cannot be underestimated, especially in a setting such as ours where we are supporting pupils with extremely complex needs. In order to have achieved this accolade, Perseid School underwent a peer review with colleagues from the Douay martyrs School, Hillingdon, followed by an in-depth review from one of the central SSAT leader team. The wider team, including lead practitioners and subject or aspect leads contributed to this. 

Achieving this status means that our:

  • Vision, values and beliefs are embedded and can be seen in the lived daily experience of all learners.
  • Values and beliefs of the school are instilled into all aspects of school life, influencing decision-making at every level of the organisation.

  • Leaders act with honesty and integrity, show concern for people and focus the school’s attention on its moral purpose.

  • Leaders are committed to addressing disadvantage and can demonstrate transformational impact.

  • Members of staff at different levels work regularly with colleagues in other schools to improve provision for all learners.

  • Perseid School has a clear, sustainable approach to progression and succession planning, developing high quality leadership capacity for the school and the system.

  • Staff are highly motivated and committed to their career development. 

  • Decisions about priorities and areas for development are always checked against the school’s ethos and values. 

  • Leaders have the confidence to determine what is right for their school community and take a long-term, principled approach to improvement planning. 

  • Distributed leadership is continually raising standards to stretch and develop all staff. 

    There is an unrelenting focus on teaching and learning and improving learners’ experiences. 

  • Positive leadership creates a culture in which all members of staff are keen to improve their practice and excited about the potential for improvement.

We are pleased to share that we recently submitted evidence for the SSAT Wellbeing and Professional Development strands, and look forward to sharing more about this in due course.

March 2023: Mollie Crossley, Higher Education and Progression at Perseid

I have worked at Perseid School for four years as a Level 3 Teaching Assistant and have always had a strong desire to work in the teaching sector. When I turned 18, I decided to delay my university to degree to gain first-hand experience, and came to Perseid. I really valued my role in supporting and helping children, it is incredibly rewarding and I feel a great sense of job satisfaction.

I applied to work at Perseid School in an Apprentice role, as it would allow me to gain a qualification alongside first-hand experiences, all the while developing knowledge in an area I had limited experience. Upon completing the apprenticeship course, Perseid offered me multiple training and induction opportunities, enabling me to become a permanent member of staff and progress through the ranks from TA1 to TA3, and begin studying my degree in Education Studies. Following the completion of the Foundation degree, I plan to complete a top-up year to achieve the full degree and become a qualified teacher.

The Education Studies Foundation Degree will further educate me in the areas of safeguarding, special educational needs, teaching theories and curriculum planning, all of which is relevant and will extend my current knowledge.

Throughout my time at Perseid School, I have benefited from a wealth of learning and experiences, gaining more responsibilities as I am provided the opportunity to lead lessons, make decisions and supporting the teacher to lead a team. The wealth of training and professional development opportunities, cohesive working team and positive working environment have ensured I feel supported and that my practice is the best it can be, with annual appraisals allowing staff to discuss strengths and weaknesses, and areas they would like to develop, and how the school can support the achievement of this. 

A key element of the Perseid experience is the pupil centric approach. All members of staff are equipped with the correct training, and a shared vision, to make a difference to pupils learning and wellbeing. Staff are committed to delivering the highest standard of teaching, which is bespoke to individual need, made possible by Senior Leaders dedication to ensuring every member of staff is highly skilled, and has the appropriate training to match the schools Outstanding Ofsted status.

Not only are staff at Perseid committed to developing the very best of staff, but they are to pupils as well. Pupils communication, development and wellbeing are supported by providing staff with training and resources for a wealth of strategies and therapies, meaning our portfolio of skills benefits pupils in the best way possible – we recognise each child is different and ensure the correct strategies are in place to support them. I leave work knowing the work we are doing is having a positive impact to the child’s learning and well-being, and that my practice is of the highest standard it can be. It is incredibly rewarding to work at Perseid School.

In the future, I hope to progress in to a teacher role, at Perseid School.

February 2023: Samira Gani, Our New Governor

I have worked at Perseid School as a class teacher at the Lower School campus since 2018, and recently joined the Governors committee in November 2022 as part of the Outcomes Committee.

I am incredibly passionate about working within the education sector and teaching, having qualified as an NQT at Perseid School, with areas of responsibility including Lower Drama and as a Lower School MOVE Senior Practitioner. After working at the school for four years, I decided I wanted to apply for the Governor role as I am committed to driving learning forward, and wanted to be able to voice opinions, suggestions and share the successes of the school, with the goal of positively impacting Perseid’s future development. By joining the Governing Board, I will be able to listen and support colleagues, whilst enhancing the pupil experience for those that the school serves.

Whilst in my role as Governor, I hope to learn more about the school as a whole, developing her knowledge of Lower and Upper School to benefit my practice. I also believe that I will be able to make valuable contributions to discussions regarding the strategic direction of the school, offering a perspective based on a first-hand experience.

January 2023: Mia Dodsworth, Joining Perseid School as an Assistant Headteacher

I joined Perseid School as Assistant Headteacher at Lower School, in January 2023.

With 17 years’ experience in complex special educational needs settings at both primary and secondary phases, I have a wealth of expertise and experience working with pupils who are multi-disabled visually-impaired, deafblind/multi-sensory impaired, MLD, ASD, SLD and those with profound and multiple learning needs, including pupils with complex physical and communication difficulties. It was during my NQT year that I unearthed a passion for SEND, and since have added Qualified Teacher of the Visually Impaired (QTVI) and Qualified Teacher of Multi-sensory Impairment (QTMSI) to my plethora of training. 

Teaching was in my bones, with both parents in teaching careers and dedicated to making a difference. Perseid’s ethos, to trail blaze holistic learning resonated with me as a result of my parents own passions, and I recognised it as unique, and witnessed it in practice. It was the dedication and pedagogy at the heart of the school which ensures that every pupil can access high quality education and be nurtured to maximise their potential, and working within a committed team that makes the most of each experience for each pupil so inspiring for me, and made me realise how much I wanted to work at Perseid School.

Throughout my time at Perseid School, I hope to contribute to the implementation of the school’s culture where all pupils are supported to overcome barriers and, develop the use of technology to aid communication and independence within the curriculum. I am particularly passionate about mental capacity and decision making, ensuring all staff understand pupils’ individual capacity, and can participate to their full potential, guarding them against making decisions they cannot comprehend.

“My first impressions of the school are how dynamic and pupil centred the school is. All staff ensure personalised provision is at the centre of all they do. The ethos, passion and motivation from staff to provide each pupil with an opportunity to maximise their potential no matter what is evident across the whole school - the pedagogy and knowledge sat across the school is amazing and it is a privilege to be part of such an inspirational team. I am most looking forward to getting to know all our pupils, families and staff. Working closely in partnership to support everyone in the school community and fulfilling my role to support and build on the schools’ successes to date”.

November 2022: Jamie Telford, Our New Facilities

Across Perseid School, our outside facilities have recently undergone a transformation, creating brand new learning spaces for pupils to enjoy. 

At Upper School, the grassy patch has undergone an incredible change, creating a Scooter Park and storage area to keep all equipment safe and dry. In addition, the previous summer house blew away in the storm and has since been replaced, which will assist with outdoor learning. The idea of a Scooter Park had been in the pipeline for quite a while, but upon securing funding, work commenced in the Easter Holidays and was completed in the Summer Holidays, to ensure minimal disruption on pupils. 

At Lower School, the creation of a Nature Area with trim trail replaced an old section of the playground which was in need of repair. The new space featured a fire pit, and was fully accessible and inclusive to all pupils. The building of the Nature Area ran parallel to the Scooter Park, taking a full 6 weeks in incredible heat! The project completed with a community planting project in October. 

The build of all would not have been possible without Moys Construction, Blakedown Landscaping and our generous donors who helped us to secure the funding. A very big thank you - and now just to see our pupils enjoy the new facilities, every day. 

October 2022: Helen Teasdale, The Music Offer at Perseid School

The music curriculum and enrichment offer at Perseid School aims to be fun, inclusive and to offer pupils the chance to develop their musical skills through playing instruments, composing, singing, movement and listening to music.

Lessons are designed to unlock potential and inspire positive emotions and interactions. Each individual pupil has their own unique musical identity and style of playing, and the curriculum intends to nurture this alongside further developing musical skills. Through making music, pupils are able to be expressive, develop their confidence and explore their love of music.

Throughout the year, pupils have numerous opportunities to get involved in new musical initiatives. This term, Perseid 6th Form pupils are excited to be working alongside Open Orchestra! An incredible organisation responsible for the largest community of inclusive ensembles in the UK, in partnership with Music Education Hubs and special schools. With this award-winning programme, learning an instrument and playing with others independently and expressively becomes accessible to all young people. So far this term, 6th Form groups have started to learn how to play two pieces, Kusuma Open Orchestra are making great progress playing 'Largo' by Dvorak and Monet Open Orchestra have been playing 'Stomp Stomp', a piece of music composed by Ed, professional musician from the Merton Music hub. 

KS3 having been working on the 'Finish This' project, set up English National Opera.  Each pupil has become a composer to finish an incomplete opera called Blue, Red, Yellow...?  composed by the company.  Some pupils have already started learning how music can be written down using pictures or a Graphic score.  Before the October half term, pupils will exploring the mood and feeling of the Blue section of the piece and creating their own music.  They will go on to select a colour as a class and finish the composition with their own composition.  

In addition to opportunities within the curriculum and classroom, pupils have been enjoying participating in a range of music clubs this term,  held during tutor times and at lunchtime.  We have a choir at both Upper and Lower school, piano lessons, drumming club and wellbeing sessions which are pupil led sessions giving pupils a chance to express their musical identity through instruments and singing.

September 2022: Olatz Lopez, The Upper School Scooter Park

As a result of the COVID Pandemic, the Upper School Council identified that pupils wanted to spend more time outdoors. They discussed the benefits to their wellbeing of improving the outdoor areas where possible, to be able to use scooters and the prospect of having an outdoor classroom with a yoga deck and a climbing wall.

As a result of this, we engaged a landscape architect (Petrow-Harley.com) who designed the area using the ideas from the School Council who he met at one of the regular council meetings.  Pupils reviewed the plan and agreed they were satisfied, and over the summer break, Blakedown Landscapes undertook the ground works so that the area was ready for the start of the new term.

The Scooter Park has been possible thanks to Banstead Downs Golf Club who ‘adopted’ our school as their charity of the year, going on to raise in excess of £8,000. We feel incredibly fortunate that our pupils now have this amazing area to explore and develop their outdoor adventure skills. The intended benefits of the Scooter Park are limitless. Pupils have a scooter pathway area where they can let off steam, keep fit, experience challenges and problem-solving in a safe environment and learn to scoot safely.

Exercise is vital for wellbeing, and to further enhance our PE and wellbeing offer, the Scooter Park will link to PE curriculum and the school’s Thrive approach to positive mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Our next steps for the scooter park will be for School Council to address. So far, new scooters, helmets and different ramps are on the way to make Perseid Upper Scooter Park a really exciting secure and fun area. I asked some of our pupils their thoughts on the scooter park – take a look at their thoughts!

There are some ramps and bumps. We can ride the scooter there fast; it is really good.

 It makes me happy to play in the scooter park, we can play with friends and do races on scooters, but we need helmets.

 I like the scooter park. We will share the scooters and the bikes with our friends. School Council choose what to have.

June 2022: Class Teacher, My Journey at Perseid School

We warmly welcomed Diane to Perseid School eight years ago, and she has been a fantastic addition to our team ever since. This year, Diane is leaving Perseid to begin her new adventure, and we caught up with her to find out more about her experience over the last eight years.

When I decided to retrain to become a teacher, I knew I wanted to work in SEND. I followed an unsalaried School Direct route into teaching with the Merton Special Teaching Alliance, which allowed me to attend the University course as usual but provided greater opportunities for a variety of special schools one of which was Perseid. This route into teaching confirmed for me my passion for working with children with SEND and inspired me to secure my first teaching post at Perseid.

One of the things I like best about Perseid is the fantastic school community. Everyone strives to ensure that the very best outcomes are achieved for each child, which is very important to me whilst also ensuring that all the children continue to have fun and remain engaged in their learning.  I have absolutely loved working with all the pupils and now that I’ve been here for such a long time, I’ve been able to see whole cohorts progress and grow. I have also really enjoyed all the opportunities available at Perseid – it’s a great school for ensuring staff are well supported and there is so much professional development on offer too!

Since gaining QTS and PGCE with Distinction from Kingston University in 2015, I have worked at Perseid Lower School teaching pupils across Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. Following my NQT year (now called the ECT year) I have continued to develop my practice by completing a Masters in Educational Practice with the University of Roehampton, and I was awarded an MA with Distinction in 2017. Alongside my MA (which I completed whilst working full-time and am fortunate enough that Perseid offers this opportunity to all Teachers fully funded) I undertook subject leadership in Drama and Learning Outside the Classroom (LOTC).

Following completion of my MA I then participated in the Leadership Legacy Project with the SSAT, which provided valuable insight into school leadership skills as well as opportunities to visit and shadow headteachers. My think piece for this project was published in the Winter 2019 SSAT Journal. During this time, I took on the ITT Mentoring Lead Coordinator role and have hosted multiple trainee teachers over the past few years as well as supporting trainees placed in other classes. During the Pandemic I was also able to contribute to the Oak National Academy virtual school through filming a series of lessons for the SEND primary age range. Most recently I completed my NPQML and gained my Middle Leader qualification. This supported me to understand the competencies and values required for leadership, which I was able to bring to my new role as KS1 Professional Lead.

Alongside the above listed professional development, I have also undertaken training in a variety of specialist programmes including TEACCH, PECS, Attention Autism, PRO-ACT SCIPr, Colourful Semantics, THRIVE, Augmented Communication, Intensive Interaction and MOVE. In addition to these specialist skills, I have undertaken training in Maths Mastery and RWInc and have also been filmed for the Ruth Miskin RWInc training website for SEND.

As part of my professional development, I have taken on several areas of subject leadership. I am currently the ITT Mentoring Lead responsible for ensuring that trainee teachers make progress against the teaching standards whilst also ensuring continuity and a positive impact on pupil attainment. As a class based and school-based mentor for trainees, I enjoy being able to support new teachers to fulfil their potential.

As the subject lead for LOTC since 2016, I have transformed the outdoor learning curriculum, rewritten schemes of work for KS1 and KS2, provided staff training and successfully introduced and embedded a pet care topic. Most recently, I worked with Trees for Cities to support the implementation of the Edible Classroom.

During my time as the Drama lead for Perseid Lower School, I ensured that every class had access to the theatre and also jointly produced the KS1 and 2 Christmas Show with the Music Teacher and Middle Leader. As the professional lead for KS1 I have been able to develop my leadership skills across a wider department for example building effective working relationships with my team, across the key stage and also with parents and families of pupils in KS1.

Over the last eight years, there have been so many highlights – almost too many to mention! Certainly, having my professional work published in a national journal in 2019 has been an absolute highlight and would not have been possible without the support of the senior leadership team at Perseid but on a more personal level I really enjoyed working closely with Polka Theatre to run a series of workshops in 2018 with my class at the time to devise, produce and perform a short play made for and by the pupils. Their excitement and delight at performing in front of families a piece of work, which they completely created themselves was a huge achievement.

I will be very sad to say goodbye to Perseid at the end of this academic year as I have so many fond memories here. However, I am looking forward to moving to a new post in a similar school nearby in Wandsworth. I will be taking on a class teacher role and continuing to develop and build my skills in a new school context and environment.  

May 2022: Tracey Fowles, The Family Support Team

Our Family Support Team at Perseid School consists of myself, Tracey Fowles, and Taya Leung. We work together to communicate, listen and offer support to families, sign post to specialist services, provide families with information and undertake a multiagency approach to ensure children and families are safeguarded.

The Family Support Team helps families across both campuses in a variety of ways. From support with application forms, completing documents and supporting letters, to listening to families worries and concerns, signposting to relevant information and being an advocate for families, hosting team around the child meetings and children in need meetings to making referrals to specialist services, including Early Help, Children’s SOCIAL Care, specialist parenting programmes, food banks, charities, CAMHS and educational psychology.

The Noticeboard on our website is updated regularly, and offers information regarding events and support sessions hosted by Merton Council, Merton Mencap and many more, aimed at children and young adults with disabilities, their parents, families and carers.

Access it here: https://www.perseid.merton.sch.uk/Notice-Board/ 

 If you would like to contact a member of the Family Support Team, please take note of the following information:

 Families can contact both Taya and Tracey directly via the school contact number 020 8648 9737 and on their child’s Class Dojo.

  • Taya works Monday and Tuesday from 8.30 until 4.30.
  • Tracey works remotely Monday to Friday from 8.30 to 5pm and for one week each month at school working between both campuses.
  • Tracey can also be contacted on her work mobile number 07842305747 Monday to Friday.

 

April 2022: Rosie Lawrence, The Family Learning Programme

The Family Learning Programme at Perseid School offers a wide range of workshops for parents and carers at our school. Led by myself, Rosie (Nursery Teacher), I deliver many workshops, as well as facilitating with the organisation of other workshops from a range of professionals.
At Perseid, we use numerous strategies to help our pupils learn and develop. During Annual Reviews, it was apparent that many parents were not familiar with the strategies that their children were using at school, and so the Family Learning Programme was developed in order to help families to gain a better understanding of the strategies their children use and, in turn, enabling greater consistency in the use of approaches across home and school. For example, our Middle Leader Camilla, has run workshops for parents of our PECS users at school for many years, to enable our pupils to communicate using PECS at home, as well as at school. Since then, the Family Learning Programme has expanded over the years to cover a wide range of areas. 
 
This academic year, we have had internal and external professionals run workshops at Perseid, including the SALT team, SeeAbility, Public Health Merton and MOVE, led by Stephen, our MOVE specialist teacher at Upper School. The Family Learning Programme covers all of our pupils and families from Nursery through to Sixth Form. We have some specific workshops for Nursery families, such as 'Rhyme Time', led by our Music Teacher Helen, as well as workshops for our Sixth Form families that support them through transitions, Activities for Post 16, and future Accommodation and Living Opportunities led by the Merton Transition Team.
 
We are always looking to expand and develop what our Family Learning Programme has to offer. This coming Summer Term, we are offering our first PSHE workshops on 'Supporting our pupils through Puberty and Menstruation', led by Kate and Louise, PSHE Leads for Upper and Lower School. The workshops tend to run on Friday mornings, and we are delighted to be able to start to welcome families back to in-person workshops, as well as some workshops that are also ran virtually. If a workshop is suitable for your child, then you will receive an invite through Class Dojo, and ParentMail, informing you of the upcoming event.
 
We welcome suggestions for further workshops, so please do get in touch if there is something that we may be able to offer support with. 

March 2022: Jenny Smith, Integrating Phonics into Book Week

Every year, our annual Book Week provides pupils with the opportunity to immerse themselves in literature, to explore either a chosen book or author through an array of creative, exciting and sensory themed activities, all of which take inspiration from the chosen theme.

This year, Book Week falls week commencing 21st March, and focuses on Adventures Together: Promoting Well-Being through Reading Together. Throughout the week, we aim to celebrate reading together after time apart; read, work and learn together to support positive wellbeing and celebrate ourselves, our differences and how we can work as a team.

Books we will be utilising during Book Week to support our theme include:

  • ‘The Colour Monster’ by Anna Llenas
  • ‘Kaya’s Heart Song’ by Diwa Tharan Sanders
  • ‘The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be’ by Joanna Gaines
  • ‘Errol’s Garden’ by Gillian Hibbs
  • ‘Green, Green: A Community Gardening Story’ by Marie & Baldev Lamba.

At Perseid School, we use the Read, Write, Inc. Phonics scheme to teach reading, and this will be embedded in teaching during Book Week. Many of our pupils learn to recognise letters (graphemes) and their associated sounds (phonemes), and then learn how to blend the sounds to read words. Phonics forms an integral part of lessons for Purple, Red, Blue, Turquoise and Orange Pathways. We find exciting ways to include phonics in all aspects of our literacy lessons and look forward to including lots of opportunities for pupils to build on their reading skills and their enjoyment of reading during Book Week.

We hope that during Book Week, some pupils will be able to identify the initial sounds of words in the books using their knowledge from phonics lessons, some will be able to blend the sounds together to read the book themselves, some will answer questions about the story; demonstrating their understanding of what they have read and others will write sentences about their book of choice.

Throughout the school, all pupils will experience reading or having the books read to them and engaging in sensory and creative activities that will bring the stories to life. Best of all, they will be able to do this with their friends, having ‘Adventures Together’ to promote good well-being and a love of reading.

February 2022: Tina Harvey, Embedding Inclusive Practice - SEND Teacher Handbook

‘I know embedding inclusive practice is important, but how do I do it?’ This is a recurring question that has inspired the release of Whole School SEND’s new Teacher Handbook: SEND – Embedding Inclusive Practice to help primary, secondary and specialist teachers across the country.

Launched by Nasen with input from a leading steering group, members of the Whole School SEND consortium and Merton Special Training Association, this comprehensive resource will empower Headteachers and senior leaders, class teachers, Early Career Teachers (ECT), SENCOs, support staff and teaching assistants to meet the needs of learners with SEND through a strengths-based, solutions focused approach.

Authors Amelie Thompson and Katherine Walsh state: “The approach we have taken to writing this handbook reflects the approach that is needed to embed inclusive practice across schools - a shared vision and true collaboration, underpinned by professional challenge and respect for everyone’s strengths and expertise.”

As we created the Handbook, stakeholder engagement was an important feature, ensuring that the final document is rooted in practitioner expertise and perceived need. Contributors included families and pupils, teachers, heads of department, educational psychologists, therapists, and mental health professionals.

The Handbook aligns with the EEF’s Guidance Report Special Educational Needs in Mainstream Schools (March 2020), and positions the Graduated Approach and the Assess: Plan: Do: Review cycle as the golden thread running through the document.

Containing 185-pages of advice, best practice and case studies that brings theory to life, the expectation is that teachers will dip in and out rather than read cover to cover. The order of the sections encourages the reader through a particular sequence, reinforcing the notion that through securing high-quality teaching and universal provision as a first step, all learners are supported.

The Handbook is broken down into eight sections:

1. Understanding the role of the teacher 

2Knowledge of the learner 

3. Planning inclusive lessons

4. Creating an inclusive environment 

5. Subject-specific guidance

6. Graduated approach 

7. Strategies to scaffold learning 

8. Teacher wellbeing 

Since December, over 2400 people have already downloaded the Handbook. We hope many more do so.

Tina Harvey, Executive Headteacher

January 2022: Kate Circuit, Becoming a Thrive Practitioner

Kate Circuit has worked at Perseid School for five years as a Class Teacher, PSHE Lead and now, a newly qualified Thrive Practitioner. In the first Staff Blog of 2022, Kate tells us about her new role, and how it will benefit not only her teaching practice, but her pupils too.

I always knew that I wanted to explore a career working with children, and working for a school like Perseid School felt like the perfect fit, as I wanted to support children with their learning and witness their development and progression. I love teaching Red Pathway and being able to adapt teaching styles to suit different children’s needs; being able to focus different aspects of their knowledge and seeing their learning progress over the year is always one of my highlights. I also really enjoy my PSHE role, and adapting topics to make them relevant and accessible for our pupils. I’m passionate about our focus on the pupils knowing their rights, and ensuring that we deliver this in a relevant way.

The Thrive Approach focuses on children’s emotional well-being. It creates an action plan for either a group of pupils or an individual which allows the adults working with them to develop and use strategies that support the pupils’ emotional well-being.  If children have an individual Thrive programme, they have an assigned Thrive practitioner who liaises with the class teacher to support and provide advice.

This is embedded across the school and our pupil’s emotional wellbeing is a priority. All staff are trained in Thrive and understand the importance of it in supporting our pupils. Staff knowledge means that pupils are fully supported in a holistic way and that staff understand that if the pupils are struggling emotionally or are dysregulated they will find it difficult to learn. Staff have strategies that they can use with pupils to support them, which means that pupils feel safe and secure within the school.

In order to become a Thrive Practitioner, I engaged in weekly afternoon session over Zoom (due to Covid). There were practical activities that could be used with the children that we work with, as well as learning the theory behind Thrive. This included brain development, attachment and areas of emotional development. There were activities that had to be completed weekly, as well as tests and longer practice based assessments. We were involved in weekly self-reflections, considering how we were developing as practitioners and how our practice was evolving.

I found the Thrive Practitioner very insightful and it had a big impact on my practice. I use Thrive strategies every day in my language and activities to support the pupils that I work with. My Thrive knowledge has supported the emotional well-being of my pupils, and I have been able to pass on strategies and ideas to my team.

Kate Circuit, Class Teacher

December 2021: Olatz Lopez, My Experience Joining Perseid

"I joined Perseid Upper School in September 2021, with a mission to help as many children as possible. Between 2010 and 2014 Istudied for two degrees at UPSA University in Salamanca Spain and in 2015, I completed a further academic qualification and made the life changing desicion to come to England to study for my Master’s Degree as well as further develop my English.

When people ask me why I wanted to become a teacher, and specifically work at Perseid School, it is down to the positive impacts teachers can have on pupils’ lives, and my own first-hand experience of this when my own teachers were my greatest role models. It was from this moment, at a very young age, I knew I wanted to become a teacher and inspire and support as many children as possible.

I really enjoy witnessing every little step that pupils make and says  hopes to help as many children as possible to learn. For me, it is a great privilege and joy to share in every child’s success and achievements. I hope to inspire a love of learning in every child and create a classroom where learning is enjoyed.

A child that is having fun is learning twice as much".

Olatz Lopez, Class Teacher

November 2021: Daniaal Effendi, My First Term Back at Perseid School

Daniaal completed his PGCE in summer 2021 with the Harris Federation Schools Direct programme, working in EYFS and we welcomed him back to Perseid Lower School, as one of our KS1 teachers.

With a passion for working with children and making positive impacts, Daniaal is dedicated to providing every pupil in his care with memorable and enjoyable life and learning experiences. When asked what his favourite aspect of his role is, he responded that it is the spontaneity of each working day: the excitement of knowing that no day will be the same and the chance to each day develop a new understanding for the pupils he works with, whether it be academically, self care and independence or simply just creating memorable moments together.

Daniaal’s motto is ‘Be the change that you wish to see in the world’. 

“I worked as a TA1 at Perseid School from November 2019 to Summer 2020 and found the experience to be incredible. The training and support I was provided with was outstanding, giving me confidence in my own ability to support the pupils to the best of my ability. I knew that following my PGCE year, returning to Perseid would provide the support, training and opportunities to become the best teacher possible for the pupils I would work with”.

 Daniaal Effendi, Class Teacher

October 2021: Grace Leach, Why I Joined Perseid School

From a background of teachers across all sectors; culinary, the arts, music, dance and both primary and secondary education, Grace grew up with love for learning new things, and passion for sharing knowledge with others. Her career pathway was clear – she was seeking a fast-paced environment, the opportunity to work with children and a rewarding career. For her, Perseid School was the natural choice, where every day is different and puts a smile on her face.

For Grace, her favourite aspect of her role is teaching and engaging with pupils, developing new methods of teaching and learning within and beyond the classroom to ensure they enjoy their topics, and making progress towards their personal goals is a joy and reward. As a teacher to the school, she looks forward to sharing her enthusiasm and knowledge with colleagues, whilst learning from others and their best practise.

In the future, Grace hopes to study a Masters in SEND to improve her pedagogy, and see its impact in her teaching. For now, she is content with her ability to teach pupils across the school in the Pathways style of teaching, which allows her to interact with a range of pupils from Year 7 to Sixth Form; fostering the close-knit community that the school is so well known for.

“Perseid School is an outstanding school whose reputation for their child-centred approach to learning is known within and across the boroughs. When looking for my first teaching post, I wanted to find a supportive school environment with a strong sense of community where I could grow and develop my pedagogy, and Perseid ticks that box. Working in a school where pupils enjoy coming every day, knowing they will be listened to and heard is a pleasure. Pupils love the exciting curriculum and creative provision and know that everything we do is for the benefit and with their best interest in mind”.

Grace Leach, Class Teacher

September 2021: Louise Tidey, Why I Came Back to Perseid School

Louise joined Perseid School 12 years ago as a Teaching Assistant, and now proudly takes the role as Professional Lead of KS4 and Sixth Form.

Inspired to learn more of how she could support children like those at Perseid to have their needs met and to develop enjoyable and exciting learning approaches and her knowledge of alternative methods of communication, Louise completed her PGCE, and came back to Perseid as a qualified teacher. Louise praises the school for encouraging and supporting her professional development, which has ensured she provides every child and young person within her care with an outstanding education.

Following eight years of teaching as a Class Teacher and Middle Leader, Louise moved to Thailand for two years, pursuing a career at an international kindergarten as an EYFS Phase Coordinator and Class Teacher. During this time, she deepened her knowledge of early childhood development and teaching through play. She was keen to return to Perseid, to use this knowledge to better understand the different stages of learning pupils are at, and bring new exciting play concepts to the classroom.

Now that she has returned and has been warmly welcomed back to Perseid School, Louise has taken on new responsibilities in her role. As she leads a bigger staff team, Louise encourages her staff to reflect on their practise an ensure staff have the knowledge and training they need to fulfil their roles to an outstanding manner. In addition, she liaises with the Senior Leadership Team to ensure children and young people have a broad and enriching curriculum, incorporating opportunities to develop their skills for their future, and make choices about their future.

Louise’s ambitions lie in expanding her knowledge: to build upon what she has learnt to better support our pupils in order to thrive. She hopes to continue learning through sharing best practise, reflect upon her own, develop her leadership skills and discover new and exciting approaches to education by engaging in CPD opportunities offered by the school.

“I love working within a highly professional, supportive, motivational school community. I am surrounded by highly committed and inspiring teachers, all with the same aim to provide the students with an exciting, play-based, motivating and outstanding education.

We are encouraged as teachers to find professional development opportunities in areas of interest and develop new knowledge which we can then share with others. There are always new challenges and new projects that we can lead on which encourages us to reflect, research, and act to bring about positive change. This is highly motivating and brings a sense of achievement and pride when you notice the positive impact this has on the students learning.

Pupils love their school experience because Perseid is an exciting, motivating and inspirational place to learn. Pupils are encouraged to use their voice to express their opinions, choices, needs and wants. Pupils interests are put at the heart of all their learning which in turn, provides them with a motivating way to learn”.

Louise Tidey, Class Teacher 

July 2021: Leanne Golightly, KS4 Performance

Performance and drama are key components of a full curriculum which all pupils are entitled to. Being involved in arts supports pupil’s well-being, self-expression and can support their exploration of personal talents and skills. At Perseid School, when pupils reach KS4, they get the opportunity to work towards a full-scale production where they will learn new skills, develop their relationships and explore performance.

I have thoroughly enjoyed supporting the pupils with their annual production this year. The pupils have grown and developed in confidence and have adapted to new routines extremely well. The best part of my role is watching the pupils on stage performing, whether they are dancing, singing or acting. Each pupil brought something valuable to the show and contributed in making it a great production.

As opposed to usual KS4 productions, we were unable to perform to a live audience. Instead we decided to make the production into a movie which we will screen in school and links will be sent home to parents. This way all pupils will be able to see and enjoy their work and to spend time with their families in the process. We are all very excited about the rest of the school seeing the movie too! The pupils from different key stages usually have the opportunity to watch the live production, so this year we will organise a cinema day where they can enjoy the movie in school with their friends.

The movie includes song, dance and incredible performances. Albino Barbosa took on the role of Victor Frankenstein and developed his acting skills well. He learnt to take direction and build on his performance. Fahima Noor played the monster and enjoyed using movement and voice to create a scary creature. Jack Marshall played Captain Robert Walton and used his iPad to communicate. All the pupils worked extremely hard to film all of the scenes and came on set with energy and enthusiasm. Well done KS4!

Pupils at Perseid experience many opportunities for self-expression within school. There are singing and music lessons, dance clubs and external and internal workshops. The aim is for all pupils to be able to experience being part of a live performance and to experience a live show.

Leanne Golightly, Class Teacher

June 2021: Josie Douglas, PE at Lower School

At Perseid School PE is an integral part of the curriculum, increasing pupil confidence, developing and promoting social skills, turn taking and sense of belonging through group games, aiding the development of communication skills, core strength and mobility and encouraging self-expression.

The school works in partnership with external organisations and individuals to enhance the PE curriculum, including:

  • Working in partnership with Merton School Sport Partnership (MSSP) who organise competitions and activity days for pupils to participate in.
  • Nick, a PE coach (MSSP) runs lunchtime clubs and works with individual classes
  • Rebound Therapy, led by Nick, Morgan and Natasha, using trampolines, Rebound Therapy teaches a series of logical movement patterns designed to help the pupil continually develop in a stimulating manner that is fun for the pupil.
  • Curriculum skill focus changes every half term with each term focusing on a different sport type e.g. gymnastics, dance and games.
  • Swimming, led by Karen which the children participate in weekly at our own pool at lower School.

Our PE Lead shared with us what she most enjoys about her role at Perseid School:

 “Opportunities to plan special experiences for the children such as Sports Week, my favourite activity being the Moveathon. Parents and families made donations to the page and on the morning on the Moveaton we were already 314% over our targeted amount. I read every families message and it was so lovely to see the love and support our children receive. It has enabled me to spend time and get to know all the children across the school which I have enjoyed most”.

Themed weeks in school allow our pupils to fully immerse themselves within various topics. Sports Week aims to encourage a lifelong passion for sporting events; offer pupils opportunities to try new sports/experiences; encourage a physically active lifestyle; promote the physical benefits of having an active lifestyle encourage pupils to develop their physical skills; offer the opportunity to take part in group games and to work part of a team, encouraging teamwork and partnership; offering the pupils opportunities to succeed and feel a sense of achievement; for enjoyment/enrichmen and for classes to mix freely. We look forward to social distancing restrictions easing, when we will able to invite parents to watch the events and participate in MSSP competitions and activities outside of school with children from other schools and settings.

Find out more about Sports Week 2021, here: https://www.perseid.merton.sch.uk/News/Sports-Week-30062021131720/

Josie Douglas, Class Teacher

 May 2021: Stephen Pedley, The Growing Garden

The Growing Garden at Perseid Upper School was created to allow students to explore nurturing plants, from seed to plant and hopefully to the plate, as we aim to use some of the produce in students’ Enterprise Cooking lessons.

The garden is composed of x4 3M long raised beds, with x2 shallow suspended beds which allow pupils in wheelchairs to easily access. The entire garden is fenced off, ensuring the garden remains a safe learning environment for students to access.

Utilised mostly by the 6th Form Environment Group, students use the space to grow anything from potatoes to tomatoes, and classes throughout Upper School have their own space to grow plants and support their learning. Last term, KS3 pupils used the garden to support their kitchen garden work, working weekly to plant, tend and harvest the garden.

This type of initiative is integral to the curriculum and the experience that we offer students. Hands-on opportunities to see the life cycle of the food we eat moving from a seed to something on our plates is extremely valuable. We see genuine awe and wonder expressed by the students at times. An example of this would be seeing a tiny strawberry growing at the centre of a flower, or digging a patch of ground and discovering hidden potatoes. We grow plants which the students like to eat and are familiar with, as well as plants which we have a high chance of success in growing.

For many students, simply having opportunity to work outdoors can be inspiring. Having an outdoor space where we can explore growth as well as looking after a space and working together is invaluable.

Each year we hold a Growing Garden events in the Autumn term and we hope to welcome parents to the garden again so we can share some of the fruits of our labour.

To support the development of our Growing Garden, we have strong relationships with local allotment owners and in the future (post-Covid), we look forward to visiting these allotments on a half-termly basis to learn more about how we can nurture plants, and welcome both parents and allotment owners to the garden to support in our caring for the plants.

We welcome any plants donated from parents, particularly if their children have played a part in helping them grow. Our holiday catch-up project packs, for instance, included seed planting kits, which we know many families have enjoyed growing together.

Stephen Pedley, Class Teacher

April 2021: The Edible Garden + LOtC

The Edible Playground is part of the Trees for Cities initiative, which aims to transform areas of school grounds into educational, natural outdoor spaces. In particular, the Edible Playground will turn an under-used area of the school site into an outdoor classroom, with a focus on gardening, growing and eating healthy food in a multi-sensory and engaging way. It will be built by the charity Edible Playgrounds, which as well as focusing on healthy living aims to combat Nature Deficit Disorder by offering exciting opportunities to spend time outside.

Our Edible Playground has been designed specifically with our school and the needs of our pupils in mind. The designers have worked closely with the senior leadership team and LOTC subject leader to ensure that the garden is a motivating and engaging space, accessible for all. It will provide an outdoor classroom area, complete with wooden tables and chairs at different heights to accommodate all pupils across the Lower School as well as ensuring our wheelchair users can sit with their peers. The tables will include built-in trays so pupils can touch and explore the soil as well as plant and pot seeds. There will be raised garden beds again at different heights for growing vegetables and herbs, and fruit trees to provide multi-sensory experiences. There will also be a greenhouse with accessible trays to promote pupil independence in storing and collecting gardening tools, as well as a compost and an exciting wormery!

Research shows that by offering exciting, engaging, and multi-sensory lessons outside, the Edible Playground will not only support pupils in growing their own food but also develop children’s emotional health and well-being.

At Perseid Lower School, the Edible Playground Project will form part of the Learning Outside the Classroom (LOTC) curriculum. LOTC offers a range of half-termly topics such as ‘Rabbit Care’, ‘Outdoor Art’, ‘Wind Charms’ or ‘Minibeasts’, which are all delivered via a weekly session.

Our pupils have thoroughly enjoyed the topic ‘Rabbit Care and Growing Garden’, where they learn about caring for our school rabbit and exploring the Growing Garden. The Edible Playground is the next step for our students, supporting them to grow their own food and develop their gardening skills in a purpose-built area. As with all the LOTC topics, the Edible Playground will support pupils to engage with cross-curricular activities such as developing their understanding about the world, seeing things change and grow, use tools purposefully and all the time enjoying the activities and developing their communication. The outdoor sensory stimuli will support pupils to use all their senses to learn, and provide active and hands-on learning experiences, which is particularly appropriate for our pupils to access and engage with the curriculum. Furthermore, as we come out of the pandemic and move into our recovery curriculum, we know that providing lots of learning opportunities outside, such as in the Edible Playground, will be extremely supportive of our pupil’s mental health and emotional well-being.

Learning Outside the Classroom (LOTC) is defined as ‘’The use of places other than the classroom for teaching & learning. It is about getting children and young people out and about, providing them with challenging, exciting and different experiences to help them learn.’ (Council for LOTC).

Educational visits and Learning Outside the Classroom (LOTC) are an integral part of school life at Perseid School. We consider it vital that learning experiences are motivating, relevant and functional to the needs of individual students and inspire them to learn. This includes providing hands-on experiences as well as opportunities for activities to take place outside of the classroom.  We are dedicated to increasing independence and developing the functional communication and vocational skills of our pupils and we recognise the value LOTC can have in supporting that.

Opportunities for LOtC are important for pupils to practise tasks in ‘real world’ situations and learn to accomplish tasks required for everyday life. Opportunities to leave the classroom, whether to use the school grounds or travel further afield, provides pupils with experiences to promote independence, decision-making skills and the ability to function effectively in the community as well as bringing learning to life. Interacting with new people and environments can also give pupils a valuable chance to practise and develop social skills, adapt to new situations and become more aware of the world around them.

During the pandemic, LOTC has had to remain on the school-site to ensure the pupil’s health, safety and well-being. This has emphasised the importance of having a dedicated on-site outdoor learning environment for our pupils, which the Edible Playground project will facilitate.

Outdoor educational opportunities have been shown to have a positive impact for children with special needs, particularly regarding their social, mental and emotional well-being and behaviour. Research shows that LOTC supports development across a range of academic and broader educational outcomes, including communication, language, self-esteem, relationships, behaviour, self-regulation, mental health, emotional resilience and social interaction. Additionally, going outside provides children with further opportunities to apply functional skills and explore and engage with the natural world. According to the Green Schools Project, the Edible Playground has a significant impact on pupil’s real life and practical learning opportunities, positively impacting upon behaviour, well-being and pupil engagement.

Unfortunately, due to the Lockdown and impact of the pandemic the building of the Edible Playground has been delayed. However, we are hoping this will start in the summer term and we cannot wait!

Diane Propsting, Class Teacher

March 2021: Jenny Smith, RWInc

The Read Write Inc mission is to teach every child to read and write, and keep them reading.

Following a systematic approach to teaching reading, comprehension and writing, our pupils are given the best chance of learning to read, for both their enjoyment and to improve their independence.

RWInc is the central Literacy curriculum in the Red, Blue and Purple pathways and is also used in the Orange and Turquoise pathways. As a school, we have explored ways of making reading as accessible to our pupils as possible, adapting the same teaching steps delivered in all RWInc schools to support our learners. As with all our teaching, we deliver it in a very personalised way, which has proved successful in teaching many of our learners to read.

All of our teachers, HLTAs and TA3s receive 2 days of RWInc Phonics training at the Ruth Miskin regional training centre, and internal training is given to TAs in termly sessions or in class as needed by the RWInc Reading Leader, to ensure we are delivering to the highest possible standard. All of the training, both regional and internal has lots of practical activities, we practise each of the teaching steps on each other before bringing it to our pupils in the classroom. We regularly meet to discuss ways that RWInc can be further adapted for individuals so they can make good progress.

As a result of implementing the programme at Perseid, pupils make progress in reading and writing; they are able to read and comprehend what they are reading and develop from early writing pre-requisite skills to more formal writing. Access to stories and reading positively impacts our pupils’ wellbeing, improving their access to learning, offering a hobby and increasing their safety in the community.

In the future, we look forward to including RWInc Induction in our own CPD and training schedules, in addition to an annual develop day with a specialist Ruth Miskin (RWInc) trainer. I am thrilled to share that Perseid School has been selected by Ruth Miskin Ltd. and RWInc to have our pupils and teachers filmed for their regional training for the past 5 years. It is great for us to be able to share our good practice and showcase our pupils’ amazing effort!   

Jenny Smith, Class Teacher

February 2021: Rosie Lawrence, An Introduction to the Curiosity Programme

The Curiosity Programme is a strategy used to help teach individuals to develop the skill of curiosity, form positive relationships with others and to learn to engage with a wider range of stimuli.

Pupils will start by exploring something they enjoy, for example, glitter. The teacher, such as I, will put glitter in a tuff tray, and explore the stimuli with the learner. Teachers must be alongside the learner and engaging with the learner’s interests. They are sharing the good times together, whilst using the principles of Intensive Interaction (teacher responding to the learner’s actions and vocalisations). For example, if the learner sprinkles some glitter, the teacher will also pick up some glitter and sprinkle it and vocalise ‘wow!’ Joining in and validating the pupil’s actions.

Next time, the teacher will present the stimuli in a container, so that the learner has to start thinking more deeply, developing the skill of object permanence, and curiosity. The teacher will put the tray out, but instead of having the glitter already loose in there, the glitter will be in a very easily obtainable container e.g., in a little open draw string bag. The teacher will model picking up the bag, and seeing the glitter fall out. As the learner develops their curiosity, the teacher will gradually put the glitter in containers that require more steps to access, or where what’s inside them is less noticeable. Perhaps next, the glitter will be in a transparent container that the learner has to lift the lid off of, and then perhaps in an opaque container.

The Curiosity Programme encourages you, or I, to add singing, and rhythm in to your play and exploration. For example, when exploring the glitter, the teacher may make up a simple repetitive song to encourage exploration and engagement from the learner. Rhythm and movement have been found to be important both before and after speech develops. Using rhythm and songs in your play, helps to develop timing to communicate. It helps the learner to know when their turn is, and where sounds and words go.

The programme is designed to support children who are not quite ready to attend to the Attention Autism Strategy, which may be for a variety of reasons, such as being at a very early level in their development of attention, or do not yet have the tolerances for group working. Through building relationships between teachers and learners, this promotes the child’s development further, as it suggests that communication and social interaction flourishes when activities are shared, and interaction is reciprocal and motivating for all.

The strategy aims to create curiosity about the world, nurture communication and foster interaction through shared joyful times together and the teaching of shared attention.

Like Attention Autism, it is a nice starter activity for a lesson as it introduces the learner to their environment and connects the learner to their teacher through the practicing of shared attention and the teacher following the Intensive Interaction guidelines. The programme can be delivered daily to pupils; and is taught to staff during the induction process, under the umbrella of Attention Autism.

Rosie Lawrence, Class Teacher

January 2021: Liane Walker, Our Curriculum

At Perseid, we take a unique approach to the curriculum. Focused on Pathways and a Creative Curriculum, we believe our truly holistic approach engages every learner and best supports their learning and development.

Every morning, pupils start their school day in their year or class groups. Pathways were specifically developed for Literacy and Maths, to better meet individual needs:

  • Purple Pathway: Follows a curriculum designed to meet the needs of learners who are working at early levels of the National Curriculum (typically Years 1 and 2) and may have an additional diagnosis of autism. This is our newest pathway.
  • Blue Pathway: Follows an Autism specific curriculum designed to meet the needs of learners with an additional diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder.
  • Turquoise Pathway: Follows an Autism specific curriculum designed to meet the needs of learners with an additional diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder who require additional sensory regulation input.
  • Green Pathway: Follows an Autism specific curriculum designed to meet the needs of learners with an additional diagnosis of Autistic Spectrum Disorder who require significant sensory input and are working at early development levels.
  • Red Pathway: Follows a curriculum for pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties, who are working at a level of higher developmental levels (typically 2 to 5 years).
  • Orange Pathway: Follows a curriculum for pupils with Severe Learning Difficulties, who are working at a developmental level of between 15 months and 2 years.
  • Yellow Pathway: Follows a curriculum for pupils with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (typically up to 18 months developmentally).

By utilising Pathways, teachers are able to tailor teaching styles to effectively meet the learning needs of the class. Pathways take place daily, during which time pupils participate in a whole class session and small group work led by an adult and ending with the class coming back together again to celebrate their achievements during the lesson.  In afternoons, children work and play alongside peers from their class group for PE, creative curriculum, PSHE and LOTC lessons.

In addition to Pathways, our curriculum takes a creative focus. Based around a different theme each term (e.g., dinosaurs, bright lights, big cities, transport), this engages pupils in an exciting and relevant curriculum, and enables them to learn about what is around them. Through subject focus, storytelling, sensory play, cooking, and craft pupils explore their theme, further supported by cross-curricular links in Maths and Literacy. The creative curriculum also gives pupils opportunities to practise their communication and occupational therapy targets through the Arts activities, cementing our emphasis on a holistic approach to learning.

Alongside our academic curriculum, enrichment plays a vital role at Perseid. Pupils are able to access different areas of the school including soft play, sensory studios, the rabbit area, and playground, in addition to structured sessions horse-riding and swimming. These are utilised to develop social and communication skills, engage in intensive interaction, practise gross motor skills, and encourage responsibility and independence.

As we navigate through these unprecedented times, our ways of learning has changed to ensure pupils safety. The current home learning programme is designed to mirror as closely possible what the pupils are learning in school. Home learning consists of resources from various online and school resources including from the National Oaks Academy and White Rose Maths, alongside support from our teaching staff. Our intention is to ensure children are stimulated at home to develop some of the learning and skills they experience at school, to minimise the impact of time out and reducing gaps in learning. Additionally, teachers regularly communicate with families to offer advice and support, to adapt programmes of learning if necessary. As pupils have been unable to participate in Learning Outside the Classroom, staff have encouraged children to explore their outdoor spaces and generalise their learning in different environments.

Our curriculum was specifically developed with the child in mind. We believe that it offers pupils the opportunity to practise and develop communication, social and occupational therapy skills, whilst broadening their experience and knowledge of the world, in a motivating and engaging way.

Liane Walker, Assistant Headteacher

December 2020: Nicola Woodward, Why I Wanted to Work at Perseid

For as long as I can remember, I have always felt passionately about the teaching profession. Before becoming a teacher and whilst at university, I volunteered in a number of different environments, including a school, art therapy and speech and language settings and with my creative background, I wanted to be able to combine my two passions to make a difference to each child’s journey.

I began my career at Perseid School in September 2020, following several years spent in mainstream settings and non-school settings for children with special educational needs. Perseid School seemed like the perfect fit for me: I wanted to move into a specialist setting to expand my knowledge and I felt ready for a new challenge in my career, and I wanted to work alongside a multiciliary team with Occupational Therapists, SALT, CAHMS and Physiotherapy teams. In addition, I was inspired by the values at Perseid School. The wellbeing of children is so important here and pupils are offered a huge range of fantastic opportunities to support them in their school journey, such as swimming, music sensory rooms, soft play, trampolining, LOTC, outdoor gardens and Thrive.

From the moment I stepped through the door for my interview and met with staff and pupils and learnt that the school and curriculum is pupil centred and witnessed the knowledge, expertise and support of the rest of the staff body for one another and every other pupil, I knew I wanted to work at the school.

When looking back at why I most enjoy teaching and particularly at Perseid School, credit is due to the staff body. Every member of staff is positive, passionate, dedicated and supportive, they are a strong team, full of ideas on how to better improve the provision for our pupils. Most of all, I appreciate how much I am learning myself and take great pride in the ability to respond to a child’s interests and needs and helping them to thrive through various strategies, an emphasis on pupil wellbeing and having the opportunity to inspire and motivate pupils in their learning.

As such, it is clear to see why pupils enjoy their school experience so much. From the individualised learning, which is tailored to every child’s needs, exploration within the curriculum through LOTC and sensory to feeling safe and supported and the positive environment. All of which, contribute to why I love working here so much.

Since joining Perseid School, I have benefitted from many training opportunities as part of my induction, which has helped to expand my knowledge and experience and as a result I feel confident that I am delivering the highest standard of education to every pupil. I look forward to building upon my knowledge and experience through more training and delivery of lessons and learning more about The Thrive Approach and pupil wellbeing. Working in a school that puts the child’s best interests at the heart of all that they do is incredibly rewarding, and I hope to provide every child in my care with an outstanding experience and education: to support the development of the whole child.

Nicola Woodward, Class Teacher

November 2020: Kate Circuit, Enrichment 

At Perseid, we understand the importance of children having access to an enriching environment, therefore we try to include as many opportunities for play and active learning as possible. On a daily basis, every child at Perseid has access to play-based activities, which are adapted to suit the needs of the individual or group, similarly all staff respond to children’s individual needs and adapt their approach to suit the child in question.

What I feel sets Perseid apart from other schools or education settings is that fact that children are at the core of all that we do, e.g. if we feel that children would benefit from play, sensory or a movement break at any time during the day we ensure that this is provided and through our Thrive approach we understand that “every child is a unique person, constantly developing and learning in different ways and at different rates, each with their own abilities, talents and potential to be fulfilled”. We ensure that we use enrichment activities to support the children’s development, learning and wellbeing.

The enrichment programme at Perseid is broad. Pupils participate in PE weekly which covers games, gymnastics and the development of other skills, swimming, music and horse-riding lessons delivered by specialist teachers, opportunities for Rebound trampolining with a dedicated coach, access to sensory studios and soft play, play embedded in the curriculum and extensive playground equipment across both sites. In addition to providing pupils with a range of experiences and opportunities, I believe enrichment supports pupil learning and development.

From our Thrive approach, we understand that “children thrive in enabling environments where children’s individual development, learning experiences and needs are understood, responded to and supported”.  Using our enrichment programme, we respond to children’s emotional and social needs and by doing this, we ensure that children are in a calm-alert state which supports their readiness for learning.  As we believe in a holistic approach to education, we understand that children’s access to enrichment opportunities is as important as their access to ‘core’ subjects. By including enrichment activities on a daily basis, we ensure that children are ready for learning and that their emotional wellbeing is supported.

The Thrive approach also notes that “children flourish when they are confident, self-assured, capable and resilient”. By making time for enrichment opportunities we provide children with the opportunity to develop their confidence and resilience. Enrichment opportunities allow for children to solve problems, try new things and adapt their approach. These skills can be transferred to other situations and areas of learning.

Personally, I think that having opportunities to experience new things beyond the classroom provides our pupils with lifelong memories, skills and prepares them for the future and I am excited to see how play based learning continues to develop at Perseid School and how it is included in all areas of learning across all pathways.

Kate Circuit, Class Teacher

October 2020: Daria Wandzik, The Arts

After gaining a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Fine Arts, I began volunteering in schools by delivering art projects, which is how I got into teaching. Teaching art is my passion, as art is an expressive form that all people can access and I believe SEN children benefit from art a lot, through expression and communicating their likes and dislikes when it comes to working with various art mediums.

Art is used across the curriculum at Perseid School. At Lower school we engage in art activities during Creative Curriculum sessions, however, art can be utilised in any session of the day (e.g. making paint marks whilst counting, learning about a character of a story by making puppets/portraits of them). In order to enhance and increase the Arts provision at the school, I am currently trying to build up the provision and resources to ensure supplies are always in place and accessible, going over Creative Curriculum planning and looking at ways to differentiate all the art activities to make it easier for teachers to understand how they can teach art and working alongside a member of staff at Upper School to plan an art training day, to help support teachers deliver meaningful art sessions.

I truly believe that art activities are important for pupils at Perseid. It helps them to explore materials, skills, be expressive, creative and meet a lot of their sensory needs. Art allows the pupils to learn about the world around them and its different forms, teaching children to be more independent with their skills and expressive needs. Not only this, but the arts can help support pupil learning and development: many of our pupils struggle to communicate their wants and needs, but art can help build that skill, through expressing their likes/dislikes, making choices, using their fine motor skills, exploring sensory needs, aid pupils in focusing for longer periods of time as the activity is child lead and give a greater sense of freedom and independence.

In the future, I would like to expand our current programme to include art workshops for parents and staff so that they can learn how to engage pupils in the arts, and make more staff aware of how art can be differentiated to deliver accessible art lessons that are fit for purpose, and create a clear guide that will help monitor the pupils progress in art. In addition, Upper School host an annual Art Exhibition for families and friends, which I would like to replicate at Lower School.

Daria Wandzik, Class Teacher

 September 2020: Martha Davies, Online Safety

As Computing Lead for Lower School, online safety forms an integral part of my role. Working alongside the Computing Lead at Upper School, we feel it is one of the most important lessons we can teach our pupils due to their vulnerability, whilst also equipping them with the skills that enable them to use the internet independently, safely and successfully.

At Perseid, we strongly believe in the importance of training, to ensure our school is a safe place for our pupils to go online. Therefore, both myself and the Upper School Computing Lead are NSPCC trained in Online Safety, and recently undertaken NOS training, which is also offered to all staff across the school. As leader, I feel it is important for all staff, parents and pupils to understand the risks and issues associated with children and young people being online and understanding how to access advice and support to better protect our pupils.

Online safety is practised every day at school, through explicit computing sessions at Upper School and those who are able to navigate a computer and its programmes benefit from specific support from teachers, to make them aware of risks. In addition, websites which we feel are of risk to pupils are blocked, and only safe programmes, trialled by leaders are utilised in class. To further support this, we encourage our families to practise online safety at home. Parents are welcome to join our NOS training, a group of professionals including PSHE leads and Computing Leads, Associate Headteacher and Family Support Worker meet regularly to discuss safeguarding linked to computing and PSHE and our Safeguarding Team are on hand to support any online safety concerns at home.

Martha Davies, Class Teacher

 July 2020: Stephen Pedley, Maintaining Communication During Covid-19

Maintaining Contact During Covid-19

Ensuring routine and continuity is vitally important in our role, for the pupils at Perseid School. The current pandemic and impacts of Covid-19 has altered how we are able to communicate with, teach and work alongside our pupils, meaning we have had to change how we work to continue delivering an outstanding standard of education.

Throughout this period of lockdown, all parents and pupils have been offered a weekly video call or chat with their teacher, if agreed that it would be beneficial to the child. In order to facilitate learning, we have developed an array of online activities that pupils can participate in at home, videos from teachers to pupils and implementing school events at home: by delivering arts materials and resources to engage in Arts Week activities remotely.

For both pupils and staff, this has been a very difficult time. Teachers, pupils and families maintain close bonds and strong working relationships, with all of our staff wanting to do as much as possible to support our learners throughout this period.

In addition to catch up calls with our pupils and families, we also take the time to check in with our family’s wellbeing and ensure they still feel they remain part of the school community, even when we have been kept so far apart. Having a friendly face express concern, listen and help feel they are not alone can be invaluable at this time.

Personally, I have loved having the opportunity to reach out to our pupils and their families. The reactions have all been ones of joy, which on a personal level really help me deal with the stress I have felt as a teacher during the pandemic.

As a teacher it can become easy to feel a little helpless during the pandemic. We are used to working face to face with the pupils, and whilst we can prepare home learning for pupils, this is no substitute for the interaction and wellbeing one gets through teaching; helping children develop and improving their life chances. At least through the video calls we get to enjoy the only thanks we ever look for, a smile on their face.

Stephen Pedley, Class Teacher 

June 2020: Kim Bulman, Pupil Wellbeing and Positive Behaviour Support

The Importance of Pupil Wellbeing in Relation to Positive Behaviour Support at Perseid School

There is a link between promoting positive wellbeing, building resilience, good mental health and improved outcomes for children and young people. Children spend a large percentage of time in their school environment, it is vital to us that our school provides the ideal environment for promoting good emotional wellbeing and identifying early behaviour changes and signs of emotional distress. Evidence indicates that emotional wellbeing is a key indicator of academic achievement and improved quality of life, and therefore maintaining the positive emotional wellbeing of our pupils is of paramount importance at Perseid School.

Periods of distress experienced by our pupils are often rooted in anxiety, sensory regulation and processing difficulties, pain or discomfort. We can have the biggest impact on reducing distress by promoting wellbeing through a shared understanding of individual pupils’ lives, sensory experiences and the effect these can have on their ability to cope and tolerate the world in which we live.

Staff proactively meet our pupils needs and improve their quality of life by understanding what pupils’ behaviour is telling us. We develop functional communication, coping and tolerance skills and embed activities that promote positive wellbeing ensuring the curriculum and learning environment is fit for purpose. All strategies identified as essential in supporting a pupils’ specific well-being and behaviour needs are formulated into an individual Positive Behaviour Support Plan.

Pupil wellbeing is constantly at the forefront of our teaching, learning and targeted support; and a multidisciplinary, including parents, network is essential in managing this. Where necessary, professional input is sought from CAHMS, Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Health professionals and Educational Psychology services, and where required, an additional behaviour specialist from Loddon Training and Consultancy. This ensures a holistic approach to meeting our pupils’ complex needs.

For circumstances where emotional distress is significantly impacting pupil learning and/or emotional wellbeing, the Behaviour Focus Group intervention strategy is implemented. This network identifies key priority areas of concern that significantly impact on learning, agree the necessary fundamental skills the pupil needs to be taught so that they are able to engage more fully in their academic learning and devise suitable outcomes. The focus of learning may be on one or more of the following areas: Communication & Interaction (Relationships), Emotional Well-being, Transitions, Engagement and Attention, Coping and Tolerance Skills or Therapy Needs.

For all of us at Perseid, it is essential that these strategies are put in place to promote positive pupil wellbeing. We recognise the importance and impact of this for children and young people on behaviour, emotional regulation, engagement in learning and the ability to successfully be part of the school and wider community.

Kim Bulman, Assistant Headteacher/Behaviour Support Lead

  

May 2020: Leanne Golightly, Masters Study

Studying a Masters Degree at Perseid School

At Perseid School, we are lucky to have supportive and visionary leaders who invest a great deal into the professional development of staff. As a class teacher, I have benefitted from a range of training opportunities, including external courses, shadowing and mentoring, but the most profound development prospect has been studying my Masters’ degree in Autism, via London Southbank University.

All teaching staff are offered the opportunity to undertake a fully funded Masters’ degree in their first year of teaching, with a specialism in special educational needs and disabilities. The achievement of the degree enables teaching staff to support pupil learning and development to the highest level, gaining an understanding of research, pupil experiences and practical knowledge of how best to deliver teaching. As Online Safety Lead at the Upper School campus, I decided to focus on my research computing and online safety.

In order to support my studies, I undertook research at school. Utilising questionnaire feedback gathered from parents and pupils, I gained an insight into what online safety looks like for our pupils and their families and teaching colleagues at Perseid School. Within my role, I have found it is vital to work together in supporting young people with their understanding of online safety risks and how to stay safe.

Throughout my research, the leadership team at Perseid have been incredibly helpful and offered advice when needed, as well as supporting initiatives I have designed to enhance our role in protecting our pupils online, including online safety booster groups, questionnaires and developing our website to incorporate advice from external agencies.

Since beginning my course, I have found the practice, knowledge and experience gained to be valuable within the classroom. I was required to read appropriate literature and research which can be used to support teaching and learning within the school. Keeping abreast of new research is paramount in enabling our pupils to be supported in the best way possible and as my dissertation focus is computing and online safety, I have been spending time with a group of pupils to develop our online safety lessons within the curriculum.

I have written research pieces on transitions, education health and care plans, communication and classroom practice. It has enabled me to reflect upon my own practices and access research-based knowledge to support my decision making. I look forward to continuing to apply what I have learnt to my teaching, in order to continue to improve our offer for the development of pupils.

Leanne Golightly, Class Teacher

April 2020: Surita Meyer, The Thrive Approach

Implementing the Thrive Approach at Perseid School

The Thrive Approach is a therapeutic approach to help support children with their emotional and social development. The Approach teaches you how to be and what to do with childrens’ differing and sometimes challenging behaviour. As a result of these interventions, children are more self-assured and readier to engage with life and learning.

Thrive training provides a targeted intervention. All practise is underpinned by Thrive-Online, an assessment tool and extensive action planning resource that charts progress and measures outcomes, offering practical strategies and techniques to identify emotional development and action plans for individual needs.

As Thrive Lead for Perseid School, I am qualified to deliver Thrive Practitioner Courses and the approach has since become part of every teachers’ training, with whole school induction taking place in April 2018 and now as a routine part of induction programme for all new teaching staff.

At Perseid Thrive is a key development area which will continue to be further utilised over the foreseeable future, and we are thrilled that, as a result of whole school efforts, Thrive has now been embedded within our pupils’ routines, with the organisation officially recognising Perseid School as ‘Embracing the Thrive Approach’.

At Perseid School, we chose to utilise the Thrive Approach for its specific way of working with and supporting children, drawing on neuroscience research, child development and attachment theory and evidence based research into the role of creativity and play in developing emotional resilience. In addition, the approach supports the school in planning experiences, activities and opportunities at the appropriate level for each child.

For senior leaders at Perseid School, The Thrive Approach helps to identify development areas and strategies to support the emotional and social development of every child.

The Thrive approach underpins through everything that we do at Perseid. Each class and pathway have a group action plan, identifying which key strand the group is focusing on and highlighting activities and strategies used within lesson planning/ delivery. Pupils have their own dedicated thrive areas, where they can take part in wellbeing activities, or talk to an adult about their feelings, and can Feed Their Worries – to the fairies at Lower School and Worry Monster at Upper. In addition, as Thrive Practitioner I offer support and guidance to staff when needed.

Within our school setting, we have been thrilled to see some of the following impacts as a result of introducing The Thrive Approach to our school:

  • Attuned staff supporting pupils’ physiological regulation, with pupils’ “being” needs met across all areas
  • Pupils have key staff “safe circle” within which they have secure trusted relationships
  • Some pupils increase in confidence and vocabulary to talk about their feelings
  • Specific targeted support for identified pupils
  • Pupil feelings are attuned to and validated, i.e. “it is ok to feel…”
  • All class and pathways have group action plans, identifying key actions and strategies for pupils in the class/pathway to support pupils to become more emotionally resilient
  • Development of Emotional Wellbeing reports contributing to identified pupil’s ehcp reviews.

 For me, the future of Thrive and Perseid School is expressed by working together to achieve the Thrive School of Excellence Award, meaning that our efforts and excellence are recognised by Thrive.

Surita Meyer, Assistant Headteacher Upper School & Thrive Lead

 

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