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Discover how First Steps Together promotes British values through democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, respect and cultural diversity in our schools. British values First Steps Together is dedicated to fostering a nurturing educational environment where British values are actively promoted and celebrated. In our schools, we recognise the significance of these values in shaping the character and understanding of young people. DEMOCRACY The idea that everyone has a voice, and people help make decisions together in a fair and respectful way. THE RULE OF LAW The acceptance that everyone must follow the same fair and clear rules, so no one has unchecked or unfair power over others. INDIVIDUAL LIBERTY The ability to make our own choices and do what we want, within reason. FREEDOM OF FAITH AND BELIEFS The acknowledgement that everyone is free to follow their own beliefs, even if they are different from our own. MUTUAL RESPECT The understanding that people have different beliefs and respecting them without trying to make others follow our own. We emphasise democracy throughout our schools by encouraging students to share their thoughts and opinions in a safe and inclusive environment where every voice is valued. Through class discussions, voting on classroom decisions, and taking part in mock elections, we help young people understand and experience the principles of democracy from an early age. Respect for the rule of law is another fundamental value we prioritise. Our educators teach the importance of rules, fairness and justice, providing clear boundaries that help students understand responsibility and the consequences of their actions. Activities linked to the legal system, along with visits from community figures such as police officers, further strengthen their understanding and respect for the law. Individual liberty is central to our educational approach. We support students to express their creativity, explore their interests and make choices within a safe and nurturing environment. By encouraging independence, critical thinking and personal responsibility, we empower young people to grow into confident and well-rounded individuals. We also place great emphasis on freedom of faith, beliefs and cultures. Our schools celebrate diversity and create meaningful opportunities for students to learn about different traditions, customs and religions. Through multicultural activities, festivals and guided discussions, we promote understanding, empathy and acceptance. Lastly, we are committed to building a strong sense of community and mutual respect. Through group projects, community engagement and charitable initiatives, we encourage students to value the wellbeing of others and to play an active, positive role in society. British values are promoted throughout our schools

Discover The Hub, our provision for learners aged 14-16 in specialist education. The Hub Opening soon Browse our brochure by clicking here...

Discover Stansfield House, our Tameside school offering a personalised, nurturing environment for learners with SEMH. Stansfield House The key details Address: 103 Crescent Road, Dukinfield, SK16 4HG Phone number: 0330 118 0974 Head of School: Nicola Francis (acting) Executive Headteacher: Catherine Donnelly Designated Safeguarding Lead: Charlotte Layfield Key Stages offered: Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4 Our school Located in Dukinfield, Tameside, Stansfield House offers a unique and nurturing learning environment specifically designed for 42 students with SEMH (Social, Emotional and Mental Health). It provides full-time education for those aged 11 to 16 in a smaller, more personalised setting. At Stansfield House, we believe that a smaller learning community fosters stronger relationships and greater academic engagement. Our classes are intentionally limited to no more than six students, allowing each learner to receive individualised attention, build meaningful friendships, and actively participate in their educational journey. This approach not only supports academic success but also encourages personal growth and confidence. We are passionate about creating a supportive atmosphere where students can thrive both socially and academically. CHILD PROTECTION POLICY Click here to read how we keep learners safe

Learn about the difference you could make by exploring a career within our schools, where every role helps transform young lives. Jobs We’re always on the lookout for passionate, talented people to join our team. Check out our current jobs below and see how you can make a difference. We have open positions Good news! We have many varied roles that we are keen to fill across Manchester, Tameside and West Yorkshire. To apply for a role at First Steps Together, please download this application form , complete and return to recruitment@fstmanagement.uk . This list was last updated on 12 June 2026 at 14:47 BST. Manchester This list covers jobs across Kershaw Wood Manchester and The Watkin. Cleaner To start as soon as possible JOB DESCRIPTION Learning Support Mentors To start as soon as possible (x1) and September 2026 (x8) JOB DESCRIPTION School Administrator To start in September 2026 JOB DESCRIPTION Curriculum Co-ordinator To start in September 2026 JOB DESCRIPTION Primary Teachers To start as soon as possible (x2) and September 2026 (x7) JOB DESCRIPTION Senior Learning Support Mentor To start in September 2026 JOB DESCRIPTION Tameside This list covers jobs across our head office, Kershaw Wood Glossop, Peak Forest, Stansfield House, Tame Bank, as well as our new construction school. Art Therapist To start in September 2026 JOB DESCRIPTION Construction Teachers Joinery (x1), Plastering (x1) To start as soon as possible JOB DESCRIPTION Occupational Therapist To start in September 2026 JOB DESCRIPTION Primary Teachers Maths and English (x1), General (x8) To start in September 2026 (x5), October 2026 (x2), January 2027 (x2) JOB DESCRIPTION Speech and Language Therapist To start in September 2026 JOB DESCRIPTION Careers and University Counsellor Must hold Level 6 in Career Guidance To start in September 2026 JOB DESCRIPTION Learning Support Mentor To start in September 2026 JOB DESCRIPTION Play Therapist To start in September 2026 JOB DESCRIPTION Senior Learning Support Mentor To start in September 2026 JOB DESCRIPTION West Yorkshire Behaviour Lead To start in January 2027 JOB DESCRIPTION Curriculum Co-ordinator To start in January 2027 JOB DESCRIPTION Head of School To start in January 2027 JOB DESCRIPTION Primary Teachers To start in January 2027 (x5) JOB DESCRIPTION Skills Teacher To start in January 2027 JOB DESCRIPTION Behaviour Mentors To start in January 2027 (x3) JOB DESCRIPTION Designated Safeguarding Lead To start in January 2027 JOB DESCRIPTION Learning Support Mentors To start in January 2027 (x5) JOB DESCRIPTION Senior Learning Support Mentor To start in January 2027 JOB DESCRIPTION This list covers jobs in a new provision in West Yorkshire, opening in early 2027.

The home of First Steps Together, offering specialist education for children and young people with additional needs across the North West. For every journey, let's take first steps together At First Steps Together, we are committed to ensuring the safety, health and wellbeing of our young people and staff. LEARN MORE ABOUT SAFEGUARDING Our latest news story 3 Jun 2026 Double INSET Day kicks off 2026 autumn term in September EHC PLANS EXPLAINED CLICK TO LEARN MORE ABOUT EHC PLANS Our recruitment team are working to hard to hire the best staff for our students. Click here to learn about the latest opportunities. Bring your difference

Explore the latest First Steps Together news with key updates, achievements and more. Our news 3 Jun 2026 Double INSET Day kicks off 2026 autumn term in September Term dates for the 2026/27 academic year are now confirmed with students returning from the summer break on Thursday 3 September. Read more 29 May 2026 More open days set for The Watkin to showcase provision More open days have been announced at The Watkin to help families of prospective and confirmed students learn more about our largest school. Read more 18 May 2026 Senior politician answers questions at Tame Bank Labour Chief Whip and local MP, Jonathan Reynolds, has described questions he took from Tame Bank students as “as hard as any PMQs session.” Read more 15 May 2026 Sensory pod installed at The Watkin aiding regulation A new state-of-the-art sensory pod installed in The Watkin, the largest of our six schools, is proving to be a hit with students. Read more 5 May 2026 Parents encouraged to use EfL app to support learning Parents and carers are being encouraged to download the EfL app to engage more closely with their child’s learning and progress through regular shared updates. Read more 24 Apr 2026 Students help greenhouse glisten at Peak Forest Teamwork triumphed at Peak Forest as students and staff came together to build a new greenhouse, supporting curriculum learning, wellbeing and the school kitchen. Read more 21 Apr 2026 £50 ASDA voucher up for grabs with parent survey Our parental survey is now live, inviting families to share experiences and priorities to help shape support, with entrants included in a raffle for a £50 ASDA gift card. Read more 8 Apr 2026 Easter holiday tips form basis of latest Footsteps podcast With not long to go until students return for the Summer term, the latest episode of Footsteps offers reflection, reassurance and practical support for families. Read more 26 Mar 2026 Tortoise touches down at Kershaw Wood Manchester Kershaw Wood Manchester is now home to tortoise Dylan, after a special delivery from First Steps Together CEO Matt Higham on Thursday lunchtime. Read more 23 Mar 2026 Transition day to help new Watkin students 'feel at home' Students joining us in Year 7 this September will be welcomed with open arms on Saturday, as The Watkin hosts a dedicated Transition Open Day. Read more 18 Mar 2026 Anderson shelters built as part of World War II module Students at Kershaw Wood in Glossop have constructed their very own Anderson shelters while learning about Britain during the Second World War. Read more 6 Mar 2026 Podcast on EHC plans aims to ease stress for parents The latest episode of Footsteps sets out to ease “nightmares and confusion” many families face when navigating Education, Health and Care plans. Read more 5 Mar 2026 Colour and costumes fill classrooms on World Book Day World Book Day brought a wave of imagination across our schools with students embracing stories, characters and creativity. Read more 26 Feb 2026 First Steps Together debunk EHC Plans with new FAQs page First Steps Together has launched an easy‑to‑read frequently asked questions guide to help families understand the often stressful world of EHC Plans. Read more 20 Feb 2026 Wave of fresh recruits thrive during half‑term training 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. Read more 13 Feb 2026 Peak Forest's Issac wins first attendance award of 2026 Issac from Peak Forest has won this half-term’s attendance award, securing an iPad for maintaining 100% attendance since the start of 2026. Read more 12 Feb 2026 Experienced Andrea Lloyd joins as Chair of Governors Local community champion Andrea Lloyd has joined First Steps Together to support as Chair of Governors and oversee the board. Read more 9 Feb 2026 The Watkin to host next recruitment Open Day On 28 February, we are again opening our doors to highlight our vacancies with this latest event being held near Wythenshawe Hospital. Read more 6 Feb 2026 First step into podcasting with Footsteps launch We're thrilled to launch a new monthly podcast Footsteps, offering listeners an inside look at our specialist work for young people. Read more 2 Feb 2026 Inclusive Attendance launches across our schools We are delighted to share that Stage 1 of the Inclusive Attendance Programme has now launched across all of our six schools across the North West. Read more 28 Jan 2026 Mental Health Leads introduced across our schools To strengthen wellbeing across our schools, we have introduced Mental Health Leads offering support for staff and students. Read more 26 Jan 2026 Recruitment open day to offer face-to-face interviews Amid a new month, we are opening our office doors in Denton to highlight what could be your new role working in specialist education. Read more 21 Jan 2026 First Steps Together to start specialist education podcast We are excited to launch a new specialist education podcast in early February, sharing the people, experiences and stories that shape our schools. Read more 20 Jan 2026 Attendance prizes announced for Spring Term The exciting prizes for the next two half‑term attendance draws have been confirmed by our Senior Head of School Ms Cooper. Read more 19 Jan 2026 Parents' Evening reminder issued ahead of next week Our executive team are reminding parents of Parents' Evening which is taking place across our school sites throughout next week. Read more 16 Jan 2026 SEND Coffee Mornings to resume 27 January We're excited to invite parents and carers to our new series of SEND Coffee Mornings taking place across several of our settings over the coming weeks. Read more 8 Jan 2026 Student letters inspire new outdoor area at Tame Bank Crafted letters from our enthusiastic students to the Head of School at Tame Bank has led to the creation of a brand‑new outdoor area. Read more 6 Jan 2026 Schools welcome back students after Christmas Across the North West, students have returned to our six schools after Christmas with our expert staff on hand to support amid a new routine. Read more

< All news Attendance prizes announced for Spring Term 20 Jan 2026 The exciting prizes for the next two half‑term attendance draws have been confirmed by our Senior Head of School Ms Cooper. Students who achieve 100% attendance from January to February will be entered into a draw to win an iPad. For the following half term, February to March, the prize will be a bike. Ms Cooper said: "We know that every student’s journey is different and we want to recognise the effort it takes to be in school every day." She added: "These prizes are a way of celebrating their commitment and encouraging routines that help our young people feel secure and supported.” Previous attendance prizes have included items such as a Meta Quest 2. To be included in the draw, students must attend school every day during the relevant half term. Previous Next

< All news Anderson shelters built as part of World War II module 18 Mar 2026 Students at Kershaw Wood in Glossop have constructed their very own Anderson shelters while learning about Britain during the Second World War. Ostrich Class physically recreated the iconic metal shelters used by families across Britain to stay safe during air raids. Reflecting our commitment to immersive, hands‑on learning, the activity formed part of our Key Stage 2 History curriculum. Teacher Miss Winter said: "This project has taken place over the past few weeks, with students editing and perfecting their designs as they go along." Pupils also explored the Home Front, focusing on the experiences of people in Britain during the war, and examined Britain’s wider role in the conflict that saw around 50 to 60 million people lose their lives. For the task, students studied real-life Anderson shelters before discussing the materials used and why they were important. This helped our learners think carefully about how to build their own models and how to make them as accurate as possible. Using a mixture of cardboard, glue and grass, the class cut out their Anderson shelter designs, shaped the doorway and refined the overall look. The shelters were named after John Anderson, the government minister who oversaw the production of around 1.5 million air‑raid shelters and who later became Home Secretary at the start of the Second World War. Miss Winter concluded: "The end results have been fantastic. The class worked very hard and had so much fun with this project." Previous Next

< All news Parents' Evening reminder issued ahead of next week 19 Jan 2026 Our executive team are reminding parents of Parents' Evening which is taking place across our school sites throughout next week. The Watkin will host its session on Monday, 26 January, followed by Peak Forest and Kershaw Glossop on Tuesday, 27 January. Tame Bank is scheduled for Wednesday, 28 January, with Stansfield House concluding the week’s events on Thursday, 29 January. All Parents’ Evening sessions will run from 4.00pm to 6.00pm, with last entry at 5.45pm across all sites. The events are intended to give families the opportunity to meet teaching staff, tour the school facilities and discuss the progress pupils have made throughout the year. Addresses for our schools can be found on our school pages . In case of any further questions, please visit the contact us page for our details. Previous Next

< All news Sensory pod installed at The Watkin aiding regulation 15 May 2026 A new state-of-the-art sensory pod installed in The Watkin, the largest of our six schools, is proving to be a hit with students. Designed by Dublin-based healthcare equipment provider Murrays , their sensory team visited our Wythenshawe site last month to install the vibrant, futuristic aid. With the ability to host both learning and entertainment on its connected screen, the six foot tall pod can also cater for relaxation, allowing for some shut eye if experiencing burnout. Murrays say the presence of a pod in a school is "proven to reduce the frequency and severity of disruptions when a student experience sensory overload." Chantelle Bowker, Head of School, confirmed "the space has had a significantly positive impact on student regulation. Safe and calming, it's really supporting the individual needs of our students." A student told us "the sensory pod is amazing, it feels like a spaceship! It's comfortable, calming and helps me feel relaxed." Plans are in place to enhance The Watkin sensory room further, ahead of the 2026-27 academic year. With the pod's adaptable design and flexible applications, we’re excited about the future possibilities this technology offers. Previous Next

< All news First Steps Together debunk EHC Plans with new FAQs page 26 Feb 2026 First Steps Together has launched an easy‑to‑read frequently asked questions guide to help families understand the often stressful world of EHC Plans. The EHC Plan FAQs were created to make a complex system easier to understand. Many families find the EHC process overwhelming, especially when starting out. The new page breaks everything down answering key questions such as: What is an EHC Plan? How do I apply? What evidence should I send? How long does the application take? What happens during the assessment? Who writes the EHC Plan? What is in an EHC Plan? How often is the EHC Plan reviewed? It also includes information about legal rights under the Children and Families Act 2014, how to appeal decisions and what to do if support isn’t being delivered. You will find clear guidance on each stage of the journey: requesting an assessment, providing evidence, working with professionals, reviewing plans and seeking help when things aren’t going as they should. Parents can also submit their own questions. Nick Ransom, Communications Officer, said: "Amid all the noise surrounding specialist education, we understand that parents are looking for practical, down‑to‑earth advice that helps make life feel less overwhelming. We’re always open to ideas for new questions and committed to supporting our community in every way we can." "The new resource reflects First Steps Together’s commitment to supporting young people with additional needs, ensuring families feel informed, empowered and confident throughout their experience with us." You can explore the full FAQ page now at firststepseducation.uk/ehcplans . Previous Next

< All news Podcast on EHC plans aims to ease stress for parents 6 Mar 2026 The latest episode of Footsteps sets out to ease “nightmares and confusion” many families face when navigating Education, Health and Care plans. Combined with our brand‑new frequently asked questions page, the episode brings together expert advice on the legally binding document in an accessible, easy‑to‑understand format. Host and Communications Officer Nick Ransom is joined by SEND Coordinator Claire Berry and Group Strategic Lead Natalie Ogden. The pair unpack the EHC plan process from the very start, offering clarity, reassurance and practical guidance drawn from years of professional and lived experience. Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and our website , the episode also features comments from students, helping bring the impact of needs and provision to life. These shine a light on real examples of social and sensory needs that EHC plans aim to capture and support. One student describes struggling to form friendships and “trying to fit in where I can”, while another talks about preferring the quiet of the school’s orange room at lunchtime. The episode also reflects on the current uncertainty regarding specialist education after a white paper , a document outlining future proposals, was published by the Government. Natalie comments: "There's a lot of money being put into it and I totally agree that our young people deserve every bit of this funding and it's been a long time coming." She encouraged parents to "hang tight" and to "see what comes of it." "There's a long road ahead when it comes to the white paper and [specialist] provisions," she concluded. Claire and Natalie also acknowledged the long delays many families face and the often emotional toll of the process to assess, appeal and reach a sense of closure. However, Natalie, who went through the process for her own daughter, says that local authorities are under significant strain. She added: “I think they're doing the best that they can do with what they've been given”. Also in the episode, parent Rebecca talks of her past experience fighting for a needs assessment, saying: "All they've gone off is pieces of paper, but you can still get a refusal. How can you refuse something when you've never met the person?” Communications Officer Nick recognises it is "striking" but clarifies that the local authority might say decisions are made on the strength of evidence, inferring they cannot afford to be emotional or situational in their decision‑making. The episode ends with contributions from the newly appointed Chair of Governors, Andrea Lloyd, who has become a familiar name in the local Denton community. Drawing on her own journey as a parent and advocate, she encourages families to speak up during this period of national consultation, saying that now is the moment for parents and carers to ensure their voices are heard. Parents can contribute their views on specialist education provision by visiting the Government website and clicking here . This episode of Footsteps also confirms that an Easter episode will feature more of Andrea Lloyd, discussing changes to routine and sharing more about her autistic diagnosis. Footsteps is also available as a transcript should you wish to read the episode. Previous Next