World Cerebral Palsy Day — 6th October

On 6th October it is World Cerebral Palsy Day, an opportunity to deepen our understanding, celebrate our pupils and reflect on how we can make school life more accessible and inclusive.

For some pupils with cerebral palsy, everyday activities can require considerably more physical and mental effort. Moving around school, participating in lessons and managing daily routines can be tiring. What may appear straightforward to someone else can bring significant concentration, energy and determination. That effort is not always visible, and we must take time to listen and understand each pupil’s individual experience.

We want to recognise the achievements that can sometimes go unnoticed: persevering with a task, communicating a need, trying a new activity or taking another step towards independence. These moments matter, and pupils deserve to feel proud of their progress.

We see you. We hear you. We support you.

Meaningful inclusion means more than being present. It means having opportunities to participate, make choices, build friendships and feel a sense of belonging. This involves listening to pupils and families, respecting individual needs and adapting our approach so that support enables participation.

Above all, our pupils are individuals with their own personalities, interests, strengths and ambitions. World Cerebral Palsy Day is an opportunity to celebrate those qualities while strengthening our commitment to a school where every pupil feels safe, happy, valued and supported in learning towards independence. Find out more: Visit the official World Cerebral Palsy Day website to explore stories, information and ways to get involved, and please look

 

World Mental Health Day — 10 October

 

World Mental Health Day reminds us that looking after our minds is just as important as looking after our bodies. At Sutton, we want every pupil to feel safe, understood and connected, with opportunities to build confidence, develop friendships and enjoy learning.

Children and young people experience a wide range of emotions, and finding the words to explain them is not always easy. A pupil who seems quiet, frustrated or reluctant to join in may need time and support to share how they are feeling. We aim to respond with patience and curiosity, listening to each child’s experience.

Sometimes, a quiet conversation, a familiar routine or time with a trusted adult can help pupils begin to share what is troubling them. We want them to know that they do not have to manage difficult feelings alone.

Asking for help is a strength. Every pupil deserves to be heard.

Families play an important part in these conversations. At home, try asking: “What helps you when you have had a difficult day?” or “Is there anything you would like me to understand?” Give your child time to respond and listen without feeling that you need to solve everything immediately. Some children may prefer to talk while walking, drawing or doing an activity together.

Please contact school if you have concerns about your child’s wellbeing. Working together helps us understand their needs and consider appropriate support.

Wear Something Yellow — Friday 9 October

As World Mental Health Day falls on Saturday, we will mark the occasion in school on Friday 9 October. Pupils are invited to wear something yellow to show support and help start conversations about mental wellbeing.

A yellow top, socks or a small accessory are all welcome. No hoodies or hooded clothing, please.

Our message is simple: you matter, your feelings matter, and support is available.

Support for families: Visit YoungMinds’ advice for parents and carers for information about supporting your child’s mental health.

 

Black History Month — Walter Tull

Walter Tull: footballer, soldier, leader and history maker. His achievements offer an opportunity to explore courage, fairness and belonging which align with our school values: Safe, Happy, Learning Towards Independence.

Walter played professional football for Tottenham Hotspur and Northampton Town before serving during the First World War. He became one of the British Army’s first infantry officers of Black heritage, achieving recognition at a time when racial prejudice created significant barriers to opportunity.

Safe — Respect and Fairness

Walter’s experiences encourage us to consider the importance of an environment where everyone is treated with dignity. At Sutton, this means challenging prejudice, listening to others and helping pupils feel safe to be themselves. Everyone has a part to play in making our community welcoming and respectful.

Happy — Belonging and Recognition

We want every pupil to feel valued for who they are and what they contribute. Celebrating Black history helps pupils discover a wider range of role models and recognise the achievements of people from different backgrounds. Walter’s story reminds us to notice people’s talents and ensure everyone has opportunities to belong and participate.

Learning — Curiosity and Understanding

Black History Month celebrates achievement, creativity, innovation and contributions across society. Learning about Walter gives pupils opportunities to ask questions, explore British history and consider how fairness and opportunity have changed over time. It also helps us reflect on the changes still needed.

Towards Independence — Confidence and Choice

Walter’s achievements can inspire conversations about developing skills, pursuing interests and making thoughtful choices. For our pupils, progress towards independence takes many forms: expressing an opinion, asking for support, trying something new or working towards a personal goal. We recognise each pupil’s progress and the support that helps make it possible.

Families can continue the conversation at home: “What makes someone a good leader?”, “What are you proud of achieving?” and “How can we help someone else feel included?”

Explore his story: Visit the National Army Museum’s Walter Tull learning resource to learn more together.

 

Duke of Edinburgh — Air Ambulance Fundraising

 

Our Duke of Edinburgh pupils are fundraising in support of the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, which provides lifesaving emergency care across our region. Its crews bring specialist treatment to people at the scene of serious incidents, when every moment matters.

Through this fundraising, our pupils have an opportunity to contribute to their wider community and learn how charities support people in times of need. It also helps them understand how people working together can make a difference.

Working towards a shared goal provides opportunities to develop planning, communication and teamwork. Pupils can practise sharing ideas, taking responsibility, making decisions and persevering when something requires extra effort. These experiences support their confidence and progress towards independence.

The project reflects our school motto, “Safe, Happy, Learning Towards Independence.” Supporting a charity that helps keep people safe encourages pupils to think about the wellbeing of others. Working together creates a sense of connection and achievement, while fundraising offers practical learning beyond the classroom.

We are proud of our young people’s commitment and grateful to everyone who encourages them. Please support their fundraising endeavours where you can, whether by contributing, participating in activities or helping to spread the word. Every contribution helps them move closer to their goal.

Find out more: Visit the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity website to learn about its lifesaving work and the communities it supports.

 

Attendance — Recognising Effort and Finishing the Week Positively

Thank you to our pupils and families for the effort you put into attendance. We recognise that getting to school can sometimes involve overcoming difficulties, managing worries and maintaining routines through challenging circumstances.

Our approach celebrates personal progress, as well as strong attendance. Returning after an absence, improving punctuality or attending more consistently can represent an important achievement for an individual pupil. We want that effort to be noticed and recognised.

Friday remains an important part of the school week. It provides time for learning, friendships and activities, helping pupils finish the week feeling connected and ready for the next one. A consistent Friday routine can help pupils maintain their learning and sense of belonging.

Our school motto, “Safe, Happy, Learning Towards Independence,” guides how we support attendance. We want pupils to feel welcome, understood and able to participate.

If something is making attendance difficult, please contact school early. Understanding the barriers helps us work with you to identify appropriate support.

Let’s Talk About School

A relaxed conversation at home can help us understand what makes school a positive experience and what might need attention. Choose a quiet moment and give your child time to answer in their own way.

You could ask:

• What has been the best part of school this week?

• Who helps you feel comfortable and supported?

• What helps you get ready for school in the morning?

• Is there anything that sometimes makes school feel harder?

• What would make next week a little easier?

Some pupils may find it easier to share through drawing, choosing pictures or talking while doing an activity. There is no need to ask every question at once.

Please share any concerns or helpful ideas with us. We are here to listen, understand and work alongside you.

 

Hills Phase Update

There has been plenty happening in Hills Phase! From festive creations and first aid to Roman pottery and woodland art, pupils have been exploring, creating and developing new skills. Here’s a look at what each class has been up to. Please click here to see.

 

Dates to Remember

• Throughout October: Black History Month

• 6th October: World Cerebral Palsy Day

• 9th October: Wear Something Yellow for Mental Health — no hoodies or hooded clothing

• 10th October: World Mental Health Day

• 22nd October: Parents’ Evening

• 23rd October: Modern Foreign Languages Day — Norway