Welcome and Weekly Updates:

I wanted to take a moment to introduce a new way of keeping in touch, as I will be sharing updates with you each week to ensure you are kept informed about all things Fountaindale.

It has been a wonderful first week. I have greatly enjoyed getting to know the pupils and the dedicated staff who make this such a fabulous school community.

The week has been full of warm welcomes - lots of handshakes and friendly hellos - as well as inductions to the various teams and what feels like a thousand logins as I navigate our digital systems!

Next week, I am looking forward to spending more time in classrooms and continuing to challenge myself to learn everyone’s names. I will also be sharing details of a coffee morning and meet-and-greet event planned for later in the term, once I am a little more settled.

I look forward to staying connected with you all.

Moles Visit Portland:

Moles class had a wonderful visit to Portland College this week, where they enjoyed seeing a range of animals including donkeys, chickens, and even some beautiful peacocks. The pupils showed great curiosity and excitement throughout the trip, making the most of the opportunity to explore and engage with the animals. It was a fantastic experience for everyone, and a great time was had by all.

Friends of Fountaindale:

On Tuesday, I had the pleasure of briefly meeting some of the parent members of the Friends of Fountaindale PTA. They shared some fantastic plans and exciting events for the summer term, which we hope you will be able to support when they are announced. We are incredibly grateful for the time, energy and commitment shown by our parents, as this support plays a vital role in strengthening and developing our school community.

I was also fortunate to attend the Easter Scarecrow event a few weeks ago, which was a really lovely afternoon. My daughter certainly thinks the school is amazing after leaving with a car boot full of prizes! The PTA are always keen to welcome new members, so if you are interested in getting involved, please do contact the school. Any form of support, big or small, is hugely appreciated.

Autism Awareness Month:

April is Autism Awareness Month, which gives us a chance to celebrate and support everyone in our school community. At Fountaindale, we value understanding, kindness, and inclusion.

Here are a few helpful resources that can provide you with more information:

• National Autistic Society - Offers a wide range of information about autism, support strategies, and resources for families.
  https://www.autism.org.uk
• Autism Education Trust - Provides guidance specifically for schools and families to support autistic children and young people.
  https://www.autismeducationtrust.org.uk 
• Ambitious about Autism - Focuses on improving opportunities for young people with autism, with useful parent-friendly resources.
  https://www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk

Term Dates 2026/27:

Please see below our term dates for the 2026/27 academic year.

Autumn Term:

• Tuesday 1st September 2026 - INSET DAY
• Wednesday 2nd September 2026 - INSET DAY
• Thursday 3rd September 2026 - Pupils Return to School

Half term: Monday 19th October – Friday 30th October 2026

• Friday 18th December 2026 - End of Term

Spring Term:

• Monday 4th January 2027 - Pupils Return to School

Half term: Monday 15th February - Friday 19th February 2027

• Monday 22nd February 2027 - INSET DAY
• Thursday 25th March 2027 - End of Term

Summer Term:

• Monday 12th April 2027 - Pupils Return to School

Half term: Monday 31st May – Friday 4th June 2027

• Friday 2nd July 2027 - INSET DAY
• Wednesday 28th July 2027 - INSET DAY

INSET Dates:

• Tuesday 1st September 2026 - INSET DAY
• Wednesday 2nd September 2026 - INSET DAY
• Monday 22nd February 2027 - INSET DAY
• Friday 2nd July 2027 - INSET DAY
• Wednesday 28th July 2027 - INSET DAY

Dawn House School Invitation - Family Fun Day:

All Fountaindale families have been invited to a family fun event at Dawn House School in Rainworth on Saturday 16^th May - 11am and 2pm.

There will be activities and games, as well as food and drink stalls. You are welcome to bring a picnic, a blanket, and chairs so you can relax and enjoy the day.

You can turn up on the day (£10 per family) or pre-book tickets by contacting Dawn House School (01623 795361 or enquiries@dawnhouse.org.uk).

We hope this will be a great chance to meet other SEN families in the local community and spend time together.

I think that’s it for this week,

Wishing you all a lovely weekend,

Ben Norman

bnorman@nexusmat.org