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# Birch Wood School

Where a Love of Learning Grows

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [News](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/news)
- [Birch Wood End of Year Newsletter 2026](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-end-of-year-newsletter-2026) - Birch Wood End of Year Newsletter 2026Download
- [BWC Newsletter Summer 1 2026](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/bwc-newsletter-summer-1-2026) - BWC Newsletter Summer 1 2026Download
- [BWV & AH Newsletter Summer 1 2026](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/bwv-ah-newsletter-summer-1-2026) - BWV & AH Newsletter Summer 1 2026Download
- [Grange Drive Newsletter Summer 1 2026](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/grange-drive-newsletter-summer-1-2026) - Grange Drive Newsletter Summer 1 2026Download
- [BWC Newsletter Summer 2025](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/bwc-newsletter-summer-2025) - BWC Newsletter Summer 2025Download
- [BWV & AH Newsletter Summer 2025](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/bwv-ah-newsletter-summer-2025) - BWV & AH Newsletter Summer 2025Download
- [Grange Drive Newsletter Summer 2025](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/grange-drive-newsletter-summer-2025) - Birch Wood Newsletter Summer 2025Download
- [Grange Drive Newsletter Spring 2 2025](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/grange-drive-newsletter-spring-2-2025) - Grange Drive Newsletter Spring 2 2025Download
- [BWV & AH Newsletter Spring 1 2025](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/bwv-ah-newsletter-spring-1-2025) - BWV & AH Newsletter Spring 1 2025Download
- [Grange Drive Newsletter Spring 1 2025](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/grange-drive-newsletter-spring-1-2025) - Grange Drive Newsletter Spring 1 2025Download
- [Discovery Consultation](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/discovery-consultation) - Click here to find more information on the proposal to join Discovery Schools Trust
- [Summer Newsletter 2024](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/summer-newsletter-2024) - Summer-Newsletter-2024Download
- [Birch Wood College 2024 Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-college-2024-newsletter) - Birch-Wood-College-NewsletterDownload
- [Grange Drive Summer 1 Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/grange-drive-summer-1-newsletter-2) - Birch-Wood-School-Newsletter-Summer-1-1Download
- [Birch Wood Vale and Ashton House Summer 1 Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-vale-and-ashton-house-summer-1-newsletter) - BWV & AH Newsletter Summer 1Download
- [Birch Wood Vale and Ashton House Autumn 1 Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-vale-ashton-house-autumn-1-newsletter) - It has been great to welcome your child back to school and also getting to meet all of the students that are new to Birch Wood Vale & Ashton House. It is difficult to believe that half term has come around so quickly. Students have adjusted really well to the new timings and routines of the school day.
- [Birch Wood College Autumn 1 Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-college-autumn-1-newsletter) - Welcome to our first Birch Wood College parent/carer newsletter! We are excited to keep you informed of upcoming events, share student successes, and provide resources to help keep students safe
- [Grange Drive Autumn 1 Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/grange-drive-autumn-1-newsletter) - Welcome to Grange Drive’s first newsletter for the 2023/24 academic year. The students have had a very positive start to the autumn term, settling into their new classes, some with new peers and staff
- [Summer Newsletter 2023](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/summer-newletter-2023) - You can download our newsletter below or click the full screen icon on the image above. Whole school summer newsletter 2023Download
- [Curriculum Newsletters](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/curriculum-newsletters) - Please see our curriculum newsletters below. These are designed to help communicate with parents and carers about what your child is learning about during a term. The newsletters provide an overview of the topics covered in different subjects and sessions. By sharing this information about your child’s learning, we hope that you’ll be better
- [Birch Wood Vale Transition Evening](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-vale-transition-evening) - Dear Parents and Carers, We would like to take the opportunity to welcome you to Birch Wood Vale school. We are hosting two events to support your child’s transition to their new school. On Thursday 29th June there will be an information evening for parents and carers to meet key members of staff and ask
- [Birch Wood Vale Summer 1 Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-vale-summer-1-newsletter) - We are pleased to be able to share with you the activities that have been taking place at Birch Wood Vale this term. Although this is a short term students have had lots of educational opportunities which have included sports festivals, leadership opportunities, celebrating the Kings Coronation, visiting Leicester including travelling by train. As well as linking into their curriculum this is also giving students additional skills in preparing for adulthood. I hope that you and your family have had a lovely half term, we look forward to the next and final term of the year.
- [Ashton House Summer 1 Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/ashton-house-summer-1-newsletter) - As the Summer Half Term ends, it has been wonderful to see all the young people making the most of the warmer weather. Social games and activities are in abundance during break and lunch and greater interaction between Ashton House students and Birch Wood Vale student is clear to see. Its such a pleasure to see our young people widen their social circles and this reflects the growth in the social skills and confidence.
- [Grange Drive Summer 1 Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/grange-drive-summer-1-newsletter) - As the summer warms up it has been wonderful to see the children playing and learning together outside and making the most of the wonderful weather. The school has continued to develop and we are excited to announce that our soft play and multi- sensory room has been opened! The children (and staff!) have been very excited by the new facility
- [April 2023 Executive Head Teacher Update](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/april-2023-executive-head-teacher-update)
- [Birch Wood Vale Spring 2 Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-vale-spring-2-newsletter) - We are very pleased to be able to share with you the different things that have been happening this term. In such a short term, it is amazing how many different things have taken place. I am particularly proud of the Post 16 students, who have been fund raising for their chosen charity as part of their Duke of Edinburgh course. Many of the activities which have taken place this term have provided an opportunity for our older students to develop important practical working skills- great work everyone!
- [Grange Drive Spring 2 Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/grange-drive-spring-2-newsletter) - Only a very short half term but as you will see, it has been action packed! As always, we are excited to share with you what has been happening at Grange Drive. During the second half term of spring, we have recognised many key dates and events whilst continuing to celebrate the wonderful achievements of our young people. Our love of reading has been shown on World Book Day through students and staff dressing up as their favourite character, this also continued whilst we fundraised for Comic Relief as we took part in a Reading Marathon, engaging in different Little Miss and Mr Men activities.
- [Ashton House Spring 2 Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/ashton-house-spring-2-newsletter) - We are very proud to share with you what has been happening at Ashton House within the second half term of spring. This has been a very short term, however lots has been happening for our young people, including a residential trip! I hope you and the children have a lovely Easter break. Please refer to the key dates within the newsletter to prepare yourself for what is coming after the half term break.
- [PODCAST: 1: Special School Lockdown- The Weeks Everything Changed](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/podcast-1-special-school-lockdown-the-weeks-everything-changed) - In this episode we share our personal reflections of the weeks leading up to school closure and how it felt from inside the offices and classrooms for staff and leaders as we tried to navigate the impact of what seemed like unreal events in the world around us.
- [PODCAST: 2: PPE (Smiling with your Eyes)](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/podcast-2-ppe-smiling-with-your-eyes) - In this episode Amy, Robbie and Ros reflect on the decision to introduce PPE and the implications in the school environment. Amy and Robbie explore some of the complex behaviours which the Coronavirus has led to for some students and how we work with our young people and their families to overcome the anxiety and
- [PODCAST: 3: Bubbles & Zones](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/podcast-3-bubbles-zones) - We explore how our special school was organised to open more widely after the government announced England had met the 5 safety tests set out to help lift lock down. Set against the backdrop of Leicester's localized lockdown we discuss leadership approaches and operational measures to help keep everyone safe in school and also the
- [PODCAST: 4: When the bubble bursts!](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/podcast-4-when-the-bubble-bursts) - This week we reflect on how we managed confirmed cases of the Coronavirus in school and the emotions we went through as a leaders and staff knowing we may be infected ourselves. We also discuss how we supported colleagues return to work after social isolation and the sometimes mixed emotions of being a 'key worker'.
- [PODCAST: 5: Extreme Parenting!- A Parents View of Lockdown](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/podcast-5-extreme-parenting-a-parents-view-of-lockdown) - This is an incredibly insightful and personal account of lockdown from our Parent Governor Kerry Clarkson, mum to 10 year old Evan, who has Angelman's Syndrome. This is a 'must listen' for anyone working within SEND who needs an little inspiration right now. Kerry beautifully explains how we can be 'lights' at difficult times and
- [PODCAST: 6: I am still your teacher](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/podcast-6-i-am-still-your-teacher) - Leader and class teacher, Hannah O'Mara shares her personal experiences of teaching students with PMLD during lockdown. This is an excellent insight in to how teachers creatively reached out to students to provide stimulating learning experiences in the most challenging of circumstances. We discuss the dilemmas and questions facing our community at this time and
- [PODCAST: 7: Covid Christmas (and the long cold January)](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/podcast-7-covid-christmas-and-the-long-cold-january) - Robbie, Amy and Ros are back for Episode 7, where we cover what life has been like in a special school post lockdown 1 and during lockdown 2 as we built up to a very different Christmas season. We discuss remote teaching and the impact of the pandemic on our community and the teaching profession
- [Vision & Values](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/vision-and-values) - An education at Birch Wood School ENABLES.
- [Ashton House Spring Term Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/ashton-house-spring-term-newsletter) - Ashton-House-Newsletter-Spring-1Download
- [Birch Wood Grange Drive Spring Term Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-grange-drive-sprint-term-newsletter) - Birch-Wood-Grange-Drive-Spring-1-2023-NewsletterDownload
- [Birch Wood Vale Spring Term Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-vale-spring-term-newsletter) - BW Vale Spring term 1 2023 NewsletterDownload
- [Executive Head Teacher February Half Term Update](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/executive-head-teacher-february-half-term-update)
- [Birch Wood has been recognised as a leader in autism education](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-has-been-recognised-as-a-leader-in-autism-education) - Birch Wood already had the basic National Autism Society (NAS) accreditation but assessors have now upgraded it to advanced status. More than 40 per cent of the school’s 225 students have been diagnosed on the autism spectrum and staff say the new accreditation is further evidence of its teaching excellence in the area. You can
- [Executive Head Teacher End of Term Message](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/executive-head-teacher-end-of-term-message) - Here is our first end of term video message from our Executive Head Teacher, Rosalind Hopkins.
- [Christmas Newsletters 2022](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/christmas-newsletters-2022) - Check out all the exciting things that have been happening at Birch Wood in our Christmas newsletters.
- [Information on Strep A infections](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/information-on-strep-a-infections) - With increasing cases of Strep A infections in the UK, this has created a high level of concern in parents and carers about the health and well-being of their children. I am writing to you today with information about Strep A and how we can reduce the risk of infection within our Birch Wood family.
- [Christmas Activities 2022](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/christmas-activities-2022) - This document lists all the exciting activities we are looking forward to at Birch Wood over the next couple of weeks. Christmas22Download
- [Parent Survey](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/parent-survey) - Dear Parents and Carers, Birch Wood Parent Survey I hope that you and your families are well. I am writing to ask for your support in taking around 15 minutes to complete our parent survey about your child/children’s experience at school. As most of you know, Birch Wood consists of Birch Wood Grange Drive, Birch
- [Children in Need](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/children-in-need-7) - Birch Wood Vale Dear Parents/Carers, Over the years Children in Need has supported Birch Wood in giving our student’s the fantastic opportunities available to them during their journey through Birch Wood. For Children In Need, we have an exciting day planned for our young people. There will be a non-uniform day on Friday 18th November.
- [Children in Need](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/children-in-need-6) - Grange Drive Provision Dear Parents/Carers, Over the years Children in Need has supported Birch Wood in giving our student’s the fantastic opportunities available to them during their journey through Birch Wood. For Children In Need, we have an exciting day planned for our young people. There will be a non-uniform day on Friday 18th November.
- [Children in Need](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/children-in-need-5) - Ashton House Dear Parents/Carers, Over the years Children in Need has supported Birch Wood in giving our student’s the fantastic opportunities available to them during their journey through Birch Wood. For Children In Need, we have an exciting day planned for our young people. There will be a non-uniform day on Friday 18th November. We
- [Children in Need](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/children-in-need-4) - Grange Drive Dear Parents/Carers, Over the years Children in Need has supported Birch Wood in giving our student’s the fantastic opportunities available to them during their journey through Birch Wood. For Children In Need, we have an exciting day planned for our young people. It will be a non- uniform day on Friday 18th November,
- [Storehouse collection](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/storehouse-collection) - As a school, we would like to give back to the local community by donating items to a local charity. The Storehouse in Melton Mowbray has been offering students an opportunity to do work placement in their premises over the last few years and as a school, we have decided to participate in collecting for
- [Jeans for Genes Day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/jeans-for-genes-day) - Dear Parents and Carers, On Friday 23rd September Birch Wood School will be taking part in supporting ‘Jeans for Genes’ in order to raise awareness and funds for individuals and families affected by genetic condition across the UK. This year's theme is ‘How do you wear yours?’ All students and staff are invited to come
- [School closure for the state funeral of HM Queen Elizabeth](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/school-closure-for-the-state-funeral-of-hm-queen-elizabeth) - 12/9/2022 Dear Parents and Carers, I hope that you and your families are well. As we mourn the passing of the Queen as a nation, I am writing to confirm that Birch Wood School, Birch Wood Vale and Ashton House will be closed for an additional bank holiday on Monday 19th September. This is in
- [Birch Wood 10](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/the-birch-wood-10) - The Birch Wood 10 aims to bring the community together
- [End of Term Headteacher Report to Parents](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/end-of-term-headteacher-report-to-parents) - July 2022 Dear Parents and Carers, As I write to you for one of the last times this academic year, I cannot help but reflect on what an exceptional year it has been again. I hoped that this year would signal a movement to getting ‘back to normal’ after the pandemic, and in many ways
- [<strong><u>Birch Wood School Sports Day 2022</u></strong>](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-school-sports-day-2022) - Dear Parents and Guardians, On Wednesday 29th June, Birch Wood School will be hosting our annual sports day. We are eager to make the day a success for our students after another quite unprecedented year we have had. This will be a day of celebration for sporting achievements and for students to showcase all of
- [<strong><u>Birch Wood Vale School Sports Day 2022</u></strong>](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-vale-school-sports-day-2022) - Dear Parents and Guardians On Tuesday 28th June, Birch Wood School will be hosting our annual sports day. We are eager to make the day a success for our students after another quite unprecedented year we have had. This will be a day of celebration for sporting achievements and for students to showcase all of
- [Pride letter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/pride-letter) - 17th June 2022 Dear Parents and Carers, SCHOOL DIVERSITY AND RSE WEEK This month is 'Global Pride Month' the school will be involved in School Diversity Week; this annual week is all about empowering school pupils and staff across the UK to tackle homophobic, biphobic and transphobic bullying by organising activities that celebrate
- [Letter from Executive Headteacher](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/letter-from-executive-headteacher) - June 2022 Dear Parents and Carers, As you will be aware Birch Wood has continued to grow to meet the needs of our community. Since I arrived as Headteacher in August 2016 our numbers on roll has grown from 147 to a planned admission of 225 for August 2022. Over this time, we have invested
- [Covid - 19 vaccination](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/covid-19-vaccination) - Children aged 5 - 11www.leicspart.nhs.uk May 2022 Dear Parent / Carer,COVID-19 vaccination for children aged 5-11 at your child’s school Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust’s community immunisation service is offering a free COVID-19 vaccination for children aged between 5-11-years-old at your child’s school. We would like to ask if you wish to give your consent for
- [CLAPA Awareness day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/clapa-awareness-day) - Thursday 12th May 2022 Dear Parents/Carers CLAPA awareness, Thursday 12th May 2022 For the very first time Birch Wood School is proud to be taking part in raising awareness for CLAPA (Cleft Lip and Palate Association), it’s a small charity that supports around 700 children born with cleft and/or palate condition every year in England.
- [COVID Letter to parents - 08/04/2022](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/covid-letter-to-parents-08-04-2022) - April 2022 Dear Parents and Carers,I am sure you are aware that the Government’s “Living with Covid Plan” effective from 1st April 2022 isnow the new way we are responding to Covid nationally. At Birch Wood, we have considered the advicefor schools and academies and feel now is the right time to reduce some of
- [Autism Acceptance Week](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/autism-acceptance-week) - Monday 28th March until Friday 1st April Dear Parents/ Carers, Autism Acceptance week is on Monday 28th March until Friday 1st April. This year the world Autism Acceptance week is celebrating a shift in focus, from raising awareness, to increasing acceptance and understanding of Autism. Whilst also celebrating 60 years of the NAS! As part of the 60
- [World Down Syndrome Day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/world-down-syndrome-day-2) - Today is world Down Syndrome Day. At Birch Wood we have been celebrating it by wearing colourful or odd socks and creating this video to share with you. You can learn more about the day here: World Down Syndrome Day
- [Please support our coast to coast cycle ride](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/please-support-our-coast-to-coast-cycle-ride) - Please support our fundraising effort. We're hoping to raise £3,000 to improve our sports and library facilities. Check out our Just Giving page here:https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/birchwoodcoasttocoast?utm_id=1&utm_term=M6jaKpdzp
- [Day for Ukraine - Wednesday 16th March](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/day-for-ukraine-wednesday-16th-march) - Schools are able to take part in a Day for Ukraine on Wednesday 16 March. It is being organised by First News in partnership with the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) to raise funds for their appeal. Pupils are asked to wear blue and yellow and donate £1, if they can. You can learn more about the history of Ukraine
- [World Epilepsy Awareness Day - Friday 25th March](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/world-epilepsy-awareness-day-friday-25th-march) - This year we will be celebrating “Purple Day” for World Epilepsy Awareness on Friday the 25th (a day earlier than the official date). We would love for everyone to come to school wearing something purple and to make a £1 voluntary donation to the charity, Epilepsy Action. During the day we will be exploring what
- [Parents Evening - 14th March](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/parents-evening-14th-march) - Dear Parent and Carers, This year our ‘Parents Evening’ will be remote and in person. We hope providing the option will offer all parents the flexibility to take part in this important review of your child’s progress at school. The parents evening will take place on Monday 14th March 2022. However, tutors and teachers will
- [World Down Syndrome Day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/world-down-syndrome-day) - World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), 21 March, is a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. It provides the opportunity for everyone to have a bit of fun whilst raising awareness of Down Syndrome, promoting inclusion and raising much needed funds. All you need to do is choose
- [Staff update](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/staff-update) - Dear Parents and Carers This half term we will be welcoming back Assistant Head Amy Dunstan, after the safe arrival of her baby daughter. Joe Knowles-Lorriman and Robbie Hesketh are going to be continuing with their Acting Assistant Head roles this term with Amy’s support. They will enable Amy to focus on whole school Autism,
- [January Covid Guidelines](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/january-covid-guidelines) - January 2022 Dear Parents and Carers, Happy New Year! I hope you all managed a good break. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone back to school tomorrow. You will be aware that the higher rates of covid means we need to be additionally cautious and careful with regards to our existing safety measures. Our top priority
- [Christmas newsletter 2021](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/christmas-newsletter-2021) - Dear Parents and Carers, I can hardly believe we have reached the end of another calendar year. The beginning of this term signalled much hope that we could return to some of the things we had missed the year before. Admittedly, it has not been quite as straight forward as we may have liked, but
- [January LFD testing](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/january-lfd-testing) - December 2021 Dear Parents Asymptomatic testing for students on return to school in January Testing remains important in reducing the risk of transmission of infection within schools especially with the new Omicron variant. As children and young people will have potentially mixed with lots of other people during the Christmas holidays, all secondary school students
- [Parents letter for Provision classes](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/parents-letter-for-provision-classes) - A letter from Amy Dunstan regarding the provision next term. December 2021 Dear Parents, I am writing to inform you of some exciting, personal news that is on the horizon for my family and myself. My partner and I are expecting a baby. I am sure you will appreciate, this is a dream come true
- [COVID letter - 29th Nov 21](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/covid-letter-29th-nov-21) - Dear Parents/Carers In order to keep everyone safe we regularly review and update our risk assessments, treating them as ‘living documents’ so that we can respond as the circumstances at school and with public health advice changes. Our risk assessments are reviewed as part of our ongoing monitoring schedule. With the emergence of the new
- [Christmas Jumper Day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/christmas-jumper-day) - Friday 10th December 2021 December 2021 Make the world better with a sweater: wear a woolly, give £1 or more and help save children’s lives. “Buy, borrow or decorate your own Christmas jumper.” Dear Parents/ Carers, On Friday 10th December, we are supporting Save The Children’s “Christmas Jumper Day”. All staff and students are
- [Christmas Lunch - Wednesday 15th December 2021](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/christmas-lunch-wednesday-15th-december-2021) - December 2021 Dear Parents/Carers, Here at Birch Wood we are having our Christmas lunch on Wednesday 15thDecember. Your child will be able to choose from the following menu - Traditional Roast Turkey Chipolata, Bacon Roll, Sage & Onion Stuffing & Roast Gravy or Festive Vegetarian Loaf (V) Served with ~ Oven Roasted Potatoes, Fresh Creamed
- [Covid 19 Vaccination Programme](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/covid-19-vaccination-programme) - Dear Young Person and Parent / Carer,COVID-19 vaccination programmeThe UK’s Chief Medical Officers have recommended that the first dose of the COVID-19vaccination should be offered to all healthy children aged 12-15 years. LeicestershirePartnership NHS Trust’s Community Immunisation Service would like to offer the COVID-19(Comirnaty (Pfizer)) vaccination in school. We would like to ask if you
- [Covid 19 vaccination & Flu vaccination](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/covid-19-vaccination-flu-vaccination) - Dear Parent,Flu and COVID-19 vaccinations at your child’s schoolWe are writing to let you know about the updated winter vaccination programme at yourchild’s school.If you have received this letter, your child should be eligible for both the COVID-19vaccination, which is being offered in school to all 12-15-year-olds, and the nasal flu vaccine,which is being offered
- [Heartwize](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/heartwize) - 17th November 2021 Dear Parents/Carers We are pleased to inform you that the charity Heartwize are coming to Birch Wood School on Wednesday 24th November to provide resuscitation training for some of our young people. Your child has the opportunity to partake in one of the sessions. Heartwize aims to improve public awareness of cardiac
- [Heartwize - 11AB & 10AJ](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/heartwize-11ab-10aj) - 17th November 2021 Dear Parents/Carers We are pleased to inform you that the charity Heartwize are coming to Birch Wood School on Wednesday 24th November to provide resuscitation training for some of our young people. Your child has the opportunity to partake in one of the sessions. Heartwize aims to improve public awareness of cardiac
- [BIRCH WOOD SCHOOL                       OPENING GUIDANCE                            NOVEMBER 2021](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-school-opening-guidance-november-2021) - Contents Risk Assessment. 1 Clinically extremely vulnerable (CEV) 1 Attendance. 2 Remote Education. 2 Annual Reviews. 2 Protection Measures. 2 Mixing and ‘bubbles’ 2 Tracing close contacts and self-isolation. 3 Face coverings. 4 Birch Wood’s Control Measures. 4 Use of personal protective equipment (PPE). 5 Public health advice on testing, self-isolation and managing confirmed cases
- [Communication update](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/communication-update) - Dear Parents and Carers, Communication Update We surveyed our families in September to help give us an insight in to how our students had settled back in to the school life and help us know how we might improve. I am pleased to say that the feedback was very positive, however, one key theme did
- [Webinars](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/webinars) - Join us in our free ENABLES webinars
- [Anti Bullying Week](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/anti-bullying-week) - November 2021 Dear Parents/Carers, Anti-Bullying Week is coordinated In England and Wales by the Anti-Bullying Alliance and is taking place 15th to 19th November 2021 and it has the theme One Kind Word. Kindness is more important today than it has ever been. The isolation of the last year has underlined how little acts of
- [Children in Need](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/children-in-need-3) - November 2021 Dear Parents/Carers, Over the years Children in Need has supported Birch Wood in giving our student’s the fantastic opportunities available to them during their journey through Birch Wood. For Children In Need, we have an exciting day planned for our young people. It will be a Non- uniform day on Friday 12th November,
- [Children in Need](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/children-in-need-2) - November 2021 Dear Parents/Carers, Over the years Children in Need has supported Birch Wood in giving our student’s the fantastic opportunities available to them during their journey through Birch Wood. For Children In Need, we have an exciting day planned for our young people, including a visit from Pudsey Bear. It will be a Non-uniform
- [Children in Need](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/children-in-need) - November 2021 Dear Parents/Carers, Over the years Children in Need has supported Birch Wood in giving our student’s the fantastic opportunities available to them during their journey through Birch Wood. For Children In Need, we have an exciting day planned for our young people, including a visit from Pudsey Bear. It will be a Non-uniform
- [Latest Careers News Will Appear Here](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/test-careers-post) - This is where you will find all of our careers-related news as it happens..
- [COVID-19 Guidance](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/covid-19-guidance) - Dear Parents / Carers Following recent advice from the Leicestershire County Council & UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), please see the attached letter (below) which gives guidance for if your child has been identified as a household contact of a confirmed positive case of COVID-19. If you have any questions or concerns, please do get in
- [The Day Explorer](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/the-day-explorer) - At Birch Wood School we have access to The Day Explorer, which is a unique news and current affairs resource that is regularly updated to support the curriculum. You can find out how to access it and learn about other ways in which we support reading at school on our Reading page, here.
- [Rix Wiki!](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/rix-wiki) - We had our first Parents Drop in last week with free Coffee and Cake. It was great to see parents back in school! We were lucky to have Lindsay and Michelle from County Hall to help us promote Rix Wiki's. Rix Wiki's are a simple, multimedia EHCP which can have videos, photos and files on
- [Curriculum Journey](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/curriculum-journey) - Discover the options available to your child.
- [4TP Spring 2020 Curriculum Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/4tp-spring-2020-curriculum-newsletter) - 4TP's Spring 2020 Curriculum Newsletter
- [RSE Consultation](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/rse-consultation) - As part of our school’s wider Personal, Social and Health Education programme, your child will be receiving lessons on relationships, sexual health and personal safety
- [Secondary COVID Testing - 22nd March](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/secondary-covid-testing-22nd-march) - Most secondary age students at Birch Wood have now moved to twice weekly rapid COVID19 testing at home
- [Newsletter June 2019](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/newsletter-june-2019)
- [Newsletter Autumn 2019](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/newsletter-autumn-2019)
- [EYFS/KS1 Curriculum Newsletter - Spring 2020](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/eyfs-ks1-curriculum-newsletter-spring-2020) - We want to share with you the topics and units of work being covered by Class this term.
- [3JD Spring 2020 Curriculum Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/3jd-spring-2020-curriculum-newsletter) - 3JD's curriculum newsletter - Spring 2020
- [2MZ Spring 2020 Curriculum Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/2mz-spring-2020-curriculum-newsletter) - Read our class 2MZ Spring 2020 curriculum newsletter
- [2DO Spring 2020 Curriculum Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/2do-spring-2020-curriculum-newsletter) - Class 2DO Spring 2020 Curriculum Newsletter
- [Newsletter Christmas 2019](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/newsletter-christmas-2019) - Read our Christmas 2019 newsletter here
- [Newsletter Christmas 2020](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/newsletter-christmas-2020)
- [Newsletter Autumn 2016](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/autumn-206)
- [Newsletter December 2016](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/newsletter-december-2016)
- [Newsletter April 2017](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/newsletter-april-2017)
- [Newsletter Christmas 2017](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/newsletter-christmas-2017)
- [Newsletter February 2017](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/newsletter-february-2017)
- [Newsletter May 2017](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/newsletter-may-2017)
- [Newsletter Summer 2017](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/newsletter-summer-2017)
- [Newsletter April 2018](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/newsletter-april-2018)
- [Newsletter Autumn 2018](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/newsletter-autumn-2018)
- [Newsletter Christmas 2018](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/newsletter-christmas-2018)
- [Newsletter March 2019](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/newsletter-march-2019)
- [Ashton House Demo Post](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/ashton-house-demo-post) - Here is an excerpt. You can write whatever you wish here...
- [School Tours](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/tours) - You can book a visit to see our fantastic facilities or view a virtual tour here.
- [Generic News Post](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/generic-news-post) - here is a news post.
- [Testimonials](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/testimonials) - Testimonials “Keep up the good work, excellent school.” “The teachers are an asset to my son and others, thank you.” “I am extremely happy with the progress my daughter is making – she has come on in leaps and bounds. I feel Birch Wood Vale is tailor made for her needs.”
- [Podcasts](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/podcasts) - Listen to our school podcasts
- [COVID Latest](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/covid-latest) - You will find all of our latest COVID information here
- [Remote Learning](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/remote-learning) - You can find all the information you need to work from home here.

## Pages

- [Home](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/) - Welcome to Birch Wood and Birch Wood Vale We provide a wonderful learning environment and SEND expert staff who are highly committed to our pupils. An education at Birch Wood positively changes children’s lives allowing them to achieve their ‘personal best’.
- [Term Dates 2026-2027](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/term-dates-2026-2027) - Autumn Term School Opens to students: Monday 24th August 2026 August Bank Holiday: Monday 31st August 2026 Mid Term Break: Monday 19th October to Friday 23rd October 2026 School Closes: Friday 18th December 2026 Number of school days 78 days Spring Term School Opens to students: Tuesday 5th January 2027 Mid Term Break: Monday
- [Vacancies](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/vacancies) - Welcome to Birch Wood School, where we believe in providing exceptional support to students with diverse needs, including learning and cognition challenges, Severe Learning Difficulties, and Profound & Multiple Learning Difficulties. Some students may have diagnoses of Autism and/or ADHD. By joining Birch Wood, you become part of a community with an unwavering determination to
- [Outreach](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/outreach) - Outreach PrinciplesWe support the right of parents to choose where their child is educated. We acknowledge however, the challenge for mainstream teachers when they are asked to teach children who are working at significantly earlier levels than their peers. We aim to provide support to our mainstream colleagues in order that these inclusive placements prove
- [Ashton House](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/ashton-house) - Birch Wood School is a National Autism Society advanced accredited school. Please see our reports below. National Autistic Society LetterDownload Accreditation Assessment Report 2019Download Accreditation Assessment Report 2022Download NAS Accreditation Assessment 2026Download Birch Wood is an NAS Advanced Accredited (2022) centre of excellence for children with Autism. We provide personalised programs designed to support pupils
- [Speech and Language Therapy (NHS)](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/speech-and-language-therapy-nhs) - Speech and Language Therapists (SALTs) support students to use a variety of methods to enable them to develop understanding and communicate functionally with those around them. The NHS SALT team, work with a range of different needs across Birch Wood, primarily focusing on functional communication and understanding that maximises their access to the classroom. We
- [Therapies and Intervention Support](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/therapies) - At Birch Wood, as part of our ENABLES ethos, Therapies and interventions are a vital element in supporting our students to achieve their targets and enjoy a fulfilling and settled life, both at school and in the wider world. For any child or young person, growing up can present many challenges and, and for our
- [Speech and Language Therapy (Independent)](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/speech-and-language-therapy-independent) - Whilst Birch Wood has access to NHS SALTs, sometimes a different or additional SALT support is required for a particular student; this is where Steph, our independent SALT, can advise and support both students and the class team. Steph can work with various students to support their communication and understanding that may not be identified
- [Subject Curriculum Maps](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/subject-curriculum-maps) - Our curriculum maps are documents that map out subjects, topics, areas and themes across the academic year. They are sequenced building blocks and provide structure from which medium-term plans are created. These plans are constantly in review by the class teacher but re-visited annually in readiness for the following academic year. This is to ensure
- [School Meals](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/school-meals) - Catering Provider As from 1st April 2026 Dolce became our new catering provision. Dolce is a family run business, specialising in catering for education. Dolce uses a system called SchoolGrid which enables you to pre-order meals, make card payments, add allergens, change personal details such as email address and password, view menus, recipes and ingredients
- [Welcome to Birch Wood Forest School](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/forest-school) - Why Forest School at Birch Wood? My name is Maria, and I am a passionate teacher at Birch Wood School. I strongly believe that a love of learning is nurtured through a broad and inspiring curriculum. Inspired by the ethos of Forest School and outdoor learning, I have brought this approach to life to give
- [Pupil Premium](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/pupil-premium) - If you believe your child may be eligible for Free School Meals (FSM) and the Pupil Premium Grant this information will be useful to you. Pupil Premium Grant aims to raise achievement and improve outcomes for children infamilies of low income. The grant includes the provision of free school meals.Free School Meals is support available
- [Further Curriculum Info](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/further-curriculum-information) - We hope that the website gives you adequate information about your child's curriculum. You will be able to find long term curriculum maps for your child's class here: https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/curriculum-maps You can find information on what the curriculum pathways are and the implications for your child's curriculum here: https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/curriculum-pathways More detailed information by term can be
- [SEN Information Report 2025](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/sen-information-report) - SEN Information Report 2025 School Name: Birch Wood SchoolPolicy owner: Phil LeaneyReview Date: September 2025Next Review Date: September 2026 Date Ratified by Chair of Governors:Chair of Governors Signature:Chair of Governors Print: Contents What is the provision for students at Birch Wood School and how is it evaluated? Which categories of SEN does the school provide
- [Current Exams Information](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/current-exams-information) - GCSE Exam Timetable Summer 2026 Exam Self-Care
- [Uniform](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/uniform) - The purpose of our school uniform is to enhance our feeling of community and pride in our school. The school student council thought it was important to have a school uniform that students could wear and feel a sense of belonging, yet they were also keen to respect students for whom uniform is less appropriate;
- [Key People](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/key-people) - Senior Leadership Team Grange Drive Teaching Staff Birch Wood Vale/Ashton House Teaching Staff Senior Teaching Assistants Support Staff Site Team
- [Arbor](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/arbor1) - Arbor is Birch Wood's Management Information System (MIS), bringing the majority of our operations into one system. When starting with Birch Wood School you will be issued with a welcome letter with details for logging on. Should you not have received this letter please contact the school office 01664 483340 or office@birchwoodschool.co.uk For further information around
- [Parent Pay](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/parent-pay) - We accept payments online for items such as dinner money, school trips and uniform. Using a secure website called ParentPay you are able to pay online using your credit or debit card. ParentPay will be our preferred method of making payments to school. What are the benefits to parents and pupils? ParentPay is easy-to-use and will
- [Contact](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/contact) - Phone/Fax/Email Telephone: 01664 483340Fax: 01664 483349Email: office@birchwoodschool.co.uk Addresses Find Us Birch Wood School Birch Wood Vale Key People Executive Headteacher: Philip Leaney Head of School (Birch Wood Vale, Ashton House and Birch Wood College): Tom Smith Head of School (Grange Drive): Tom Bradley-Hewell Head of Specialist Provision: Amy Dunstan Business Manager: Amy Fairchild SENCO: Thomas
- [Attendance and Absence](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/attendance-and-absence) - Good attendance is vital to a child’s success in education. At Birch Wood School we fully understand that some pupils face more complex barriers to attendance and this can include pupils who have long term physical or mental health conditions as well as other difficulties in their life related to problems at home and/or school.
- [Key Priorities](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/key-priorities) - Overarching Aims and Priorities 2025-2026 Staff Mission Statement "We have an unwavering passion and determination to continuously improve our school to provide the best outcomes for every pupil; not because we aren’t good enough, but because we can always be better." Staff Wellbeing Code = Respect + Professionalism + Empathy 2025-2026 Priority 1 – Enabling
- [Parental Information](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/parental-information) - Mastery-Learning - Short Guide for ParentsDownload JUNE_2025-Mental_health_and_wellbeing_support_BOOKLETDownload
- [Governors Information](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/governors-information) - Please find below details of how our Governing body is structured, including the names and categories for each Governor. Full Governing Body Sue Herlihy- Community Governor, FGB Chair, Governor for Training and Reading/Literacy Philip Leaney - Executive Headteacher Lisa Bramall- Parent Governor, Governor for PPG Kerry Clarkson- Parent Governor for QofE Amy Dunstan - Staff
- [General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/general-data-protection-regulation-gdpr) - The General Data Protection Regulation came into effect on 25th May 2018. We hold personal data on pupils, parents/carers, staff and governors. Please find below copies of our privacy notices: Privacy Notice - Job ApplicantsDownload Privacy Notice - Pupil DataDownload Privacy Notice - School VisitorsDownload Privacy notice - School TripsDownload Privacy notice - School WorkforceDownload Privacy
- [Financial & Performance Data](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/financial-performance-data) - Compare school income and expenditure with similar establishments in England. You can view your school or academy trust's financial data, see how it compares with others and use the information to establish relationships with other schools or multi-academy trusts. https://financial-benchmarking-and-insights-tool.education.gov.uk/school/134640 Number of Individuals who earn in excess of 10 = £100K (2024/25) GOV.UK Compare Schools Performance Data
- [Curriculum Options](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/curriculum-options) - Options booklet 2025 BWVDownload Options booklet 2025 year 9 AH version 1Download
- [Support & Wellbeing](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/support-wellbeing) - Jen Neehuis - Health and Wellbeing Lead I have worked at Birch Wood since 2015. Having previously worked across all sites and provisions as a senior teaching assistant I have great experience in supporting young people with a wide range of needs. In 2023 My role within the Birch Wood community progressed into the Health
- [Term Dates 2025-2026](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/term-dates-2025-2026) - Autumn Term August Bank Holiday: Monday 25th August 2025 School Opens to students: Wednesday 27th August 2025 Mid Term Break: Monday 20th October to Friday 24th October 2025 School Closes: Friday 19th December 2025 Number of school days 78 days Spring Term School Opens to students: Tuesday 6th January 2026 Mid Term Break: Monday
- [Our School](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/our-school) - Birch Wood Area Special School consists of two successful and vibrant special schools- Birch Wood Grange Drive (age 4-19 years) and Birch Wood Vale (age 11-19 years) which includes Ashton House a secondary specialist autism provision and our newly formed Birch Wood College Post 16. We are an outward looking maintained school, committed to our
- [Assessment and Reporting](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/assessment-reporting) - KS2 Results 2023 KS2 ResultsDownload 2024 KS2 Exam AnalysisDownload KS2 Gov.uk Performance Data KS4 Outcomes KS4-Results-2023Download 2024 KS4 exam analysisDownload KS4 Gov.uk Performance Data School Performance Data You can view Gov.UK school performance data here. Previous Exam Information KS4-Results-and-Destinations - 2022Download Birch-Wood-School-exam-info-2021Download Birch-Wood-School-exam-info-2020Download Birch-Wood-School-exam-info-2019Download Pupil Premium You can find more information about the Pupil Premium
- [Community inclusion projects](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/community-inclusion-projects) - Melton Mowbray Play close Junior Parkrun Sarah Wilson Communication lead at Birch Wood Special School in Melton Mowbray has been working in partnership with Andy Nicholls and Rachel Heggs from the Melton Mowbray Play Close parkrun on an inclusive guide. The inclusive guide includes photographs and communication symbols to help children and young people understand
- [Ofsted](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/ofsted) - Ofsted Inpection 16th & 17th April 2024 The outcome of the section 8 inspection was the best we could have possibly hoped for, concluding that ‘the evidence gathered suggests that the inspection grade might be outstanding if a graded (section 5) inspection were carried out now.’ We were very proud of our inspection letter, which commented that ‘Pupils are helped to achieve
- [Counselling](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/counselling-2) - Jo Burrows At Birch Wood we have a qualified Children and Young Peoples’ Counsellor, registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). Integrative Counselling combines a Person-Centred Approach alongside a variety of therapeutic interventions, such as Systemic, Creative, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Lego-based Therapeutic Coaching, Play Therapy and Drawing & Talking Therapy, in order
- [Occupational Therapy](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/occupational-therapy) - Angela Palling (NHS) The Occupational Therapist’s (OT) role is to implement approaches and techniques to maximise a student's engagement, achievement and independence in all activities (occupations). These may include areas of self-care (e.g. dressing , eating a meal, using the toilet, having the correct slings/equipment); work or being productive (e.g. attending school, caring for others);
- [ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant)](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/elsa-emotional-literacy-support-assistant) - Lee is a trained ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) and can support students in a variety of ways to recognise and regulate their emotions, giving them the means to engage more effectively in education and the wider world too. Some of our students are not always emotionally able to access all of the curriculum and
- [Term Dates 2024 - 2025](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/term-dates-2024-2025) - Autumn Term August Bank Holiday: Monday 26th August 2024 School Opens to students: Tuesday 27th August 2024 Mid Term Break: Monday 21st October to Friday 25th October 2024 School Closes: Thursday 19th December 2024 Number of school days 78 days Spring Term School Opens to students: Tuesday 7th January 2025 Mid Term Break: Monday
- [Birch Wood Grange Drive](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood) - At Grange Drive we offer a tailored curriculum that is designed to meet the individual needs of each pupil. We cater to students with a wide range of needs, including those with autism, ADHD, learning difficulties, and physical disabilities. We understand that every student is unique and has their own set of strengths and needs.
- [Times of the Day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/times-of-the-day) - These are our school opening times: Grange Drive: 9.00am- 3.30pm Birch Wood Vale: 8.50am- 3.20pm Ashton House: 8.50am- 3.20pm
- [Welcome To Our School](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/welcome-to-our-school) - We provide a wonderful learning environment and SEND expert staff who are highly committed to our pupils. An education at Birch Wood positively changes children's lives allowing them to achieve their 'personal best'. Our ENABLES culture embodies our high aspirations and unwavering passion and determination to provide outstanding outcomes for every pupil.
- [Careers - Transitions and Destinations](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/careers-transition) - it is so important that students and their families feel confident and well informed when making choices about post 16 education. There are lots of local colleges as well as our own sixth forms at both Birch Wood Vale and Birch Wood School. Each college has its own type of environment and own programmes on
- [Facebook Latest](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/latest-facebook)
- [Curriculum Offer](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/curriculum-offer-2) - Curriculum Offer: Birch Wood Vale and Ashton House Pupils at Birch Wood Vale and Ashton House have 25 lessons a week. Each lesson is 45minutes long. In addition, all pupils have a 30 minute reading session every day. Key Stage 3 5 English 4 Maths 3 Science 2 PSHE 2 Food/Art/DT (on rotation) 2 Physical
- [Curriculum Overview](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/curriculum-overview) - Curriculum Pathways - Ambition Without Limits The three curriculum pathways at Birch Wood are designed to meet the needs of a wide range of learners with an EHCP and ensures we have 'ambition without limits'. We provide a bespoke approach to our pupils’ very individual needs and so movement between pathways is fluid. Aspects such
- [Job Application](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/job-application) - Job Application You can complete the form below to submit your application or download the application form in Microsoft Word format. If you complete a Word application with a covering letter, it should be addressed to; Rosalind Hopkins - Executive Head, care of Amy Fairchild - School Business Manager: fairchilda@birchwoodschool.co.uk Download Microsoft Word Application Form
- [Worry Box](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/worry-box)
- [Volunteering](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/volunteering) - Student/Volunteer Role A Student or Volunteer will work under the direct supervision of a teacher to provide support for teaching and learning and associated activities in accordance with school policies and procedures. This may include providing general support for whole class learning activities, or supporting individuals or small groups of pupils within the classroom. Main
- [Birch Wood Vale](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-vale) - Birch Wood Vale caters for students aged 11-19 with learning and cognition needs including autism. We offer a mainstream style curriculum, which is broad and balanced providing students with the opportunity to take a range of qualifications including GCSEs. We are able to provide both SEND specialist teachers and subject specialists in a small nurturing
- [Music Therapy](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/music-therapy) - Neil Eaves Music therapy is a method of creative communication which takes place within a therapeutic relationship developed over a series of regular sessions. Students are encouraged to create their own music and the music therapist will then explore ways to support this music, either by playing along themselves or by listening and being a
- [Lego Therapy](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/lego-therapy-2) - Lego therapy is used to help children learn skills like turn-taking, sharing, listening, conversation, teamwork, shared attention and problem-solving. Lego therapy was designed for those with a diagnosis of an Autistic Spectrum Condition but our aim is to offer it to a broader range of our students as Lego building is often a highly motivating activity
- [Rebound Therapy](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/rebound-therapy) - Rebound Therapy is an exercise therapy which provides opportunities for enhanced movement patterns, therapeutic positioning, exercise and recreation for a wide range of our students. Benefits of Rebound Therapy include an increase in self-confidence, self-awareness, communication, eye contact, vocalisations and to promote relaxation. Although a trampoline is used, it is important to know that rebound
- [Literacy and Phonics Interventions](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/literacy-and-phonics-interventions) - Gail Stevens To supplement our literacy and phonics lessons at our Grange Drive site, we have a designated intervention to support our students with their literacy and phonics work. Individual sessions are provided for those who would benefit from this extra support.
- [Hearing Support Teacher](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/hearing-support-teacher) - Sarah Lawrence Sarah is part of The Leicestershire County Council Hearing Support Team, made up of a group of specialist Teachers with an additional qualification for teaching hearing impaired students, experienced practitioners, and an Educational Audiologist and can request support from the Assistive Technology for Education Support Team (ATfEST). Sarah liaises with other members of the
- [Vision Support Teacher](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/vision-support-teacher) - Vicky Wilson Vicky is part of The Leicestershire County Council Vision Support Team, made up of a group of Qualified Teachers of the Visually Impaired (QTVI). Vicky is a qualified teacher with an additional qualification in the education of students with visual impairments and can request support from the Assistive Technology for Education Support Team (ATfEST).
- [Physiotherapy](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/physiotherapy) - Julia Way (Physiotherapist) and Bev Sexton (Physiotherapy assistant) A physiotherapist (‘Physio’) helps with movement, to restore movement when a child is affected by injury, illness or disability and to reduce the risk of injury in the future. The impairment may be in the bones, joints or soft tissue, in the nervous system and brain, the
- [Educational Psychologist](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/educational-psychologist) - Willem Van Rooyen Educational Psychologists work with students and the adults who teach and support them to find out how they learn and process information and look for ways to improve their performance. This includes looking at all areas that affect learning outcomes - neurological and physical factors, learning process, learning difficulties, emotional issues, attitudes,
- [Art Therapy](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/art-therapy) - Sarah Wallis Sarah is a qualified Art Psychotherapist, registered with the Health Professionals Council (HCPC) and a full member of the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT). Art Therapy gives young people a voice through art, where they might find it difficult to express themselves verbally. Art therapy is available to anyone, and there
- [Communication Lead                     ](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/communication-lead) - Sarah Wilson Sarah’s main role is to lead communication across school alongside Hannah O’Mara, who is the SLT Communication Lead. This is done through working alongside the speech and language therapists (SALT), teachers, visiting professionals and therapists to support students with their communication needs. Once a student has been assessed by a SALT, Sarah will
- [Careers - Information for Parents](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/careers-parents) - Birch Wood School has a Careers Programme which students can access from Year 7 onwards depending on their readiness and their needs. The Careers Programme is designed to support your young person to prepare for the next stage in their life. The next stage after Birch Wood School is likely to be an independent college
- [Snow Day Work](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/snow-day-work) - Birch Wood Vale and Ashton House KS4: Maths GCSE Maths revision:https://www.primrosekitten.com/pages/maths-gcse Entry Level Maths Rounding Game: https://www.topmarks.co.uk/maths-games/rocket-rounding Rounding quiz:https://wordwall.net/resource/35826427 Money Activity:https://wordwall.net/resource/615803/money 3d shapes activity:https://wordwall.net/resource/18922136/maths/3d-shapes KS3 Maths Money activity:https://wordwall.net/resource/615803/money 3D shapes activity:https://wordwall.net/resource/18922136/maths/3d-shapes 2D and 3D shapes:https://wordwall.net/resource/10676782/maths/2d-and-3d-shapes Time Game:https://mathsframe.co.uk/en/resources/resource/116/telling-the-time KS4 English GCSE Students Revision: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/examspecs/ztjmv4j Writing a Winter Haiku ActivityDownload KS3 English Wordsearch: https://wordwall.net/resource/38601 Snow Acrostic Poem ActivityDownload Grange Drive
- [Reading](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/reading) - Reading and Communication We view reading and communication as the foundation of our curriculum. The bedrock from which everything else is built upon. We give reading and communication such high status as we believe that reading and communication can help removes barriers to learning, bring joy and happiness and further a young person’s independence as
- [Leicestershire and Rutland SEND & Inclusion Hub](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/leicestershire-and-rutland-send-inclusion-hub) - Our mission is to create a cross-sector SEND and Inclusion hub, establishing a broader vision of success and equipping all schools with the tools and strategies they need to ensure all pupils are enabled to fulfil their potential. The SEND and Inclusion Hub shares the following values. Collaborative - The SEND and Inclusion Hub works across
- [Positive Behaviour for Learning](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/behaviour-for-learning) - Key beliefs and ethos for behaviour at Birch Wood School We believe that: • Children and young people want to behave well. • Behaviour is a means of communication – we must ensure that all pupils are supported to communicate their needs safely and appropriately. • With the right support and intervention children and young
- [Admissions](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/admissions) - Admission of pupils to our school is through pupils having an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). Whilst parents are welcome to visit the school this visit will not guarantee a placement. School placement of students with Special Educational Needs is determined by the Special Educational Needs Assessment Service of Leicestershire County Council. Pupils attending Birch Wood
- [Relationship & Sex Education](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/relationship-sex-education) - In line with statutory guidance, Birch Wood School has embedded mandatory Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) into the curriculum. The programme has been designed from guidance provided by the Department for Education and the PSHE Association and builds on the existing PSHE programme in place at Birch Wood. Relationship and Sex Education (RSE) is an
- [Careers - Information for Teachers](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/careers-teachers) - The Birch Wood School Careers Programme is designed to help students achieve the best for their futures. The programme relies on support and delivery from staff. The programme is supported by the careers strategy which in turn is derived from the 8 Gatsby Benchmarks: A stable careers programme Learning from career and labour market information
- [Careers - Information for Students](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/careers-students) - Here at Birch Wood School we want you to feel positive about your future. We understand that you are growing and developing and want to achieve your dreams. There are lots of different things you can do when you leave Birch Wood School: You could go to college, somewhere like Brooksby Melton or Homefield. You
- [Careers - Skills Builder](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/careers-skills-builder) - It is well known that employers look at the skills set of potential employees often more than the qualifications they hold. Here at Birch Wood we want students to feel that they can succeed and progress into successful futures. We have chosen 8 transferable skills which are vital in all aspects of life from home,
- [Careers - Information for Employers and Employees](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/careers-employers) - At Birch Wood School all of our students have Special Educational Needs and they all have Education, Health and Care plans. Many of our students are capable of entering the world of work either in paid or voluntary employment. The percentage of young people with special needs entering paid employment is far too low and
- [Careers](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/careers) - Welcome to Careers at Birch Wood School Here at Birch Wood School we believe that every young person needs high quality careers guidance to make informed decisions about their future, whatever their needs. We are working towards the eight Gatsby Benchmarks to ensure we offer an inclusive careers provision across Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4 and Post 16.
- [Letters](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/letters) - Letters for each of our sites: All Latest Letters: Latest News:
- [Self-Esteem & Self-Care](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/self-esteem-self-care) - The information on this page is currently being updated. Please check back again soon.
- [Lego Therapy](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/lego-therapy) - The information on this page is currently being updated. Please check back again soon.
- [Personal Care Assistant](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/personal-care-assistant) - Full or part time Birch Wood Special School is looking for enthusiastic individuals to join our team as a Personal Care Assistant. Birch Wood School seeks a highly committed and flexible personal care assistants to work within the school. Birch Wood Special School is at an exciting point in its development; we are rapidly expanding
- [Autism Provision Learning Journeys](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/autism-provision-learning-journies) - Primary Provision Thematic Learning Journey PSHE Learning Journey Maths Learning Journey Science Learning Journey
- [Careers - Apprenticeships & Traineeships](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/careers-apprenticeships-traineeships) - You can progress through this presentation by using the left and right arrows above.
- [Coronavirus - March 2020 to March 2021](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/coronavirus-march-2020-to-march-2021) - Headteacher Update Monday 1st March 2021 Dear Parents and Carers, We, like you, are delighted that school is going to be fully open as of 8th March. I will now outline our plans for further opening, which are different for primary and secondary age students. Your child’s class teacher will have been in contact with you to
- [Post 16](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/post-16) - Curriculum Offer Post 16 Options Booklet Post 16 - Autumn 2020 Parent Synopsis Latest News Gallery
- [Remote Learning](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/remote-learning) - To assist you with your studies at Birch Wood School, we have many ways for you to access resources remotely. You will find links to those on this page. Getting-started-on-Microsoft-TeamsDownload Parents-Visual-guide-to-remote-learningDownload Review_Your_Remote_Education_Provision_framework_-_SchoolsDownload schools_share_information_about_your_remote_educationDownload Education Continuity and Remote Learning Policy Recording Live Lessons Risk Assessment
- [Information & Policies](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/information-policies) - School policies cover every aspect of school life. Below are some of our most important policies for your reference. If you want to know our policy on something that is not listed, please contact us.
- [Careers - LMI & Useful Info](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/careers-lmi-useful-info) - Labour Market Information You can click the image below to open a PDF document which shows the local labour market information for the Melton Borough area. LMI For All Careerometer Use the tool below for more information on jobs or careers you are interested in. You can click 'clear card' to search as many times
- [Oops!](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/oops) - That link seems to be out of date, you can return to our homepage by clicking here.
- [Birch Wood Student Voice](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-student-voice) - Each class has nominated a student to be their student council representative. They meet regularly with other representatives and a member of senior staff to discuss ideas, concerns and put forward suggestions by their classmates. Our representatives from Birch Wood Main site are: Poppy - 1DO Matthew - 1NS Demetria - 2LC Fields - 2EC Madison
- [Ashton House Student Voice](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/ashton-house-student-voice)
- [Birch Wood Vale Student Voice](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/birch-wood-vale-student-voice)
- [e-Safety](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/e-safety) - E-safety is an integral part of children’s education in today’s digital world and is embedded in their learning at school. We also want to help our parents and children improve their own understanding of e-safety issues so they can learn to use the internet and all digital media in a safe and secure way. Safe use of
- [What Our Parents Say...](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/testimonials) - "Keep up the good work, excellent school." "The teachers are an asset to my son and others, thank you." "I am extremely happy with the progress my daughter is making – she has come on in leaps and bounds. I feel Birch Wood Vale is tailor made for her needs." "Keep up the good work,
- [Prospectus](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/prospectus)

## Galleries

- [Forest School](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/rl_gallery/forest-school)
- [Ashton House Gallery](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/rl_gallery/ashton-house-gallery)
- [Post 16](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/rl_gallery/post-16)
- [Birch Wood Vale Gallery](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/rl_gallery/birch-wood-vale-gallery)
- [Birch Wood Gallery](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/rl_gallery/birch-wood-gallery)

## Events

- [Undiagnosed Children’s Day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/undiagnosed-childrens-day)
- [Bottesford Bike Easter Egg Run](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/bottesford-bike-easter-egg-run-2)
- [BWV/AH Year 11 Reports to parents](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/bwv-ah-year-11-reports-to-parents) - BWV/AH Year 11 Reports to parents
- [National Storytelling Week](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/national-storytelling-week-2)
- [Christmas Bazaar](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/christmas-bazaar-3)
- [KS4 & Post 16 PROM](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/ks4-post-16-prom)
- [School Closes](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/school-closes-2)
- [Moving Up Day (MUD) for BWV/AH/BWC](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/moving-up-day-mud-for-bwv-ah-bwc)
- [BWV & Ashton House PGL Chateau de Grande Romaine in Paris](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/bwv-ashton-house-pgl-chateau-de-grande-romaine-in-paris)
- [School Reports to parents (Excl BWV/AH Year 11)](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/school-reports-to-parents-excl-bwv-ah-year-11)
- [BWV New Starters Parent Meeting](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/bwv-new-starters-parent-meeting)
- [Bank Holiday – School Closed](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/bank-holiday-school-closed)
- [The Lodge 1 & 2 Residential to Lea Green](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/the-lodge-1-2-residential-to-lea-green)
- [HALF TERM](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/half-term-5)
- [The Herons Extended Day Trip to Lea Green](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/the-herons-extended-day-trip-to-lea-green)
- [Exam period](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/exam-period)
- [PMLD Celebration Day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/pmld-celebration-day)
- [Autism Celebration Week](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/autism-celebration-week)
- [EASTER HOLIDAYS](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/easter-holidays-2)
- [World Down Syndrome Day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/world-down-syndrome-day-2)
- [BWV and AH KS3 Parents Evening with Subject Teachers Including Year 9 Option Choices](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/bwv-and-ah-ks3-parents-evening-with-subject-teachers-including-year-9-option-choices)
- [Grange Drive Parents Evening with Class Teachers](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/grange-drive-parents-evening-with-class-teachers)
- [HALF TERM](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/half-term-4)
- [World Book Day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/world-book-day-2)
- [BWV/AH/BWC Parents Evening for KS4 and Post 16](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/bwv-ah-bwc-parents-evening-for-ks4-and-post-16)
- [International Angelman Day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/international-angelman-day)
- [Christmas Jumper Day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/christmas-jumper-day)
- [Cinderella at Melton Theatre Birch Wood School Takeover](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/cinderella-at-melton-theatre-birch-wood-school-takeover)
- [CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/christmas-holidays-2)
- [Staff Inset Day – School Closed](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/staff-inset-day-school-closed-2)
- [School reopens](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/school-reopens-2)
- [Children in Need Day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/children-in-need-day-2)
- [Bottesford Bike Christmas Toy Run](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/bottesford-bike-christmas-toy-run)
- [Letters sent to Santa](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/letters-sent-to-santa-2)
- [Remembrance Day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/remembrance-day)
- [Whole School Parents Evening – meet the tutor/class teacher College Transition evening for Year 10,11 & Post 16](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/whole-school-parents-evening-meet-the-tutor-class-teacher-college-transition-evening-for-year-1011-post-16)
- [HALF TERM](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/half-term)
- [Merlins and Kites Residential to Bendrigg Trust, Lake District](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/merlins-and-kites-residential-to-bendrigg-trust-lake-district)
- [NSPCC ‘Kindness is a Superpower’ Dress Up Day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/nspcc-kindness-is-a-superpower-dress-up-day)
- [National Poetry Day](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/national-poetry-day-3)
- [Wear your jeans to school day(as part of Jeans for Genes week)](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/event/wear-your-jeans-to-school-dayas-part-of-jeans-for-genes-week)

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/category/uncategorized)
- [Podcast](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/category/podcast)
- [News](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/category/news)
- [Careers](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/category/careers)
- [Birch Wood News](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/category/birch_wood_news)
- [Birch Wood Vale News](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/category/birch-wood-vale-news)
- [Ashton House News](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/category/ashton-house-news)
- [Post 16 Newsletter](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/category/post-16-newsletter)
- [Letter - Whole School](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/category/letter)
- [Letter - Grange Drive](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/category/letter-grange-drive)
- [Letter - Birch Wood Vale](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/category/letter-birch-wood-vale)
- [Letter - Ashton House](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/category/letter-ashton-house)

## Tags

- [Term dates 2022-2023](https://birchwoodschool.co.uk/tag/term-dates-2022-2023)