Discover how First Steps Together is strengthening inclusive, sustainable attendance with Inclusive Attendance. The Inclusive Attendance Programme has now launched across all six of our schools. This marks an important step in our commitment to building attendance cultures that are sustainable, inclusive and centred on the needs of children and young people who think, behave and learn differently. In March 2026, our teams carried out detailed deep‑dive visits across multiple sites. These reviews gave us valuable insight into existing attendance practice, helping us identify both strengths and key areas for development. The knowledge gained is now shaping targeted action plans for each setting. These plans will provide clear, focused steps designed to enhance consistency, strengthen culture and drive further improvements in attendance. Embedding the Inclusive Attendance Programme means establishing a genuinely system‑led model across the federation. It supports collective responsibility, promotes alignment in practice and ensures that attendance becomes a meaningful driver for long‑term success across all schools. Through our partnership with Inclusive Attendance, staff have begun accredited professional learning, practice reviews are underway and a five‑year strategy is in development. This strategy places inclusivity, belonging and success for every learner at the centre of our work. Our approach has been designed to align fully with the Ofsted Framework and the Department for Education’s statutory expectations for school attendance . More importantly, it strengthens our culture of care, consistency and ambition. The Inclusive Attendance Programme will support us to reduce persistent absence, improve overall attendance and build a robust quality assurance model. This model will help each school grow year on year through self‑evaluation, shared insight and collaborative learning. Senior Head of School Caron Cooper said: “We did this because attendance is so important for children. The passion is that we want to get these children back into school because they have not been in school. By having attendance incentives and committing to this, because we are all about inclusivity, that is why we are doing it.” Inclusive Attendance has described the launch as the beginning of “a shared vision”, recognising our commitment to leading the way in sustainable attendance improvement. The launch of the first is a significant milestone for all of us at First Steps Together. It strengthens our ability to support children and young people every day, ensures our practice meets the highest standards and moves us closer to achieving Bronze Mark Accreditation across all schools. Most importantly, it reaffirms our belief that every child deserves a school environment where they feel supported to attend, welcomed when they arrive and empowered to succeed.

Meet Clive, our innovative social AI robot designed specifically to support the education and development of autistic children. AI robot Clive Clive is our new AI robot. QTrobot is an innovative social robot created to support the learning and development of autistic young people. Through interactive, engaging, and consistent sessions, QTrobot helps boost confidence, understanding, and overall educational outcomes. Designed with a focus on speech and language, social‑emotional development, and cognitive skills, QTrobot makes learning both fun and meaningful. Its evidence‑based approach enables our intervention therapist to deliver personalised, student‑centred sessions that meet each learner’s unique needs. As a result, this helps our young people grow, progress, and thrive.

Learn about our farm opening in summer 2026. Farm We’re incredibly excited to share that we are in the early stages of developing a brand new farm project opening in Hyde in summer 2026! The team are hugely excited about this exciting step forward and we can't wait to bring you along for the ride... maybe on a tractor? As we begin shaping the plans, we’d love your help choosing the name. We’re running a community poll and your vote will help decide what our new farm will be called! This project will create amazing, enriching opportunities for our students, while also becoming a welcoming space for our wider community. A key focus of the farm will be inclusion, especially for those with additional needs. We will work hard to ensure the environment and activities are accessible, supportive and enjoyable for everyone. This is just the beginning, and over 2026, we’ll be sharing more of our ideas, plans and opportunities for you to get involved in shaping the farm. First name* Last name* Which name gets your vote?* Growing Together Farm Little Roots Farm Green Shoots Farm Root and Rise Farm Seedling Meadow Farm Bright Roots Farm If you would like, write any observations, thoughts or ideas regarding the farm. SUBMIT

Learn about the difference you could make by exploring a career within our schools, where every role helps transform young lives. Jobs We have open positions We’re always on the lookout for passionate, talented people to join our group. This page will only show roles related to First Steps Together Education. For jobs in other parts of our organisation... GROUP JOBS CARE JOBS This list was last updated on 26 September 2026 at 1.00pm. School-based roles in Manchester Our Manchester schools The Watkin (KS3 and KS4) Kershaw Wood Manchester (KS1 and KS2) SEND Assistant Location: Kershaw Wood Manchester (M22 4NG) Hours of Work: Monday to Friday, 08:15 to 16:00, Term Time plus Staff Training Days Actual Salary: £26,800 Closing Date: 27/10/2026 Job Description and Person Specification Application Form Pastoral Lead (DSL) Location: The Watkin (M23 9TT) Hours of Work: Monday to Friday, 08:15 to 16:00, Term Time plus Staff Training Days Actual Salary: £24,800 Closing Date: 18/10/2026 Job Description and Person Specification Application Form SEND Sensory Teacher Location: Kershaw Wood Manchester (M22 4NG) Hours of Work: Monday to Friday, 08:15 to 16:00, Term Time plus Staff Training Days Actual Salary: Teacher Pay Scale - M1 to M6 Closing Date: 22/10/2026 Job Description and Person Specification Application Form Teaching Assistant Level 3 (Complex Needs) Location: Kershaw Wood Manchester (M22 4NG) Hours of Work: Monday to Friday, 08:15 to 16:00, Term Time plus Staff Training Days Actual Salary: £23,800 Closing Date: 27/10/2026 Job Description and Person Specification Application Form Behaviour Support Mentor Location: Kershaw Wood Manchester (M22 4NG) Hours of Work: Monday to Friday, 08:15 to 16:00, Term Time plus Staff Training Days Actual Salary: £23,600 Closing Date: 01/11/2026 Job Description and Person Specification Application Form Attendance Officer Location: The Watkin (M23 9TT) Hours of Work: Monday to Friday, 08:15 to 16:00, Term Time plus Staff Training Days Actual Salary: £24,800 Closing Date: 18/10/2026 Job Description and Person Specification Application Form To apply for a role at First Steps Together, please download the application form . Please submit completed application forms to recruitment@fstmanagement.uk School-based roles in Tameside Our Tameside schools Kershaw Wood Glossop (KS1 and KS2) Peak Forest (KS3) Tame Bank (KS4) The Hub (KS4 Vocational) Teaching Assistant (Level 2) Location: The Hub (SK14 2DP) Hours of Work: Monday to Friday, 08:15 to 16:00, Term Time plus Staff Training Days Actual Salary: £22,800 (TA2) Job Description and Person Specification Application Form To apply for a role at First Steps Together, please download the application form . Please submit completed application forms to recruitment@fstmanagement.uk School-based roles in Huddersfield We're recruiting for Mount Havelock Our brand new school opening in January 2027. We have a number of roles available: Deputy Headteacher Behaviour Lead SEND Assistant English Teacher Maths Teacher Science Teacher Humanities Teacher Teaching Assistant Level 3 Teaching Assistant Level 2 For more information and to apply, please click the links above to visit the job role vacancy page. Applications must be made through TES for roles at this school. Education leadership and central team roles Outreach Mentor Location: Greater Manchester (Tameside, Manchester and Glossop) Hours of Work: Monday to Friday, 08:15 to 16:00, Term Time plus Staff Training Days Actual Salary: £27,000 Job Description and Person Specification - Outreach Mentor Application Form To apply for a role at First Steps Together, please download the application form . Please submit completed application forms to recruitment@fstmanagement.uk

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

Contact Footsteps, our First Steps Together podcast. A bitesize recap of the last month, we explore life in our schools across the North West. Contact the podcast Tell us your ideas or questions by filling in the form below. First name* Last name* Name of student/s* If you do not have a student at one of our schools, please provide your occupation or wider context. School Kershaw Wood Manchester Kershaw Wood Glossop Peak Forest Stansfield House Tame Bank The Watkin Please write your question or submit your content ideas below.* SUBMIT

News Ninjas is our fun, creative and confidence‑boosting scheme helping students share stories from First Steps Together. News Ninjas is a fun, creative and confidence‑boosting scheme that empowers students to share the stories that make First Steps Together special. From classroom achievements and sports victories to special events and everyday moments of kindness, our News Ninjas help uncover the exciting things happening across our community. The stories discovered by our young reporters form the foundation of our storytelling across the First Steps Together website and social media channels, giving families, staff and the wider community a genuine insight into daily school life. Devised by our Communications Officer, Nick Ransom , this initiative puts the microphone directly into the hands of young people. Nick brings a wealth of real newsroom experience to the project, he has worked as a journalist at the BBC and has reported on‑air for the BBC, ITV, Channel 5 and Sky. His reporting spans a wide range of subjects, from sport to neurodiversity and much more, and he now uses this expertise to inspire the next generation of storytellers. One News Ninja will be selected for each school, with the initiative being trialled for the remainder of the 2025-26 academic year.

Explore First Steps Together's ACTIVE values which shape our nurturing respectful and community focused ethos. Values and ethos At First Steps Together, our values and ethos are the foundation of everything we do. They shape our vision, guide our actions, and inspire us to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child can thrive. The 'active' principles Our ACTIVE values aren’t just words on a page, they shape every decision, every interaction, every day. We live them in action, creating a culture where everyone we work with thrives. We are... A UTHENTIC We act and communicate with authenticity and encourage everyone to be true to themselves. C REATIVE We develop creative ways of working and inspire others to spark new ideas. T OGETHER We work together and teach the value of collaboration and community. I NCLUSIVE We embrace diversity and champion acceptance and respect. V OCAL We advocate and support people in finding and using their authentic voice. E MPOWERING We empower people to grow in confidence and take control of their own lives and choices. These values are woven into the fabric of our school community, ensuring every decision and action reflects our commitment to the holistic development of each learner. Our ethos Individualised care and learning At First Steps Together, we believe in the boundless potential of every child. We are passionate about creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment where young people can flourish academically, socially and emotionally. Our ethos revolves around these core beliefs: Every child matters: Every student has unique strengths, and we are dedicated to recognising and nurturing those talents. High expectations: We set ambitious goals for our students, empowering them to challenge themselves and achieve more than they ever thought possible. Personalised learning: We tailor education to meet individual needs, ensuring no one is left behind. Community and connection: We work closely with families, staff, and external partners to create a collaborative network of support. Prepared for the future: We aim to equip our students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need for a fulfilling life after school. Together, our values and ethos drive us to provide an education that is not just about academic success but about building well-rounded, compassionate individuals who are ready to embrace life’s opportunities and make a positive impact on the world.

Review transcripts of our podcasts, as we shine a light on specialist education and more. Podcast transcripts Each episode has been transcribed for accessibility. Please access below. Click on the microphone above to return to the podcast page. EPISODE 3 EPISODE 2 EPISODE 1

Find out how we support students in exploring career options, setting goals and preparing for life beyond education. Future care ers We are proud to be supported by Gemma Frances Armer, founder of GA Career Links. As an experienced Careers Adviser and Careers Leader, Gemma works with schools across the North West and regularly engages with our students, helping them explore their ambitions, plan for the future and prepare for life beyond education. To learn more about GA Career Links, visit their Facebook page .

Learn more about how we support children and young people through specialist education in the North West. About us Welcome to First Steps Together, a dedicated group of independent schools committed to supporting the education and development of children with unique and diverse needs. We believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive in a nurturing, inclusive, and inspiring environment, one that celebrates their individuality and empowers them to succeed. Who we are At First Steps Together, we are a team of passionate educators, therapists, and support professionals united by a shared mission: to help students with special educational needs reach their fullest potential. Our schools are built on a foundation of understanding, respect, and collaboration, ensuring that every child, and their family feels seen, heard, and supported throughout their educational journey. Our approach We know that no two children are the same. That’s why we embrace a personalised approach to education. By combining evidence-based teaching methods, therapeutic support and a caring atmosphere, we create learning experiences that go beyond academics: fostering social, emotional and personal growth. Our schools As a group of specialist schools, we provide a wide range of resources, facilities, and programs tailored to meet the needs of children with diverse learning differences and challenges. Each school is staffed by dedicated professionals who put students at the heart of everything we do. Why choose us? We celebrate diversity and nurture the unique talents of every student. We build strong partnerships with families, believing in the power of collaboration. We prioritise well-being, ensuring every child feels safe, valued, and understood. We are committed to innovation, staying at the forefront of best practices in special education. A step towards a brighter future Choosing the right educational environment for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. At First Steps Together, we are here to guide you every step of the way, providing the resources, expertise, and support your child needs to flourish. Together, we take the first steps toward a brighter future.