Newsletter 9th October 2026

9th October 2026

Dear Parents/Carers

Dear Parents/Carers This week I will be introducing you all to our three Assistant Headteachers, Gemma Moore, Andrew Maker and Grace Norman.

Gemma brings 15 years of dedicated experience teaching in special schools, supported by her completion of the NPQLT and NPQSL qualifications. Together with Sally, she plays a key role in shaping and developing the school’s curriculum, ensuring a strong focus on core learning areas such as phonics, English, and mathematics for all pupils.

Gemma is site lead for our new satellite provision in Seaton. Our provision at Seaton is for pupils in Year 9 - 11 on our discovery pathway and aims to create a highly personalised, community connected and future-focused learning environment.

Gemma’s work is centred on creating tailored educational experiences that meet the unique needs of each pupil, developing community links in Seaton and developing the independence and social skills of pupils.

Gemma plays a vital role in guiding pupils through key milestones, supporting transitions in and out of the Seaton site for Year 8 and Year 11 pupils. By championing strong, collaborative links between the Seaton and main school sites, she ensures a seamless and purposeful progression through school life. Furthermore, as the school's careers lead, Gemma is instrumental in building robust connections and meaningful relationships with post-16 providers, empowering our pupils with the confidence and pathways they need for future success.

Grace has been teaching in special education since 2002. With a strong background in Primary SLD and experience across KS3 and complex needs groups in specialist settings, she has been leading our Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) at Mill Water since 2013.

She takes great joy in working with families to support new pupils as they transition into school, focusing on each child’s individual needs to build a solid foundation for learning.

As the lead for communication and PSHE, she ensures these vital areas are central to our curriculum from reception through to post-16, collaborating with professionals and leading ongoing training within the school. She also contributes significantly as a member of our safeguarding team, helping to create a safe and nurturing environment for all.

Good News Stories

What a busy and exciting week it has been across our classes. In Red and Orange, pupils have been fully engaged in wonderful sensory explorations, from splashing in water and glitter to discovering autumn leaves, pinecones, and even taking steps around school. Pink class has been out and about demonstrating fantastic road safety, while Gold class loved their Monday trip to the park.

We are also celebrating great independent communication milestones, such as a pupil in Green class’ wonderful use of their talker, alongside Lavender class who have been developing essential fine motor and life skills through pre-cooking, dressing, and posting activities.

Peach class have been learning more about the areas they live in by looking at local photos and exploring on Google maps. As well as enjoying local walks at Bicton they have also had fun in PE sessions at the Sports barn.

Children’s Commissioner Survey for children and young people

The survey takes just a few minutes to complete and can be accessed here: childrenscommissioner.gov.uk/thebigfuture

Dates For The Diary

Monday 26th October – Friday 30th October
Half Term Holiday

Friday 27th November & Monday 30th November
Non-pupil days – Occasional days

Friday 18th December
Last Day of Autumn Term

Monday 4th January
Non-pupil day – Staff training

Tuesday 5th January
Non-pupil day – Staff training

Wednesday 6th January
First Day of Spring Term