Welcome to the autumn edition of Charlie Waller News!
It’s going to be all change at the Trust, as our wonderful CEO, Clare Stafford, steps down at the end of February 2024.
In his Chairman’s letter Richard Waller pays tribute to Clare and the huge impact she has had over the last 10 years. The Trust has gone from strength to strength under her leadership and the contents of this newsletter reflect just some of what has been achieved.
Autistic children are much more likely to experience mental ill health than their non-autistic peers, yet many go undiagnosed and misunderstood. We ask why, and explore ways in which we can all make a positive difference, including a practical list of top tips for supporting an autistic child.
There’s a growing body of research that sheds light on the ways in which music can increase our mental health and wellbeing. Mental health trainer Ian Macdonald takes a deeper look at the benefits, including suggestions for how music might help you.
The suicide of headteacher Ruth Perry led to vociferous questioning of Ofsted and its methods. Sarah Ashworth, a mental health trainer, therapist and lecturer, shares her views on measuring and rating schools in this way. She also looks at possible alternative assessment methods, making the point that the voice of young people should be central to measuring a school’s success.
Fundraising highlights include the Neon Disco, an annual favourite for children in Years 7 and 8, along with Everest in the Alps, which features on the front cover.
You'll find all these stories in the newsletter, and much more!
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