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. 

December 2024: Jeni Merchant, EYFS Performance

This year, our Early Years Christmas Performance was titled Waiting for Santa. The children were in character as reindeers, waiting to pull the sleigh and then played elves, jumping from the sleigh to play in the snow. The elves and reindeers then enjoyed fun in the snow, in a winter wonderland 'snowflake' scene. At the end of the performance the children used bells to perform 'Jingle Bells' in preparation for Christmas, getting ready to help Santa on christmas day. A poem ran through the performance, joining and explaining the narrative. 

Pupils performed excellent renditions of Sleeping reindeers, 7 Little Elves, Snowflake, Jingle Bells and then parents joined us to sing and sign .We wish you a Merry Christmas. Rehearsals began in October, in pupils music lessons with Maria, and from November, we began to sing the songs daily as part of our class singing session, using the singing props to encourage the children to choose the song they'd like to practise. 

The highlight of rehearsals was children trying out their new costumes! They were mostly delighted to see themselves as reindeer and elves and lots enjoyed dancing in the mirror wearing their special clothes. I must say a big thank you to the Senior Support Staff in EYFS for their organisation of the props and costumes. 

The adults supported the children really well and were really enthusiastic to learn the signs to the different songs. Maria worked hard to create the script and to work with the senior support staff and I to find relevant, child friendly songs for the performance.  Parents commented on how 'child-friendly' the performance was and that it was great to see the children relaxed and enjoying performing, with all of the children involved actively in rehearsals and the performance itself.  

We look forward to other Christmas celebrations and activities happening before the end of term, including a Christingle Service with Mia, joining in with the disco, eating Christmas dinner, waiting for Santa to visit and enjoying an EYFS party as a department next week with festive music, disco lights and a few treats along the way!  

November 2024: Katie Rawet, Why I Got Into Teaching, Why I Chose Perseid and My Ambitions for the Future

I am passionate about igniting a love of learning within the pupils I teach, and I foster this by developing positive relationships with my pupils, whilst supporting them to build on their own needs and interests. In the sixth form, we continue to further develop the pupils’ education, whilst preparing them for adulthood, which I find to be incredibly unique, as I work with families and relevant professionals to determine what the next best step for the young pupil is after the learning journey at Perseid concludes. It is a very exciting time – celebrating everything that they have achieved whilst at Perseid School!

When I first visited Perseid, I was amazed with the nurturing and inspiring environments facilitated by the educational staff. It was clear that the pupils are at the centre of everything that Perseid does, by prioritising individual needs, abilities and interests within an inclusive environment. I believe that pupils enjoy attending Perseid School because of positive and nurturing environment that has been developed. The staff are passionate, enthusiastic, and friendly, making every pupil feel safe, and respected whilst they are at school. This is what motivated me to work for the school, but it is working within an environment where all staff take pride in best practice and are always striving to help each other and continue to learn that I enjoy most. It creates a motivating work environment, where you constantly want to challenge yourself as an educator.

During my time at Perseid, I hope to continue to further develop my professional knowledge and understanding of total communication. With the guidance of Speech and Language Therapists, I endeavour to maximise the exposure to a variety of communication methods throughout all learning experiences.

October 2024: Nicola Vivian, Why I Wanted to Work at Perseid School

I have always known that I wanted to be a teacher, specially wanting to work with children with SEND. Having specialised in SEND education for 13 years, I was attracted to a career with Perseid because of the school’s commitment to ensuring the best outcomes for pupils, in all areas of development. The ethos of Perseid really resonated with me, in continually aiming to further the provision offered, enabling all to fulfil their potential.

I get great joy from interacting with the pupils and staff at Perseid. The pupils are amazing, and I love how dedicated the staff are, in making sure the pupils are safe and happy whilst learning. Every day is unique, in a magical way, and it truly is a rewarding career.

During my time at Perseid, I hope to support every child in reaching their potential, whilst making lessons fun and enjoyable, so that pupils are excited to come to school and participate in lessons. Working with pupils with SEND means that you continually must adapt your teaching and strategies to each child’s individual needs and interests and I am committed to this, and working in partnership with senior leaders to achieve this. That is my ambition for my time at Perseid School.

September 2024: Jack Fry, A Career at Perseid School

I was drawn to a career in teaching owing to my own experiences as a pupil and understanding the deep and transformative impact that a great teacher can have on the lives of their pupils. If I was to summarise my ‘reason for’ in one word, that word would be Impact. I feel Perseid School embodies the meaning of this. The impact the school makes on its pupils’ lives, through an individualised experience championing the pupil every step of the way is exceptional.

I look forward to coming to work every day, because of the pupils. They are truly inspiring, and the individualised approach we undertake towards their education and development is unique. Pupils love to come to school at Perseid for a multitude of reasons, but I believe the main reasons are because the pupils know they’re always put first and their voice is always listened to.

It is my mission to continue to refine my practice to be the best possible teacher I can, for the pupils I teach.

July 2024: Morgan Butler, Career Progression as an Apprentice Teacher

I have worked at Perseid since 2017, initially joining for a ‘gap’ year. However, upon joining and the opportunities provided to me I have stayed, undertaking a fully-funded Level Three in Supporting Teaching and Learning, funded foundation degree where I studied Early Years Education, with my third year focusing of SENDIP and now with the opportunity to do my teaching apprenticeship. I have progressed from a TA1 to a TA3, HLTA and now an Apprentice Teacher. I worked at Lower School as a TA1 and TA3 and then Upper School as HLTA.

I was inspired to work at Perseid because of their commitment to the pupils, ensuring they receive the best educational opportunities through a diverse and enriching curriculum which enable the peoples to thrive and rest their best potential. The pupils clearly enjoy learning through this.

Staff on both campuses are friendly, motivating and supportive.

The role of the AT is working alongside my mentor (class teacher) to build my confidence and ability in teaching, starting with 50% and developing to up to 80% at the end of the year. I will engage in onsite training that is provided by the school which they offer all teachers, this will include multi-agency meetings to learn expertise from other disciplinaries we work alongside like SALT and OT. Additionally, given offsite learning opportunities through both the school and university to expand my knowledge and experience.

I have been supported through receiving my own mentor that I will be able to seek support and advise from during my journey. All of the leadership team and senior staff are always happy to help, alongside previous apprentice too. I have been fortunate to see many senior teachers teach and through my HLTA been able to participate in onsite learning and CPD meetings.

I enjoy seeing how happy the pupils are each day, seeing them thrive in a positive and inclusive environment, supportive of likes and interests. Which help them develop their individuality. I enjoy the sense of achievement when a pupil learns something new, goes on a trip and explores a new environment. The staff positivity to attempt new approaches in the best interest of the pupils and their willingness to help.

I would eventually like to apply for a permanent teaching position and complete my ECT training years within the school, and I look forward to my future at Perseid School.

June 2024: Martha Davies, Matilda Performance

The performance of Matilda was fantastic.

Pupils from Calder Bonheur and Matisse class; KS4 Year 10 and 11 performed brilliantly. It was Year 10’s first production, whereas Year 11 built upon the skills they developed from their previous year's production.

All pupils were given the opportunity to choose their character roles, utilising pupil voice. They decided whether to present their characters in the same manner as in the original film and musical or to use their imagination to develop new character personalities. Ultimately, all pupils opted to keep their characters the same but were enthusiastic about blending elements from both the original film and the musical for their production.

When exploring the script, all pupils wanted Matilda to live with Miss Honey and have a happily ever after ending. We did have a twist, though, with Mr. Trunchbull instead of Mrs. Trunchbull! All pupils loved this and thought it was very funny.

The costumes were amazing. Pupils beamed with pride when they saw their costumes for the first time and their characters came to life when they wore them. Pupils were given a choice for their costumes, looking through magazines and other media to select exactly what they wanted. Once again, this process expressed pupil voice. Some pupils also had the opportunity for hair and makeup, a favourite memory for many! They all relished the vibrant atmosphere backstage, choosing their makeup and watching their peers have their hair done etc.

Costume highlights included:

• Mr Trunchbull donned a brown suit with a beige trench coat, wearing at time a flat cap.
• Mrs Wormwood a vibrant leopard print dress and headband
• Mr wormwood, mixed matched chinos and top
• Miss honey, a lovely pink dress and hair band
• Pupils of Crunchem Hall- all in purple tanks, shorts and polls looking very smart with the girls in long pleated purple checked skirts.

It was fantastic to see all pupils enjoy the experience. The production was carefully planned with consideration of pupil needs, incorporating their preferred activities and elements of their sensory diets to ensure everyone remained well-regulated. This careful planning ensured that all students gained optimal experience and enjoyment from the accredited piece of work.

The pride of all pupils involved, the emotions they felt performing for their parents, and the excitement of production week were just amazing! I particularly enjoyed the

‘When I Grow Up’ song and the baking scene from Calder class, these were my favourites if I had to choose. The students beamed with confidence and really did exceed all expectations.

May 2024: Rebecca King, Career Progression as an Apprentice Teacher

I have worked at Perseid for 6 years, starting my career as an Apprentice TA in 2018 and quickly progressing to become a TA, and later a Senior TA. Whilst working at Perseid I have completed a degree in Special Educational Needs and Inclusive Practice at Kingston University and am currently completing a teaching apprenticeship with Coventry University with the support of Perseid school.

For as long as I can remember, I have always wanted to work in a school and become a teacher. Growing up in the local area, I had heard great things about Perseid School and I wanted to become part of a school environment that provides the best learning opportunities for the pupils, and staff. I then applied for the apprenticeship and was so excited to start my new role.

As an apprentice teacher, I work alongside my mentor to provide a high standard of education for the pupils in my class whilst also completing my PGCE. My studies are completed primarily online, allowing me to learn in a hands-on style at the school, gaining valuable experience both in and outside of the classroom.

The school has supported me in so many ways and have ensured I have the information I need to complete my application and begin my training. I have regular contact with senior leadership and will have weekly meetings with my mentor to help me consistently improve and feel supported in my role. Throughout my years at Perseid, I have always found that the leadership team are willing to help and guide me in career progression as much as they can, as well as helping me feel confident in my role. There are many opportunities for training to expand knowledge in areas such as PECS, Sign Along and Thrive.

I enjoy thinking of creative new ways to engage the pupils in their learning in a way that is fun and informative. Being able to watch the children progress and enjoy being in school learning gives me a sense of pride that I was able to be a part of it and am a supportive voice for the children.

I would like to progress into the role of a fully qualified teacher at Perseid after completing my apprenticeship and ECT years, contributing to the positive learning environment that allows our pupils to learn and grow.

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

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.