Mrs T's Blog (24.10.25)
Please take a moment to read some end of half term messages below:
Autism Base
This half term has truly shown what makes our AB team so special. We’ve faced challenges with strength, humour, and heart, and every time things got tough, we pulled together and shone even brighter.The way we’ve supported one another stepping in to help across classes and departments, offering advice, lending a listening ear, or simply sharing a laugh has created something really powerful. The relationships we’ve built with our students and their parents and each other has grown stronger, filled with trust, understanding, and positivity.The love and care that flow through this team is felt in every corridor and classroom we don’t just support the students’ wellbeing, we look out for each other’s too. From the resilience shown on the hardest days to the joy shared on the good ones, this half term has been a reminder that when we come together, we can move mountains. We are more than a team we are a family, and I couldn’t be prouder to be part of it.“The best teams aren’t just built they’re bonded by trust, laughter, and shared purpose.”
Toni Anglin
Assistant Head
Interactive Base
"It's a pleasure leading the Interactive Base team. I am continually amazed at the care, compassion and dedication the entire IB team show to our young people. Your solution focused, can-do attitudes ensure our young people receive the best possible education. I see wonderous things happen every single day, from sensory lessons to giving your students a voice through AAC. You provide the best possible education to some of our most vulnerable students. You all really are superheroes."
Chris Higgins
Assistant Head
Extended Schools
"Celebrating Our Unsung Heroes: A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Support Teams
At our school, we are incredibly fortunate to have a team of dedicated individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure our students are safe, supported, and thriving every single day. Today, I want to take a moment to shine a light on some of these unsung heroes and express our deepest gratitude for all that they do.
A Special Shout-Out to Jane and the Medication Support Team
Jane, your commitment and care in managing our students' medication needs is nothing short of extraordinary. You and your team operate quietly and efficiently, ensuring every child receives the right support at the right time. Your work is vital, and we see you—even if it’s behind the scenes. Thank you for your tireless dedication and compassion.
Midday Supervisors: The Heart of Lunchtime
Lunchtime at school is a whirlwind of activity, and our midday supervisors are the calm in the storm. You make sure every student receives their lunch, feels safe, and enjoys a moment of rest and nourishment. A warm welcome to Charlie, our newest team member and one of our Destination Champions! Charlie, you’re doing a fantastic job learning the ropes in what is undoubtedly one of the busiest times of the school day. Keep up the great work—we’re so glad to have you on board.
Holiday Heroes: Thank You for Volunteering
To all the staff who volunteer their time over the holidays—thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your generosity enables our families to enjoy a well-earned rest while our students engage in fun, enriching activities. This October half term was packed with excitement, including a trip to the Rochdale Fire Museum, a visit from our local police officer, and an inspiring session with the local mountain rescue team. These experiences create lasting memories and help our students grow in confidence and curiosity.
To Every Member of Our Team: You Make a Difference
Whether you're supporting medication needs, supervising lunch, or volunteering during the holidays, your work matters. You help create a nurturing, safe, and joyful environment for our students—and for that, we are endlessly grateful.
Let’s continue to celebrate each other and the incredible work we do together."
Karen Bingley
Director of Extended Schools
Physical Needs
"A huge thank you to our incredible PCA team across all sites!
Your commitment, compassion, and hard work make such a difference every single day. We truly appreciate everything you do.
Enjoy your well-earned break — you absolutely deserve it! "
Donna Ward
Director of Physical Needs
Main Body
"What a half term it has been. The weeks have flown by, full of energy, laughter, and incredible learning across Main Body. The learning walks have been brilliant to see, with great work happening in every classroom and a real buzz of enthusiasm from staff and students alike. The teamwork, effort, and atmosphere around school have all been something to be genuinely proud of.
Our Year 7s have settled in extremely well, finding their feet and becoming part of the New Bridge family quicker than we could have hoped. Year 8s have stepped up as fantastic role models, showing kindness, patience, and maturity that truly reflects their growth. Year 9 are already thinking ahead and preparing for their next steps, showing real determination and focus. Meanwhile, our KS4 students have been engaging positively in their community living projects and adapting to new environments with confidence (and the occasional well-timed laugh when things do not go quite to plan).
It has been a full and busy half term, and one we can all look back on with pride. I am genuinely grateful for the dedication and passion that our whole staff team bring every single day. For me personally, this half term has been a valuable journey in helping to shape the right atmosphere across school. It has been demanding at times, but having such a talented, caring, and committed team around me has made a real difference.
As we head into a well-earned half-term break and begin the countdown to Christmas, I want to extend a sincere thank you to our incredible staff, to our families for their ongoing support, and to our young people who make every day worthwhile. Have a restful and enjoyable break, and we look forward to returning for a busy and exciting lead-up to Christmas!"
Jack Flanagan
Assistant Head
