As always, the Trees Phase has been buzzing with exciting activities that nurture creativity, teamwork, and life skills. Here's a glimpse of what our incredible students have been up to:

📸 7T1:
Using iPads, our 7T1 students explored photography, capturing stunning images around the school. They also showcased their creativity by designing unique board games as part of their life skills lessons.

🎨 7T2:
In art class, 7T2 students experimented with symmetry, creating beautiful and imaginative symmetrical pictures.

🌳 7T3, 7T4, and 8T4:
Messing in the forest has been a highlight for these groups! They also showed off their culinary talents by baking cakes—combining fun and teamwork.

🔥 Fire Safety with Fireman Nik:
Fireman Nik visited the school to teach students about fire safety, including the vital "Stop, Drop, and Roll" technique.

🌍 8T1:
Exploring global challenges, 8T1 created a powerful climate change collage, reflecting their understanding and passion for the environment.

📚 Library and Garden Centre Trips:
8T3 and 8T2 enjoyed a trip to the library, sparking their love for reading, while a visit to the garden centre gave them a hands-on experience of plant care and sustainability.

🐦 Bird Feeders:
All groups—7T1, 7T2, 7T3, 7T4, and 8T4—came together to make bird feeders, supporting wildlife and learning about biodiversity.

🎉 Fun at the Civic:
Our students had an amazing time enjoying various activities at the Civic Centre, creating lasting memories and friendships.

🎉 Fun at the Civic:
Our students also had a fabulous day at the Grand Theatre watching Beauty and The Beast.

We’re so proud of the creativity, enthusiasm, and teamwork shown by all our students this term. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our journey of learning and fun!

Hills have had a fun-filled fortnight and are now very much in the Christmas spirit! We are so proud of all their achievements during this term and look forward to seeing them back in school in January. We wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy new year.  

Hills pupils enjoyed a visit from The Animal Lady and got to meet some very interesting creatures including Karen the owl, a gecko with some real personality and, our personal favourite, Esther the honey bear! Pupils were very brave and interacted with the animals with respect and kindness. Pupils have also taken part in trips to Merry Hill as part of their maths education. Pathway pupils have been enjoying learning about different types of skincare products as part of their hair and beauty lessons and have been able to put their nail painting skills into practice this week. 

9H1 have been practicing their cookery skills making some delicious cookies! They have been developing their talents at following a recipe from start to finish and ensuring they keep a clean and tidy work space. They have also been making some Christmas decorations as part of their Life Skills lessons and Christmas gonks during their careers lessons which sold very well at our careers fair! Pupils held a coffee afternoon in their classroom which included the sale of some delicious cakes and biscuits all in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support charity. Pupils raised £28 which is wonderful! 

10H1 Have been learning about the First Christmas Story in RE. We have learnt the location of Bethlehem and what frankincense and myrrh are. We then continued our learning with a visit to our local church where pupils were able to explore the building, consider how people might use a church and the importance of this for Christian people at this time of year. Pupils were brilliant at discussing this with tolerance and respect for those of other faiths. 

During Science this term, 11H1 have been learning about renewable energy. This week, we focused on solar energy and looked at the different components a solar panel has. This led to us creating our own solar ovens, where we experimented with melting chocolate and marshmallows on biscuits. We very much enjoyed this experiment and being able to test out the final creations! 

9H2 and 10H2 held a Christmas carol concert in their classrooms and performed songs using their Makaton skills. They performed beautifully and showed how amazing they are at using signs and symbols to support their communication. A big thank you to our parents for supporting this. We hope you enjoyed your mince pies! 

Rivers pupils have had another busy fortnight, filled with a multitude of activities both in and outside of school. Pupils are now feeling very ‘Christmassy’ and are looking forward to a well-deserved break. We look back on this term with immense pride for all that our fantastic pupils have achieved and look forward to the spring term. We wish you all a restful and relaxing Christmas and a very happy new year.  

Rivers have attended various trips including the Think Tank, Merry Hill, Motorcycle Live at the NEC and trips to local amenities in and around Dudley. Pupils very much enjoyed a visit from The Animal Lady and were able to interact with a range of different mammals, insects and amphibians. Pupils listened really well to information about the different animals, including their habitat, features and clever adaptations for survival and the importance of each in the wider circle of life. Pupils asked some thoughtful questions and were incredibly respectful of the needs of all the different animals. Pupils have also been working on honing their basketball skills in PE and their programming and control skills when using remote control cars in Motor Vehicle Studies. We are very proud to say that Rivers pathway groups have successfully decorated the school Christmas tree and have made it look wonderful for the rest of the school to enjoy! 

9R1 took part in a trip to Dudley Town Centre last week and identified how the town has developed since the 1970s. We explored the different kinds of shops and local businesses, both modern and historic and thought about which we felt were the most important for the people of Dudley. We also discussed how the introduction of the Merry Hill Centre had an impact on the town. Pupils behaved wonderfully and were a shining example of our school! 

9R2 have been writing short stories for the “SUTTON PIRATE NEWS”, bringing news stories from Pirate Island to Sutton! Pupils have worked really hard, using their skills of summarising stories to hook the reader. They have also worked on ordering information chronologically and writing in the past tense. Well done 9R2! 

10R1 have been putting their writing skills into practice by creating some amazing short story openings for their English assessments. They have used language features and punctuation to create tension and suspense! Pupils have worked so hard and we are really proud of the written work that has been achieved.   

10R2 have been developing their skills of using pop art techniques after research Any Warhol. They have produced some wonderful pieces of work which show their diverse range of skills and interpretations! Pupils have also been creating cards to show their understanding of the celebration of Hannukah. They have approached this with enthusiasm and understanding of people of other faiths. Fantastic work, 10R2! 

11R1 pupils visited Merry Hill Shopping Centre to apply their functional mathematic skills. Pupils calculated the cost of items within a variety of shops and made decisions about what to purchase. They also enjoyed some food together in Eat Central and were in excellent Christmas spirits! Pupils have also been practicing road safety and travel training skills  

11R2 have created some very interesting presentations about real life heroes! Pupils completed independent research, put this together and then presented in front of the class, develloping their spoken language skills. We all learnt lots about different people. Pupils in sport and leisure pathway have been developing their badminton skills at the leisure centre. 11R2 also enjoyed Forest School this week, working on their skills of teamwork to make a stretcher. Great work, 11R2!

We are thrilled to share the success of our Autumn Term Attendance Initiative! A huge congratulations to all the pupils who achieved their attendance targets—your hard work and commitment have not gone unnoticed. Those selected and who reached their desired goals will receive a well-deserved reward for their efforts.

We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to parents and carers for their ongoing support. Achieving good attendance is not only about academic success but also plays a key role in promoting positive mental health and wellbeing—values that align with our school motto: Safe, Happy, Learning.

Thank you for your collaborative efforts in helping our pupils thrive.

At Sutton school, we are proud to support Dudley Council’s fostering initiative. As a special school, we work with children from a wide range of backgrounds and home lives, and we believe it is important to raise awareness of this vital cause.

Fostering can make a life-changing difference to children and young people in need of a loving and supportive home.

For more information, please see the attached details.

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about this important initiative

As we approach the festive break, we know that once the celebrations settle down, children may spend more time on their devices. While technology can offer entertainment and connection, we kindly remind you to be mindful of the impact excessive screen time may have on their mental health, particularly if appropriate controls are not in place.

To support you in keeping your children safe online, we have attached a helpful guide on protecting them during the Christmas break and beyond.

Thank you for working with us to ensure our children stay safe, happy, and healthy during this festive season.

For more details about the services available, please refer to the attached PDF.

Two Weeks Full of Creativity and Learning!

This week has been brimming with excitement as our students immersed themselves in hands-on learning across various subjects. Here's a roundup of the amazing activities they’ve been up to:

Creative STEAM Projects:
7T1 and 7T2 crafted stunning coffee filter flowers during STEAM Day, showcasing their artistic flair. In addition, 7T1 designed imaginative board games, blending creativity with critical thinking.

Humanities Meets History:
7T1 and 7T2 explored the Victorian era, dressing up to delve into the Industrial Revolution—an immersive experience bringing history to life!

Science in Action:
8T2 had a “fizz-tastic” afternoon experimenting with volcanic eruptions, sparking curiosity and fun in equal measure.

Art Adventures:

8T3 painted vibrant watercolours of rainforest animals, capturing the beauty of nature.

7T3, 7T4, and 8T4 explored primary and secondary colours, creating tints and shades to deepen their understanding of colour theory.

7T2 worked on symmetrical designs, combining precision with artistry.

Maths in Motion:
7T4 applied mathematical skills to construct a model bus using chairs—an interactive and innovative approach to problem-solving.

Life Skills and Beyond:

As part of their life skills curriculum, 7T1 developed and tested their own board games, honing creativity and teamwork.

Fireman Nik visited to teach fire safety to all students, emphasizing the importance of "Stop, Drop, and Roll."

Exploring Nature and Creativity:
7T3, 7T4, and 8T4 enjoyed forest-based activities and also got hands-on with baking delicious cakes—a perfect mix of outdoor fun and practical skills.

Climate and Creativity:
8T1 focused on environmental awareness by creating impactful collages on climate change.

Technology and IT Exploration:
7T1 used iPads to photograph and document IT in the school, blending technology with creative expression.

Library Adventures:
8T2 and 8T3 enjoyed enriching trips to the library, sparking a love for reading and learning.

What an incredible week of discovery, creativity, and learning across the school! Well done, everyone! 🌟

Hills have had yet another jam-packed fortnight full of different activities! Take a look at some of the wonderful things we have been up to... 

Pupils have taken part in our school production of ‘The Magic Lamp’ and we are so proud of all your wonderful performances! Pupils have put so much effort into rehearsals, learning lines helping out with setting, props and merchandise which produced an amazing show.  

We have also had a visit from Brierley Hill Fire Station who brought the fire truck for us all to explore. Pupils discussed fire safety and what to do in an emergency. They were able to have a go at using some of the equipment in the truck and speak to the firemen about what their job was really like. A big thank you to Nick and all the firemen at Brierley Hill!  

9H1 have been developing their skills of inference and deduction during English lessons, retrieving information all about pirates! Pupils have learnt some key facts about ‘real life’ pirates and discussed whether these people are heroes or villains. Pupils have also put their learning into practice when writing using a range of adjectives to describe settings and characters in different images. You should be really proud of the work you have produced! 

10H1 have begun a new topic in science based on choices and decisions. Pupils have been thinking about what we need to make choices about and how to make a decision about something. Pupils have shown real maturity when discussing ideas.They have also enjoyed a trip to Himley, exploring the outdoor areas and seeing if they can spot items on the scavenger hunt list! 

11H1 have done a wonderful job of creating their handmade products which were sold at the Christmas performance. The whole class was involved in the production line of making their hot chocolate treats, and every visitor who has entered the class has paid many compliments... we hope you managed to get yourself one at our show! 

9H2 and 10H2 have been creative in Careers, designing and making products to sell at the school Christmas production. Pupils have used recycled glass bottles and jars to create festive decorations. In Computing, pupils have been exploring the Paintz app. They designed colourful, digital pictures using different tools. Pupils have also been working hard using Colourful Semantics to help them create their own class newsletters about all the fun and educational things that they have experienced this half term! 

Rivers have had a very busy fortnight! Take a look at some of the fantastic things we have been up to... 

Pupils have taken part in our school production of ‘The Magic Lamp’ and we are so proud of all your wonderful performances! Pupils have put so much effort into rehearsals, learning lines helping out with setting, props and merchandise which produced an amazing show.  

We have also had a visit from Brierley Hill Fire Station who brought the fire truck for us all to explore. Pupils discussed fire safety and what to do in an emergency. They were able to have a go at using some of the equipment in the truck and speak to the firemen about what their job was really like. A big thank you to Nick and all the firemen at Brierley Hill! 

Pupils in Motor Vehicle Studies pathway went on a trip to the motor show at the NEC. They had the chance to look at and explore different vehicles from different eras, looking at the similarities and differences. Some pupils and staff also had the opportunity to have a caricature sketch drawn of them by an artist! Pupils had a great time and their behaviour and manners were impeccable!  

9R1 enjoyed a trip to RAF Cosford. Pupils explored the museum and all the different planes and associated equipment from different eras. Pupils asked some great questions and enjoyed learning about the realities of being a pilot. Some pupils also took part in a competition to create their very own ‘glider’. A wonderful day was had by all who attended.  

9R2 have been exploring Dudley in Humanities pathway lessons stepping back in time to consider the changes to the area in the last 60 years, including the redevelopment of the Merry Hill site. Pupils successfully debated arguments for and against in two groups, using facts and evidence for and against the replacement of the factory site to a retail site. Well done 9R2! 

10R1 have been working towards their next English assessment, focusing on describing a setting and characters from an image. Pupils have worked really hard to use a more varied range of language techniques such as alliteration and similes to improve their writing. Well done 10R1! 

10R2 have been completing their ICT modules and have been discussing how to stay safe online. We looked at how to make unique passwords that are not easy to guess to protect ourselves. Then we went further to discuss what two factor authentication was and the advantages of having this on our devices. 10R2 are regularly reminded to stay safe online and what to do if they have any problems. Pupils have also worked on some beautiful Christmas decorations!

Pupils in 11R1 have demonstrated their creative flair this week, making ‘chocolate filled mugs’ to sell at the Christmas production. Pupils are more than confident that their creations will raise a good amount of money; even Miss Taylor said she’d purchase one for herself! 

11R2 have been watching film trailers to inspire our imagination for story openers as part of our upcoming assessment. Pupils have demonstrated real creativity! In maths, they have worked hard on addition and subtraction and are now moving on to develop their skills of multiplication and division which is a very important skill for life. Keep working hard, 11R2!  

Christmas Jumper Day will be held on Thursday 12th December! We kindly ask all pupils to wear a festive Christmas jumper to school on this day.

Please note that hoodies and onesies are not permitted; we encourage only Christmas jumpers to align with the spirit of the event.

Thank you for your support in helping us make this a special day for a great cause

We’re excited to share information about iZone Dudley, a fantastic local resource offering a wide range of support services for young people and their families.

From mental health and wellbeing advice to career guidance and community programs, iZone provides tailored support to help children and families thrive.

For more details about the services available, please refer to the attached PDF. Don’t hesitate to reach out to iZone if you feel their support could benefit your family.

Let’s work together to ensure every child gets the help they need! 🌟Discover the Support Available at iZone Dudley

We’re excited to share information about iZone Dudley, a fantastic local resource offering a wide range of support services for young people and their families.

From mental health and wellbeing advice to career guidance and community programs, iZone provides tailored support to help children and families thrive.

For more details about the services available, please refer to the attached PDF. Don’t hesitate to reach out to iZone if you feel their support could benefit your family.

At Sutton Special School, we are proud to support International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) 2024, a global initiative dedicated to promoting understanding, inclusion, and rights for individuals with disabilities.

As parents and carers, your daily commitment to supporting and advocating for your child already contributes to this incredible cause. Together, we are making strides toward a more inclusive and equitable world.

To learn more about IDPD 2024 and how you can get involved, please visit the official website. Let’s celebrate this special day and continue to champion the amazing abilities and achievements of our pupils.

Thank you for your unwavering support. 💙

Hello Trees families,

Our students have been involved in another fun-filled term full of learning and creativity. Here’s a glimpse of what each class has been up to recently:

7T1 Baking Cakes & Autumn Mobiles  

Students in 7T1 have been working on their baking skills, crafting delicious cakes in the kitchen! Alongside this, they took inspiration from nature to create beautiful mobiles on an autumn walk, using leaves and seasonal colours to capture the spirit of the season.

8T2 Keyboard Skills  

The music room has been buzzing with energy as 8T2 students explored keyboard skills. This hands-on experience has allowed them to build confidence in playing and experimenting with new sounds.

8T1 Drawing Flowers and Plants  

Our budding artists in 8T1 focused on drawing flowers and plants. With each sketch, they honed their observation skills and captured the intricate details of the natural world around us.

Mondrian-Inspired Art & Fireworks (7T3, 7T4, 8T4)

Inspired by the bold, geometric works of Piet Mondrian, students in 7T3, 7T4, and 8T4 created stunning artworks using colour blocks and lines. They also dove into firework-inspired pieces, adding splashes of vibrant colour and energy to their work.

7T2 Photography for DofE

Students in 7T2 took part in a photography project as part of their Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) activities. They explored different angles and perspectives, capturing unique and thoughtful images.

8T3 Emergency Services Investigation for DofE  

8T3 embarked on an investigation project focusing on emergency services as part of their DofE learning. This engaging activity allowed them to understand the importance of these services and gain valuable knowledge.

Decorative Biscuits & Life Skills (8T2 & 8T3)  

In Life Skills, 8T2 and 8T3 enjoyed a decorative biscuit session, complete with cups of tea! They learned the art of baking, decorating, and serving with a warm beverage, which was a delightful experience.

Fruit Kebabs & Instructions (7T3, 7T4, 8T4)  

In culinary class, students in 7T3, 7T4, and 8T4 made colourful fruit kebabs and practiced writing step-by-step instructions for preparing them. This activity promoted healthy eating and essential writing skills.

Autumn Lanterns & Halloween Art  

The spirit of autumn and Halloween is in full swing with students creating lanterns, pumpkins, and spooky-themed art. 8T1 in particular showcased fantastic pumpkin art that captured the essence of the Halloween season.

7T2 Drawing from Observation & Shading  

7T2 focused on refining their shading techniques while drawing from observation. This exercise has helped them develop depth and realism in their artwork.

Thank you for your continued support. We’re looking forward to sharing more updates with you soon!

Best regards,  

The Trees Phase Team

Welcome back to another fun-filled edition of our Hills newsletter! Here are some of the wonderful things our pupils have been doing... 

The pupils in 9H1 had a fantastic time on the science trip to the Black Country Living Museum. They learnt all about what life was like without electricity and they all agreed that life is now much easier with electricity. Some pupils admitted that life would be very boring without their phones and games consoles! 9H1 also had a fun science lesson this week during our STEM event. The pupils made small boats from aluminium foil, ensuring their boats were study enough to hold as many balls of play dough as possible without sinking. The record was 25 balls! 

10H1 have been finding out about renewable energy sources and how the UK is beginning to choose these over fossil fuels in our science lessons. Did you know that nearly 50% of UK electricity comes from renewable sources such as wind, water or solar power? 

11H1 pupils have been enjoying their Duke of Edinburgh lessons focusing on the skill of music. This week, they had a go at performing ‘The Cup Song’ from Pitch Perfect which was challenging but fun! They then moved on to working as a group to find the rhythm in ‘The Addams Family’ theme tune and passed the cups round in a circle to the music, and they certainly succeeded!  

11H1 have also continued to enjoy their Duke of Edinburgh skill lessons where they have been looking at various aspects of music. This week, they have begun linking all their learning together to look at different aspects of a song. They have decided on a theme and created a list of key words and phrases they would like to use within their lyrics! They look forward to developing their song over the coming weeks. 

Classes 9H2 and 10H2 have been participating in a sensory retelling of the story, ‘The Hairy Scary Castle’. Pupils have thoroughly enjoyed exploring lots of sensory props to help them retell the story. In Maths this week, we have been using manipulatives to help us add numbers within 20. We have also been exploring the festival of Diwali in RE, creating our own rangoli patterns and Diwali lamps.  

Once again, our Rivers pupils have been very busy doing lots of exciting activities both in and outside of school. Take a look at what we have been up to... 

9R1 had a lovely start to the first week back which started as a wonderful trip to the Dudley Archives. We had met with Archivist Hannah who shown us original pictures of the Black Country and how it looked in the late 1970’s. We then listened to an original recording of a lady who retold her story of her childhood who grow up in the late 19th century and early 20th century. This trip was very interesting. Why not ask your child what they have learned from this trip. 

9R1 have worked incredibly hard over the past few weeks to produce a Remembrance Day assembly. We have raised a total of £283.26 for the royal British Legion Poppy Appeal – a massive well done to 9R1 and thank you to everyone who bought an item! 

9R2 have been exploring the local writer Bejamin Zephaniah. They have learnt about his life and his wonderful stories, poetry, and songs. They have looked for similarities between Benjamin’s writing and the author Pamela M Tuck (As fast as words could fly) who wrote in a comparable way to Benjamin focusing on the rights of black lives. Benjamin used a typewriter, and pupils experienced what it would be like to use this type of machine, which was also present in the novel by Pamela. 

10R1 have been exploring the story ‘Wonder’ during last half term. We have been looking into character growth and the way emotions change throughout the story. From looking at events within the story we have been able to empathise with Auggie and understand his emotions and actions with reason. 

10R1 have also started to investigate a new area of the music industry, theatre. The students had to design and create their own show thinking about what the show was about, the purpose, design, how long and so on. The students have enjoyed learning about the different job types so far and are starting to understand there are more pathways available then what meets the eye. 

This term our PSHE theme is ‘self-awareness'. 10R2 have been looking at what makes us special and how others around us are different in many ways, but just as special. Pupils will be writing a positive affirmation for themselves and another pupil in the group to create a display that we can always look at to remind ourselves about how valued we are. 

10R2 have also been busy making Christmas crafts to sell at our Christmas school fair. They worked together as a team to read and follow instructions to make salt dough Christmas tree decorations. We're looking forward to decorating them with paint and glitter next week as we look forward to Christmas. We had such fun! 

11R1 really enjoyed working out ‘who did it’ during STEM day. We had to investigate shoe treads, DNA profiles and fingerprints of various staff to solve the crime. Throughout, we used our scientific and mathematical knowledge, as well as our literacy skills, to decipher who the criminal actually was! 

11R1 also visited Mary Stevens Park, as part of their tutor pathway. Pupils looked at the outdoor gym equipment and facilities for people to keep fit and healthy. Whilst there, pupils engaged in their own physical activity and had a kick around with a football! It was lovely to get some fresh air and exercise amongst pretty surroundings! 

Christmas is a magical time of year that brings joy to families across our community. Be sure to join in the festive spirit by attending one of the Christmas light switch-on events happening throughout the borough. Please see the dates above, or alternatively, click on this link for more details.

The holiday season can be a busy and sometimes overwhelming time, making it essential to stay mindful of how the added demands of this season can affect our mental health. Aspire4u is a community interest company in the West Midlands, offering low-level mental health support to adults in Dudley. They are dedicated to helping individuals understand and manage their mental well-being by providing positive activities, groups, 1-to-1 support, and peer-led experiences.

Aspire4u also develops and delivers projects that focus on understanding mental health, financial well-being, and personal purpose. Working alongside local authorities, statutory services, housing associations, schools, and non-profits, Aspire4u creates tailored programs for specific community needs, including therapy, group sessions, and psychological education.

Referrals to Aspire4u can be made through the Dudley Council referral system, or individuals can self-refer directly, see here.

As we approach the holiday season, many of us will be shopping online for gifts. To help keep you and your family safe online, please remember to use secure websites, avoid clicking unfamiliar links, and protect your personal information. For more tips on staying safe online this Christmas, please click this link.

This Anti-Bullying Week, Sutton School stood together to celebrate our differences and show our support for inclusion. This simple act reminds us of the beauty in diversity and reinforces our commitment to making our school a safe, welcoming place for everyone.

At Sutton School, we proudly uphold our core values of courage, forgiveness, safety, honesty, and respect. These values drive our commitment to stand against bullying in all its forms. With each of our pupils bringing unique strengths, perspectives, and personalities, we recognise that our differences make us stronger. This week and every week, we are united in fostering a community where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.

At Sutton Special School, we celebrate diversity and understand that our children come from a variety of family backgrounds. We are pleased to share information from Dudley Local Authority about the support available for kinship carers and families. This includes valuable resources, advice, and assistance tailored to those providing care for children within their extended family or close networks.

Kinship has upcoming training workshops for kinship carers, including an exciting announcement around the new offer from January.   

Current training 

Sessions for the rest of 2024 are now available for carers to book through our website. You can find the specific link for the next version of each workshop below, so please do share directly with your network of kinship carers, and any social workers working with them: 

Introduction to kinship care - 18 November 2024 — 7:30pm - 9:00pm 

Managing contact for kinship families – practical tools and tips - 20 November 2024 — 10:00am - 11:30am 

Managing contact for kinship families – the emotional journey - 25 November 2024 — 10:00am - 11:30am 25 November 2024 — 10:00am - 11:30am 

Preparing for sensitive conversations with kinship children - 26 November 2024 — 7:00pm - 8:30pm 

Understanding trauma and attachment in children - 27 November 2024 — 9:30am - 11:00am 

Understanding formal kinship care arrangements - 28 November 2024 — 10:00am - 12:00pm 

Understanding local authority support: information session for kinship carers - 2 December 2024 — 12:00pm - 1:15pm 

Overview of the EHCP and SEND process - 13 December 2024 — 10:00am - 11:30am 

Future training 

They are also excited to announce the will be launching more free workshops on in January.  

Understanding what financial support is available to kinship families 

Supporting your kinship child at school 

Dealing with emotional challenges as a kinship carer 

Understanding foetal alcohol spectrum disorder    

Exploring cultural heritage in kinship families 

Managing challenging behaviour in children in kinship care 

Understanding how to keep children in kinship care safe online 

Understanding drug and alcohol misuse as a kinship carer 

Life story work with children in kinship care 

We will share more information on dates and sign-up process for carers in the coming weeks. 

We've had an exciting and creative time in Trees Phase recently, and we’re thrilled to share what our talented students have been working on!

Stained Glass Windows (7T1 & 7T2)
Students in 7T1 and 7T2 created beautiful stained glass windows to represent the cross. These vibrant pieces reflect both their artistic skills and understanding of symbolism in religious art. The windows have brought a wonderful burst of color to our classrooms.

Makaton Story (8T2)
The students in 8T2 have been busy with an exciting project: filming a Makaton story! This fantastic initiative combines storytelling with sign language, enhancing both communication skills and creativity. The film has been a heartwarming collaboration for all involved.

Paper Mache Titanic (8T3)
The history of the Titanic came to life in 8T3, where students created paper mache replicas of the iconic ship. Their models show impressive attention to detail and demonstrate a growing interest in historical events. We are proud of their hard work!

Firefighter Visit
The Trees Phase had a special visit from our local firefighters, who shared important safety information and demonstrated their equipment. The students were captivated, asking lots of insightful questions while gaining an appreciation for these everyday heroes.

Andy Warhol-Inspired Portraits (7T3, 7T4, 8T4)
In Art, classes 7T3, 7T4, and 8T4 have been diving into the world of Andy Warhol. Inspired by his unique style, the students created their own portraits using bold colors and innovative techniques. The results were stunning!

Leaf Sculptures & Clay Leaves (7T1 & 7T2)
7T1 and 7T2 tapped into nature for their next project—crafting intricate leaf sculptures and creating clay leaves. These activities encouraged students to observe nature closely and translate their findings into artistic creations.

Bird Sculptures (8T3)
In 8T3, students continued their paper mache journey by sculpting beautiful birds. Their work is a testament to patience, attention to detail, and growing confidence in working with new materials.

Watering the Plants
Our young gardeners have been taking great care of the plants around the school, making sure they stay healthy and vibrant. This responsibility helps the students develop a sense of pride in their environment.

We are so proud of all the hard work and creativity that our students have shown. Stay tuned for more exciting updates in the coming weeks!

Welcome to another edition of our Hills news! We’ve got plenty of exciting news, upcoming events, and pupil achievements to share with you. Take a look at what’s been happening... 

9H1 took part in an exciting trip to the Black Country Living Museum. They explored different ways people lived in the past and how they lived without electricity. They also explored the mines and learnt about the children and men who would have been working in the dark dirty conditions. 

10H1 have been learning about renewable and non-renewable energy. As a practical learning experience, we made mini wind turbines. Luckily it was a windy day so we could test out our creations!  

11H1 have been working extremely hard towards their qualifications in their final year at Sutton, to reach for the best possible outcomes! They have been showing their amazing Maths skills across different topics, and even asking for extra challenges. In English, they have been excelling in both their Speaking and Listening and Reading Assessments. Some amazing learning happening in 11H1! 

Classes 9H2 and 10H2 have been working hard using Colourful Semantics to help them create their own class newsletters about all the fun and educational things that they have experienced this half term. 10H2 have also been taking part in hydrotherapy sessions and have been developing their skills in the water.  

Pupils had a great time learning all about Japan during MFL day. They tried different foods, learn some new Japanese phrases, practiced origami and learnt all about the history and culture of Japan. 

We hope you all have a wonderful half term break.

As we come to the end of the first half term, we celebrate the hard work of our pupils. Their creativity and achievements continue to make us proud. From school-wide experiences to classroom highlights, this edition is packed with positive news!  

9R1 are proudly raising money for the Royal British Legion poppy appeal. We have been working hard at planning and organising when and how we will sell these during the school day. A ParentMail with more information will follow shortly. 

9R2 Have been exploring the local writer Benjamin Zephaniah they have learnt about his life and his wonderful stories, poetry, and songs. They have looked for similarities between Benjamin’s writing and the author Pamela M Tuck (As fast as words could fly) who wrote in a comparable way to Benjamin focusing on the rights of Black lives. Benjamin used a typewriter, and pupils experienced what it would be like to use this type of machine, which was also presented in the novel by Pamela. 

10R1 This term we have been focusing on the story ‘Wonder’. We have been looking into character growth and the way emotions change throughout the story. From looking at events within the story we have been able to empathise with Auggie and understand his emotions and actions with reason. 

This term 10R2 have been looking at festival celebrations in RE. We are currently learning about Yom Kippur a Jewish celebration which focuses on the theme of forgiveness and cleansing. We will be doing some role play this week to show the benefits of forgiving others and understanding why sometimes this can be difficult. They have also made a positive start to their speaking and listening assessments and have been transferring these skills to make a podcast on our novel ‘Wonder’. They’ve been working in small groups to recreate a scene from the book. The pupils will be recording these podcasts next week as they continue to build their confidence using their speaking and listening skills. 

This half term 11R1 have been exploring the solar system. After lots of patience with papier mâché, we have finally been able to decorate our balloons, bringing our previously designed planets to life! Not only have we named them, we have also selected a habitat and population size. We are looking forward to learning more about the solar system from Brian Cox’s new documentary series after half term! 

11R2 have been working hard and completed their speaking and listening assessments and their reading assessments in English. They have developed presentation skills and confidence. We are very proud of them all for their hard work and determination! 

This week, our pupils have been exploring the fascinating culture and history of Japan. They learned about traditional customs, tried their hand at origami, and discovered the beauty of Japanese art and calligraphy. The children were excited to learn a few Japanese phrases and even got to taste some authentic Japanese snacks! It’s been a wonderful experience broadening their understanding of this unique and vibrant country. 

We hope you have a wonderful half term break.

Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme - Dudley Half-Term

We are excited to inform you about the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) initiative running across Dudley this half-term. Keeping children active and in a routine during the holidays is incredibly beneficial for their physical and mental wellbeing. The HAF programme offers a range of fun and engaging activities, alongside nutritious meals, at no cost.

In addition to HAF, there are other free activities available throughout the Dudley borough. Click the link to explore the full list and plan your half-term!

We understand that with the current cost of living crisis, feeding children during the holidays can be a daunting and costly task for many families. If you are struggling to feed your family at any point, please know that the Black Country Foodbank is available to help. Sutton School is a voucher holder for the foodbank, and we can make referrals on your behalf if needed.

As a pastoral school, we are committed to working closely with parents and the wider community to support our pupils' wellbeing. Please don't hesitate to reach out for assistance.

To self refer please click here.

We would like to sincerely thank parents and carers for their continued support in helping improve school attendance. Attending school regularly is not just about meeting targets—it plays a key role in supporting your child’s mental health and overall wellbeing.

A special congratulations to 11R2 HDN for achieving 97.1% attendance this half term!

However, we remain concerned about the number of children arriving late to school. This is something we will continue to monitor. If you are finding it difficult to get your child to school on time, please let us know so we can work together to find ways to support you.

For a reminder, please see the attached information on the new government guidance around school attendance.

Once again, thank you for your ongoing support.

We are proud to share that the Dudley Special Schools Orchestra recently performed at the prestigious Birmingham Symphony Hall!

As a SEN school, we have seen first hand the incredible benefits that performing arts have on our pupils' confidence, creativity, and overall wellbeing.

Please take a moment to watch their amazing performance and celebrate the talents of our wonderful students.

Click here.

Trees Phase Highlights

7T4 & 8T4

During Science lessons, 7T4 and 8T4 have been exploring the signs of Autumn and created a beautiful Autumn tuff tray display to celebrate the season. They also planted a grape hyacinth in water, using a glass jar to observe its growth and changes right in the classroom—an exciting experiment to watch!

7T1 

7T1 delved into the world of dental care, learning the importance of dental hygiene through hands-on activities focused on proper teeth cleaning techniques. They also had a lot of fun interviewing Mr. Twit, bringing some lively character studies into the classroom! Additionally, 7T1 participated in a treasure hunt around the school, using a site map to navigate and solve clues.

7T2 

7T2 joined 7T1 for the treasure hunt, which encouraged teamwork and map-reading skills as they explored the school grounds together.

8T3 

8T3 tapped into their artistic side by making clay tiles and drawing birds in their Art lessons, creating some stunning pieces for their portfolios.

7T3 

7T3 got creative with leaf printing, capturing the beauty of Autumn through art. They also completed a jigsaw puzzle about the world's oceans, enriching their geographical knowledge in a fun and interactive way.

7T1 (again!) 

7T1 has been busy! They also worked on their digital skills, editing photos using Pixlr, exploring how to enhance images through technology.

7T4 & 8T4 (A Special Treat) 

Both classes enjoyed a delicious treat by making pizzas last week, turning their classrooms into mini pizzerias. It was a fun and tasty experience for everyone involved!

It’s been a vibrant and activity-packed term so far, with every class diving into hands-on learning and creative projects. We look forward to more adventures and discoveries in the coming weeks!

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

Trees Phase Highlights

This week in Trees Phase, students across various classes engaged in a variety of creative and hands-on activities:

7T1 used iPads to explore the world of photography, capturing unique moments while also researching interesting facts about the beloved author Roald Dahl.

7T2 and 7T3 tapped into their creativity by making kites, learning about aerodynamics and enjoying some outdoor fun.

In 8T2, students explored the fascinating history of flight, focusing on the Wright Brothers. They put theory into practice by crafting paper planes and testing their designs.

8T3 expressed emotions through art in Core Studies, crafting clay faces that represented various emotions and learning how facial expressions communicate feelings.

A fantastic week filled with learning, creativity, and exploration!

It has been a busy fortnight for our Hills pupils! They have taken part in Reading Buddies, been out to Wordsley Library, reading sessions with Jo, school show rehearsals, hydrotherapy sessions, after school clubs, practical learning during pathways and a WM Police workshop. 

Rivers have had an action-packed few weeks both in and out of school! Pupils have been on trips to the leisure centre, supported with organising the school library and visited Wordsley library, participated in our Reading Leaders scheme and have been rehearsing for our school production in a range of singing, dance, acting roles.  

Supporting World ADHD Awareness Day

As part of our commitment to promoting inclusivity and understanding, Sutton school proudly supports World ADHD Awareness Day during #ADHDAwarenessMonth. We believe it’s essential to spread the message that neurodivergence is normal and that children with ADHD can live balanced, fulfilling lives when given the right support and understanding.

Let’s continue to raise awareness, break down misconceptions, and foster a supportive community for neurodiverse children. Together, we can help end the stigma surrounding ADHD and ensure every child thrives.

#ADHD #ADHDsupport #ADHDawareness #ADHDcommunity #EndTheStigma

World Mental Health Day: Supporting Positive Mental Health

At Sutton School, we are dedicated to promoting positive mental health for all our students and their families. As a SEN school, we understand the importance of providing tailored support that nurtures both the emotional and mental wellbeing of our students. This World Mental Health Day, we want to emphasise the importance of mental health awareness and share some tips for both students and parents/carers to maintain a healthy mindset.

Tips for students:

- Talk about your feelings: It's okay to share your worries or emotions with a trusted adult, whether it’s a teacher, parent, or carer.

- Stay active: Physical activity, even just a short walk or movement breaks, can improve your mood and help manage stress.

- Take breaks: Make sure to rest when things feel overwhelming—take time to relax, read a book, or listen to your favourite music.

- Practice mindfulness: Simple breathing exercises or focusing on the present moment can help calm your mind when things get tough.

Tips for Parents and Carers:

- Encourage open conversations: Create a safe space for your child to express their feelings without judgment. Listen and validate their emotions.

- Promote routine and structure: Consistent routines help children feel secure, so try to maintain regular sleep, meal, and activity times.

- Be a role model: Show positive ways of managing stress by practicing healthy habits, such as self-care and mindfulness, and let your child see how you handle challenges.

- Seek support when needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help if you feel overwhelmed. Our school is here to offer guidance and resources to support you and your child.

Let’s continue to work together to prioritise mental health and create a supportive environment for all our students and their families.

This National Teachers' Day, we want to take a moment to express our gratitude and appreciation for the incredible teaching staff at Sutton school. As a SEN school, we recognise the unique dedication, patience, and care that our teachers put into supporting every child’s individual journey. Their passion for education and commitment to nurturing our students' growth makes an immeasurable difference in the lives of the children and families we serve.

We are proud of the tireless work our teachers do each day to create an inclusive, understanding, and empowering learning environment. On this special day, let’s celebrate our amazing educators for their invaluable contributions to our school community.

In our creative adventures this term, 8T1 designed and crafted space rockets! The class had a blast, combining science and imagination to construct these unique models.

It has been a pleasure to welcome Hills pupils back into school! A special mention to our year 9 pupils who have settled into upper school really well. We have wasted no time in getting stuck into our autumn term curriculum; embedding safe, happy, learning towards independence into everything we do. Here’s a snapshot of the exciting things we have been up to... 

It has been wonderful to welcome our Rivers pupils back into school. We are really proud of how well year 9 have settled in. Pupils have began working towards qualifications, exploring lots of different subject areas and attending after school clubs. Here is what we have been up to...

As the children form new friendships, it's important to be aware of the platforms they use to communicate. Social media, messaging apps, and online games can be fun ways to connect, but they can also expose children to risks.

Here are a few tips to help keep your child safe online:

1. Monitor platforms: Know which apps and websites your child is using. Familiarise yourself with their features, especially privacy settings.

2. Encourage open conversations: Make sure your child feels comfortable talking to you about their online experiences, both positive and negative.

3. Set boundaries: Discuss time limits and appropriate content for their age. Remind them not to share personal information online.

4. Stay informed: Technology changes rapidly, so regularly check for updates on online safety.

By staying mindful of your child’s digital interactions, we can work together to create a safe online environment where they can thrive.

As we transition back into the school routine, we want to emphasise the importance of re-establishing healthy habits, especially when it comes to sleep and daily structure. A consistent sleep schedule is crucial to ensuring children are rested and ready to engage in their learning each day.

- Set a regular sleep schedule: Encourage your child to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.

- Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Reading a book or listening to calming music before bed can help signal to the brain that it’s time to wind down.

- Limit screen time before bed: Try to reduce exposure to screens (phones, tablets, TV) at least one hour before bedtime.

In addition to sleep, establishing daily routines helps children feel secure and supported. Here are some helpful tips to create a routine that works for your family:

- Morning preparation: A regular wake-up time paired with a calm and organised morning can set the tone for a productive day.

- After-school wind-down: Allocate time for play, and relaxation after school, keeping a balance between activities and rest.

We hope these suggestions help create a smooth and positive transition back to school. Here's to a wonderful term ahead filled with learning and growth!

Click here to read more.

We are pleased to introduce PC Katie Russell, who has joined our wider school community as our Police and Young Persons Coordinator. PC Russell will be working closely with our pupils, providing guidance and support where needed, and helping them understand important matters around making the right choices.

Her role will involve offering advice on various topics, ensuring that our pupils are informed about their rights and responsibilities, while promoting positive behaviour both inside and outside of school. PC Russell is a fantastic resource for the school, and we are excited to have her on board.

She will also be available at this year's Parents' Evening on 23rd October 2024, so feel free to stop by and say hello!

We look forward to seeing the positive impact PC Russell will have in supporting our pupils and strengthening our school community.

To keep update with all the events happening at school please see our events page of our website.