End of Year 2022 Newsletter

I am very privileged to be heading up this unique and wonderful school in Battle. We have been open for 10 months now and I can honestly say I have loved every minute of it.

Seeing our children develop resilience, trust and an ability to be reflective about their own beliefs (religious or otherwise) and perspective on life. knowledge of, and respect for, different people’s faiths, feelings and values has been a joy to watch them develop across the year.

Children value the community meetings they are involved in, with some children leading these at lunchtimes. Children and adults value being part of an ‘education therapeutic community’ where all have a significant involvement in decision-making and the practicalities of running our school. The way I have chosen to embrace this approach within our school is based on ideas of collective responsibility, democracy, citizenship and empowerment; therapeutic communities are deliberately structured in a way that encourages personal responsibility. The school community as a collective are seen as bringing strengths and creative energy into our school with each one of us being as equally valued as the other.

Our dedicated and skilled adult team ensure that the children in our care have the best educational experiences. Our holistic yet individualised approaches for our children create a safe environment for children, which enables them to take risks with their own learning. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the adults; the children; parents/foster parents and wider networks for their support of our vision. I am truly humbled.

I am very proud to be part of this great school community and all that we offer for our children, families and each other. I wish you all a peaceful summer and look forward to continuing our journey with you all in September.

Caroline Belchem
Head Teacher