Despite learners being off for a week, our teaching staff have made the most of the half‑term, with many of our new recruits undertaking valuable training.
Throughout the days on site, close to twenty new recruits from across all six of our schools have thrown themselves into a vibrant programme of development. They have spent time meeting one another, forming early working relationships and getting involved in essential training.
While exploring safeguarding, behaviour strategy, trauma-informed practice and hands-on classroom practice, staff showed consistent enthusiasm throughout the programme and carried a strong sense of confidence and excitement into the end of the week as they prepare for the restart.
Senior Head of School Chantelle Bowker said: “The team have engaged really well throughout. They have been asking lots of thoughtful questions, showing genuine curiosity and demonstrating exactly the kind of commitment we hope to see.”
She continued: “It is great to welcome a cohort of staff who are clearly here for the right reasons and who are already showing real passion for supporting our learners.”
One new team member starting at Kershaw Wood Manchester said: "It was honestly great. It was lovely to meet the team, existing and new, and great to get a feel for the procedures and protocol in a personal and interactive way."
A new face at Stansfield House commented: "Out of every company I've worked at, the support from First Steps Together has been the best. It was a fantastic induction."
The programme took place at our Peak Forest site, which has also been receiving its own attention and care. Alongside the training, new equipment is being rolled out across our estates with other schools also receiving wider maintenance and cleaning in preparation for students returning.
The time spent developing staff at Peak Forest has helped ensure the whole organisation heads into the next half term feeling ready, refreshed and united.
We still have lots of exciting opportunities on offer, with open roles listed with job descriptions on our vacancies page.
New digital infrastructure is also being introduced to support our recruitment teams. This work is helping strengthen how we plan, prepare and grow in the months ahead.
We look forward to sharing more news during the remainder of the Spring term.