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< 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 Students help greenhouse glisten at Peak Forest 24 Apr 2026 Teamwork triumphed at Peak Forest as students and staff came together to build a new greenhouse, supporting curriculum learning, wellbeing and the school kitchen. Now glistening in the sunshine, the greenhouse at Peak Forest is already supporting learning across the site, helping students develop practical skills and a better understanding of the environment and food production. Nestled in the corner of the playground, the greenhouse is providing a calm, purposeful space that encourages mindfulness, regulation and discussion around the food chain. Student Issac explained that the aim is to “grow our own herbs and vegetables” to be used in catering lessons, while also supplying the school kitchen with “healthy food for our dinners”. The space is also having a positive impact on wellbeing, with Issac adding that the plants being grown will help make the school look “brighter”. Excitement about what’s to come continues to grow, with Ms Nolan and Mr Auty impressed by the impact the project has had and the sense of responsibility it has helped develop. Year 7 student Ellie discussed ideas with staff about growing flowers and vegetables for the local community, including the possibility of placing boxes outside the school for anyone in need. Both students agreed the experience was manageable and enjoyable, noting that the instructions made the activity easy to follow. The greenhouse continues the planting work previously introduced by Mrs Wint, ensuring the herbs planted during earlier sessions can continue to be cared for. Reflecting on the progress, Ms Nolan said: “We didn’t want the plants to go to waste, so we asked for a greenhouse so we can look after them and watch them grow." "It was great to watch the students working together as a team.” You can find out more about Peak Forest by clicking here . Previous Next

< All news Students educated on dangers of open water swimming 8 Jun 2026 Students at The Watkin have been visited by Jane McCormick, an open water swimmer, to discuss the dangers of swimming in deep water. In recent years, there have been multiple deaths due to the adverse effects of cold or deep water. Students were taught about cold water shock and the risk of drowning in open water, with examples including lakes, reservoirs and the sea. Head of School at The Watkin Chantelle Bowker said: "These talks are always a great opportunity for students to meet and learn from new people, while also helping them to understand the risks in the wider world." "We're grateful to Jane for taking the time to come down", she added. Whilst hot weather has subsided for now, coming months could present a need to cool off and families are reminded to exercise caution for their own safety. Jim Bridge, a former firefighter, now works for the Greater Manchester Water Safety Strategic Partnership. Talking to the BBC , he urged people to head to swimming baths rather than risk safety. He said: "I don't think people understand the danger. They see a nice beautiful stretch of open water and they think it's going to be warm like a swimming pool but it's not." Despite temperatures often reaching 30 °C in the UK, bodies of water can remain very cold even during heatwaves. In the event of a water emergency, families and students should call the fire service immediately, as they are best trained to carry out a rescue. They should then encourage the person in difficulty to float on their back, reassure them that help is on the way and keep them in sight for emergency services. If possible, use a nearby floating object to assist from a safe distance. Do not enter the water, and, when helping someone out, stay low or lie down to avoid being pulled in yourself. For more information, families can visit this government safety information on water safety . Previous Next

< All news Transition day to help new Watkin students 'feel at home' 23 Mar 2026 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. The event, running from 9.30am to 2pm on Saturday 28 March, marks an important moment in the journey from primary to secondary education, with the day giving families the chance to experience the atmosphere, care and ambition that define the First Steps Together community. Families attending the event will have the opportunity to meet a range of pastoral staff, Year 7 leaders, teachers and support teams who will be guiding students through their first year with us. Tours of the school will allow visitors to explore classrooms, specialist learning spaces and the key areas students will use every day. Throughout the day, staff will be on hand to talk about our values, curriculum pathways, enrichment opportunities and the support structures designed to ensure everyone settles in strongly. Families are warmly encouraged to ask questions, seek advice and get to know the people who will be supporting their transition. Creating familiarity and reducing uncertainty is our key aim with the Transition Open Day. The occasion will give students the chance to build confidence, process their surroundings and grow a sense of belonging before their first day. Andrea Lloyd, Chair of Governors, wrote to parents: "We are genuinely excited to you into our school community and look forward to working in partnership with you as your child begins this important new chapter with First Steps Together." Natalie Ogden, Group Strategic Lead, explained: "This day is all about helping students feel at home before they even begin. We want both parents and our new students to feel welcomed, supported and excited about the year ahead and the Transition Open Day is a wonderful chance to start building those connections.” In addition to the March Open Day, families can look forward to the upcoming Peak Forest Open Day and additional transition events later in the term. Details of our other open days will be shared soon, as we offer more opportunities to meet our team and learn more about our community. Parents with any questions on any aspect of the transition process are asked to submit queries via email to admissions@firststepstogether.uk . More details about The Watkin can be found here . Previous Next

< All news Wave of fresh recruits thrive during half‑term training 20 Feb 2026 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. 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

< 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 our our child protection policies, which ensure staff follow robust safeguarding procedures and act quickly to keep young people safe. Child protection policies Here are our all child protection policies, which ensure all staff follow clear safeguarding procedures and act quickly on any concerns to keep young people safe. As these are comprehensive policies, they may second to load, depending on your internet speed. KERSHAW WOOD GLOSSOP How we protect our learners at Kershaw Wood Glossop PEAK FOREST How we protect our learners across at Peak Forest TAME BANK How we protect our learners at Tame Bank KERSHAW WOOD MANCHESTER How we protect our learners at Kershaw Wood Manchester STANSFIELD HOUSE How we protect our learners at Stansfield House THE WATKIN How we protect our learners at The Watkin

Learn more about our newest school Kershaw Wood Manchester, based in Northenden, which inspires learners aged 4-11. Kershaw Wood Manchester The key details Address: 14 Royle Green Road, Northenden, Manchester, M22 4NG Phone number: 0330 118 0974 Head of School: Michael Smith Executive Headteacher: Catherine Donnelly Designated Safeguarding Lead: Jonathan Colquitt Key Stages offered: Key Stage 1, Key Stage 2 Our school Kershaw Wood Manchester is a vibrant and nurturing KS1 / KS2 school for children with additional needs, proudly situated in the heart of Northenden, Wythenshawe. We offer three specialist classes delivering exceptional teaching, personalised intervention, and meaningful learning experiences for children who require a truly inclusive, supportive environment. Our classes are intentionally small (maximum 6 pupils per class), ensuring every child benefits from consistent adult support, individualised learning plans, and a curriculum designed around each learner’s strengths, needs, and developmental journey. We cater for a wide range of needs, including those who are autistic, live with ADHD and / or PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance). We're really embracing the new environment, even if it leaves a few of us a little tired! We are committed to ensuring every child feels safe, seen, and celebrated. Thriving in a colourful, renovated and sensory-rich environment, learning is joyful, structured and purpose-driven. Our school culture reflects pride in identity, heritage and community, from classrooms where children roar, buzz and flourish, to displays inspired by our local roots, including our very own Mancunian coat of arms and the strong community spirit of Manchester. More than a school, Kershaw Wood Manchester provides a holistic, life-skills foundation. Through carefully planned sensory provision, therapeutic approaches and meaningful routines, our learners grow in confidence, independence and belonging, building the skills they need to thrive in school and beyond. Kershaw Wood Manchester is where children feel empowered to grow, flourish and succeed, every day. CHILD PROTECTION POLICY Click here to read how we keep learners safe

Discover The Watkin, our new Wythenshawe provision helping young people aged 11-16 with additional needs over three floors. The Watkin The key details Address: Claverton Road, Wythenshawe, M23 9TT Phone number: 0330 118 0974 Head of School: Chantelle Bowker Assistant Head of School: Emma Bowater Executive Headteacher: Catherine Donnelly Designated Safeguarding Lead: Rebecca Moseley Key Stages offered: Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4 Our school The Watkin is a specialist provision in Wythenshawe, Manchester, supporting autistic students as well as those with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and other specific requirements. Currently located on two floors, the school offers learners aged 11-16 (Key Stage 3 and 4) a nurturing and structured environment. Our focus is on delivering tailored support including strong pastoral care and staff relationships, to promote academic, social and emotional growth. It also now houses an indoor and outdoor gym, a library and a sensory room is under construction for the 2026/27 academic year. The Watkin has recently introduced a new gym to support emotional regulation, routine and physical health The school adapts the National Curriculum to meet student’s individual needs, focusing on developing skills for life beyond school, furthermore, helping students overcome barriers to learning such as school avoidance and disengagement to learning and to achieve their full potential. The school works closely with families, external agencies and professionals to ensure a collaborative to student support. The school is led by Head of School supported by Designated Safeguard Lead (DSL) and overseen by an Executive Headteacher who provides strategic guidance and support. 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 19 June 2026 at 09:51 BST. Manchester This list covers jobs across Kershaw Wood Manchester and The Watkin. Cleaner To start as soon as possible JOB DESCRIPTION Secondary Curriculum Co-ordinator To start in September 2026 JOB DESCRIPTION Primary Teachers To start in September 2026 (x6) JOB DESCRIPTION School Administrator 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 (x5) To start in September 2026 (x4) and January 2027 (x2) JOB DESCRIPTION Careers and University Counsellor Must hold Level 6 in Career Guidance To start in September 2026 JOB DESCRIPTION Cook To start in September 2026 JOB DESCRIPTION Play Therapist To start in September 2026 JOB DESCRIPTION Speech and Language Therapist 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.

Learn more about our vibrant specialist school for autistic students aged 11-14 in Hattersley, Tameside. Peak Forest The key details Address: Stockport Road, Hyde, SK14 3QF Phone number: 0330 118 0974 Acting Head of School: Natalie Kidd Executive Headteacher: Catherine Donnelly Designated Safeguarding Lead: Katie Bradley Key Stages offered: Key Stage 3 Our school Nestled in Hattersley, Tameside, Peak Forest is secondary specialist school catering for autistic learners providing a bespoke academic and vocational curriculum for pupils aged 11-14 (Key Stage 3). Our mission is to focus on creating the best learning environment for all our learners to thrive and reach their full potential. A smaller more manageable school setting of just 32 students allows learners the opportunity to access a variety of subjects matched closely to the national curriculum but delivered in a bespoke manner and tailored to their individual needs. The school also offers a range of extracurricular activities as well as on-site animal intervention and therapy sessions. Students are supported by an experienced and dynamic staffing team who are ready to support learners with all that is needed. Set over two floors offering seven teaching classrooms, communal space, intervention and nurture rooms, school library, catering teaching suite and access to many off-site facilities. Peak Forest also boasts a large outside space for students to access physical education and other sporting activities at break and lunch times. This space is shared with our animal therapy and is home to our on-site animals including goats, ducks, chickens and rabbits. CHILD PROTECTION POLICY Click here to read how we keep learners safe