05

March 2013

Issue

Education Centre Achieving Through Believing

This edition is

Victoria

Dedicated to Harry and Cody

VEClife
Inside This Issue
P1-5 News and Views P6 The Staff Room P7-9 Features P10 Sparkle Update P12 Residential Round-up P14 PPG Newsletter P15 More News! P16 The Sports Report P17-18 Drama and Arts P19 23 Classroom News

News In Brief

The shoe box appeal as run by Ingrid and reported in VECLife raised a wonderful 64 boxes which were sent to needy children in Belarus. News hot off the press from our events team We are going to be holding The Flare Fest. It will take place on the 11th June venue and time TBC. There will be a variety of local acts performing. More details to follow. MERUs Spring catalogue is now available online. MERU offer an unrivalled provision of specialist equipment for students with disabilities and when no solution exists can custom build. Check them out here http://meru.org.uk/what-wedo/ The April edition of the Country Gardener magazine is now available from the Hort office. Its full of interesting articles and is totally free. Class CN raised a brill 19 With their Dingbats Quiz with Terry Whitlock from Explorers winning top prize.

Pic: Tie Dyeing in Science: See page 22

Next Steps Forward

In September 2013 we will be launching our brand new 19-25 service. After talking to many ex students, parents and local authorities it became apparent that a transition service was very much needed. Next Steps 2 is a service built around each young person. Person centred plans focus on realistic goals that determine which parts of the programme should be accessed. Next Steps 2 learning involves studying at a partner college while still being supported by the Victoria Staff & Therapists. Next Steps 2 living supports young people in learning real life and living skills in short or long periods (subject to registration). The Next Steps 2 activities is an outcome driven exciting day activities programme and Next Steps 2 therapies allows continued access to therapies. If you are interested in any of the programmes please contact us for more information or log on here www.scribd.com/doc/132226548/Next-Steps-2-FullBrochure Hello everybody, thanks for reading. I am the Lorax, I speak for the trees and I would like to say a few words if you please, about a story that you should come and see, it actually happened, just take it from me. But there is more to this than whats on the page, so come to the De La Salle Theatre and see it on the stage!

Introduction
Hello and welcome to the Spring 2013 edition of VECLife. Another bumper edition awaits as we reflect on our activities, visits, the highs and lows of another school term. There are currently some pretty major things going on at VEC at the mo with the new Hydrotherapy pool being constructed and also our new radio station on the way. You can find updates of these two exciting projects within. We have also been polling the staff in a vote for our new logo. As you will see after Easter, Choice A triumphed with a final result of 72 votes to 39. Our Facebook presence continues to flourish with a virtual as it happens blog of life at VEC with scheduled events, photos and more. Remember, you do not need to have a Facebook account to log on to our page. All Back issues of VECLife have been published online along with the Next Steps 2 leaflet and the Post16 Prospectus, you can find links on Facebook. Finally lets hope it warms up a bit and the sun finally comes out! Happy Easter All!!!

The Lorax Speaks!

See Page 17

Foreword

VECLife Spring 2013 By Simon Brown

Vice Principal

only a motivational force for our students, but also creates so many possibilities for learning, Focus On The Future communicating and being Welcome to the latest edition of VEC Life. creative. Having seen the huge potential of 2012 was another successful year for VEC new technology as an educational tool, and the New Year has started in the same students, staff, families, friends and light. There is plenty to celebrate and in this supporters have been busy raising funds edition youll hear about the wonderful and, our Ipadometer keeps receiving achievements, activities and events that timely boosts. Thank you. have taken place over the spring term. Technology aside, the following pages show our firm commitment to the kind of all round Its around this time of year that we get the education that enriches students lives, opportunity to reflect on the past and focus develops their wider talents and prepares on the future. There is no doubting the pothem for their next steps. tential of Stories has been the theme for the term technology to enhance learning - we have and following World Book Day weve slowly progressed from blackboard to over- embarked on another exciting week of head projector to whiteboard to smartboard. creative arts including bringing books to life. In this issue we talk about Ipads, blogs, This issue has a wealth of features with all radio station broadcasts and creating 3d the latest news so, read all about it and models from a printer! Technology is not enjoy!

SHIVA Brings a New Dimension To VEC

Over the last 18 months or so environmental control co-ordinator Mark Moseley, who works with our students to make the everyday things like drawing the curtains a possibility through switches, has been taking part in the Shiva project. This international multi-organisation project aims through ICT based technologies to bring to SEN students and those recovering from debilitating injuries access to artistic tools. The SHIVA project aims to create a tool that combines virtual reality, advanced geometric modelling, gesture analysis and digital fabrication in a framework for the modelling and physical fabrication of 3-dimensional One of the first 3D objects produced at VEC shapes and objects. At VEC we have just taken delivery of and implemented a 3D printer which the the first objects created on our new 3D printer students can design and fabricate any number of visit the Shiva projects website at this address objects. For a fuller explanation of the aims and http://berck-handicap.com/shivaproject/category/news/ objectives of Shiva and to read Marks report on
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IPad Fundraiser off to a Flyer

As reported in the Winter edition of VECLife our bid to provide an IPad for every class at VEC is well and truly underway. All classes have shown magnificent initiative when set the task of doing our bit to raise the 7000 or so required. Events and sales organised so far have included cup cake sales, exotic Indian cuisine sales, home made soup sales, spare change collections and a doughnut delivery service. On top of this a quiz night has also been organised with a bring and buy sale and chocolate quiz to follow. Singer Aaron Gregory from Class ACO is donating 1 from his new album sales to the fund and a team is being put together to compete in this years Bournemouth Marathon in October. In February TV presenter, personality and school friend Chris Jarvis popped in to present two Ipads to the students. The money to buy these was raised by the staff of Morgan Sindall who are currently building our new pool. Also on hand at the presentation was site manager Steve Plumb and area director Paul Gale who commented The Victoria Education Centre provides vital care and schooling for young people with special needs in Poole.

VECLife Spring 2013

L-R Paul Gale, Alec, Steve Plumb, Amar, Chris Jarvis

Advancements in technology are of great benefit to people with learning difficulties and were pleased to have helped the school in this way. With donations from Fitness First and Terracycle coming in all this activity so far adds up to 6 Ipads with a grand total at going to press of 1889.05. We would like to acknowledge our friends and staffs unerring dedication to this cause and on behalf of the students send a resounding THANK YOU!

You can keep up to date with the latest on our IPad fundraiser, Radio station development and indeed pretty much everything else by checking in on our Facebook page. You dont need an account, just type in Victoria Education Centre on Facebook or type in www.facebook.com/VictoriaEducationCentre.uk

reported in the last edition of VECLife Radio Station Takes Shape Also was the exciting news that we were going to have our very own state of the art radio station. Im pleased to announce that progress has been made. We have now taken delivery of all the equipment we need and as you can see in the photo the room which will house it is coming together very quickly. Students from our Post 16 classes have toured the room and seen some of the equipment they will be using. Post 16 student Kieran We are all very excited about the radio station. I have been working with Beth my Media Studies teacher with some ideas for programmes. Once the room is complete including networking and electricity Clyde Broadcasting will come in and assemble the station and provide staff with the necessary training needed to run it. Some students are busy planning programmes as this is going to press and there is also talk of a Gardeners Corner with the help of Horticulture. Stay tuned for more news folks.
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Our new Radio Station Room almost there

Rachel Remembered With a Car For Daisy

Daisy, as many will know, was Rachel McLeans favourite doll and when the schools wheelchair transport vehicle broke down for good recently Chris McLean and family generously stepped up to raise much of the money needed to purchase a new one. The new Fiat Doblo will be an invaluable asset to the school enabling us to transport students to venues, courses, appointments etc. Matt, Rachels brother participated in a sponsored walk and with generous donations from Derek McLeans colleagues and St Georges Church Boscombe the target amount came ever closer. An anonymous donor then stepped in to complete the total. In memory of Rachel a daisy motif is planned as part of the paint finish (See
photo).

VECLife Spring 2013

An artists impression of the new vehicle.

Abis the Queen of The Beam

By Mike Whitlock

On the 18th of March Abi Punchard was invited to perform a piece using the soundbeam at St Michaels Without in Bath for the Anglican Alliance, a worthy cause helping children with special needs in war torn parts of Africa. Abi and her entourage ( Myself, Lisa F, and Julian Riley) were also invited to have dinner with the Arch Bishop of Bath and Wells and the Arch Bishop of Kenya, then after a short talk from Mike on assistive technology and music Abi

performed her signature tune Come What May from the film Moulin Rouge. Despite being very tired Abi performed it perfectly and it was met with vigorous applause and cheers from everyone. The Bishop of Kenya was particularly blown away by the performance and had a lot of questions to ask Abi as he had never seen this kind of technology before. The Anglican Alliance then presented Abi with a very nice picture Bible as a token of thanks.

Are You Sitting Comfortably?

By Ceri Vosper

Last month the Physio team spent some time in the classrooms to observe both student and staff postural positions. Our main goal was to look at how we all sit and what are the implications of not sitting properly. Overall it was a good experience and we all learnt from having time within the class and hopefully educational staff felt they had some support and also learnt about correct sitting and how to change the students position if necessary. At the end of the session we had a quiz and both Class JW and ACo came back with some fantastic answers. A number of the other classes did extremely well too.

A big thanks to all of you that took part and made us all feel very welcome so hopefully, now you are all sitting comfortably! Any more advice needed please dont hesitate to ask any member of the Physio team.
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Hydro Pool Progress

If you drop by on our Facebook site you will know that the new pool has been coming on in leaps and bounds and in quick order. The very latest news is that the building is progressing on schedule and we are having regular updates and meetings with the team on site and our architects. The specialist lighting, hoisting, flooring, security contractors are all making final adjustments as we are rapidly progressing towards the internal works. The size of the new pool will be 7.5mts wide and 16mtrs long, it will range from 1.2mtrs to 1.5mtrs from the shallow end to the deep end. Sadly Phase 2 the Therapy Centre is not likely to start for some time as we cannot guarantee the 1.4million that would be needed to continue work in September 2013. We really hope the interest that the build is generating will help boost the donations so we can start as soon as possible and anything anyone can do to help promote the need for funding would be appreciated.
Site manager Steve Plumb has provided us with some great panoramic photos of the progressed which are published here for your enjoyment.

VECLife Spring 2013

Childcares a SNAP
SNAP have been working hard to complete a fantastic list for you of activities for children and young people with additional needs, across the UK this Easter. Activities include arts and crafts, theatre, bunny trails, egg hunts, an Easter bake off and lots more! They would love to hear your feedback or ideas for their upcoming Spring Newsletter or their Summer Activities Newsletter. SNAP have been placing experienced Nannies, buddies, cares, enablers and specialist childcare workers to help families who have babies and children with additional needs since 2001.

VEC Eco Review Completed

By Lisa Frett

http://snapchildcare.co.uk

The eco-team have finished their eco-review of the school and put together an action plan. The three main topics we have decided to concentrate on are Recycling, Energy and Bio-Diversity. We really want everyone to get involved so if you can take a minute to think when throwing something away- can this be recycled? If yes please squash it first, and when leaving an empty room switch off lights and overhead projectors, every little really does help! We are currently working on our eco-code which when completed will be on display in the play hall. We are also looking for a parent who would like to be on the Eco-committee, this would involve attending one eco meeting a term, if you are interested please contact myself, Lfrett@victoria.poole.sch.uk or jwilliams@victoria.poole.sch.uk we look forward to hearing from you.
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VECLife Spring 2013

And now time for our round-up of all the staff news and this edition starts with those that have moved or are moving on. We bid farewell to Assistant Cook Adam Dagley, RSW Carlene Gilbert who has left to take care of her babies. Jens Lammering our work related learning and transition co-ordinator has also moved on to pastures new and we wish them all the very best for the future and thank them for their hard work while at VEC. One other staff member has also decided to virtually retire but we will still see her around the place from time to time as Clerk to the Governors and that is Jen Price. Jen started here in February 1996 and has served in many different admin roles. Jen has been a valuable member of the admin team and worked alongside many staff over the years in key positions. Jen has given her commitment to the school in many different ways and she will be hugely missed. She plans to spend more time gardening and walking her dogs. Thanks for your commitment and wonderful work over the years Jen from us all at VEC.

Talented Tony Treads The Boards Our very own P.C.A. Tony Rudd has been appearing in Panto. Tony, who provides much entertainment to the students during lunch breaks played Muddles in the Worthing production of Sleeping Beauty. Wedding Bells R.S.W. Lauren Westhorpe married Reece Vincent this March. After a lovely wedding at the Harbour Hotel the couple plan a honeymoon in the Maldives at the end of the month. Its a Boy! Team Leader Jana Chlastakova has given birth to a beautiful baby boy. Little Nolan was born on January 30th. Nolans Dad former VEC staffer Dave Henley is naturally thrilled. Welcome Aboard A big welcome to the team goes to Brendan Rudland who joins us as activities co-ordinator for the Next Steps 2 initiative (see front page). Brendan worked previously for Somerset County Council as a support worker working with adolescents.
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Top Of The Phots...

A lovely photo taken by Giles Northover back in January before school.

VECLife Spring 2013

Toby, An Inspiration
This article was first published in the St. Pauls Church, Mill Hill Parish Magazine and will be of interest to those that remember Toby from his days here.

JustDifferent has a strong connection to Livability, which many readers may be familiar with. From a Livability education to becoming Chief Executive of a national charity Toby Hewson, who has cerebral palsy, is a shining example that from little acorns great things grow. Just before his first birthday Toby was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, a condition affecting the ability to control muscles. Toby is unable to talk and uses a speech synthesizer to communicate; he also uses an electric wheelchair to get around. As a teenager Toby attended a Livability school, Victoria School in Poole (then one of the Shaftesbury Society Schools), which had a huge impact on him. It was also around this time that Toby met my husband and daughter at a fundraising event for the Hornsey Trust (now the London Centre for Children with Cerebral Palsy). College followed Victoria School and when Toby finished his studies and was living independently, with paid full time support assistants, he naturally wanted to get a job. However after experiencing much discrimination when looking for work, Toby decided to put his years of voluntary experience and passion for education to good use and created an organisation educating children and young people about disability and difference. Crucially Toby was also keen to be able to provide meaningful employment opportunities to adults with physical disabilities. Toby is a true visionary. He identified a significant gap in what children learn, or actually do not have the opportunity to learn about disability, and set about doing something about it by founding JustDifferent. Launched in 2008, today JustDifferent is a national charity whose vision is a world where people with disabilities are accepted and included as equal members of society and where everyone values and respects each other regardless of their abilities or disabilities. JustDifferent works to engage adults with

Toby with Quest

disabilities to work at JustDifferent, specifically to deliver workshops about disability and difference to children in primary and secondary schools. To date JustDifferent has reached over 129,000 children and young people at over 1,000 schools across the country. The activity works towards a more inclusive and tolerant society. As a charity, JustDifferent relies on fundraising activity and donations to be able to reach children and inform and educate them about disability. As tomorrows employers, policy makers and educators it is crucial that children are able to experience a JustDifferent workshop and learn first hand about this oh so important but often neglected part of life. . Toby firmly believes that if we are ever going to change societys view of disability and difference we have to work with our children to dispel their fears and let them see that whilst we may look different we are all the same Inside. We all have the same dreams and aspirations. For further details logon to: http://justdifferent.org
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Katie Has Bags Of Style

Another former VEC student Kate Farley has also been doing well. Kate has become a fashion columnist and publishes articles on her hints and tips on looking fabulous. Kate has also styled for Para Olympian Sarah Storey, the British road and track racing cyclist and former swimmer who is a multiple gold medal winner at the Paralympic Games in both sports.

VECLife Spring 2013

Kate: After I left VEC in 2005 I started at Ferndown Sixth Form where I studied Art, Photography and Fashion and Textiles. After completing all my A levels I then went on to study Fashion with Photography at Southampton Solent University, followed by completing a diploma in Fashion Styling at the London College of Style. By the end of 2011, I had worked with professional models, make up artists, creative directors, photographers and hairdressers, appeared as an up and coming stylist presenting on Former VEC student Kate Farley with Sarah Storey a Sky shopping channel as well as styling part of a for Do More Dorset live catwalk show for 2011's Britain and Magazine. This is a Ireland's Next Top brand new online Model show. publication that can be Since graduating from accessed on all iPads. the London College of Just download the Do Style I have been in More Dorset free app working partnership to read my monthly with Great Britain's fashion articles to be in most successful and the fashion know! decorated Paralympic I also have a website athlete; Dame Sarah www.katiefashion.co.uk Storey. I work as contact me through Sarah's personal this site for all styling fashion stylist, services. dressing her for all high profile red carpet events, awards, lunches and appearances. Last years events included the Cosmopolitan Awards (see photo opposite, the photo appeared in OK Magazine), Pride of Britain Awards, Woman of the Year Lunch amongst many more. To date I am working as the fashion writer
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VECLife Spring 2013

Some Exotic Visitors

Safe Haven exotics came in to see us and brought some beautiful creatures for us to interact with. A bearded dragon lizard no less along with a Giant Tortoise, a Royal Python and finally a majestic Bosk Monitor Lizard called pancake. The students were very pleased to see them though Mike the cleaner wasnt! (See Zara holding the tortoise photo). The visit was organised for our Im a celebrity get me out of here LEAP group. Other fun activities have included bush tucker trials and blindfolded star retrieval. Safe Haven Exotics started rescuing animals in 2008. In April 2009 they officially became a Safe Haven Reptile Centre and opened a small shop on Ashley Road to help fund the rescue. It also gave them a base to meet people who were interested in adopting a reptile. In November 2009 they became a Community Interest Company (a non-profit organisation) and changed their name to Safe Haven Exotics.

Logon To Access Dorset

Access Dorset aims to enhance the everyday lives of disabled people, older people, carers and other people who may benefit from support or information. Access Dorset is a 'user-led' organisation, run by disabled and older people. They are a membership organisation and welcome the involvement of their members in furthering the inclusion of disabled and older people in society. They bring together a partnership of 15 user-led organisations and provide a gateway to their services and information. These partners include: 4BOP, Body Positive Dorset, Bournemouth MS Society, Bridport Disabled Carers & Friends Club, Damset, DOTS Disability, Dorset Advocacy, Dorset Fiftyplus, Dorset Mental Health Forum, Dorset MIND, Double Act Theatre Company, Poole Forum, PRO Disability, Wessex Accessible Cycling Club, Weymouth Access Group. They are also talking to other potential member organisations who will be added to the list as the partnership develops. Access Dorset was established in August 2010 by a group of disabled people, carers and older people. They became the founding members and trustees. They agreed to reserve a number of places on the Board for co-opted members from the partner organisations, but the majority of trustees will always be individual members. Their aim is to make their website one of the first ports of call for all disabled people, carers and older people across Dorset. There is a members area, which includes a message board where people can discuss any matters of interest or concern to them and a section where you can get involved in reviewing accessible facilities in the region. The website will be constantly updated and improved with new content added regularly. They are keen to take on board your feedback on what you think about the website including what is good and what could be improved, as well as ideas for developing new sections with content on what matters to you. For more information logon to http://www.accessdorset.org.uk/
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VECLife Spring 2013

Sparkle Update
By Diana and Lorraine

With the new pool building growing and changing every day, the Sparkle Team is concentrating all its energies into raising funds for the integrated Therapies Centre Phase 2 of the Appeal. With just over 1.2million to raise, we are busy with events and other fundraising initiatives. Thank you to all staff, students and parents who continue to help and support the appeal!
Sparkles Patrons Harry Redknapp although busy as manager of Queens Park Rangers is still a great support to the Sparkle Appeal and a signed QPR ball is on its way to us for an auction prize for an event in May. Chris Jarvis is a great friend of the Appeal and VEC, he recently visited the school to present the two IPads from Morgan Sindall. Chris is also hoping to attend our Champagne Afternoon Tea at the Norfolk Royale in May. Mark Foster has promised to try to attend the official opening of the pool in October if work and personal commitments permit lets hope he can!

Sparkle news and a round-up of fundraising since January. In total we have raised locally about 15,000 since January and below there are some of the people and events who have helped with this, but there are many smaller amounts received which help to swell the funds too!
The Sparkle Golf Tournament finally took place on Tuesday 19th February a very cold but dry day. Thank you to all the generous golfers who turned out again and who continue to support us. In total the golf tournament has raised just over 7,000. Poole Yacht Club has adopted Sparkle as their charity of the year and at an enjoyable evening of song and music, raised 1,000 for us. Thank you to Pete Jennings who helped organise the event. The Sparkle Race Night was a fun-filled evening organised with a group of Bournemouth and Poole students figures havent been finalised yet, but it is looking like we will have raised 500 towards the therapy centre! Smarties for Sparkle dont forget to fill your tube with 20p coins so far we have received 208.80 from returned Smarties tubes thank you to everyone who is collecting for us. Special thanks to Chris Tarring who continues to watch over the Book Sales on reception and to all staff who buy, read and return the books what a wonderful scheme this year so far it has raised just over 110. Thanks also to Carmel and co for the Easter Raffle dont forget to buy your tickets.

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VECLife Spring 2013

Local schools and colleges Bournemouth Collegiate School held another Winter Ball in January and raised just over 1,404 for us BCS is a great friend and support to VEC and the Sparkle Appeal.
Corporate supporters We would like to acknowledge the support we receive from corporate organisations Westover Motors who recently celebrated 90 years in business locally, held a Ball and a Motor Showcase at the BIC supporting 5 local charities they have raised 15,000 and Sparkle will soon be receiving a cheque for 3,000. LV= is another great corporate supporter and staff recently raised 1,200 for us from a variety of events. Barclays staff held another plant sale for Mothers Day recently and have raised in the region of 2,000 with match funding of course our wonderful Horticulture Department will be receiving some of this for the plants they supplied and delivered.

Our Barclays Friends at the Mothers Day Plant Sale

Plant Sales are a wonderful boost for both Sparkle and Horticulture and if anyone has friends or family working for large local companies find out if they would be interested and we may be able to supply plants for sale to them too. Of course there are only so many plant sales that Hort can manage with their small dedicated team, so if there is any interest we will operate on a first come - first served basis!

Events for Spring 2013

Sunday 31 March and Monday 1 April - Rob Belbin from VEC Sports Department, is taking part in Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race - 125 miles - sponsorship welcome - see their Just Giving page at www.justgiving.de/Rob-Belbin Thursday 23rd May, Champagne Afternoon Tea, Entertainment and Charity Auction Norfolk Royale Hotel, Sunday 26th May, The Grand Shaftesbury Run still some free places available for both 10K and half marathon come and see us if you are interested.
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VECLife Spring 2013

Residential Round-up

Sandbanks Big Splash

By Ewelina Jankowska

Welcome To Brownsea Ben!

By Claire Hunter

Brownsea Unit would like to welcome Ben Bridges to their gang. For any of you who havent met or seen our new recruit he is a fifteen year old bundle of cheek. He has brought laughter and a lot of joy plus challenges to our gang of staff and students. He is independent in his manual wheel chair ( but isnt against being pushed!!! ) he has 2 speeds goooo and nosey when he stops completely and sometimes the only incentive to get wheeling again is the flashing of his IPad in front of his nose and the promise of a go if he gets to his destination. He is mobile in a Kwalker with a carer in tow but has taken a liking to Kate Baldwins office door frame and rather like a stubborn mule wont be budged and he has been known to have a sit down protest in the doorway. (Our Ben is no sylph like figure) and this action needs a lot of gentle persuasion by staff with his wheel chair parked next to him to get him up and going again. He has a wicked sense of humour and can lead staff new to him a merry dance. A typical man, if he doesnt have to do something and he can get a woman to do it Why do it yourself? His laughter can be heard ringing round the unit,

This school term Sandbanks unit became very active in the water. On Mondays at 6pm short break students and residential students put on their swimwear and jump into the pool. During evening sessions there is no instruction from the teacher and students enjoy their free play. They can practise their skills, have a splash or just dive. Students are having lots of fun and most importantly they have a smile on their face. In the future we are all looking forward to having a big splash in our new pool. Sandbanks Unit would like to say a big thank you to Laura Hood and Fiona Barnett for being our Lifeguards and for making the students and staff feel safe in the water.

Resi Red Nose Day Fun

and hes always game for trying out new experiences and trips out. But his biggest love is his IPad. We have noticed since he has been here a marked improvement in his speech and he knows all the staff and students names but sometimes needs a prompt when he looks unsure. We love you Ben, thank you for teaching us all to laugh again you are a breath of fresh air. We also wish to welcome Liam D as a weekly boarder.
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VECLife Spring 2013

The Durlston Report

By Hazel Noyon

Durlstons new reading area

Durlston Unit has had a creative, social term! Tuesday nights are Guest Nights, when the students take it in turns to invite a guest to dinner, and the students choose what pudding will be! We are enjoying the new Residential Reading Space (which is for all students,) outside Durlston Kitchen.

We have planted Spring flowers to brighten up our sitting room, and planted seeds. Tomatoes, peppers, Chop Suey greens and Chinese Chives, so if they all come up and we have surplus plants, we may be able to open a stall to sell some!

Purbeck Plans For Fun

By Jordan Ballett

Purbeck unit have enjoyed boys nights, taking it in turns to get out of their chairs and chilling on the sofa which they have really enjoyed, weve even had visits from students on the other units that were keen to get involved! The boys chose to do a theme for Red Nose Day so they came up with the idea of cops and robbers which was a hit! All our boys looked the part in their outfits. Were happy to announce that one of our students George Kettle has started horse riding which he absolutely loves! 2 of our boys Joe and Hafiz have birthdays coming up so we are planning a joint celebration which is very exciting for Purbeck unit. Easter is just round the

corner so we have many exciting activities planned including an Easter Egg Hunt. Hafiz will be enjoying Easter holidays in Sudan with his family celebrating his brothers wedding. We would like to say HUGE congratulations to Jana Chlastakova (Purbecks previous team leader) on the birth of Nolan Thomas who is a beautiful healthy boy. On a final note Purbeck have had ongoing building work which has slightly disrupted the lounge but we are really looking forward to the hydrotherapy pool and the French doors which will lead onto our own patio/garden area perfect for the summer time.

Faith Group continues to meet every Wednesday and explore various topics. We have been inspired by the stories of Malala in Pakistan, and Martha in Scotland, both young girls who are Residential Faith Group trying to make life better for other children, in With Hazel Noyon Pakistan and in Malawi. Other topics we have thought about include Winter celebrations in Residential Faith Group is held every Wednesday from various parts of the world, and about the things 6pm-7pm. Students attending are encouraged to share their that help us calm down and relax. Our repertoire opinions and experiences on a wide range of topics always of songs is growing, but we still tend to sing our with lots of singing, signing and laughter. favourites most weeks!
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R.F.G.

VECLife Spring 2013

PPG

News letter
With Nicky Greenway

Hi Parents and Carers, I hope you have all survived the post Christmas half-term and are looking forward to Spring and lots of activities. The Parent Participation Group has been busy planning and holding events that can affect all of you, your families and children. In January we held a meeting that was focused on looking at short break options particularly for the younger children in our school. Vicki Goldsmith, Deputy Manager and co-ordinator of short breaks at Victoria, attended. A tour of Sandbanks, our short break unit, was provided and we were able to discuss how funding for short breaks can be obtained, and what type of provision could be provided by the school; it was very useful to have parents who have accessed respite at Victoria for some years to share their experiences. It is hoped that a Saturday Club could be set up for children who receive direct payments, giving them a chance to socialize, and parents and carers the opportunity to have time for themselves or with other siblings. If you are interested in this service please contact Vicki in the Childrens Home. Our second event has been a Wills, Trusts and Deputyship Forum, organized by Livability and involving local solicitor, Robert Fielding. Robert is also the father of ex-pupil Hannah, and has a wealth of experience in the world of disability. Deputyship orders are legal arrangements for young people who reach the age of eighteen but will need help with making major financial decisions although an easier route maybe accessed through acquiring lasting power of attorney. The other clear message from this event, and the previous event held at VEC, was that it is very important to use a solicitor who has specific knowledge around disability in order to get a full picture of your options. Again, if you would like further information please contact me. And now onto the Summer Term! We are beginning with a PPG event for all parents and carers on developing our Relationships and Sexual Education Policy within the Centre. A group of staff recently attended training sponsored by the government, and provided by the Childrens Society, to improve the outcomes for young people in education with disabilities on these subjects. This is an area that has historically been neglected in the world of special needs and can contribute to making our children more vulnerable. Our event will take place on Wednesday 24th April at 1.30pm and we hope that as many of you as possible will be able to contribute your thoughts, concerns and ideas in developing our Policy. You should have received a letter home from Mrs Curry who is the education lead in this area and we look forward to your response. Our other major event will be on Thursday May 2nd ( more information to follow) when we will be holding another Transition Event for all parents and children of Post 16 or teenagers in general, in conjunction with promoting our Next Steps2 programme for Post 19. We hope to have a panel of professionals who can discuss all aspects of the transition to adulthood, and a more in depth insight into what we are offering at Victoria. Please see Robs article in this edition of VEC Life! Finally, we are in the process of discussing the possibility of holding another Family and Friends Sponsored Walk towards the end of the Summer Term. Our last Walk raised 2,000 for Sparkle and this time we would like to raise money for the IPad Challenge. The Walk will take place on a school day and we are considering routes locally. We would like as much support from parents, families, friends, staff, governors and anyone who loves us, in this venture, both participating and sponsoring. We shall keep you updated. I hope you all have a lovely Easter break and look forward to being in touch next term.
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VECLife Spring 2013

Special Schools Yoga Day

Friday March 22nd was a very peaceful day at VEC as it was Special Schools Yoga Day. Both lower and upper school students attended sessions with Yoga master Stuart Robertson who organised the day Hopefully we will inspire fellow special schools, both nationally and internationally, to take part in the World Yoga Day celebrations. The students were taken through a diverse range of moves in a routine set to relaxing music. The physical benefits of Yoga are plain to see. The change of position from wheelchair to lying on a mat brings its own rewards, in addition to the movements themselves. Yoga not only impacts on a physical level of health, but on a mental and emotional one too. This is where we have perhaps seen the most profound impact of our Yoga programme. Parents also attended a morning session with Stuart to experience the benefits for themselves. Physical The exercises the students undertake not only help to develop flexibility, strength and endurance, but also help to decrease tone, when combined with the breath work. Motor planning and coordination are also beneficiaries of our programme. However, perhaps a more fundamental benefit than any of the above is increased body awareness. Mental and Emotional wellbeing The students have really enjoyed the relaxation aspect of the Yoga classes. As well as enabling them to chill out and deal better with stressful situations, it has also helped

Hands on: getting to grips with Yoga

improve their focus and concentration in the classroom. Some of the awareness exercises have given the students the tools to help with self regulation, controlling behavioural and sleep problems. Respiratory Function Many of our students at VEC have respiratory issues. The breathing element of the Yoga programme has helped give them a greater understanding of those issues as well as helping them improve their respiratory function. There certainly was a lot of chilled students around school that day.

Red Nose Day 2013

In keeping with the spirit of Comic Relief everyone at VEC threw themselves in wholeheartedly to a day of fun and fancy dress. A cake sale was organised with over 50 being raised from that alone. There was a whole load of great fancy ideas on Parade including the Three Musketeers, Wheres Wally, Superman and Ali G. A splendid time was had by all for a fantastic cause.
All for one!

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VECLife Spring 2013

The Report
With Katherine Birtwell VEC Students perform well at Boccia Heats
On Saturday 2nd February we took 8 students to the Regionals in Exeter. They competed in different groups depending on their classification Abbie, Akira and James competed in BC1, Sophie and Dave competed in BC3, Alex competed in BC2 and JK and Liam competed in BC4. All the students competed at a high level and played really well in their classification groups. There were players that play for the GB team that some of our students had to compete against. It was a very competitive competition as all the players want to gain a place at the Nationals in Sheffield in May. Alex and JK both qualified.
JK takes aim at the regional Boccia in Exeter

Cricket Heats 2013

We took two teams to the Table Cricket qualifier competition at QE School in Wimborne. All the students enjoyed playing and played really well as a team. They encouraged each other throughout the games and their batting and fielding was really good. Both of the teams qualified for the Regionals in Taunton which is in May.

Team VEC Bowling And Fielding

Our Boccia Stars in action

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VECLife Spring 2013

The Lorax Is Coming!!!

NEWSFLASH!!!!!!! This year we are working with the schools eco committee. Our aim is to produce the show in the most environmentally way possible. This has led us to produce some very interesting hand-made, home grown, plant-them-in-your garden-afterwards, tickets! All profits made will be split between the Woodland Trust, www.woodlandtrust.org, and the IPad Appeal at Victoria. After the production we will be planting a tree in the school grounds, to represent our commitment, as a school, to promoting the protection of our environment. We will also be launching the schools eco pledge. Come along to the De La Salle Theatre, St Peters School Southbourne, on Sunday 28 th April, for a guaranteed fun filled evening with a few surprises along the way. There are two shows at 2pm and 7pm. Tickets are 4 HELP US TO FILL THE THEATRE! For every 3 tickets bought you get one free. Just quote: eco-warrior to get yours!

Drama and Creative Arts at VEC

Curtain Call By Annie and Matt

Seen But Seldom Heard

Project Update The latest news regarding our young poets and their journey, is that funding has been obtained for four of our talented young people to work individually with our poets as private mentors. They will each be working towards producing a fusion of poetry and an art form of their choice to create a unique piece of work that will be shared at events at which their mentors are performing themselves.

Our Poe

ts!

Their Mentors

Watch this space to keep up with their adventures and find out when and where they will be performing next.
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VECLife Spring 2013

Body Language

Performance and Dance at VEC. With Belinda Ellicott

This years Creative Arts Week linked to World Book Day with each class using creativity to bring their chosen book to life using one or more art forms to share with another class. As usual there were also a variety of visiting artists sharing new art forms with our students including Gamelan, traditional Indonesian instruments, banjo workshops by one of the members of The Ole Tyre Swingers and projection mapping, as seen during the Jubilee celebrations on Buckingham Palace. We were also very excited to launch Seen But Seldom Heard The Next Generation, with our Key Stage 3 and 4 students working with performance poets Liv Torc and Johnny Fluffypunk to create original poetry based around the idea of Friendship and students from Longfleet School. The end of the week finished with all students taking part in the countrywide Special Schools Yoga Day and enjoying a fish and chip lunch based on the Enid Blyton Famous Five books.

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VECLife Spring 2013

EC

Exp lo
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m o o r s s p a l u C h c t Ca
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All the info, From Oaks to Post 16! MC Journey To The East
By Hilary Stewart

Over the past term, Class MC has been on a sensory journey to Japan and has been experiencing all sorts of different aspects of Japanese culture. Each session has begun with some Japanese language practice and it has been fun combining basic words with Makaton signing. One of our favourite activities has been watching and imitating a beautiful Japanese Geisha dance with fans, set to hauntingly soothing music which students have really enjoyed and responded well to. Hope was always keen to join in while Frankie was mesmerized by the slow, elegant movements. We have had lots of fun exploring the texture of rice and making fantastic amounts of noise with rice shakers. Japanese brush writing has also been on our agenda with class MC handling paintbrushes and making patterns on paper. Most recently we have experienced the calm and serenity of Japanese gardens, playing with crunchy cellophane leaves (Shonias favourite) and trying our hand at Zen garden raking with sand. The sand has been a big hit, especially with Alexander and I hope not too much has found its way onto the floor (unlike the rice!) All of the activities have been designed to stimulate our students senses and offer

opportunities for them to increase their understanding of the wider world. It has been fascinating watching them respond so positively and we now look forward to next terms trip to India! If anyone has any lendable objects that they think Class MC would enjoy seeing and touching, please get in touch!

Exploring Shapes
By Maria Caluori

Class MC have been exploring 2D and 3Dshapes, and making lovely shape patterns! The students enjoyed seeing which shapes would roll, and built huge towers!

Frankie Helps To Build A Tower

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VECLife Spring 2013

JWs Topical Trip To The Tiddler And Other News

By Sally Thornley

With Class JWs love for stories this terms theme has been greatly embraced. The whole class have enjoyed classics such as The Three Little Pigs, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, The Three Billy Goats Gruff (seems to be a bit of a 3 thing going on) and The Tiddler. Teacher Jen has taken all of these stories to another brilliant level and made them sensory based. You need to experience this to see just how much the children get from each storyits truly wonderful and extremely funny at times! The students have all enjoyed a trip to Bournemouth library. They decided what type of books they were looking for, chose a few books and then had them read out and signed by talented JW staff. Ama loved showing off the books she had chosen. Well we couldnt believe our luck when we found out that The Tiddler and Other Terrific Tales was on at the theatre in Poole. Ten helpful adults, nine excited children and two school buses later we arrived at The Lighthouse. The show was pretty amazing. Three (yes 3) talented men and there actually are such men, did their own versions of The Smartest Giant in Town, Monkey Puzzle, A Squash and a Squeeze and The Tiddler. There was singing, rhyming, dancing, dressing up and some brilliant props that made our children (and staff) look, laugh, shout, engage and clap. I think George Kettles (and Moiras) smile lasted the entire showwonderful stuff!

CNs Studies
By Carolyn Nelms

One of the books we have studied this term is Carries War by Nina Bawden. We compared the original book with a film version of the story. Then we tried writing a story of our own about children evacuated to the countryside during World War II. We concentrated on describing the experience of being chosen by new foster families. Here is an extract from Connors story about 3 brothers who were sent to Yorkshire: A woman and a man turned up at Morcombe Station and spotted Sam, Alan and Tom. Shall we take these three, they look really cute, said the woman. I dont know, said the man. Weve only just painted the house and mended the windows and boys do damage. We wont ruin the paint, we promise, begged Sam. OK, well take you, but as soon as you ruin things or smash a window, you are out of my house, the man shouted.
Our evacuees waiting for the train. 20

VECLife Spring 2013

EC Visits St Aldhelms
By Esther Curry and Class EC

As part of Creative Arts week and our topic on stories class EC spent a wonderful morning visiting St Aldhelm's Church. Thanks to Vicar Stephen Batty for making us all so welcome. Abbie: That was wonderful, I liked ringing the bell!Jasmine: I loved it when Torin dressed up in the Vicars outfit.Torin: I liked everything, I cant choose a favourite bit We had such an amazing time learning about the church and what can be found inside the building. We were able to ring the bell, explore the font and look in the vestry. We had a great time.

NH
By Nicky Hewitt

This term, Class NH have been exploring Ancient Greece. Like Icarus, we have flown too close to the sun and our wings have melted! We have fought the minotaur and found our way through his labyrinth. Its been a busy few weeks!

Holy Roller: Torin Tries on The Vicars robes

Moors Valley Magic For PT

By Phil Thompson

On Monday 4th February we went off to Moors Valley Country Park as part of our ASDAN Towards Independence unit Out in the Community. Each student researched a different venue we could visit-these ranged from the cinema to museums, and we listed all the details we would have to check before we went. Katies choice won through in the end as she had found out about the Nature Photography Exhibition there. It was one of the brighter days of the winter and we were able to go on the tarmac nature trail as well. We even found a sheltered sunny spot for a picnic lunch!

Youre Gonna Find Me Out In The Country

GNs ASDAN Progress

By Giles Northover and Class GN

In our ASDAN Personal Progress lessons we been learning to make tea, toast and crumpets as a snack which we have some break times. We also went to the museum in Poole to look around in our Community Awareness lesson. I liked it. We have been looking at different things to do in the community. Georgia met some unusual animals during a LEAP session. She liked them very much and would like to help look after them in the future.
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VECLife Spring 2013

MH Round-Up
By Margaret Humphreys

Class MH have had a successful term, developing an adapted curriculum. We are focusing on our Communication, Cognition, Physical skills, and PHSE (Self-Care, Emotional Health etc). We are still working towards lots of different ASDAN Independence modules, too. Jess has enjoyed our new style Cognition lessons and has tried to dive into a bowl of bubbles. We have spent time on the resonance board, making and listening to different sounds. We have also enjoyed lots of cooking activities, including making and selling various treats to sell for the iPad appeal. Thank you everyone who dared to sample them! Vicky has had some fabulous sessions in the environmental control room. Chelsea has worked really hard at using her new adapted cane, and has had some successful walks with it to the supermarket to buy our cooking ingredients. We have also enjoyed lots of singing, including making up new verses for Theres a spider on the floor.

Around The World With BK

By Beth Kay

Weird Science! KS4s Science Report

By Margaret Humphreys

Class BK were set the challenge of writing a short travel story in just 80 words for a national competition. We had some inspiring responses to include a trip to Brazil with Dave, Skiing with Hugo, America with Kayleigh and an interesting tale of Egypt from Jagdev. After a few weeks the students in BK were delighted to hear that their stories had been selected as competition winners. Each of the stories will go into an anthology and will be published in May. A copy of their work will be available in the British Library!

Post 16 worked very hard the first half term at producing natural dyes. We researched which plants and foods we could use, and then spent half a term producing dyes and seeing which ones gave the best colours. We used the dyes on fabrics and paper. Our best dye was yellow turmeric, but onion skins gave a great brown, and blueberries gave a fantastic red-purple. Angus bravely modeled our naturally tie-dyed T-shirt. The only drawback was a number of the dyes were very stinky while we were preparing them. Apologies to the visitors who came round on red cabbage and beetroot day. Hmmm. Im not sure they will come back! This half term we started by planting out seeds to link with the Eco-school project, and improve our local environment. Next term we hope to have a luxuriant garden of exotic vegetables and fruits, including Inca berries, Tomatillos, and Kiwano!
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VECLife Spring 2013

Jammin With JWI

By Janine Williams

As part of Creative Arts Week, Class JWi was lucky enough to have a workshop with singer Rachel Stroud, a young lady from Bourne Academy. Rachel is Charley Bakers cousin, and we had already seen a YouTube video of her singing the challenging Loving You by Minnie Riperton yes, including the very high notes! So we were delighted to be able to work with her for the morning. Rachel started the session with a couple of tunes, accompanying herself on the keyboard. She then chatted with the students, getting to know them all and finding out their musical likes and dislikes. She also answered lots of questions from the class, and we discovered that she started playing the piano at eight years old, and has singing lessons; she enjoys singing live, and is trying to widen her experience by doing different types of gigs, like our workshop. The students then joined in with some different songs, playing percussion instruments and singing the choruses. One of the questions asked was how she put together a song, and how long it took. Rachel explained that she acquires the lyrics and chords

from the Internet, and then works it through on her keyboard. We set her a challenge to put together a song, and she duly spent most of the morning Break surfing the net and practising the chords for two songs Run by Snow Patrol and Stay by Rihanna. Everyone was so impressed when she performed both songs after only twenty minutes practice! Once again, she was keen for us to join in, so the percussion instruments came out again and we sang along more or less! Harry Bassett unpacked his trumpet, and deftly played along, too. It sounded great! Rachel closed the session by promising that she would video herself singing a song of our choosing, and would dedicate it to Class JWi!

A date and time for your diaries.26th April, 9am -10.15.

Parents , grandparents and younger siblings of children in Explorers and JW,

Come and join Gill, Jen and Nicky for chat, coffee, and Sing and Sign.
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Upcoming Events
20th and 27th April - The Lorax Summer production rehearsals. 28th April - The Lorax Summer production performance. 6th May - Mayday Bank Holiday. 10th May - National Senior Boccia Finals 15th May - South West Regional Athletics 24th May - Training Day. 27th May to 31st May - Half Term. 30th May - South West Table Cricket Heats 25th 27th June - DoE Silver Award Expedition 4th - 5th July - National Table Cricket, London 5th July - Reports to parents. 9th 11th July - DoE Bronze Award Expedition 11th July - Parents afternoon and family BBQ. 12th - 14th July - National Junior Athletics 17th July - Sports Day. 22nd July - Leavers Summer Ball. 23rd July - End of Year and School assemblies.

Victoria
Education Centre
12 Lindsay Road Branksome Park Poole Dorset BH136AS

VECLife
Issue 05

Victoria Horticulture
A good selection of shrubs, perennials, Summer bedding, baskets and tubs for sale. Open Monday to Friday 9.00am3.00 pm For All Your Horticultural Needs!
NB. Due to ongoing building works parking will be at a premium. We will be happy to assist customers in carrying purchases to their cars or where possible deliver.

Compiled written and edited by Jon Godber unless otherwise stated. Victoria School, Spring MMXIII

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