Headlines - 22 March 24

22nd March 2024

HEADLINES

By James Saunders

AUTISM AWARENESS

As we approach the end of the month, as well as the end of the Spring term, we are approaching National Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for individuals on the autism spectrum. It’s an opportunity for us to reflect on how we can create a more supportive and inclusive society for children and individuals with autism.

“If you have met one person with autism, you have met one person with autism.”

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behaviour. Each person with autism is unique, with their own strengths, challenges, and perspectives. As a community, it’s essential that we recognise and celebrate this diversity, embracing neurodiversity as a fundamental aspect of our school culture. At Honywood, we are proud to serve an inclusive community of learners with ASD. As a secondary school we have the highest proportion of ASD learners in Essex.

Inclusive Education: One of the cornerstones of creating an inclusive society is ensuring that all children, regardless of their abilities, have access to quality education. At Honywood, we are committed to providing a supportive learning environment where children on the autism spectrum can thrive. Our systems and structures are designed to create a calm and consistent climate that ensures that all learners are able to thrive as an individual and learn freely in a supportive environment.

Promoting Understanding: Education is a powerful tool for promoting understanding and empathy. It’s important for learners, teachers, and parents alike to learn about autism and how it may impact individuals in our community. Honywood also runs an Essex Local

Authority Enhanced Provision: an autism support hub. Far from being a separate entity this hub is intentionally fully integrated within the school. Whether members of the hub or not, all ASD learners receive the same support and access to the mainstream curriculum and all our teachers are supported to understand their needs.

Creating Supportive Spaces: In order for children on the autism spectrum to succeed, it is crucial that they feel supported and accepted in all aspects of school life. This means creating sensory-friendly environments, implementing visual supports, and providing opportunities for learners to regulate their emotions and sensory needs. By making simple accommodations and adjustments, we are able to ensure that all children feel valued and included.

Encouraging Peer Relationships: Peer relationships play a vital role in the social development of children with autism. As a school community, we can support the formation of meaningful friendships by promoting inclusive activities, facilitating social skills groups, and fostering a culture of acceptance and kindness. By encouraging empathy and understanding among our learners, we can create a supportive network where every child feels accepted for who they are.

Celebrating Differences: Inclusion is not just about accommodating the needs of individuals with autism; it’s about celebrating the unique strengths and perspectives that they bring to our community. Whether it’s through art, music, athletics, or academic study, every child has something valuable to contribute. By celebrating differences and embracing neurodiversity, we can create a school culture that values and respects all individuals.

Parental Involvement: Parents and carers play a crucial role in advocating for their children and promoting inclusion within the school community. Open communication is essential for this, to ensure

that families feel empowered and valued as partners in their child’s education.

Community Engagement: Creating an inclusive society requires collective effort and collaboration. As a school community, we can work together to raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for inclusion for individuals with autism.

As we approach National Autism Awareness Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to creating a more inclusive and compassionate society for all. By embracing neurodiversity, promoting understanding, and fostering acceptance, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential and be part of a community where they feel seen, heard, and valued for who they are.

On behalf of our ASD population, thank you for supporting the Honywood community to be an inclusive, safe and supportive place for our learners.

Have a lovely weekend.

James Saunders

A massive well done to Rachel Robinson in C7. Rachel competed last Sunday in the British Schools Judo Championship. She had a fantastic competition and finished with a bronze medal for 3rd place. Well done Rachel!

Participating in sports can improve learners’ self-esteem and help them feel better about themselves. Having physical education in the school curriculum allows learners to develop the social skills to work with other teammates, make new friends and learn how rewarding it is to participate in both team and individual sports. Seeing how their contribution impacts the team’s success can be incredibly empowering for young people and make them feel part of the school community.

The self-confidence learners gain from participating in sports and physical education carries over to other areas of their lives, such as academic studies and personal relationships.

Our learners put on some wonderful performances at the Spring Concert showcasing the dedication and commitment that it takes to confidently perform to such a high level. Well done to all the singers, actors and dancers that took part.

TAKE PART!

CEIAG

Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance

Here at Honywood, our careers programme encourages learners to be ambitious, broaden their horizons and explore their own career aspirations. CEIAG is embedded into the curriculum and culture of education, as we recognise the important contribution it makes in supporting the successful transition between both childhood to adulthood and education to employment.

The provision is designed to develop confidence and independence, it aims to remove barriers to ensure readiness to take their next step in their learning or career. Honywood is committed to delivering a programme from cohort 7 to 11.

Please see Mr Ramsay for help and support.

Dates for the Diary