Hills

Welcome back to another edition of our newsletter where we can share the wonderful things our Hills pupils have been working on!  

Pupils in 9H1 have been having fun creating their own versions of Van Gogh’s ‘The Starry Night’ during their DofE lessons. They first painted the background and then designed their own silhouettes. The paintings turned out really well and we’ll be displaying them in the classroom. 

11H1 are thoroughly enjoying their Duke of Edinburgh skill topic of Music, exploring The Planets by Gustav Holst last week and creating their own planets this week. They were able to explore a range of instruments and be as creative as they could. Our planets ranged from a Jamaican planet to a Big Hero Six planet.  

11H1 have been enjoying their ‘Going on a Visit’ topic where they have been exploring various local places that they could plan a trip to. So far, they have found that both the Black Country Museum and the Sea Life Centre have great accessible facilities for all, making it both inclusive and fun for everyone to enjoy! 

9H2 and 10H2 have been getting creative during their pathway lessons and using collage to create pieces of art of different animals. Pupils in 10H2 have also been enjoying their weekly hydrotherapy sessions and have been working on their water skills! 

Pupils have alos been taking part in Woodland School, building shelters and practicing their skills of how to keep safe and warm in the outdoors.

Rivers

It has been another busy fortnight for our fabulous Rivers pupils!  

On Tuesday 9R1 had the privilege of visiting the library in Wordsley. We have had a lovely experience exploring the library and becoming familiar with the library system and how to take out books.  

10R1 have been involved in recording a radio show! Students researched, planned and carried out the production of the show. Most students had a speaking role in the show, talking about the author, J. K. Rowling. The students who did not want to talk contributed in a different way such as inputting music, recording and producing a part of the show. After the trip all students wrote a report on their experiences.  

10R2 were very impressive when they discussed the following phrase ‘real men don’t cry’ during our PSHE lesson on managing feelings. They were sensitive, articulate and mature when listening to each other's opinions and thoughts. They all agreed at the end that people do express their feelings and emotions differently because we are unique, and we should respect each other's views. Well done for taking such a mature approach, 10R2! 

11R1 enjoyed the ‘Picture News’ debate this week. We discussed the pros and cons of working from home, with others and the ‘hybrid’ style of work. There were many opinions given based on recent changes to the way Amazon employees shall be working. The class unanimously agreed that human interaction is really important. I wonder how our pupils will all work in the future?! 

Year 11 pupils have also been researching planets during their D of E lessons. After creating their very own planet last week, giving it a name, habitat and associated facts, this week, they made the planet. Pupils used balloons, newspaper and PVA glue to bring their planets to life! 

Year 9 Rivers have had the privilege of working with an external provider, Charlie, from Oldswinford Cricket club. Pupils have been having lots of fun exploring and learning new skills which include overarm windmill bowling to batting. 

Dudley Support Circles

We all know that life can get overwhelming at times, and it’s important to remember that support is available.

Dudley Support Circles is a low-level mental health service designed to help adults in Dudley self-manage their mental health. They provide personalised support, getting to know you and your needs to create a plan that works for you. Through positive activities, group sessions, 1-to-1 support, and peer-led activities, they can help you on your journey to better wellbeing. Don’t hesitate to reach out and take that step towards wellness.

Click her to find out more.

Dyslexia Awareness Week

This week is National Dyslexia Week, and as a SEN school, we are committed to supporting and raising awareness of dyslexia. It’s important to recognise the unique strengths and challenges faced by individuals with dyslexia, and to ensure that our school environment is inclusive and supportive for all learners. For more information on dyslexia, please visit here.

Wrap around childcare in the Dudley borough

We understand that managing different school settings for your children can be challenging and may affect punctuality and attendance. To help, Dudley borough is offering wraparound childcare support for families who are struggling with this. This service aims to ease the stress of coordinating drop-offs and pick-ups, ensuring that all children can attend school on time and regularly.

If you have a child aged between 4-11-years old they could access a Wraparound Childcare Service located at or near to your child's school during term time.

Wraparound childcare will support your child to rest and relax before and after school, enjoy activities with their friends and receive a healthy breakfast and snacks. This will enable you as a parent to seek employment, work more flexibly, work longer hours, or attend training/appointments. This service will be chargeable however you will be able to either access tax free childcare or if you are in receipt of universal credits then 85% of the costs could be paid for you.

All childcare is regulated and inspected by Ofsted and is provided by registered professionals who are fully trained and experienced in looking after children and all staff will have been police checked (DBS).

The childcare could be through a local primary school, childminder, or an early year’s provider.

A huge thank you to all the parents who attended our Parent Woodland Workshop! We had a fantastic turnout, and it was wonderful to see the pupils so engaged and excited to share the experience with you. Your participation truly made the day special. Thank you again for your continued support!