Newsletter 23rd October 2026
23rd October 2026
Dear Parents / Carers
This week I will be introducing you all to our school Safeguarding Team.
We have a dedicated safeguarding team made up of individuals with a range of roles, skills, and strengths, all working together to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in our community. Every member of our team is trained to a high standard, and we are committed to maintaining a safe, supportive environment for all.
Thank you for your continued support and we hope you all have a lovely half term.
Rowan leads the team as our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), overseeing all safeguarding matters with experience and expertise. Sarah and Grace act as Deputy Safeguarding Leads, bringing their own valuable perspectives and knowledge to the role. Supporting the entire team is Gemma, who plays an important part in helping families overcome a range of challenges.
Rowan Allen began her journey in SEN education 13 years ago here at Mill Water, starting out as an apprentice. Since then she has built a strong dedicated career with in the school. Rowan works in close collaboration with the school nurse and other health professionals, playing a key role in managing and supporting complex health needs within the school. In 2019, she joined the Safeguarding Team as a Deputy Safeguarding Officer and has been the Designated Safeguarding Lead for the past three years.
Rowan leads the Mill Water Safeguarding Team and holds overall responsibility for Safeguarding and Child Protection. She serves as the primary point of contact for staff, parents, carers, and pupils on safeguarding matters, offering guidance and support. Rowan and the Mill Water Safeguarding team are committed to providing quality pastoral care and support to every child, promoting their health and development. Rowan is currently engaging in further education and training to develop a specialism in supporting children’s wellbeing.
Julie Cornwell is the Safeguarding Governor at Mill Water. She is a qualified and practicing social worker with over 40 years experience in a variety of social care settings. Julie has specialised in safeguarding throughout her career and currently trains in a multi-disciplinary setting. Additionally, Julie works therapeutically with children who have experienced trauma. Julie is the chair of trustees at Devon Link-Up a user based charity that supports adults with learning disabilities.
In her role as safeguarding governor Julie works closely with Rowan (DSL), meeting with her on a regular basis to ensure Mill Water maintains a culture that is child centred with safeguarding at the core. Julie is always keen to engage with staff and has wider governor responsibility for staff wellbeing. If you see Julie in school please say hello.
Gemma Corry has 10 years’ experience of working in special education. Gemma has become expert in supporting families on their SEN journey. Gemma helps families navigate different SEND systems and processes. Gemma has extensive experience of working with other organisations such as The SEN 0-25 team, The Preparation For Adulthood Team, Careers South West and Citizens Advice Bureau to name a few.
In April 2024, Gemma joined the Safeguarding Team as the Family Support Worker where she is committed to keeping children safe and supporting families through difficult times. Gemma is passionate that families are listen to and achieve positive outcomes.
In addition to her work at Mill Water, Gemma volunteers as an ambassador for DiAS (Devon Information & Advise Service), collaborating closely with local Family Hubs to connect families with valuable advice and community resources.
Attendance
Regular school attendance is important to help children make good progress and achieve their best future. At Mill Water, we encourage all pupils to attend school as regularly as possible, and we understand that sometimes families may need support to make this happen.
The safeguarding team works closely with families and other professionals to support good attendance and help overcome any barriers that may be affecting a child's attendance at school. We want to work together to find solutions and provide support where needed.
If a pupil regularly arrives late or has a number of unauthorised absences, the school has a duty to notify the Local Authority in line with government guidance.
If you or your child are struggling with attendance in any way, please contact your child's class teacher or a member of the safeguarding team.
Good News Stories
Peach Class have been learning about their community and the places they can visit nearby. They have enjoyed visiting Budleigh Beach and Exmouth Play Park, learning and playing together. Also every Monday, they write about their weekend news and enjoy sharing their experiences with the rest of the class.
A pupil in Mint class has been doing some amazing walking using the handrail in the corridor and his walker to transfer between wheelchair and class chair.
School Photos
Please note that school photographs will be taken on Friday, 13th November, covering both the Bicton and Seaton sites.
Class Dojo
All parents and carers have received an email regarding the change to the way we communicate to families, moving from Evidence for Learning and home school books to a new communication platform Class Dojo.
During the next 2 weeks, you will receive an email containing a unique code and step-by-step joining instructions to help you download and access the ClassDojo app. Please keep an eye on your inbox for these details.
If you do not receive the email, or if you experience any difficulties setting up the app, please contact the school office and we will be happy to help.
Halloween Oral Health
Tips for Families from Big Brush Club
- Try to keep sweets to mealtimes where possible rather than grazing on them throughout the day.
- Encourage children to drink water after sugary snacks and treats.
- Remember to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, especially before bedtime.
- Wait at least 30 minutes after eating sweets before brushing teeth.
- Why not organise a "pumpkin snack platter" with healthy options such as orange peppers, carrots, satsumas and cheese?
- Reinforce the "2 minutes, 2 times a day" brushing message by making toothbrushing part of the Halloween routine.
- Let children choose a favourite Halloween-themed timer or song to make brushing fun.
Halloween Brushing Challenge
Why not encourage families to take part in a "No Scary Teeth" challenge over half-term? The goal is simple: brush twice a day, every day, and keep those spooky sugar bugs away!
"A healthy smile is the best Halloween costume of all!"
Please can all parents and guardians complete this electronic survey from Big Brush Club if they haven’t already.
Dates For The Diary
Monday 26th October – Friday 30th October
Half Term Holiday
Friday 13th November
School Photos
Friday 27th November & Monday 30th November
Non-pupil days – Occasional days
Friday 18th December
Last Day of Autumn Term
Monday 4th January
Non-pupil day – Staff training
Tuesday 5th January
Non-pupil day – Staff training
Wednesday 6th January
First Day of Spring Term