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March 2012

Issue

Education Centre & Sports College Achieving Through Believing

Victoria

Termly Newsletter of news and events for parents, our patrons and supporters.

VEClife
Sparkle Update P9

Inside This Issue

News, News, News! P1 - 6

News In Brief

Staff members Karen Wallace and Natalie Norris are running in the Bournemouth Bay Run half marathon supporting the British Heart Foundation on 1st April. If you would like to sponsor them either speak to Karen or Nat or visit www.justgiving.com/ Karen-Wallace1 Good luck ladies. As part of their O.T. life skills session learning about commerce Students from Class NH have turned their hands to the cake selling business and raised a tidy 13.10 for the Sparkle Appeal in the process, Yummy! The Grand Shaftesbury Run is awaiting the off and will take place on May 27th. Its a half marathon set in stunning Dorset countryside. If interested there are FREE registration places available in return for Sparkle sponsorship. Everyone here at VEC would like to wish all our readership far and wide a very happy Easter.

Residential Round-Up P11 PPG News with Nicky P13 Classroom Catch-up P18

And Much More!!!

Pic: Paula, Andre and Gemma

Reach For The Sky

Would you jump out of a perfectly serviceable aeroplane at 10,000 feet and plummet freefall towards the earth at speeds of 120 miles an hour? No? I dont blame you but that is exactly what three of our intrepid staff members are going to do in aid of our Sparkle appeal. Paula Allcroft, Andre Kirby and Gemma Steele have all got the right stuff and their hearts in the right place to help our continuing fundraising efforts. The Jump itself will take place at Skydive South Coast over Old Sarum airfield on the 1st of July. This is the latest and possibly most daring event in our efforts to raise the 2.8 million target. As we close in on the total staff are finding increasingly creative ways to help out. Collecting money while doing something Ive always wanted to do seems like a good idea says Paula. We are all a little (a lot) nervous but July 1st is still a long way off but Im sure it will come around very quickly. Im hoping to do a wing walk next. Phew! Watch this space..If you are interested in sponsoring any of these brave souls or maybe go along to lend your support, please contact either Paula, Andre or Gemma directly here at VEC. Come on folks lets really get behind them.

Aerial Derring-Do, Marathons, Music Festivals, and Moonwalks. Raising money for the Sparkle Appeal has never been more fun!

Special Edition

Introduction
Hello and welcome to the Spring edition of VEClife and another bumper edition at that, full of all the latest news, views and info on all things VEC. This edition is focussing on some of the more inventive things staff and students are doing and have done in support of our Sparkle appeal. From parachute jumps to moon walks with cake making thrown in the enthusiasm and dedication of all concerned seems to have no bounds. For a full Sparkle report turn to page 9. Also inside this issue is a wealth of our usual features, Residential Round-up, Classroom Catch up and Sports Round-up where you can read all about our students activities and achievements. There are also new features on our Residential Faith Group and Dance and Performing Arts. So, dip in, enjoy, and if you would like to contribute to the Summer edition please contact me, Jon Godber at VEC. Take care out there.

OFSTED Success, Twice!

The Ofsted inspectors have come to VEC recently, twice within a week! The education inspectors were with us on the 18th January closely followed by the care team on the 25th. Thanks to the hard work and dedication by all staff the results were very successful with a Very Good with outstanding features reported in both cases. Vice Principal Simon Brown commented It is a very positive message and everybody, staff, students, parents and governors can be proud of the progress we have all made together to make our school a better place. The students were a credit to the school in everything they did and I am sure you will be as pleased as we are that this report reflects the hard work of everyone in the school community. We are excited by what we will be able to achieve together in the future and we are committed to making sure Victoria Education Centre continues to improve and gives the highest quality teaching and learning and the best preparation for life young people can have.

Former VEC Stars To Represent UK

By Martin Cook

Vicki and Dan to represent the South West

Former VEC students Vicki Bell and Dan Cook have made the squad for the UK School Games. They will represent the South West of England. The event will be held at the Olympic stadium in London on 9th May. They are both competing in the 100m and 200m wheelchair race. Its going to be a busy time for these two young athletes as each race they enter over the next few months will carry the extra burden of trying to attain qualifying times for the main event the Paralympics! The May event involves able body athletes also and the standards will be very high, the stadium will be full so the atmosphere will be amazing. Everyone at VEC sends a hearty GOOD LUCK!
www.2012schoolgames.com

VEC Carollers Raise The Roof

With Belinda Ellicott

Late last year Victoria Education Centre were invited to perform at Livabilitys Christmas Carol Concert in London. This was a huge honour and meant that 15 students and 15 staff travelled up to St Martins In The Fields Church on Tuesday 13th December. We chose to sing and sign the song Corner of The Sky from the musical Pippin as we felt the words were perfect for the occasion. It was very tiring but a real treat to drive through London and see all the Christmas lights.
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VEC Holds First Professionals Open Day

VEC has held its first Professionals open day. It provided an opportunity for Local Authority Placement Officers, Social Workers, Feeder Schools, Therapist, etc. to hear about our work and have a guided tour of our facilities. Tours of the Centre gave us the opportunity to show off our facilities and showcase what was happening during Creative Arts Week which was in full swing. The tours took in the Drama Studio, Environmental Controls Room, Creative Arts in the Chapel, Horticulture, Creative Arts in the Sports Hall, Swimming Pool, Therapies, Music, Art and Technology rooms, Pets@Vec, the MILE room and the new Sandbanks Unit in Residential. Tours were led by Simon, Nicky, Sharon, Rob, Ceri and Sue. 33 visitors attended.

Mr Brown with some of our visitors

Tesco Vouchers Please!

Its that time again!!! We received loads of great stuff as a result of our 2011 Tesco Vouchers for Schools campaign. Video cameras, art materials, software etc which has greatly enhanced our students experience here at VEC. I ask you all again to do another fantastic job of collecting again this year and help us to push the total through the roof. Every little really does help. There is a collection box in the main reception if you are visiting, if not please pop them in the post. Thank you all for last years efforts.

VECSport Gets GOLD

Back in January VEC was honoured to be awarded with the Gold Youth Sports Trust Partner School Award in recognition of our commitment to developing and maintaining excellent outcomes for our students in PE and Sport. In their words: Youth sports trust partner schools demonstrate high quality outcomes in physical education, school sport and whole school achievement via

a quality assured self review. Completion leads to a bronze, silver or gold award. Partner school status gives you priority access to new and exciting research and innovation projects from the Youth Sport Trust, as well as opportunities to contribute to the delivery of our high profile national programmes. Hearty congratulations to Rob, Val and all of the Sports Department staff on such a fine effort.

Summer Ball Set For Return

Following on from the success of last years VEC Summer Ball it has been decided to make it an annual event as an opportunity to wish good luck to our leavers but also a time to celebrate another year at VEC where students, staff and parents are all welcome to put on their glad rags and come together. This years date for your diary is Monday 16th July theme to follow once the Ball Committee have decided. Watch this space! See Right: 2011s Ball was a roaring success.
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Pets @ VEC
By Amy Hunt

This term we have welcomed some new friends to our school 2 rabbits and 2 guinea pigs! Last year Class JC visited pets at home and decided that they would like to have some pets to look after at school. They sent me to speak to Mr Brown and Chris Davies and ask whether we could have a small pets corner here at Victoria school, they said yes and the rest, as they say, is history! We now have our 2 rabbits , which we have called This One and That One, and our 2 guinea pigs, which we have named Sooki and Tooki. They all seem to have settled in very nicely to our pets corner or Pets @ VEC as we like to call it. Our new school pets have had lots of visitors and certainly seem to be enjoying the attention. This One and That One are particularly keen to see visitors especially if a carrot or cabbage leaf is heading their way! Pets @ VEC has also been visited recently by Tree Frog Murals (www.treefrogmurals.co.uk). 2 artists came to brighten up the area and have given it a new lease of life. Gone are the bare brick walls which have been replaced by a very bright

Is this that one? or is that this one? Hmmm

and welcoming area although the rabbits and guinea pigs do now have compulsory sunglasses to wear! Thank you to all of the people who have made Pets @ VEC such a success for the students, Jens and Sean for helping to raise some extra money and Belinda for arranging the beautiful mural. By the time this article has been printed Pets @ VEC will have had its official opening and so next time you pop into VEC dont forget to look to the patch of grass next to the playground and you might just spot one or two of our new friends. (also see Brownsea News on page 11 Ed).

Charlotte Meets Sooki The Official Launch Of Pets@Vec

Is that this one Oh forget it!

Shoebox Appeal News

By Ingrid McCallum

A BIG Huge Thank you, to everybody who supported me in sending shoeboxes of gifts to children in really poor countries. It doesnt need to cost a lot, but everything brought with Love makes all the difference! Every child matters, its good not just to say it, but to do something about it as well. I am happy to say that we beat last years target

by one. We made it 41 and this year they went to Belarus. Just think of 41 happy smiling faces, big eyes wide open not knowing whats coming.it makes me tearful to think about it. A little bit of Love goes a long, long way It would be so nice if more people take part next Christmas, to beat this years target and feel the joy it gives to YOU Thank you very much everybody

The Black Sheep, Bikes and Buns

By Paula Allcroft

This Year The Black Sheep Motorcycle Club are organising a fund raising ride in aid of VEC. If you are interested please join us on the 27th October at Avon Heath Country Park at 12 noon. The ride will leave for VEC at 1pm with participating students on a bus fully escorted presidential style by motorcycles. When we arrive back at the school tea, coffee and cake will be served. We are hoping for a 5 donation for each motorcycle taking part. Students and Children will be asked to vote for the best bike with a prize for the winner. For more information or to register your interest please talk to me, Paula Allcroft.

The Great SLT Sign Quiz

By Kate Newsham

Good Luck Jenny K

Special Edition

Do you know what this spells out?

If you can guess even one sign, you can help raise money for Sparkle. At the end of Spring Term the speech department will be selling a Makaton quiz to raise money for Sparkle and raise awareness of Makaton. This will consist of pictures of staff and students doing signs, which we will ask people to guess the winners will Say Hello, Wave Goodbye get prizes! Here are some pictures to give you an idea of A few leavers and a few starters to report this edition. what to expect. Firstly we say farewell and good luck to Stuart McFarlane from the rehab team, Seb Gulka from Class NH who is moving on into social working and after twenty eight years service we say a fond adieu to the irreplaceable Jenny Kentish (see above). On the Hello front we welcome new class teacher Nicky Hewitt who takes over from Barbara Mersh who has There are a wide range of signs and everyone moved on to supply teaching. We also welcome Trudi should be able to guess some. So take this Ward to her full time role with us and Teresa Whitlock great opportunity to have some fun and see who will be working in Nursery. Hellos also to new what you know you might surprise yourself! residential staff Rutendo Gura, Sarah Hartley, Sacha Norman and Eloise Long.
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Long serving staff member Jenny Kentish is retiring at Easter after 28 years of sterling service. Jenny started at Victoria in 1983 and has worked in virtually every aspect and department going. School Governor and former teacher John Pearce paid tribute saying Jenny was a very conscientious person around the classroom and was always very good with the students. Phil Thompson added Its been great working with and knowing Jenny all these years, Good Luck. Thank you and good luck from us all.

Grill The Governors

By Carol Sammons

Following a meeting with Jens Lammering and Angus Collins it was agreed that it would be a good idea for the Post 16 students to learn more about the Role of the School Governors. The students compiled a list of great questions (some examples below) and in an informal and relaxed atmosphere, Adam Hyland (Governor responsible for Equality and Diversity) and Carol Sammons (Governor responsible for Safeguarding), did their best to answer. At the end of the session the students were asked to identify as many faces of the governors as possible from the current line-up, and

encouraged to welcome any they recognised when visiting the school. Thank you to the staff and students who made this an enjoyable and, hopefully, instructive exercise. Examples of questions:
How did you become a governor? (Lauren) Is it fun to be a governor? (Hugo) Why do you want to be a governor? (David) What other job do you do besides being a governor? (JK) What qualities do you need to be a governor? (Tom) Are you involved in deciding how the budget is spent? (Jude) Do you make the rules? (Nick) What do you achieve being a governor? (Kieran)

VEC Angels in M

nwalk Fundraiser

A group of our ladies are taking part in this years Moonwalk in London on the 12th May. All money raised will be used in the fight against Breast Cancer. Rhiannon, Carolyn, Linsey, Debbie, Ellen and Kelly have all been in training for this the 15th Anniversary event. If you would like to sponsor them see the address below.
http://www.walkthewalkfundraising.org/debs_dolls

Here is an ode composed by the girls.

Were training for the 12th of May Up to London for Marathon Day We start at midnight and walk all night Its dark, were tired but well be alright.

Nearly there only eight weeks! So if you could spare us a pound or two The link below will tell you what to do

Breast Cancer is a worthy cause Thats got us showing off our flaws The mind is willing The feet are keen A marathon wearing only a bra At our age thats quite obscene Ellen is tired, she says its my fault Not mine its Linsey Palmer Malts Kellys not worried shes nothing to fear Shes training with Sergeant Major Beer She said we can do it! Weve done it before Its a very good cause Breast Cancer its for Its only seven years since the last time I know But that feels like a lifetime ago Its Sunday morning Its pouring with rain Oh yes! Were going for a walk again So off we go weve got a schedule to keep

http://www.walkthewalkfundraising.org/debs_dolls

Parent And Carer Coffee Morning

By Clair Dibblin

Thank you to all those who came to the first informal coffee morning held at the beginning of March. It was nice to meet other parents and a great excuse to go out for a coffee! There were parents from both junior and senior school children so we had lots of different experiences and knowledge to share. It seemed that Cafe Rouge worked well as a venue and Monday morning doesnt exclude parents/carers of weekly borders. So we are going to do it again! Please come on MONDAY 23RD APRIL at CAFE ROUGE in Westbourne, anytime between 9.00 and 11.00am. If you cant make it but would like to meet other parents, or have any alternative ideas to get together then please call me on my mobile or leave me a message care of your childs class teacher. (Mob) 07810524315
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Steps is a UK registered charity. Their aim is very 'simple. We want to make every day a play day for children and young people who cannot play independently. Basically, mainstream toys are adapted so that, with a special external switch, individuals can play with the toys by switching them on, by blowing, sucking, bashing, squeezing or pressing the switch..whatever movement remains to the individual. Steps experienced staff try hard to match the individual with an external switch maximising their available movement. They have a library of toys desperate to be out play-

ing with children who can enjoy them. If you can help spread the word about Steps, they would really appreciate it. For more information Call 01803 214124 or logon to www.stepscharity.org

The warm home discount scheme is a four year scheme that runs from April 2011 to March 2015, to help low income\or households with disabled occupants with energy bills. As part of the scheme, participating electricity suppliers have been asked to provide a set amount of financial support to a broad group of their customers. A rebate of 120 in 2011/12 will be issued via the electricity bill of customers who qualify for assistance. Eligible customers will include those on low income with a disability or those with disabled children, but the actual criteria varies depending on the supplier. There is more information on this on the Governments website www.decc.gov.uk, where a list of suppliers and contact numbers to call is provided.

The Warm Home Discount Scheme

Exciting new courses for 2012

Exciting news from the new Borough of Poole skills&learning unit, as well as a range of general interest and leisure courses and free English and maths for those who would like to brush up on skills, they also have some vocational courses that can help you develop skills for work, job hunting or career changing or to allow you to get a qualification in a subject that really interests you. Skills&Learning is the name for the newly merged services of Bournemouth Adult Learning and Poole Adult Learning and they have part-time day, evening and weekend courses at locations across both Bournemouth and Poole. Here are just some of the subject areas on offer: Book-keeping, Photography, Complementary Therapies, English for Speakers of other Languages, Hair & Beauty, Art, Interior Design, Silver Jewellery, Creative

Computing and Information Technology, Management, Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector, Mental Health Awareness, Counselling, Employability Skills and much more. Hot news! If you or a young person in your family needs a quick way to get a GCSE in English or Maths we have fast- track courses starting in January. They are intensive, require a lot of commitment and home study and will mean Saturday course attendance through to June but its the last chance to get those all important Grade C GCSEs in time for next Autumn for FE and HE courses. A new brochure is now available, check the website for full details of all the courses you can start in 2012. www.boroughofpoole.com/skillandlearning Or call 01202 262300
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New Governors link initiative

By Carol Sammons

Recently Adam Hyland (ex-pupil and now Governor responsible for Equality & Diversity) and I were talking about how the Governors could communicate better with each other; with members of staff and with the students, parents and carers. It was decided to launch a series of six meetings once a month until the summer with the aim of breaking down barriers and encouraging interaction. We have already had meetings in January and February held in the Branksome Suite at school in the afternoon of the last Thursday of the month. 3 2

We do not have an Agenda, no minutes are taken and all present are encouraged to bring up ideas of the Link. The atmosphere is informal and relaxed and everyone is welcome to attend all or part of the meeting. Feedback notes are available in the file with the Governors Clerk (Jen Price). Please help us make this venture a success as we all have the same goal which is to make Victoria Education Centre the best place to work in where our students can flourish. 1 4 5

A Whos Who of the VEC Local Governors Board

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1. Peter Jennings Chair of L.G.B., Quality and development (Chair), Staffing and Student support, Operation and Policy 2. Carol Sammons Staffing and Student Support (Chair). 3. Leonard Beighton Operations and Policy, Site & Premises. 4. Roger Parsons Vice Chair of L.G.B., Operations and Policy (Chair) Staffing and Student Support. 5. Chris Davies Staffing and Student Support, Operations and Policy, Quality and Development, Site and Premises. 6. Carole Deas Site and Premises, Staffing and Student Support, Operations and Policy. 7. Ann Ridout Staffing and Student Support, Quality and Development 8. Simon West Site and Premises (Chair), Operations and Policy. 9. John Pearce Site and Premises (V-Chair), Staffing and Student Support, Site and Premises. 10. Kevin Whitlock Quality and Development. 11. Dilys Trickett Quality and Development. 12. Gemma Steele (Non Teaching Rep), Staffing and Student Support. 13. Malcolm Allebon (Co-opted), Quality and Development. 14. Clair Dibblin (Parent Rep) Staffing and Student Support. 15. Carolyn Nelms (Teaching Rep) Staffing and Student Support. 16. Adam Hyland (Co-opted) Staffing and Student Support. 17. Phillippa Young (Parent Rep) Staffing and Student Support.
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150,000 to go!!!

Sparkle Update
Recent events which have helped to swell the funds:
Staff and Students
Grateful thanks go to Moira Marshall who spent many hours last year knitting beautiful scarves and raised 828 for Sparkle. A tremendous knitting marathon Im sure you will agree! Thanks also go to staff and pupils who got up early on a Sunday morning in early February and got wet too! Taking part in this years Poole Lions Swimarathon were: Sparkers Rockets Diana Newbury Hugo Lucas Rowe Gill Tuttiett Marcus Pidgley Lorraine Holmes Evie Boyle Mike Moran Fraser Smith Emma Millett Claire Newbury Marilyn Gould Rachel Potter Tracy Payne (Captain) Carolyn Nelms (Captain). We have just heard that we will be receiving 3,600 when all sponsorship monies are collected. To all avid readers dont forget to donate and buy books from Reception Book Sales this is a great way to buy books cheaply and to support Sparkle too. Thanks to Chris for keeping an eye on the stock and handing over regular amounts of cash. To date in excess of 125 has been raised. Thanks also to Class NH who raised 13 by selling cakes for their lifeskills studies. A huge thank you to Gill who after the very sad and sudden death of Tim thought of the Sparkle Appeal. Friends, family and Tims work colleagues have raised to date 2,200 in memory of Tim.

Special Edition

A big thank you to everyone who has supported the Sparkle Appeal there is less than 150,000 to raise to reach the target of 2.8m for Phase 1 building the new hydrotherapy pool! Preliminary works will start during the Easter holidays with an official breaking ground ceremony planned for 9th July. morale and to Sparkles funds to have the support of these local businesses.

Other fundraising activity

Sparkle Christmas Mailshot this was delivered to over 1,700 local addresses and has raised 4,135 to date and also brought VEC to the attention of local donors. Thank you to all staff who helped to fold the leaflet and stuff envelopes, it was very much appreciated. Grateful thanks are due to Bournemouth North Round Table who recently donated 5,000 to the appeal and to Ferndown Golf Club and Salterns Aliss Merlo who have again supported Sparkle and donated 7,500 from last years proam tournament.

Charitable Trusts now that we are much closer to our target

for Phase 1, charitable trusts and foundations are more likely to support the appeal. Since the beginning of the year, 12,500 of new and previously pledged money has been received. Diana is in contact with many more trusts to gain support for Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the appeal. Coming Soon Sunday 22 April - 2012 Virgin London Marathon
Sparkle has 7 runners taking part in this years marathon Alex Minchin, Mattie Mellor, Amanda Belbin, Chris Miller, Craig Roachford, Max Clarke and Hayley Grigor we wish them all good luck and good running weather.

Saturday 19 May - Bournemouth and Poole College Community Festival, Poole College, North Road
Fun and games for all the family at this regular event including a Car Boot Sale, Raffle, Bouncy Castles and much more. All money raised will support the Sparkle Appeal and some of our students will help open the event more details soon.

Local schools and colleges

Sparkle receives a great deal of support from local schools and colleges and we would especially like to thank Amelia Keith and Katy Middleton of Ringwood School who recently raised 100.(See underlying Pic. Ed) Other schools who are supporting us are Castle Court School, Bournemouth Collegiate School , Park School and Talbot Heath. We are also lead charity for Bournemouth and Poole College this year they are holding a Community Fair on 19th May to support Sparkle more news on this soon. Corporate supporters come in all shapes and sizes from large local employers to smaller companies a few who have supported us in the last 3 months are Borough of Poole, LV=, Barclays, Rokill, Sembcorp, Lewis Investments, Minuteman Press and 4Com. Staff within these companies dream up many ways of raising money from dress-down days to plant sales for Mothers Day. It is a huge boost to

Sunday 27 May - The Grand Shaftesbury Run

If the London Marathon is just a bit too far for you, why not enter this run at Lord Shaftesburys Estate at Wimborne St Giles? Sparkle has 50 free registrations on offer (in return for sponsorship) 25 for the Half Marathon and 25 for the 10K run. Full details at www.grandshaftesburyrun.com or call Diana or Lorraine for free registration code (needed when booking).

Tuesday 9 October - Charity Golf Tournament, Remedy Oak Golf Course

Calling all golfers we still have places available for 4-Ball teams to take part in this wonderful charity tournament at the exclusive Remedy Oak Golf Course. 450 per team to include bacon baps and hot drink on arrival, 18 holes of golf, half-time drinks on 9th tee, celebration dinner and prize-giving, raffle and charity auction. Enter a team and support Sparkles 2nd charity golf tournament the first one was so successful, raising 8,398, and it would be wonderful to do even better this year.

Feature
Wonderful things emerge from the Residential Faith Group, not least evidence of how thoughtful our students are, and how interested they are in other people. Last Autumn Greg and his friends Residential Faith Group in Post 16 developed a theme which emerged in With Hazel Noyon Faith Group. They invited Mary Randall of the Salvation Army to come and talk to them about her involvement with Bournemouth Churchs soup run. Then we began collecting new warm Residential Faith Group is held every Wednesday from 6pm-7pm. Students attending are encouraged to share their socks eagerly reminded by Lucy who kept opinions and experiences on a wide range of topics always e-mailing everyone to remind them! (Thanks to all with lots of singing, signing and laughter. who responded positively). One Sunday in December Greg, accompanied by Jordan and Jade attended a carol service at the Roll up! Roll up! its the Salvation Army in Winton. Greg presented a huge bag of socks to Major Paul Johnson who Great Sparkle Singathon! coordinates the Sally Armies work in Winton. Weve since had a letter of thanks from Mary. The Residential Students Faith Group cheerfully Everyone involved hopefully had a much warmer announce the BIG SPARKLE SING!!! Christmas as a result! Jade, Lucy, Liam and Greg leave us this year and, as weve all enjoyed singing, we wanted to organize an event for the Sparkle appeal which reflects this from Friday June 29th at 4pm to Saturday June 30th at 4pm The aim is to keep live singing going for 24 hours, and we invite you to take part! (For those who remember, its far better than sitting in a bath of cold baked beans at 2 oclock in the morning!!) Get yourself sponsored to sing live for half an hour (or more!) during that 24hour period form a band, form a fun choir of friends/colleagues, sing solo JUST SING!! (Blues, Rock-n-Roll, Classical, Opera, Nursery Rhymes even Christmas Carols!) Bring your own audience, bring a picnic weatherpermitting the event will be held on the grass outside Carmel House. Light refreshments will be served throughout the event. Students from the Residential Faith Group and friends will do the first and last half hour slots, but first come first served for the others! See Hazel to book your slot. Sponsorship forms will be available nearer the time. Liam Mulligan from Post16 MH is the publicity manager here is a message from him You may see the posters I designed around school. Please sign up to take part in our 24 hour Singathon on 29 th June. Bring a picnic and some friends. This could be your demo for Britains got Talent!! Greg with Major Johnson
Special Edition

R.F.G.

Greg Socks it to em

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Residential Round-up
With Sharon Nix

Spring seems to have arrived, with glorious sunshine, longer and lighter days, where we can all get out and about into the community for longer. The young people have been enjoying a range of activities and getting together with friends. All the evening clubs are well attended and Happy Feet which is a new addition to our range (Musical movement, sensory journeys etc) is proving very popular, the teams are booking her for weekends also. The long awaited Tuck Shop is about to be launched, so watch this space! Life and money skills play a large part in the lives of the youngsters at VEC and this is constantly being taught and practised on the Residential units. With two Outstanding Inspections behind us, we are preparing for the next one, which we expect

sometime before the summer. As we have two a year, they are never very far away. This involves showing the inspectors what we do well, and not so well, introducing the students to them, so the students can tell them, the things they like and the things they dont. This is a very valuable process for us, in order to continually improve and provide the very best we can for your young people. Please do not hesitate to contact myself or one of the Residential Managers if you have any comments, concerns, compliments or complaints. This helps us in the planning, changing, implementing and evaluating what we do. May I take this opportunity to wish you and your young people a very happy holiday. around the corridors as the sharks presence was felt but fortunately the shark ran out of air and is now currently harmless.

Brownsea Unit News

By Johan Vierbergen

Staff happenings This year Brownsea Unit has acquired two new staff members for the loss of two others and another member of staff has been promoted! We want to say a warm welcome to Nicole Element and Sarah Hartley for joining the team. Congratulations to Laura Hood who has acquired the position of senior and is now covered in paperwork! All the best to her! The members that left were Charlotte Jordan and Kelly Ray, even though Kelly is still here so often you wouldnt even know she is a Bank member of staff. Get her while she is available! We also had a brief visit from Andy Joyce who led some shifts for a couple of months and it was great to have some more testosterone on the unit for all the boys. Shark attack! One of our students, Tom, turned 18 in November and he got an unusual surprise a shark! It brought a lot of distress to some of the female staff members as it roamed the air of Brownsea Unit. Screams could be heard

Controversial Rabbits enjoyed over weekends Their names cause much debate on whether it is politically correct to refer to rabbits as This One and That One but besides all this fuss it doesnt change the fact that they are soft and cuddly. Students from Residential flock down over the weekends to enjoy some cuddles from the furry ones. Even Georgia faces her fears and cant resist the softness. Continued overleaf
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Operation and Recovery Greg had an operation on his knee over the Christmas holidays and spent a lot of time in pain over that period. He has recovered very well from it and no longer has a leg sticking out like a battering ram. It can still cause him some discomfort at times but the most amazing thing of all this is how he handled it! Even though he had a messed up Christmas and staff being a bit rough at times, he still gets through it with a smile on his face! Well done to him and we wish him the best for the future.

Purbeck Prospers
By Nikolett Zambo

Music Stand Off Ever walked around school in the afternoon and heard a boom boom and feel vibrations shudder through your body as you pass physio? Well it is not Andre and Stuart having a dance off but actually all the action is happening up in residential! Ramon from Purbeck and Tom from Brownsea have the occasional standoff with their speakers to hear who can go the loudest. This leads to Andre and Stuart starting a dance off and the nurses have a water fight with syringes. Windows havent shattered yet but Tom has damaged his speakers in the process and is on the lookout for a new sound system. Ear protectors might need to be provided for health and safety reasons.

Another good term for Purbeck Unit members. We have gained a new member of staff Sacha Norman, who is enjoying her time with us and has fit in well. April will be a busy month for all of us as we have the birthdays of Joe, Hafiz and Max coming up. Hafiz and Joe have decided to go for a meal at Pizza Hut and Max will have a sensory swim. We are also looking forward to our upcoming trip to see Example at the BIC at the end of the month which we are hoping will be a success!

Congrats to Vicki
Unfortunately overseen in the December edition of VEClife, last September our own Vicki Ford became Vicki Goldsmith when she got married. Congratulations Vicki! Vicki is now managing the short break service, if you have any queries etc about this service or you wish to book or change a short break, please contact Vicki on extension 267

Activities Pin Board...

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PPG

News letter
With Nicky Greenway

Hi everybody just a few updates for you! The Dorset Parent Carer Council was set up as part of Aiming High for Disabled Children. One of the goals of this initiative was to empower parents and give them more say in types of activities, transition and other important aspects of our childrens lives. The Council has become very large and influential and holds events where parents can learn about a wide range of provision, i.e. Early Years, Educational Psychologists, holidays and activities. The DPCC is also helping Bournemouth set up a similar group, details below:

EVENTS BOOKED AT VEC FOR SUMMER TERM

There will be flyers sent out: Benefits workshop Tuesday 17th April. 9.30 a.m. Noon. Nikki Haswell from Disability Wessex will be coming to talk about all the benefits and triggers for benefits that families of disabled children can access. Mythbusting Direct Payments- Friday 15th June 9.30 a.m. Noon. We have the team managers from Dorset, Bournemouth & Poole coming to talk about Direct Payments. This is a REALLY important event as parents of disabled children will be assessed soon for Individual Budgets (2014) in line with the Green Paper on Special Educational Needs Reform and authorities are very keen to keep parents aware and informed. Please continue to write in, contribute or attend our PPG meetings. Our next meeting will be on WEDNESDAY 16th MAY at 1.30 p.m. We shall be having members of the Therapy team attending to talk about any of your queries.

An Invitation
We are a group of parents who have children with various disabilities. We came together so that we may provide a united voice that local services are encouraged to listen to when making decisions regarding our childrens education, learning and future needs. We were formed in January 2010. We encourage any parent to engage with the forum with a child of any disability. These may range from complex medical needs to challenging behavioural, learning or physical difficulties. Our steering group meets 6 times a year and consist of Parents, Professionals and Councillors. Together, we are a strong voice that is working towards improving the lives of families; children and young people. We achieve this by putting forward your concerns and issues to relevant key policy makers and service providers.
See Back Page For Further PPG related News...

We would very much welcome your presence at our forthcoming events in March and May 2012 Meet and Greet the Team ~ come and meet the team that is running the Bournemouth Parent/ Carer Forum. Venue ~ the Bournemouth Learning Centre, Slades Farm, Bournemouth Date ~ Tuesday 27th March 2012, Time: 12.00 14.00. Light buffet and refreshment provided. So just pop in and meet us Information Day ~ An event for professionals, parents and carers to learn more about parent participation and how we can all work together for children with disabilities . Training is provided by Amaze, Brighton. There will also be information stands from various organisations Venue ~ The Grove Hotel, 2, the Grove, West Cliff Road, Bournemouth Date ~ Friday 11th May 2012, Time ~ 10.00 - 14.30, Buffet and refreshment provided. If you are interested in attending one or both of the events please could you email bpc.forum@yahoo.co.uk, or our website: www.parentcarerforum.co.uk so we can put you on our events list and we will contact you with further information. Thank you. 13

GOLDEN GOGGLES On Wednesday 29th February it was our lower school swimming gala, called the Golden Goggles Competition. We have a different theme every year, and this year it was London to celebrate the Olympics and the Queens Diamond Jubilee. We have different races and this year there was the London Eye where the chilWith Katherine Birtwell dren carried a picture of themselves across the pool and passed them to one REGIONAL BOCCIA of the parents to put on a On Saturday 4th February specially built London Eye, we took two mini buses of and The King and Queen students to Exeter to play race where the students carin the Regional Boccia Competition. The weather ried a crown to a parent sat forecast was not good, so on a throne and crowned we set off with some trepithem before swimming back dation and even drove across the pool. They also through a mini snow had some races where they storm, but we arrived in swam aided and unaided one piece and ready to play. Some of the students were classified on arrival, as they across the pool. All the students had not played in competition before, and then it was straight really enjoyed themselves and were into the games. There were a cheering for their class. There were a number of GB team players lot of students that showed determiplaying and all of the students raised nation to get across to the other side their game against them. Even though the heating in the hall even though they were finding it hard. had broken this did not deter the players and everyone involved performed well. Four of our students have qualified for the National Boccia Championships in Sheffield which take place in May.

The

Report

Olympic and Para-Olympic Coin Challenge

The Boccia 50p

As part of the build up to the games to be held in London this summer, we are challenging our students to find and bring into school the specially commissioned 50p coins to commemorate the 2012 games. The Regal mint has produced 29 different 50p pieces to celebrate 29 different Olympic and Paralympics sport. With the help of family and friends, we have asked the students to bring these Special Edition Coins into school where they will be collected in the classroom. Once a week these will be collected by Post 16 students as part of their Duke of Edinburgh 'Service' Award. They will then be sorted into the 29 representative sports in a special commissioned Perspex display unit and displayed in the reception area in main school. We want to see how many of each sport we can collect. The proceeds of this challenge will be put into paying for off-site trips, for ALL students, during National Sports Week, week commencing 25th June 2012. We hope to start to raise the profile across the school for the Olympics and Paralympics games, whilst promoting interest and discussions on individual sports. Additionally we hope to have some fun at the same time as raising funds for some exciting activities later in the year.

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Drama and Creative Arts at VEC

By Matt Saunders

Curtain Call

Sunday 24th June at 2pm and 7pm

Dont Miss Charlie!

This years school production is Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and rehearsals are well under way. We have been busy learning our Austin Power like moves with the Oompa Loompas. Learning our lines with Wonka, Charlie, Augustus, Violet, Veruca, and Mike Teavee (aka Hugo, Connor, Evie, Lauren and Harry). We have also started constructing a huge Gum Machine that will produce Chewing Gum meals. Just dont try it yet, you dont want to end up like a blueberry! Oh and I must not forget we have made a giant Pear Drop tree for the chocolate room. It is also worth mentioning that some of the staff will be making an appearance on stage this year. Who? I hear you ask... Well Tom Jackson, Tracy Payne, Catherine Van Spall, Eileen Rideout, Paula Allcroft, Annie Caldwell and Belinda Ellicott. I cant tell you what they are going to be doing because that would ruin the surprise, let me just say that it is not to be missed. Mainly because our very own David Young will be choreographing this part of the show, so you can bet your life that its going to be fun! There are many more surprises to come in this show so I wont spoil it for you. Instead you

should come and watch it to find out. This years show will once again be performed at the De Le Salle Theatre at St Peters School in Southbourne. Tickets will go on sale after Easter. They will also include a tasty chocolate treat. Prices are Adults 4 and Concessions 3. However if you buy three tickets the code below will give you an extra one free! Just quote the code when you order your tickets.(Concessions include Children over the age of 3 years, OAPs and disabled. Wheelchair spaces are limited so these need to be booked in advance.)

Code No CCF12
their lives on camera and over 80,000 videos were uploaded to YouTube. Marcus and Kieran have decided to produce their own version VEC IN A DAY. They are encouraging students and staff from across the centre to take part. Unlike the original our filming will take place during two weeks. Those that have signed up will be given cameras to film some moments from their lives. As part of their project Marcus and Kieran will be teaching people how the cameras work and they will be teaching a couple of students how to edit film. I hope you will agree that this is an exciting project. This will be a brilliant and unique way to see the lives of the students and staff in our school community. The film will be shown late in the summer term as part of a whole showcase of Arts Award work.
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This year Marcus Pidgley and Kieran Collins are running a very unique project for their Silver Arts Award. It started when we watched a film on YouTube called Life in a Day. This is a film entirely made by thousands of people (80,000 in fact) from around the world. They submitted footage of one day of their lives. It is an amazing and inspiring film and I would urge anybody to watch it. This is the official synopsis of the film. Life in a Day is a historic global event to create the first user generated feature film documenting a single day on Earth. Its a unique time capsule that will tell future generations what it was like to be alive on the 24th of July 2010. On that day, people around the world captured a moment of

A Visit To The Globe

As part of Creative Arts Week we took the cast of Romeo and Juliet to Shakespeares Globe Theatre in London. It was a fantastic day for all. The students got to perform a small section of their version of Romeo and Juliet actually on the stage of the Globe. This was a real delight for them, especially when the other groups touring the globe gave them a huge round of applause. After our tour of the theatre we then enjoyed an hours workshop with Jack our tour guide/ practitioner. He had the whole group listening to his every word as he told us that the area where the audience stood were called Penny Stinkers! A school trip to London is no mean feat! So I would like to thank the staff The VEC Players Take Centre Stage At The Home Of Drama for their support and to the students for behaving so well on such a long journey!

Music Project Nears Fruition

By Marianne Harding

Welldespite breaking my leg in four places and ending up in hospital having it plated, pinned and screwed back together, the project has survived, continued and thrived thanks to Catrin Waugh-Baker jumping in at the deep end and taking over from me in school while I email, text and call her from under my duvet with my leg up in the air! Mark and Catrin have been leading amazing rehearsals with nine students who have learned to play violins, cello, double bass from scratch with the support of our fantastic assistants and two have been practising to learn trumpet and cornet parts. Mike Whitlock, Julian and Alastair learned all about our new Desktop Soundbeam and its potential for our students, on a dedicated training day with Doug Bott from Drake Music, and explored lots of exciting possibilities with new software. They are now using this Music Technology to assist three students to take part, playing electronic music, in the performances on Friday. As this goes to press, we are looking forward to a 45 minute concert in the morning in the Sports Hall for all parents and staff at 10.45 with 18 musicians from the Orchestra

Baroque and Roll

By Mike Whitlock

of the Age of Enlightenment playing Baroque Music with 14 of our students and audience participation from all of our students. The afternoon concert starts at 2.15 at Pavillion Dance for year 3 children from Canford Heath First School and Lilliput First School. This is the first time that so many Special Needs students have played with such a large orchestra in a Special School. It will be a groundbreaking achievement which everyone involved should be very proud of! another section the Assistive Technology Section this section will have Abbey Graham, Abi Punchard, and Dave Young performing alongside the O.A.E. with such tech as Soundbeam, switches, I-Pads, and laptops, while students such as Hafiz and Kieran Collins will be playing real violins and cellos. The new technology will be staying in the school and will be playing a large part in future music and music tech lessons.
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With the baroque music project performance getting nearer rehearsals are going well. The students are very excited about performing in front of everyone here and at the pavilion, the students will be performing with the Orchestra of Age and Enlightenment. As you know all orchestras have different sections such as woodwind, brass, and percussion, but in this performance we have

Feature

Body Language
Performance and Dance at VEC. With Belinda Ellicott

19th 23rd March The Cultural Olympics! This years Creative Arts Week has links to the past and the future. We have workshops in the ancient art of mosaic making and a trip to the Globe theatre to remind us of the past alongside mural painting in our new Pets Corner as part of the official opening of Pets@VEC, an exciting new project at VEC. There are workshops in shiatsu massage, puppetry and magic whilst Arts Award students are working alongside artists to learn new skills such as stage make up. Students will also be designing and making class mascots to tie in with the Olympic and Paralympic games and in readiness for National Sports Week and will be dressing up in the country of their class to raise money for Sports Relief and to take part in the mascot parade on Friday 23rd March.

Dont Miss Oily Cart!

Some Highlights from C.A.W. 2011

Its Behind You!

In December 2011, Treehouse Theatre brought their interactive pantomime to Victoria Education Centre with opportunities for students to take part in the telling of the story of Cinderella. There was singing, signing and lots of very interesting characters and we all had a lovely time joining in oh yes we did!

We are very fortunate to be visited by Oily Cart from 16th 20th April 2012 with their amazing and ground-breaking show Something in the Air. This is a huge undertaking and involves delivery of a huge specially-designed rig that will be erected in the Sports Hall. There will be acrobats, performers, a sensory room and specially designed chairs and wheelchair platforms that allow for 6 students each supported by a member of staff to go up into the air to be amongst the performers. Each chair has an operator who will work to each individual students wishes ensuring that no student goes higher than they wish. This project is being funded by The John Thaw Foundation, Happy Days Charity and a private sponsor Miss Janet Hall. For further information about the show please see Oily Carts website www.oilycart.org.uk.

Miss Pumpkin

ReBourne workshop at Poole High

In December the Silver Arts Award students visited Poole High School to attend a workshop with ReBourne, the education unit from Matthew Bournes dance company New Adventures. The students worked with GCSE and A level dance students and learnt a piece of repertory from the Medical Dance in Bournes version of the Nutcracker. The workshop leader was actually the dancer who performs the role of the Nutcracker in
Rebourne Strut their Stuff

the companys dvd of the production so it was a real privilege to learn the movements from him. The workshop highlighted the importance of commitment and focus to performance which will prove very useful in the current project that the Arts Award students are working on.
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All the info From Explorers to Post 16!

A Brush with The Law With Explorers and JW
By Gill Tuttiett and Sally Thornley

Explorers had a fun time when they went on a visit to Christchurch Police station. The Police showed us all round the station. We enjoyed switching the siren on in the Police car, trying on the hand cuffs and locking Gary in the back of the police van. Here we are in the police cells, tried to leave Gary behind! We say a big thank you to them and hope to visit again. On Thursday 8th March Class JW went on a short visit to Ringwood Police Station (a big thank you to Sharon Pritchetts sister for making this happen!). It was a chilly morning and we were met by some lovely friendly officers who invited us in to their nice and cosy waiting room. We were introduced to their companion and work colleague Buddy a very lively, handsome and friendly springer spaniel. He seemed to like all the students might have been something to do with the fact that they were handing out doggy treats like they were going out of fashion! After trying on some rather large yet stylish police hats the atmosphere changed There had been a robbery in the area and one of the officers decided that after hed seen our lot that the children were all suspects in the case. Their finger prints were taken however Josh initially refusedand this was not looking good! They also seemed very intent on getting the finger prints of the robbers accomplice and insisted that Lorraine Dennett, Louise Card and Jen Williams have their finger prints taken too. I think they must have gone on looks and first impressions! We were then all lined up outside next to the riot van not knowing if someone was going to be handcuffed

there and then and bundled into the van. Luckily Gary was there and loaded us all onto the minibus as quickly as he could (and thats quick!) so we were able to make a speedy getaway back to school. Funnily enough they did find one of the culprits among our group. She cracked under the pressure and confessed in broad day light

Guilty your honour! 18

CNs Fascinating Day at INTEC

By Connor and Jacob

Intec is a hands on science centre with loads of different activities we could have a go on. Things like building a bridge over a road with blocks so the cars could move over the bridge safely or as you can see using a crane to move blocks and build a wall. On the crane Tom and I failed because we couldnt keep the bricks on so we cheated . Then we had lunch yum! Then we went up stairs, where there were more things to try. Like the stars and other planets near us. I had to work very hard to get all the information about the planets but it was good fun. One of the activities we had to turn a handle to make the water move in a circle inside a tube, the faster we turned it the faster the water would go, in the end the water looked like a whirl pool . It was a great day and we had a great time. We hope to go back soon.

Class MC - Science of Sound

By Maria Caluori

For our Science work this term, we have been listening to lots of different sounds. Last week we recorded ourselves making lots of different sounds around class and school. We took pictures, and then tried to match the pictures to the sounds.

MH Go Green and Musical!

By Margaret Hopwood

In the Autumn term we visited Horticulture and planted bulbs. They have been quietly growing in the dark. This term we have put them in big plant pots outside our classroom window. Now we can see the daffodils and hyacinth flowers from in class. We are also growing some herbs and vegetables. You may get a chance to buy some from us later in the year. So far our parsley, sweet peas and tomatoes are starting to grow. Liam and Jamie have enjoyed Cooking around the world in Fridays LEAP session. They have made pasta from scratch lovely tactile dough, an amazing vegetable curry, fried rice and Greek salad. Jade celebrated her 19th birthday this term, and had a weekend of fun in her residential unit, with a big party, and then another celebration in class.

Its always fun opening presents!

You cant have too much birthday cake! Rhys has been wowing us with his musical skills this term. He has always been great with the sound beam, but he has added to his repertoire with deft finger picking of a banjo, and playing the squeaky giraffe. The members of the Baroque Orchestra who visited were most impressed.
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JWI Visit Puppet Exhibition

By Janine Williams

As part of their Bronze Arts Award, Class JWi have been designing and creating puppets for the story of Jack and the Beanstalk. They have also explored the concept of being a puppet themselves, and the restrictions imposed on their movement as a result. On the afternoon of Tuesday 13 March, Annie took them to The Lighthouse to see a puppet exhibition. There were puppets of all shapes and sizes, some string and some glove. The students were able to handle some of them, which they loved doing.

Music and the Arts With PT

By Phil Thompson

Class P16PT have really enjoyed participating in the music project this term and Sean Trim has been part of the group practicing for the performance at the end of term. During Creative Arts week the whole group took turns in going down to the Josephine Wall gallery at Penn Hill and were intrigued by the detail in the artwork. It was really good to be welcomed by Josephine and have the story behind some of the pictures explained.
Josephine explains.

All at Sea With ACO

By The ACO Students

In January, Jordan, Kieran, Tom and JK from class P16ACo organised a trip to Bournemouth Oceanarium. They had to book buses, arrange staffing, trips out folders, ID badges, money and lunch. Before they went they had to check whether the Oceanarium was wheelchair accessible. They saw a variety of fish. I liked the sharks best, said Jordan. JK, Kieran and Tom all liked the otters. They all enjoyed the trip but felt that it was very expensive for what it was. It didnt take long to get around the whole place said JK. They all agreed that the long-necked turtle looked like Angus.

Spot The Difference? Cant see it myself!

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Worm Charming With NH

By Nicky Hewitt

Class NH have been studying Mini Beasts this term. As part of this project, we had a go at Worm Charming. This involved stamping our feet on the ground and banging it with sticks. We managed to charm 12 worms!!

My Trip To Castlepoint
By Evie Boyle

Last year Marilyn and I went to Castlepoint for a day of shopping for my independent travel training lesson. I chose to go to Castlepoint because it was in easy reach from school and the shops are close together. I went to buy Christmas presents for my family while I was out shopping. I travelled to Castlepoint by bus and with my own money which made me more independent. I left school at half past 9 to walk to the bus stop. We got back at half past two to get back to school in time for the bus home. I really enjoyed the trip out to Castlepoint because it was my first independent shopping trip and it allowed me to pick my own items. I was glad that Marilyn went with me because she was able to support me when I needed her, for example while we were on the bus we saw a weird man. This photograph shows me at the bus stop.

The Residential Ornithologist

By Hazel Noyon

As if having a new bedroom on the new residential unit wasnt enough Rachel has an amazing view of the trees and their inhabitants! Two bird feeders have been put into place one on the window and one on the thin branches so that squirrels cant help themselves. Within three days two tiny Coal Tits had discovered the feeder and had come for lunch. Rachel has a chart to help her identify which birds come to the feeders. Hopefully over the coming months shell be able to watch often and see the birds enjoying the seed.

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The Mascots Parade

By Matt Saunders

Our creative Arts Week Finale this year was a Mascot Parade and competition in readiness for National Sports Week. Each class picked out a country and were asked to make a mascot for the parade. It was a very exciting event and everybody had worked hard on their mascots. Afterwards judges awarded points to each team to start them off before National Sports Week. In first place however is Team USA/Class FS! Check out some of the photos from this brilliant afternoon.

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An Open Letter To Staff

By Julie Willers

Back in 2002, when Social Services completed a care assessment at our household, the last thing I expected them to say at the end of it was We can no longer assist you in keeping Lucy at home. Then began the arduous journey of looking at schools and accepting that Lucy was going away from us after 11 years of providing her full-time care. After searching and visiting schools further and further away from home I was reluctant to visit Victoria Education Centre as 144 miles away seemed too far. It was the fifth school we visited and I remember it so clearly. At the end of the visit we were shown in to the Head, Chriss office and I burst into tears. Everyone there misunderstood why I was crying because I knew I had found the right place for my Lucy and that she really was going to be going away from me. It felt so right though with its variety of abilities, numerous role models for Lucy and the obvious energy and friendliness of staff. I was allowed time to talk to other students alone, without the staff listening in and it was refreshing to get their honest feedback on the school. Settling in was hard for Lucy and myself but the staff were fantastic and offered me support over the phone as well as supporting Lucy throughout. I feel I have always, without fail, been told the truth by VEC; the care and provision has been transparent and honest. We have seen teachers and care staff come and go in the past 9 years but there are still faces there we remember from the first days when Lucy and I were so scared about all the big changes. Thank you to Jayne Barr and Vicky Ford especially for making those early days easier and more tolerable and for listening to my hope, wishes, fears and tears over the years and for being the mum away from home providing cuddles and affection in the absence of her family. Lucy has thrived at VEC and has achieved so much, far exceeding my expectations. I was always told Lucy wouldnt be able to manage a powered wheelchair but here she is whizzing around independently in the thing. When she went away to school I used to be so worried that the unspoken communication between us would be lost; the way I just knew what she wanted and what she was trying to say. But that wasnt lost, more to the point she has learnt extra ways of

communicating now with her book and Dynavox. To the numerous keyworkers and care staff over the years Pauline, Vicky, Jayne, Michelle, Julie, Lenka and Claire to name but a few I owe a huge thank you for looking out for and caring for my daughter, for listening to me and supporting my phone calls to Lucy, for soothing her tears and tolerating her tantrums. You have all done so well and so much in helping this young girl grow and mature into a lovely young woman. To Claire Hunter especially Lucy loves you so and will miss you terribly but a big thank you for making this past year easier and preparing Lucy for the transition coming up. To the therapists, Nurses, Physios, OTs, S&L, wheelchair engineers and so on - my thanks also for striving to find ways and means to accommodate Lucys needs and wishes. You have all enabled Lucy to reach her potential and make her way in the world as independently and comfortably as possible. To the school staff, teachers and assistants many thanks for your patience. I know she can be very trying and her frustrations difficult to handle but she has achieved so much more in her school life than I had expected. She receives encouragement and praise all the time, understanding and stimulation. To the management greatly appreciated as you have been approachable and pro-active, have included me in all decisions as well as ensuring a great environment for my daughter to be in. Finally, a thank you to Chris on reception for the never endingly chirpy response at the other end of the phone, for always doing what you say you will in passing on messages etc. There have been much tears, laughter, happiness and sadness over these past years but the memories that Lucy and I will take away will be cherished for a long time to come. THANK YOU VICTORIA EDCATION CENTRE FOR BEING LUCYS HOME AND FAMILY AWAY FROM HOME AND FAMILY. YOU WILL BE A HARD ACT TO FOLLOW AND WE WILL SORELY MISS YOU.

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Classified Ads
FOR SALE
Theraplay Terriertrike Free to a good home As seen. Works ok but a bit rusty and well used. Spares can still be obtained from theraplay.

Victoria Education Centre

& Sports College
12 Lindsay Road Branksome Park Poole Dorset BH136AS Tel: 01202 763697

Mission Cycles Tricycle tag along

Supported seating, in very good condition. 175 ono

1000 Unused ball pool balls

Surplus to requirements. 50 For any of the above ads please call Chris McLean on 01202 766411

Victoria Horticulture
Open Monday to Friday 9.00am3.00 pm For All Your Horticultural Needs!

By late Spring there will be a good range of colourful bedding & basket plants as well as shrubs & perennials.
Please, please use us rather than the big garden centres as our prices are as good & often better. Orders are now being taken for hanging baskets & containers which can be supplied or bring your own for planting. VECLife
Issue 02

Our helpful staff are really looking forward to seeing you!

PPG Info Extra..

Reading This event has stalls offering equipment, resources, clothes, providers, holidays and much more. If you are interested in attending this event then please contact Nicky Greenway (ngreenway@victoria.poole.sch.uk). A minibus trip will run during school hours.

Are you aware of this interactive news and information network for children who are disabled and their families living in Bournemouth, Poole and Dorset? If not then visit: www.xchangeonline.co.uk

FOR HIRE
Rockley Park Chalet
Sleeps 6 Bedroom 1 - double bed Bedroom 2 single bed and a profiling bed.Bathroom with portable hoist and shower cubicle (accessible for shower chair) Kitchen area with oven hob fridge microwave etc Lounge double bed settee Patio doors to small balcony with un interrupted views over Lytchett Bay Parking next to Chalet Free entrance & Level access to all amenities of Rockley Park See website for full amenities and shows at Rockley at www.haven.com/parks/dorset/rockley-park/ Competitive prices dependent on week also available for short breaks.

Also
Our solid block built Double Beach hut is available to hire all year (Some good days out of season and what better than a late bacon breakfast and fresh sea air or perhaps a good brisk walk followed by a hot chocolate) Situated on the promenade at Sandbanks (ramp for access) Facilities include hob and utensils chairs table - umbrella Water tap in hut. Some sand toys Privacy area. Available by day (or just the evening (subject to bookings) 15 per day - 7.50 per evening

Contact Reception 01202 763697

Compiled and edited by Jon Godber. Victoria School MMXII

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