Governors December 2023 - S-CAT Internal Newsletter

Shireland Collegiate Academy TrustMembers, Trustees & Governors Newsletter

December 2023

KEY DATES and information

Send US your feedback

HIGHlights from our academies

Innovate, inspire, collaborate

Update from sir mark grundy

Contents

Dear all, It brings me great pleasure to share with you the latest edition of our Trust newsletter. As you read through the following pages, you will see just some of the great work that is happening across our Trust, both in our schools and Central Team. From cross-Trust projects, partnerships and exciting opportunities with external organisations like the Birmingham Hippodrome Network and Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. There are excellent examples across the board which are a testament of our Trust values – innovate, inspire and collaborate – at work and you can clearly see what a difference we are making for the young people in our care.Your voluntary support as Members, Governors and Trustees is highly valued, and we sincerely appreciate your significant contributions. A massive thanks to each one of you for your dedicated efforts this term, which have made a substantial difference for our Academies, Trust and ultimately the young people in our care. Wishing you a restful Christmas break, and we eagerly anticipate welcoming you back in the New Year.Sir Mark Grundy, CEO

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A message from our CEOSir Mark Grundy

Online and virtual meetings- Thats around 22 hours!

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OUTSTANDING judgements in Leaderhip & Management- This includes Trustee & Governer scrutiny and support

Members, Trustees and Governors have been appointed this term.

Just a quick note to say a massive thanks to all of you for your support this term, especially during those three OFSTED visits! Your dedication has made a huge difference for our Academies and Trust.Wishing everyone a fantastic festive break, and looking forward to more teamwork in the upcoming term

A Term in figures

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Thank you!

We are excited to share that we have set a new standard for school searches in the region following the launch of our digital prospectus, developed in collaboration with Prospectus Plus. As the first Multi-Academy Trust to embrace a digital-first approach over traditional printed prospectuses, our new prospectus provides a more accessible and sustainable solution for families exploring options for their child’s next steps. In line with our whole Trust commitment to sustainability, the newly launched platform not only provides a personalised prospectus-building experience for families, but also contributes to the reduction of our carbon footprint. The digital prospectus provides comprehensive information about all our schools, which can be tailored to specific needs and interests, including location and age group. While limited copies of printed prospectuses will still be available, the Trust positions itself as an innovator in promoting environmental consciousness, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

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Innovate, inspire, collaborate

In the heart of our community lies a hub of learning, and now, an open invitation extends beyond our classroom walls. Our school facilities across the Trust, including football pitches and sports halls, are available to hire through our new partner, SchoolHire. This initiative is more than just an invitation — it’s an opportunity for mutual growth. By renting our facilities, it not only contributes to the financial vitality of the school but also supports the development of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and the maintenance of our shared spaces. It also enhances the overall educational experience for our students. By opening our doors to community events, tournaments and gatherings, we aim to strengthen the bonds that tie us together, building a supportive community that rallies behind school initiatives and projects.

For more details, click here

Trust Projects

This year, a number of centrally funded projects are being undertaken to develop our organisation for the benefit of staff and students. Here are our project updates from this term:

Academy Facilities Now Available to Book with SchoolHire

Starting from September, we partnered with Smile Education as our managed service provider for supply job roles. Those looking for short or long-term supply teaching and support roles in and around the West Midlands will benefit from a new partnership between Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust and Smile Education, an education recruitment agency based in Birmingham. As part of the Trust’s continued growth and investment in its staff, facilities and students, the partnership will drive more awareness of job opportunities for teachers, teaching assistants and support staff within the local community. As well as providing support by sourcing talent for the Trust, Smile Education will also be adding value to the Trust through attendance at events, including open days, mock interviews and recruitment marketing.

New Partnership to Boost Job Opportunities in Education in the West Midlands

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Secondary Event DetailsDate: Tuesday 16th January 2024Time: 9.00am-3.30pmVenue: Shireland Collegiate Academy

Primary Event DetailsDate: Wednesday 6th March 2024Time: 9.00am-3.30pmVenue: Shireland Collegiate Academy(Registration details to follow)

Empower your schools with the Anti-Bullying Ambassador Training Programme. Sponsored by the Department for Education, this is designed to empower young people and staff with essential skills and confidence to address various forms of bullying safely both on and offline.Schools can register up to 10 students and 2 members of staff. Following completion, schools will recieve 12 months of continuous support, with further development opportunities for students.As spaces are limited and allocated on a first come first serve basis, we strongly encourage schools to register as soon as possible.For further information or questions about the programme, contact Vicki Bradley.

Join Us For The Diana Award Anti-Bullying Ambassador Training Programme

Secondary schools can register here

Sign up for our primary teacher recruitment event here

Sign up for our seondary teacher recruitment event here

For our current vacancies, click here

Trust Events

We would like to extend a warm invitation for those interested to join us at our Trust’s secondary and primary teacher recruitment events in the new year:Secondary Teacher Recruitment Event:Wednesday 17 January 2024 5.00pm-7.30pm Hosted at Shireland CBSO Academy, Providence Place, West Bromwich, B70 8SZ If you are arriving after 5pm please park in the large West Bromwich Building Society car park on Providence Place. This is free. Do not park on the road outside the school, the area is regularly patrolled by traffic wardens.Primary Teacher Recrutiment Event:Monday 29 January 20244.30pm-7.30pmHosted at Shireland Technology Primary, Wilson Road, Smethwick, B66 4BAThese events are a great opportunity to meet senior leaders from all of our secondary and primary schools and Trust and find out more about the exciting opportunities available for you to work with us. More details about our primary teacher recruitment event to come in the new ear.

Join Us for Our Secondary and Primary Teacher Recruitment Events - January 2024

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Access our Leadership & Supervision support, including Ask Andy – School Leadership & Pastoral Support. Andy comes with an impressive background, boasting over 30 years of teaching experience and 17 years as a Headteacher. He opened and led the Blackpool Teaching School Alliance, supported the school-led system in Blackpool, and served on the boards of the Blackpool Opportunity Area and the Blackpool School Improvement Board. Andy even held the prestigious position of National President of the NAHT. In December 2019, he made the shift to become the National Director of Wellbeing for Schools Advisory Service, where he's working towards the vision of making all schools wellbeing-friendly for both staff and pupils. If you ever need guidance or support, don't hesitate to Ask Andy – he's here to help!

Leadership and Supervision Support

As we're getting closer to the holiday season, we want to remind you about the fantastic discounts available on our BHN Extras platform for eGift cards and discounts that can be found on Discounts for Teachers. With cards and discounts for popular brands like Adidas, Boohoo, Boots, Currys, Ernest Jones, Superdry and more, it's the perfect opportunity to get those Christmas presents, treat yourself, or just save some money during this festive season.

Discounted Gift Cards

Shop and earn cashback at over 70 high street and online spots, from restaurants to supermarkets. New partners, exclusive offers and competitions are always being added to help you stack up those savings. Happy shopping!

Beyond Cash Back

As we gear up for 2024, our Wellbeing Programme is packed with resources like MyGymDiscounts, CycleScheme, and weight management courses. Kickstart a healthier, happier you this new year!

New Year, New Me?

FREE GP Service for You and Your Dependents

You and your dependents can access a 24/7 GP service for free as part of our S-CAT Wellbeing Package. To find out more about how to use this great service, visit our wellbeing portal.

Thanks to your participation in the Wellbeing S-CAT Benefits survey, we've been busy making important changes to better meet your needs as part of our Wellbeing and Employee Benefits Program.

Staff Wellbeing and Benefits

Visit our Wellbeing and Benefits Portal Here

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Do you know anyone who would be interested in becoming a Standards and Performance Committee Governor? We have vacancies at the following schools:

• Lightwoods Primary Academy
• Tameside Primary Academy
• Wallbrook Primary Academy

If you know anyone who would be interested, please ask them to email Emma Billingham - ebillingham@shirelandcat.net

School places available

Trust vacancies

• Tinywoods Preschool: Availability for three and four-year-olds.
• Tameside Primary Academy: Limited places in all year groups.

Governor vacancies

View the teaching and non-teaching vacancies available across our Trust

Staff vacancies

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Information for staff

Trust Staff Wellbeing Site

• Detailed information about SAS services
• Trust initiatives including the cycle and tech buying schemes
• Details of other resources and helplines

Christmas Break – Health and Wellbeing SupportThe following is available to staff across the holidays: SAS Health and Wellbeing services, including:

• 24/7 GP Helpline – 0845 403 1037
• Confidential Counselling Service – 01773 814 402
• Cancer and Nurse Support – 01773 814 404
• Physiotherapy – 01773 814 403
• Apps including Thrive CBT and Mindfulness

Staff Wellbeing

Read more about SAS

Term dates - please check for local Inset days

• The first day of Spring term is Monday 8th January 2024
• Half term holiday is from Monday 12th February 2024 to Friday 16th February 2024
• Easter holiday starts from Monday 25 March 2024 to Friday 5 April 2024

Key dates - January - April 2023

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Highlights fromour Academies

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In an eagerly anticipated development, we have unveiled our new early years playground, a transformation made possible with generous funding from the Trust.Costing more than £45,600, the renovation has paved way for an improved, modern space that has been crafted to foster imaginative play and active wellbeing for our young learners.On behalf of all our children, we want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has contributed and supported this project to help us deliver an amazing new playground for our early years.We would also like to extend a special thank you to the Trust, whose funding we would not have been able to do this without and are truly grateful for their help in making this project a reality.Central to the playground’s features is a climbing frame designed to challenge pupils and develop their balance, strength and motor skills with a variety of obstacles. Strategically placed den-making posts encourage creativity, where children can construct tunnels and dens using an array of natural-based resources, sparking their imaginations.A natural seating area invites pupils to gather, share stories and socialise during break times, with sheltered spaces creating opportunities for outdoor learning, enhancing their learning experiences. The renovation also introduces a water play area for sensory development, giant chalkboards for artistic expression, and movable blocks for more dynamic physical activities.We have no doubt that this development will enhance our pupils’ learning and play-based experiences while also fostering their growth, confidence, ability, and curiosity as they become more independent learners.

Holyhead Primary AcademyTransforming Our Early Years Space with Playground Revamp

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Pupils at Lightwoods and other primary academies across the Trust were treated to an immersive performance about dyslexia with the Birmingham Hippodrome, who delivered an inspiring performance of Aakah Odedra’s “Little Murmurs”, which is a powerful celebration of dance, resilience and the human spirit.Based on a true story, “Little Murmurs” tells the unique and heartfelt story of one child’s struggle with dyslexia, showcasing the trials and triumphs faced while confronting personal challenges head on. Frustrated with being defined by their learning difficulties, dance soon becomes a form of expression as they learn to navigate the realities of living in a world filled with obstacles.Blending technology, dance and humour, this wonderful performance provided pupils with an incredible experience and understanding of what it is like to live in a world that others struggle to understand and process. It offered them an insight into a reality that many people experience today, proving relatable and very thought-provoking for pupils and staff alike and it prompted discussions with pupils around what success looks like and the many forms it takes.Little Murmurs served as a powerful reminder that any challenge can be overcome with determination and creativity. It also showed pupils the transformative power of the creative arts changing lives for the better.The experience was certainly a day to remember for pupils, with the reminder that they are all capable of achieving their aspirations, regardless of circumstances.

Lightwoods Primary AcademyBirmingham Hippodrome Inspires Lightwoods Pupils

Shireland Technology Primary has been judged outstanding in all areas following its first Ofsted inspection since opening in 2019. The school received a glowing report with inspectors praising its ‘exceptional education for all pupils’, who are ‘happy, feel safe’ and are ‘rightly proud to attend’.Ofsted says ‘pupils’ behaviour is impeccable’ and commends the curriculum which ‘is of exceptional quality’ and offers an ‘impressively wide range of experiences’ for pupils, who ‘achieve very well’ and make ‘strong connections’ in their learning. They say that pupils also ‘successfully meet’ the school’s ‘extremely high’ aspirations for what pupils can achieve.Staff are praised for their teaching, which is packed with ‘captivating experiences’ designed to fuel pupils’ imaginations and promote excellence. These include drama and opera workshops with professional performers and organisations including the Birmingham Hippodrome, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.Inspectors highlight that reading is a ‘high priority’. ‘Pupils love reading’, which they begin developing ‘as soon as they start school’ and ‘enjoy a wide range of fiction, poetry and information books’, which are ‘exciting and engaging’. Pupils also look forward to their daily Story Escape, when staff read to them.STP offers an ‘impressively wide range of experiences’ as part of its provision for fostering pupils’ ‘talents and interests for future life’ and character development, which aims to ‘broaden pupils’ horizons’ outside the curriculum. This includes their enrichment programme, which is much loved by pupils and offers ‘exceptional opportunities in technology, sports, art and music’.Staff expressed feeling ‘supported’, ‘valued’ and ‘proud’ to work at Shireland Technology Primary, with leaders recognised and appreciated for their attentiveness towards staff workload and ‘high-quality training’. Ofsted praises the school for ‘going beyond the expected’ for pupil character development and wellbeing, which is ‘exceptionally well promoted’. Learning experiences have been effectively designed to help children develop the qualities they need to ‘flourish’ in society, and ‘effective’ safeguarding arrangements are in place across the school.Children display consideration of ‘their own and other people’s values and beliefs’. They say that pupils are ‘polite and look after one another’ and that pupils from different backgrounds work and play happily together. The school makes innovative use of technology, adapting it ‘exceptionally well’ to complement and support pupils’ learning, such as their immersive room which provides pupils with ‘unique’ opportunities to explore places around the world and from history without leaving the safety of school. The academy’s ability to use technology to deliver inspirational experiences is typical of the creativity of the school in all that it does. Ofsted rarely uses the term exceptional; Shireland Technology Primary is exceptional.

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Shireland Technology Primary‘Exceptional’ School Receives Outstanding in First Ofsted Inspection

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We are delighted to announce that Tameside have recently achieved the Sandwell Well-Being Charter Mark. This amazing achievement recognises all our hard work and unwavering commitment to nurturing and supporting the social, emotional and mental health and well-being of all our pupils, staff and families, fostering a joyful and thriving school environment.The Sandwell Well-Being Charter Mark provides evidence of a school’s commitment to improving the mental health and well-being of everyone connected with the school. This initiative is intended to be delivered across all schools in Sandwell as part of a whole school approach and is co-ordinated by a Sandwell Council Educational Psychologist.At Tameside, we recognise the transformative power that mental health has and are deeply committed to enhancing the well-being of our community. Through specific programmes and a dedicated focus, we aim to positively enhance the lives of all staff and pupils in our school.As part of our commitment, we also have a dedicated webpage on our school website that serves as a comprehensive resource hub. Here, families can find valuable information and signposts both to the services we offer at Tameside and those available in the local area. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported us on our journey to receiving this recognition.

Tameside Primary AcademyNurturing Mental Health: Tameside Achieves The Sandwell Well-Being Charter Mark

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Wallbrook Primary Academy Wallbrook Celebrates Good With Outstanding Features Judgement From Ofsted

Celebratory spirits have been high at Wallbrook after earning a judgement of good in all areas from Ofsted, including outstanding for leadership and management and early years provision.The Academy was praised for its ‘warm welcome’ and ‘strong sense of community’, where pupils come into school ‘smart, feeling safe and ready to learn’. Pupils behave ‘very well’ and are ‘proud’ to attend Wallbrook.In early years, which was graded outstanding, ‘children get off to a flying start’. Its curriculum is praised for being ‘broad and highly ambitious’ and ‘carefully designed’ to suit children and match their needs. ‘Engaging’ activities are selected to match what children need and display ‘positive behaviours’ as a result of teachers’ guidance and support. Despite being very early in their school journey, inspectors praise how ‘happy, independent and confident’ children are.Leaders in school and across the Trust apply an ‘ambitious and meaningful thematic curriculum which pupils thoroughly enjoy following’. Staff are praised for having ‘high expectations of what pupils can achieve’ and widely demonstrate their passion for the success of all pupils.Teachers are ‘skilled at noticing when pupils fall behind’ or require additional support and are able to effectively ‘adapt the delivery of the curriculum’ so children are able to ‘catch up quickly’, ‘remember more’ and ‘deepen their understanding over time’. Pupils’ love of reading is highlighted as a prevalent area of strength, which pupils practice regularly and have a large selection of high-quality books to choose from.Leaders and governance are commended for their ‘shared vision’ of the Academy and the ‘forensic approach’ taken to establish what works well across the board, demonstrating a ‘tireless, successful drive for improvement’. This ensures that staff across the Academy focus on what is most important for successful delivery and impact.Ofsted commends the ‘rich variety of experiences’ offered to pupils which open their eyes to the possibilities while supporting their ‘wider development’. This includes opportunities to take on active roles within the Academy including school councillors and junior librarians. External visits and experiences involve visiting artists, authors and musicians, such as the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.

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This term, we are delighted to have partnered with Aim A Little Higher to enhance our students’ educational journeys by bridging the gap between education, business and the world of work, empowering students to reach for their highest potential.The initiative focused on providing practical, real-world skills for our year 12 students and cultivating a growth mindset that will serve as a strong foundation as they leave education for the world of work or further study.Workshops were specifically designed to help students be well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities awaiting them beyond the classroom. This included developing their curiosity for self-discovery and awareness, enabling them to fully explore their values, aspirations and personal brand. This will equip students to unlock their full potential and make informed choices that best align with their unique strengths and ambitions whilst cultivating a mindset geared towards personal success and fulfilment.

Shireland Collegiate AcademyEmpowering Students With Aim A Little Higher

In our commitment to fostering leadership qualities among our students, our year 7 girls recently participated in an empowering workshop on female leadership. Delivered by our valued partner the Albion Foundation, the workshop provided a unique platform for our young people to gain valuable insights, skills and leadership knowledge.We believe in the potential of every student to contribute meaningfully to their community and beyond. A huge thank you to the Albion Foundation for their partnership and fantastic workshop.In collaboration with seven other UTCs, we also launched the CEIDA Smart Homes Project in September. This visionary project brings together year 12 students from across the country with the challenge of creating smart home environments tailored to the needs of individuals facing challenges following brain injuries. This initiative reflects our heartfelt commitment to making a positive impact while helping to address and raise awareness of healthcare challenges.

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Shireland Biomedical UTCEmpowering Female Leadership With The Albion Foundation and CEIDA Smart Homes Project

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In a heart-warming celebration of local talent, student Lola received a signed letter from His Majesty King Charles III, recognising her winning design for a card competition commemorating the King’s coronation in May.The competition, initiated locally by Stourbridge MP Suzanne Webb, challenged students’ creative talents as they were tasked with crafting a card to mark the historical occasion of King Charles III’s coronation. The winning entries were then professionally printed and presented directly to the King.In a surprise assembly, Suzanne Webb presented Lola with a signed letter from His Majesty, commenting: “I was really honoured to surprise Lola today and present her a card signed by His Majesty King Charles and Queen Camilla.“To win my coronation card competition was a great achievement but to receive praise from His Majesty is on another level.”The assembly took Lola by complete surprise as she had no prior knowledge that the award presentation was for her, creating a memorable moment celebrated by her peers.Lola commented: “Winning the competition was gobsmacking already but having a letter from the King was just incredible. As I read out the letter my hands were shaking, I couldn’t believe it and it still hasn’t fully sunk in yet.“I’m still blown away and very thankful that I had the opportunity to do the competition.”Lola’s remarkable achievement not only showcases her creative talent but also serves as a testament to the immense potential of our students here at the Academy. This is certainly a source of inspiration for everyone at Thorns and look forward to celebrating more extraordinary achievements from our students.

Thorns Collegiate AcademyStudent Receives Royal Seal of Approval After Winning Coronation Card Contest

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West Bromwich Collegiate Academy Former European Vice President of Twitter Bruce Daisley Inspires Students

This term, we were delighted to host renowned writer, consultant and work-life balance expert, Bruce Daisley, who shared his insights on personal branding, CV writing and workplace culture.Students were provided with a unique opportunity to hear about Bruce Daisley’s life experiences growing up on a council estate in Birmingham and the influence these had in his personal career journey.Having previously served as the European Vice-President of Twitter and as an employee of Google and YouTube, Daisley is celebrated for his multifaceted expertise in work-life balance. He is also known for his unwavering commitment to enhancing workplace practices and culture. His contributions have featured in some of the most prestigious publications including the Guardian, the Telegraph, Harvard Business Review and the Wall Street Journal.His widely acclaimed podcast, ‘Eat Sleep Work Repeat’, has been a number one business podcast on Apple, showcasing a diverse range of industry experts including psychologists, neuroscientists and workplace specialists, who discuss pathways towards improved job satisfaction.During his visit, Daisley engaged in a substantive dialogue whereby he shared his personal experiences of the job market after finishing education, with students engaging in discussions around the challenges and opportunities that exist in the modern workforce. Daisley’s guidance underscored the importance of personal branding, resilience and students pursuing their passions while striving for a successful and fulfilling career.Bruce Daisley said: “I was so inspired to be back in the West Midlands and to see two brilliant schools. The quality of questions was dazzling, it left me inspired for what the next generation of kids are capable of.”The session was characterised by the students’ thought-provoking questions, where topics revolved around successfully navigating the modern workforce, entrepreneurship, excelling in job applications and standing out in a competitive job market. They also explored the profound concept of defining success for themselves as they develop their career plans.It was an incredible experience for our students to meet and engage with Bruce Daisley. His visit has left a lasting impact, encouraging students to pursue their goals with determination and reminding them that success is always within reach.

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Shireland CBSO AcademyNurturing Student Creativity, Environmental Innovation and Special Guests Including Indi Band The Mercians

We've had an amazing half term, buzzing with energy and inspiration! Our Eco Club had the opportunity to present their ideas on recycling to senior leaders and esteemed guests from West Bromwich Building Society. Discussions delved into the importance of recycling, with students offering innovative solutions to help enhance our collective efforts towards a greener and more sustainable future.Students were able to nurture their creativity skills with a hands-on music composition workshop delivered by Conductive Music. This engaging session not only helped our young people to learn more about the creative process, but also taught valuable lessons on idea experimentation and resilience through trial and error. We had the pleasure of welcoming Katherine Thomas, Principal Harpist at the CBSO and Pianist Jeneba Kanneh-Mason to the Academy, who both graced us with fantastic workshops and demonstrations of their musical skills, which inspired our students. Both musicians generously shared their musical journeys, experiences and invaluable lessons, with a resounding message ringing in our ears: practice, practice, practice!We were also very excited to welcome up-coming Indi band, The Mercians, who delivered an amazing performance and unforgettable follow up session. The band not only shared their musical journey with us but also opened up about their personal experiences with music and mental well-being. Their inspirational stories certainly emphasised the power of music to support and uplift others.We are immensely proud of the vibrant and dynamic experiences our students have had the privilege to enjoy.

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First Steps NurserySpreading The Spirit Of Giving and Joy

What a busy term we’ve had at First Steps, filled with lots of heart-warming moments across our nursery and wider community. As we bid farewell to a bustling term, we are excited to share some of our best highlights that have made it so special.We continued to embrace the spirit of giving by donating meals to Brandhall Food Pantry for the harvest season, offering support to those in need while also teaching our little ones the value of compassion and importance of community.Our families also helped rally together to bring some holiday cheer to our four-legged friends at Birmingham’s Dog Home. The overwhelming response we had has been amazing, with an array of toys, blankets and food donations given, exemplifying the generosity that makes our community so special.The success of our other fundraisers, including bake sale and PJs and spotty wear for Children in Need, not only spread smiles but also helped to raise awareness for some amazing causes. It also served as a powerful reminder for our children that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference. Thank you to all our families for your support and generosity!With Christmas fast approaching, our nursery transformed into a festive hub as we welcomed our children and families for a special festive workshop including face painting, biscuit decorating, card making and small world play. Of course, we also had a very special guest come over to add an extra sprinkle of magic to the festivities. Can you guess who?Santa himself joined our children for a special breakfast, creating some magical memories filled with much excitement and joy. The children also wrote their letters to Santa, complete with wonderful pictures, which were then posted through our local post box. To cap the term off we also visited our neighbouring school, Shireland Technology Primary, where our little ones had a Christmas adventure in the immersive room.

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Tinywoods PreschoolChristmas Carols, Stay and Play Sessions and Introducing Our New Holiday Club Offer

We hope this newsletter finds you well and filled with holiday cheer!We certainly had a busy start to the academic year as we welcomed our new children to Tinywoods. Their boundless enthusiasm has been infectious and they have already made a fantastic start, making many new friends.Our little stars shone bright in our annual Christmas carol concert! After weeks of rehearsals, the children showcased their musical talents beautifully as they performed their festive favourites to families, who beamed with pride. It was a wonderful evening which captured the magic of the season.This term, we hosted special ‘Stay and Play’ sessions for children and families who will be joining us in January. These sessions provide a unique opportunity for families to get to know our experienced team, nurturing environment and make some early friendships, laying the groundwork for an exciting start when they join us in the new year.We are also excited to announce that we will be offering holiday clubs, which will run during the school holidays from 8.00am-5.30pm. Packed with engaging activities, the sessions will provide enriching, fun-filled experiences for our children. If you know anyone who would be interested, or would like further information, please email Nicola Pettifer at npettifer@lpa.shirelandcat.net We will also be hosting open evenings to showcase our facilities and learning environment at Tinywoods. These events will be a chance for prospective families to tour our nursery, meet our dedicated staff and gain more insight into the array of learning experiences and opportunities we offer. Stay tuned to hear more about our upcoming dates.