2023 Autumn Term 1

It has been great to see our pupils return to school after the summer break with such a positive attitude towards their learning.  Daily assemblies have been full of wonderful praise from staff about just how well so many of the pupils are doing in class.  A new homework package has been arranged for all day and residential pupils in secondary school. The difference this will make to pupils' academic examination grades is considerable, so thank you all for your support at home with this.

Outdoor and adventurous activities have been a main focus for many pupils this half term, with lots of off-site trips and activities taking place.  Pupils have been enjoying raft building and paddle boarding. The older pupils have all participated and succeeded at their Duke of Edinburgh expeditions.  Our more confident mountain bike riders enjoyed a two-day mountain bike residential across the Sussex Downs.  All pupils completed two days of heavy riding and certainly slept well overnight.  After half term, pupils from years 6, 7 and 8 will be attending an overnight residential at a local activity centre.  All pupils will complete a series of activities and team-building challenges during the day, which will continue into early evening.  This will be a great opportunity to develop self-confidence and self-esteem and to further develop relationships between each of the groups.

Attendance remains a key focus across the school.  Please ensure that your child is only absent from school if they are really too unwell to attend.  If pupils are missing school, they will be unable to catch up to where they should be academically.  Pupils who are off school also miss out so much on their learning and many of the great opportunities which are available to them.  There is an attendance award arranged for the class with the highest attendance in the school.

I hope that you all enjoy a nice half term together, and we look forward to pupils returning back to school on Tuesday 7^th November.

Best wishes,

Mr Anderson

Principal 

In an outstanding testament to the dedication and commitment of Muntham House School's PE & Sport Department, the school has been honoured with the prestigious afPE Quality Mark distinction award. This accolade serves as a glowing acknowledgement of the school's unwavering commitment to Physical Education, School Sports, and Physical Activity (PESSPA). 

Achieving the afPE Quality Mark is no small feat. It involves a rigorous self-review and evaluation process, encompassing the completion of a comprehensive application form and a school visit by one of afPE’s Validation Team members. The school's PESSPA initiatives were assessed by highly qualified school improvement professionals, ensuring a meticulous evaluation of the programs in place. 

The benefits of the afPE Quality Mark are far-reaching, enhancing the overall quality of PESSPA within the school. This prestigious award ensures the sustainability of high-quality programs, recognising and celebrating outstanding practice and innovation. By achieving this distinction, Muntham House School now stands out from the crowd, not only locally but also at regional and national levels. 

Furthermore, the afPE Quality Mark provides tangible evidence of whole school improvement, showcasing the school's dedication to the holistic development of its pupils. It serves as a powerful platform for sharing the school's excellence and success stories, inspiring other institutions and contributing positively to the wider educational community. 

Freddie and Mikey got to go on a tour of Wembley as a reward for collecting the most sportsmanship tokens over the course of this half term. Congratulations on your super achievement, boys!

Both pupils gained so much from the experience. They had a great time looking around the stadium, going to the press conference area, and sitting in the changing rooms. They even had the opportunity to march out onto the football field, just like they have seen famous football players do on the TV! 

We look forward to seeing who will be the sportsmanship tokens winner next half term, and can't wait to see what the reward will be.

This half term, the pupils in the school bands have been working hard! The pupils of 8A were treated to an opportunity to perform and record their rendition of 'Smells Like Teen Spirit' in a professional recording studio. It was an excellent experience for all who went, and so good for them to see what a possible future career in music production could involve.

The pupils also filmed a music video that will be showcased soon, highlighting the fantastic work produced by the school's music department. 

The winners of the 'Battle of the Bands 2023' competition are also scheduled to visit the recording studio to record their own track, and have been vigorously rehearsing in preparation. Indeed, our practice rooms and studio are often full, and drumming and singing can be heard across the school at various times during the week for all to enjoy.

We are so proud of these musicians and all that they have achieved, and we look forward to sharing their musical talent with you again in the not-too-distant future!

Class 7A had a fantastic time on their reward trip to Fishers Farm during this first half term. The aim was to celebrate their transition into mainschool from our Primary department and our feeder schools, and to provide a teamworking and bonding opportunity for the pupils in 7A.

All pupils participated in a variety of physical and teambuilding activities, and were very supportive of one another whilst they were there. A couple of their favourite  activities were the dingy slide and rock climbing.

Key Stage 3 pupils have been busy this half term working on WWII remembrance tote bags. The pupils first worked on recreating famous war posters such as 'Rivet Rita' and 'Dig for Victory' which they were able to select and alter. This process involved discussion around, and analysis of various images, their strengths and weaknesses, and how improvements or changes could be made.

Image transfer paste was used to transfer their inverted poster designs onto fabric. The reverse of the bags was printed onto using WWII-themed printing blocks. 

All was sewn using authentic vintage sewing machines which require skill and determination to use. It has been wonderful to see pupils extend their knowledge and understanding of how these machines operate, and how they have developed over time.

Look out for the finished bags, as they should be coming home soon. 

WWII Poster Designs

Printing Blocks and finished bags.

Year 10 have been painting in the style of Michelle Parsons and Emma Dibben for their extended coursework projects. This is a requirement of the GCSE exam board and provides an excellent opportunity for pupils to develop their unique artistic style. Their finished products will form part of their coursework folder which contributes towards their final GCSE grade.

Year 11 have just started their mock art projects. We have been delighted with their efforts and are excited to see the results of their endeavors. 

Pupils have made a great start in their Design Technology lessons during this first term of the new school year, designing and building bridges, which they have then tested to see which is the strongest.

Pupils researched some existing bridge designs and looked at the forces and features of structural designs before building their model bridges.

It has been great fun in lessons to test these final designs, with some of the bridges holding up to 16kg of weight.

It has been another great half term in Science.

The Key Stage 4 pupils have been working so hard on their GCSE studies with much work completed and some great knowledge and understanding shown.

The Y11s have worked their socks off when learning about homeostasis and hormones, and the Y10s have tackled some very tricky physics topics.

In Key Stage 3, the Y9s have successfully completed their topic on the rock cycle and tectonic plates and are now enjoying the chemistry topic of metals and their extraction. They have enjoyed completing some practicals around this, including the 'squeaky pop' test.

The Y8s are learning about light and will soon be able to create a nightclub in the science lab!!

Y7s have made a set of lab safety rules, can recognise and understand hazard symbols and have learned to use a Bunsen burner safely. Very responsible.

Well done to all pupils in the main school.

This half term, PSHE lessons have been focused on Health and Wellbeing.

Year 7 pupils have started the subject with All About Me activities, and 'building challenges' using Lego.

The Year 8's topic of Drugs and Alcohol has included lessons on caffeine and tobacco/nicotine.

Pupils in Year 9 have undertaken lessons on healthy and unhealthy social groups, and have explored and discussed factors which contribute to why young people may or may not decide to join a gang.

Our Year 10s have been incredibly honest when considering their mental health during periods of change or transition. Activities on reframing negative thoughts have encouraged Year 10 pupils to reflect on their own thought patterns and to think of more positive ways of internalising how they feel.

Year 11 have been learning how to manage their stress in this period of GCSE preparation, and have learned tips for enabling and promoting healthy sleep.

The Post-16 pupils have participated in lessons on fair and equal opportunities to be healthy, and the impact of health inequalities. Next half term, PSHE lessons will be based on Citizenship and Living in the Wider World.

We have been having a great time in the Library this half-term. Some of the Year 7’s work uses a nurture approach in the sessions. The aim is to replace missing early experiences by developing positive pupil relationships with both teachers and peers, in a supportive environment. Effective nurture practice follows the six principles of nurture…

Children’s learning is understood developmentally:

1. The classroom offers a safe base
2. The importance of nurture for the development of wellbeing
3. Language is a vital means of communication
4. All behaviour is communication
5. The importance of transitions in children's lives

Nurture sessions are designed to address the social and emotional needs that can hamper pupils’ learning. As well as providing academic teaching, the sessions are designed to help pupils develop vital social skills to develop confidence and self-respect, and to take pride in behaving well and achieving.

In nurture sessions there is a special emphasis on language development and communication: nothing is taken for granted and everything is clearly explained with the help of demonstrations and, where helpful, physical gestures. Pupils are given the time they need to both listen and be listened to. 

The friendly, supportive relationship between staff and pupils is an important source of learning – a model for the pupils to observe and copy. 

The impact on pupils using the Nurture/Literacy Skills programmes is starting to show, and we have seen improvements in basic literacy, reading and confidence, and in how to interact with others appropriately. 

It was a beautiful summer, and the weather was with us on our return. The pupils have been enthusiastic this half term, being pleased to see each other as well as seeing their teachers!

This term in Years 7, 8 and 9, we have been concentrating on baking, starting with Carrot cake and scones, Brownies and Chocolate cake, Lemon yoghurt cakes, Banana loaf and Blondies. The recipes progress in difficulty as pupil age increases. I hope that some of the produce has made it home without being devoured beforehand, and that you have had a chance to smaple and enjoy them! The pupils work very hard in the Food Tech kitchen, being very conscientious and focused. They are rightly proud of their results.

Year 10 have been practising how to make and roll-out pastry. This has included making scones, breakfast pastries, Treacle tart and Tarte au Citron along with Mini Quiches. It is amazing how much their skills have developed from just last year.

Year 11 will be qualifying in their BTEC Level 1 this year, so this term has been focussed on making breakfasts - not just those that are served in this country, but those from other lands too. Pupils have cooked Huevas Rancheros, Kedgeree, Spanish omelette, Indian chickpeas with poached egg, and cowboy baked beans.

MHC pupils are studying for their BTEC Level 2, so they have made starters including Carrot and Ginger soup, Ham Hock pots, Pate and Melba toast, Cheese soufflé and Mushroom Tartlets.

After Year 12, pupils are now offered short courses in which they can specialise. This has resulted in Bread-making, the creation of fresh pasta and a variety of baking. The results so far have been fantastic!

I hope you enjoy looking at the photos of some of their efforts.

We returned from the summer holidays to find the raised beds bursting with produce: cabbages, carrots,  beetroot, and celery, to name a few. The polytunnel had tomatoes, aubergines, cucamelons and herbs, all doing well. Unfortunately, squirrels had enjoyed a feast, and had eaten the huge crop of grapes and all of the melons and cucumbers! Our sunflowers were fabulous, towering over pupils and staff, and have given great joy to the pupils who marvel at the size of the flowers. We have dried and saved lots of the seeds for next year - the remainder will be given to the birds during the cold months later in the year.  

Our chef used the biggest cabbages to make coleslaw. He added beetroot, lettuce and celery to stock the salad bar in the dining hall.  

The garden was bursting with lots of vegetables and flowers, but not enough of anything to be useful to chef, so we signed up for the RHS food share initiative. This was popular with staff and pupils, and we cleared our surplus, whilst promoting healthy eating and plastic-free shopping. It was lovely watching the pupils choose vegetables and flowers to take home. We hope you have enjoyed eating some of the produce the pupils have grown.

We have started planning for next year by planting onion and garlic sets outside and have made the most of the warm Autumn weather by sowing carrots, rocket, mixed salad leaves and radishes in the polytunnel.  

We have grown a wide range of pumpkins and gourds, we will use these to decorate the garden area and have fun carving them.

Another year started, and the dogs were excited to return to school. Being a new term, they, of course, need time to settle back into their routine. Our pupils enjoy taking care of the dogs and the dogs, in return, love spending time with them. We have enjoyed hearing about all the pupil's adventures over the summer.

With the weather slowly turning, we are making the most of the sun with extra-long canine sessions. You can see by the picture that Buzz and Ben enjoyed spending time together and earned a well-deserved break from their long walk.

The dog's care and comfort are our main concern, and we are teaching our pupils to be responsible dog owners and carers. This means that on the days the dogs have long sessions, their mornings are for relaxing, as you can see with Omah and Bradley.

This also means that in extreme weather, the dogs don’t attend work. If the temperature is in the high 20s as it was in September, it is dangerous for dogs because of their inability to regulate their body temperature. This meant there were a couple of days we were dog-less. What do we do then? Improvise! One pupil and I made use of our time together by learning about eggs. We got one from our hens and then learnt about how to cook it. The disappointment of 'no dogs' soon turned to excitement!

We hope you had a restful summer and are enjoying the transition to Autumn.

Muntham's animal contingent were delighted to have the pupils back at school, no  creature more-so than the pigs. Bangers and Mash know that pupils mean more food as the pupils will feed them acorns when they pass by on their way to Forest School.

The hens have become regular visitors to the goat pen, enjoying the freedom and space. Pupils have been spending more time handling the hens and building confidence in doing so. This process provides a great opportunity to learn how our body language can affect others, so the pupils have been trying to be calm, slow and quiet in order to get closer to the hens to pet and carry them. 

The goats have been on daily walks, munching on the autumn leaves as they go. Pupils have walked them into the village, stopped at the shops for supplies and then ventured back to school. This is so rewarding as not only does it give us the opportunity to spend longer in an animal support session, but it builds the rapport  between pupils and goats, allowing the pupils to relax and switch off from any issues that they may have and simply enjoy being outdoors with the animals.

The donkeys - Buzz and Woody - have also been enjoying stretching their legs on walks around the school. Now much more familiar with lead walks, they will happily walk and stop to eat when the children give them the sign to - this isn't an exact science and pupils often get tested to practice their waiting and patience skills when the donkeys choose to stand still and not budge - this is not a bad skill to develop!

Bangers and Mash are very happy pigs, enjoying their choice of pens, an abundance of acorns and plenty of visitors. They must be the cleanest pigs for miles as they are washed and groomed regularly by the pupils! In turn, pupils have become more relaxed around the pigs and will happily sit and tickle them, knowing that's the trick to get them to lie down and go to sleep!

This half term, our primary pupils have been taking part in challenges. The type and complexity of these challenges have depended on what group they are in.

The Mice and Badger primary classes have been helping me gain the Green Trees for Schools award from the Woodland Trust. This is achieved through various tree-related activities.

The Foxes primary class has been taking part in the RSPB 'Wild' Challenge and is currently working towards the bronze award. This is achieved through exploring and understanding nature. 

Deer Class have been working towards an award from the Royal Forestry Society. This award will take a long time to achieve, but I hope the pupils will gain a deep understanding and appreciation of nature through participating in the challenges and activities this entails.

Currently, Rabbit Class are helping to improve the primary Forest School environment by working on a joint project, which is to build a tree house! This hugely exciting task  is a long-term project that will focus on building social skills, special awareness, gross motor skills, resilience and teamwork skills. We are excited to see the tree house take shape - watch this space for more news.........

KS3

Hands: Enhancing Hand-Eye Coordination and Fluency 

This half term has seen our pupils dedicating themselves to enhancing their hand-eye coordination and fluency. Through a variety of engaging activities and sports, such as rugby, basketball, badminton and cricket, pupils have been refining their motor skills and dexterity. These activities not only promote physical health but also stimulate mental awareness, fostering a strong connection between mind and body. 

By practising hand-eye coordination, our pupils are not just improving their athletic abilities but also developing essential skills applicable to everyday life. Whether it's catching a ball, writing or drawing, typing on a keyboard, or even cooking, the enhanced coordination gained during PE lessons has wide-ranging benefits. 

Heart: Responsibility and Leadership 

At the core of our curriculum is the development of character, and this half term, we have emphasized the values of responsibility and leadership. Our pupils have been encouraged to take ownership of their actions, fostering a sense of responsibility for their own well-being and the well-being of their peers. In team sports and group activities, pupils have embraced the concept of collective responsibility, understanding that each member plays a vital role in the success of the team. 

Moreover, leadership skills have been nurtured through collaborative projects and group challenges. By working together and supporting one another, pupils have discovered the strength that comes from unity and teamwork. These lessons in leadership extend beyond the sports field, preparing our pupils to become responsible and compassionate citizens. 

Head: Decision-Making in a Competitive Environment 

In the competitive arena of sports, quick and effective decision-making is crucial. This term, our pupils have been immersed in scenarios that require strategic thinking and timely decisions. Whether it's choosing the right moment to make a pass in football or deciding the best angle for a shot in basketball, pupils have been refining their decision-making abilities under pressure. 

The skills acquired in PE class are not confined to sports alone. The ability to make informed decisions swiftly is a skill that serves pupils well in academics, social interactions, and future professional endeavours. By learning to analyse situations and make confident decisions, our pupils are better equipped to navigate the challenges of life. 

In conclusion, this half term has been a journey of physical and personal development for our KS3 pupils. By focusing on Hands, Heart, and Head, we are not only shaping skilled athletes but also nurturing responsible, empathetic, and intelligent individuals. We look forward to witnessing our pupils continue to excel both on and off the field, embodying the values instilled in them during their PE classes. 

KS4

Hands: Performing Fine Motor Skills in a Competitive Environment 

In the exhilarating world of sports, fine motor skills are paramount. This term, our pupils have been refining their hand-eye coordination, grip, and precision through the exciting sports of badminton, tennis, tchoukball, and football. These activities have challenged our pupils to perform intricate movements under pressure, enhancing their fine motor skills in a competitive setting. The focus on fine motor skills doesn't just stop at sports; it extends to everyday tasks, from writing to playing musical instruments. The dexterity gained through these sports equips our pupils with skills that have a lasting impact on their overall coordination and motor abilities. 

Heart: Respect and teamwork in challenging situations 

Respect and teamwork are the cornerstones of a successful team, and this term, our pupils have embodied these values in challenging situations. In the face of adversity, whether on the court or the field, our pupils have demonstrated respect for their opponents, coaches, and teammates. They've embraced the spirit of sportsmanship, understanding that every individual plays a vital role in the collective success of the team. Through teamwork, our pupils have discovered the power of collaboration, learning to leverage each other's strengths and support one another in times of difficulty. These experiences not only enrich their sports endeavours but also lay the foundation for successful interpersonal relationships in their future endeavours. 

Head: Creativity in Pressured Sport Situations 

Sports often unfold in unpredictable ways, requiring quick thinking and creativity. This term, our pupils have been challenged to think on their feet, strategize, and exhibit creativity in high-pressure situations. Whether it's devising a unique play in football, executing a surprise shot in badminton, or finding an innovative way to score in tchoukball, our pupils have showcased their mental agility and creativity. The ability to think creatively under pressure is a skill that extends far beyond the sports field. It nurtures problem-solving abilities, resilience, and adaptability, preparing our pupils to face the challenges of the real world with confidence and ingenuity. 

In closing, this half term has been a testament to the dedication and passion of our KS4 PE pupils. Through their endeavours in badminton, tennis, tchoukball, and football, they have not only mastered sports skills but also developed essential life skills that will serve them well in the future. We applaud their hard work, sportsmanship, and commitment to personal and collective excellence. 

KS5 

Understanding the Essence: Creating Detailed 6-Week Fitness Plans 

This term, our KS5 pupils have delved into the intricacies of fitness planning, dissecting the elements that contribute to creating a comprehensive 6-week fitness plan. From understanding individual fitness goals to tailoring exercises to specific needs, our pupils have engaged in a meticulous process. The emphasis has been on crafting plans that are not only challenging but also realistic and achievable, promoting sustainable health and fitness practices. 

Setting the Foundations: Goal Setting and Individualized Training 

Central to the curriculum has been the art of goal setting. Our pupils have learned the importance of setting clear, measurable, and realistic fitness objectives. By identifying strengths and areas for improvement, they have tailored fitness plans that cater to individual needs. This personalized approach ensures that every fitness plan is as unique as the individual it is designed for, promoting maximum efficiency and motivation. 

Exploring the Science: Nutrition, Recovery, and Wellbeing 

A holistic approach to fitness planning extends beyond exercises. Our KS5 pupils have delved into the science of nutrition, understanding the role of a balanced diet in supporting physical performance and overall well-being. Additionally, they have explored strategies for effective recovery, embracing the significance of rest, hydration, and proper sleep patterns for optimizing fitness results 

Football Fixtures

This half-term saw the start of the South London Special League Football Season, with many pupils excited to play again after the summer break. Teams across all age groups made trips up to London this term, where the pupils have been blessed with wonderful conditions to play football. As always, the teams represented themselves well throughout the day, showing great teamwork and sportsmanship.  

The U12s also had mixed results, winning 2, drawing 1 (against the overall winners) and losing 1. The team faced some very tough and physical opponents on the day but didn’t shy away from the challenge and competed very well across each game, including a draw against the best side on the day.  

The U14s had a great day the following week, winning all 4 games without conceding a goal all day as well, seeing them win their group on the day. Well done, team.  

The U16s were the first to make the trip to London, and they had a mixed day, with 2 wins and 2 losses, seeing them finish 3rd on the day.  

To end the half term, KS4 and 5 pupils hosted New Barn School in a 'friendly' tournament. For most of the pupils, it was their first time playing football in a match situation since the summer term. The team braved the weather and competed well against a good New Barn Team in a match which had its fair share of good football and tough tacking but also plenty of sportsmanship and teamwork on display from both teams. Muntham came out victorious on the day, winning 5-3. We look forward to hosting New Barn again in November, this time for a KS3 fixture.  

Rugby Academy 

We are thrilled to share the fantastic progress made in our after-school rugby club this half term. With a focus on carrying the ball with positivity, and gaining metres effectively, our players have been honing their skills and embracing the true spirit of the game. 

Mastering the Art of Positive Ball Carrying and Efficient Meter Gaining 

This half term, our young athletes have been diligently working on their ball-carrying techniques. The emphasis has been on not just moving the ball forward but doing so with positivity, determination, and strategic prowess. Our players have been mastering the art of gaining metres effectively, learning to read the game, find gaps, and make those crucial advances on the field. 

New Beginnings: Introducing Our Brand New Rugby School Kit 

Excitement is in the air as we proudly announce the arrival of our brand-new rugby school kit! Our players will be donning the new kit with pride. This not only signifies a fresh start for our team but also boosts our confidence as we prepare to showcase our skills and sportsmanship on the field. 

Football Academy 

We have had a great start back to the new school year. The focus has been on working in a team and working on how to 'press' when defending to try and win the ball back from the opposing team. Our academy players have shown great teamwork, communication, resilience and leadership while practising. We have also been working on our fitness and training to improve our speed during the game.  

Cricket Academy  

This term, we have been very fortunate to have two coaches from Sussex County Cricket Club come into school and coach our young cricketers on a Wednesday evening. Lead coach Fred has played for England's Physical Disability team and is well known across Sussex for his cricketing ability. It has been a pleasure to have Fred coaching our pupils, and we look forward to continuing to work with him throughout the year.  

Primary Football Academy  

We are thrilled to announce the successful launch of our Primary Football Academy this half term! It has been an action-packed few weeks, filled with excitement, learning, and a whole lot of fun. Our young football enthusiasts have been embracing the sport with enthusiasm, energy, and a spirit of teamwork. 

Keeping Control, Mastering the Game: 

Our primary focus this term has been on teaching our budding players the art of keeping the ball under control and away from the opposition. Through a series of fun and engaging activities, our skilled coaches have imparted essential techniques while ensuring that the pupils have a blast on the field. The joy of the game has been at the heart of every session, making learning a truly enjoyable experience for our young footballers. 

Staff have been making the most of this extended warm weather to fit in Silver DofE practice expeditions, which were fantastic challenges for the pupils. However, 10A missed out on that warm weather, as the rest of the article will reveal…

Year 9

Year 9 started their Duke of Edinburgh lessons by learning field craft skills, such as campsite cooking, setting up tents, and the basics of map reading. They also started working on their communication and problem-solving skills, all of which will be required for their own expedition in Spring.

10A

As mentioned, the warm weather has meant some fantastic expeditions have been able to take place. However, 10A missed out on the good weather, and went out in an absolute wash-out of a storm! Already strong, the wind and rain were amplified when the pupils were on top of the South Downs, shown in the picture of the pupils battling against gusty winds. Despite the horrendous weather, Mr Imbert was astounded by the resilience and peer support the pupils showed in handling the conditions. Special mentions to Charlie S, who took time out of the summer holidays to develop his hiking and map reading skills, and to Dylan S and Ryan H, who continue to improve their excellent navigation skills.

10B

10B had a much better weather forecast on their side for their South Downs hike. There were some good areas to improve navigation after some wrong turns, and even a chance to watch a Brighton & Hove Albion game on Mr Rogers’ phone, crammed underneath a shelter! Special mention to Ben E, who went above and beyond to help other pupils on the hike, and showcased his improved expedition preparation skills.

Biking

On Thursday 12^th October, a group of five pupils pumped up their tyres and packed their bags for a two-day cycle on the South Downs. The group took their mountain bikes down to Bramber Castle to briefly join the Downs Link heading south before they started to ride the South Downs Way heading east. Thursday was a huge day of cycling for the group: they rode a total of 40km in 5 hours – including some breaks. Mr Imbert puffed along next to them as they rode past Devil’s Dyke, the Amex Stadium, bombed down chalk tracks and climbed up through cow fields. That evening, the group stayed at YHA South Downs, a cosy set of converted farmhouses set right on the South Downs Way near Newhaven. After a nourishing dinner, they went on an hour’s night walk to take in the views of the offshore wind turbine farm near Brighton coast, and the lights of the surrounding towns. When they returned, a few of the pupils kindly stepped in to help repair Charlie's bike, showing good communication and problem-solving skills to help support another pupil. 

Day two, Friday, saw the group explore Friston Forest and make use of the many trails there. It offered a great opportunity for every rider to develop a certain aspect of their riding, and we saw a huge improvement from everyone in just that one day. 

Mr Imbert was extremely happy with the attitude and behaviour shown by the pupils on the trip, and loved hearing Sam say that it gave him "confidence to go out and explore". Here's to the next epic bike trip!

The return from the Summer holidays to Hever floor has been the usual busy affair for our pupils. It was lovely to see our pupils so pleased to be back, settled in and excited to tell each other what they had been up to over the summer. 

In the last few weeks, our pupils have enjoyed bowling, trips to our local skate park, visits to the beach, and a very windy picnic! We have made visits to Box Hill and the stepping stones, and all pupils have returned to their extracurricular clubs which they enjoy immensely. Baking has been abundant as usual, with some fantastic creations made and tasted by all.

We have started our "Hever in the community" topic, where we visit places such as the Fire station, Police station, Library and other community hubs. Our first visit to Crawley Fire Station was very successful, and we all really enjoyed finding out about the fire station and the important job the firefighters do. Our pupils were excited to be able to try holding the hose and were amazed at the power of it! They even tried going down the fire pole. The pupils commented that their dorms, where they sleep on Hever floor, were nicer than the Fire Fighter's dorm at the station! We were also very lucky to see the firefighters spring into action, as they received two call-outs/emergencies while we were there! 

We were very proud of our pupils, who asked great questions and behaved impeccably throughout our visit.

It’s been a busy half-term and the pupils have enjoyed the activities, and have had a lot of fun.

The pupils went to the Warren where they climbed the trees and took it in turns on the rope swing, and also went on the hunt for conkers.

The Roller Disco is a favourite among the pupils, and they no longer need an aid to skate and are now skating freely, which is great to see. The pupils had a lot of fun and played with a ball whilst they skated and passed it to each other as they whizzed around the rink.

Flip-Out was amazing and the pupils worked together and managed to successfully manoeuvre around the assault course with ease. Dinner in McDonald's was well deserved afterwards.

Swimming at The Triangle was so much fun. The pupils spent most of the time going on the flumes and tiring themselves out, before relaxing in the hot tub.

We have also spent time on floor with board games, Lego, Uno and the much loved Marvel classics.

The menus this term were chosen by the pupils and they were all asked to choose some of their favourite meals that they would like to cook. Some of the meals prepared and cooked by the pupils were Spaghetti Carbonara, Sausage and Mash, Chicken Curry and homemade pizzas. We have some talented little chefs on Bodiam Floor who know their way around the kitchen and work independently with just a little bit of help from the staff.

We have had a great start to the Autumn Term on Arundel floor where we have mostly focused on getting back into routines after a long summer at home. Many of the pupils' current target is to start setting their own morning alarm to wake themselves up, and to start being more independent in the mornings, giving them life skills for the future. Some pupils struggle with getting up in the mornings but are trying very hard and succeeding at using their alarm clocks to independently get up each day. 

We are continuing to hear the 'student voice' on floor in terms of what leisure activities they want to do during the evenings. Many of the older pupils like to split their evening time between being physically active and then having downtime when they can just chill out with their peers.

We have introduced a couple of new leisure activities including going to a local youth club once a week to socialise outside Muntham, which some of the pupils are enjoying. A couple of the pupils have also attended a leisure group called Ready and Able, where they play football with people less able than themselves - they have represented the school well and thoroughly enjoyed the fitness aspects too. 

Pupils are showing more interest in actively helping prepare meals during the evening, so staff are encouraging this and getting the pupils to take more ownership of what goes on our weekly menu and how they can help assist in the kitchen.

Keep it up, Arundel residents - you are all doing brilliantly!

Another Post-16 pupil has successfully passed his driving test.  Following a number of lessons as part of his Post-16 'learning to drive' curriculum, Oliver passed his practical test with flying colours.  His test assessor on the day remarked how impressed she was with his driving capabilities. 

Oliver is a confident driver, and we are all extremely proud of him for what he has achieved and just how far he has come.  Well done, Oliver! We wish you many happy and safe years on the road!

Please note that pupils return from half-term on

TUESDAY 7TH NOVEMBER 2023

Term dates are on the school website, and available by clicking the link below.

Term Dates 2023 - 2024

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

MONDAY 18TH DECEMBER UNTIL TUESDAY 2ND JANUARY

LAST DAY OF AUTUMN TERM

FRIDAY 15TH DECEMBER - INSET DAY

FOR INFORMATION, THE INSET DAYS UNTIL THE END OF AUTUMN TERM ARE: