This issue captures a brilliant snapshot of life in our schools, from the creativity and imagination on display during World Book Day, to the energy and ambition sparked at our recent Careers Fair. Alongside this, pupils have been getting involved in NSPCC Number Day and a range of other exciting experiences that showcase both their enthusiasm for learning and their commitment to supporting important causes.

It’s always inspiring to see our school communities come together in such meaningful ways, and this edition is full of moments we’re proud to celebrate.

Take a look at the latest TEAMtalk to explore the stories and photos 👇

Each edition captures the energy, commitment and talent within our schools, from academic milestones to enrichment opportunities and personal development. It’s a privilege to see so many examples of young people thriving in their learning environments.

A huge thank you to our dedicated staff whose passion and expertise make these stories possible every single day.

Have a look at this month’s edition and join us in celebrating the fantastic work happening across our Trust.

In this edition, you can read about:

• Our pupils’ enriching learning experiences, including visits, creative projects, and sporting successes.

• The Annual TEAM Conference, where colleagues came together to reflect on practice, celebrate achievements, and renew our shared commitment to putting children at the heart of everything we do.

• Community initiatives and events that continue to strengthen relationships across our Trust.

We are proud to share the many ways our schools continue to inspire, empower and support every learner. This edition of TEAMtalk captures just a snapshot of the dedication and collaboration that drive our Trust forward.

🔹 The vital role Blue Box plays in supporting TEAM

🔹 The different roles and career paths within Blue Box

🔹 Online safety and responsible tech use

🔹 Careers in IT – including job and apprenticeship opportunities

🔹 How technology is currently used in our schools – and what students would love to see in the future

A huge thank you to Blue Box not only for sharing their time and insights.

It was truly inspiring to see our students so engaged and passionate about the future of technology in education. 💻🌟

We’re excited to share the latest edition of TEAMtalk, our Trust-wide newsletter that captures the spirit, success, and stories from across our community. 🌟

In this issue, you’ll find:

🛥️ Boat trips that brought joy and connection

🏆 Sporting successes that made us proud

🎉 Sports days full of energy and teamwork

🌍 Trips that opened minds and created memories

TEAMtalk is more than just news — it’s a celebration of our shared experiences and the incredible people who make our Trust what it is. Dive in and see what we’ve been up to!

Students took part in interactive activities, ranging from exploring virtual landscapes and habitats to using digital art to recreate the sights of spring. The event ignited curiosity, creativity, and excitement, providing a distinctive way to merge technology with the natural world.

Finally, it’s always good to hear about the courses and programmes you are studying and fits very much
with the support we offer for these through our People Strategy, launched to you in September at our
annual conference. Most recently achievements shared with me are from Michaela Glarvey who's
completed her Post Graduate diploma in Applied Leadership and Management. Please join me in
congratulating Anni, Joanna, Charlotte, and all our colleagues on their well-deserved success!

In terms of developments, the Newman School engagement building continues to make progress with
our senior leader’s input, and we have included 3D models in this TEAMtalk edition, and planning
permission is now being sought. At Stubbin Wood we have had Derbyshire County Council Cabinet
approval to move forward with the Primary development of Stubbin Wood and advise on undertaking
surveys to support our planning application. Further to this, Nicola Cook and l have met with Carol Gray,
Regional Director from the Department for Education for the East Midlands and shared these updates
with her, as well as further developments taking place across our satellite projects. We have had the
engagement meeting for the Secondary Mansfield Site and hope to start work on the caretakers
bungalow renovations in the coming weeks. We estimate this should take 12 - 16 weeks and plan for
transition for pupils to begin in the summer term.

Alongside all of these projects, Matt Morris and Olivia Sharp from the Central Team have been finalising
the programme for our National SEND and Inclusion conference in March which will be headlined by Sir
Martyn Oliver and be one of the OFSTED consultation events as well as part of the International Forums
for Inclusion Practioners research events in England. Additionally Matt and Olivia have been working on
developing all the schools and Trust websites, I am excited to share that these are now live!

Lastly, I want to take a moment to thank each of you for your ongoing hard work and
dedication. Your contributions within your individual schools and across TEAM are truly
appreciated. Have a fabulous half term.

As we look forward to the new year, let's carry the spirit of joy and togetherness into everything we do.

Our Trust community has shown incredible resilience and creativity throughout the year, and I am confident that we will continue to thrive as we embrace new challenges and opportunities.

I would like to say thank you to Emma Rodgers, who leaves us at the end of this term. Thank you Emma for your support and time at Stubbin Wood School, and we wish you all the best for the future.

Once again, thank you for your hard work and dedication. It's your passion and commitment that make our Trust so special. Enjoy the Christmas holidays. Please take the time to rest and enjoy time with family and friends. Ready to return refreshed and ready for another wonderful year together.

Enjoy half term with family and friends as autumn arrives!

We recently hosted our annual Trust Conference, which provided an excellent opportunity to connect with colleagues across the Trust and engage with inspiring speakers. 

In addition, we launched our first ever Reading Week. During this week, 23 business professionals collaborated with our Central Team to visit schools and read to children. Collectively, we reached 461 students, and with the support of school staff, that number increased to an impressive 830.

We also joined with the Trust Student Council at Caunton Dean Hole School to kick off the academic year and discuss our priorities moving forward.

Lastly, we co-facilitated the SENDCO network, focusing on compliance.