Newsletter 15th July 2022

15th July 2022

Dear Parents/Carers,

It is a bit warm and will continue to be so into next week, but please be assured that we will do everything we can to keep your children sun safe. Hats, water bottles, cool clothing and sun cream can all be kept in school, plus we will be ventilating, using the shaded outdoor areas and adding lots of relaxation and cooling activities into the timetable.

Visiting Author

Exmouth’s Debra Wellington chatted to pupils when she came to visit Mill Water this week. The artist-turned-author created the designs for her new book ‘The animal says’ during lockdown. She read her book, with pupils joining in the animal sounds!

Colourscape Experience

Pupils, families and staff had a great time at the Colourscape Dome in Budleigh on Sunday. Tickets were made available by the Budleigh Music Festival, through funding from the Norman Family and Claire Milne Trusts. They also visited the exhibition of pupils’ art in the Public Hall.

Trampoline Success

Pupils from Classes 9 and 10 were assessed for their termly trampoline achievements and progression this week. All have made great progress and the trainers are so proud and pleased with them, as are we. Their gross motor skills and flexibility has noticeably improved and they put so much effort into their session. The Exeter Trampoline Academy love having our pupils there for their weekly sessions.

MP Visit

Local East Devon MP Simon Jupp visited Mill Water today, meeting staff, Governors and pupils. It was a chance to celebrate the school and pupils’ achievements, and also to share the challenges that face SEN schools. Head teacher Sarah explained the level of expertise of staff who are dedicated to helping pupils to prepare for their best future, despite day-to-day pressures. Mr Jupp pledged to share concerns with the incoming Education Secretary and lend his ongoing support to the school and to voice our issues in Parliament.

Parent Forum

Elaine Letten from the Preparing for Adulthood team is offering some sessions (for parents/carers of pupils in Year 9 and above) to help introduce and find out more about the 'hot topics' in adult social care such as Mental Capacity and Deprivation of Liberty. This will also be an opportunity to ask any questions. The first session is planned for Tuesday 20th September, 1 - 2pm, at Mill Water School. This will be an Introduction to Preparing for Adulthood. Please do attend if you can. The PowerPoint presentation will be available afterwards for those who cannot make it. To confirm your place and for further details, please email: movingon@millwater.devon.sch.uk

Support during the Summer Holidays

Do you feel isolated or need more support during the long holidays? East Devon Citizens Advice can help. Just complete the Parent Support Referral Form using this link

They can also advise on the Government’s Household Support Fund (£98 per eligible household). And they have a wealth other helpful information they can signpost you to. Contact Ann Jones, Children’s Link Caseworker for East and Mid Devon, on AnnJ@citizensadviceeastdevon.org or 07527 599813.

The Government has now announced ‘cost of living support’.
Anyone struggling can find out what help and support is available here

Lower-income householders across Devon are invited to apply for free energy efficiency improvements to their homes worth thousands of pounds, thanks to new government funding.