Were you disappointed that Glastonbury was cancelled this year? 

Not us! We've got Heatherfest! 

For the third year, Heatherwood School became an inclusive festival arena. Pupils and their families were able to experience live performances by musicians of different genres, join in with dance sessions, get creative in the arts area, or participate in a chilled sensory walk in our Wildlife garden. There really is something for everyone at Heatherfest. 

One of the highlights of the day was the set by The Banned, a rock group for adults with learning disabilities. Our pupils loved the group's enthusiastic performance and song choices. It was inspirational for all to see the achievements that can be made when opportunities to thrive are given.

Thank you to everyone who made the event successful. It truly was a team effort. 

Thank you also to the parents/carers who came to the event and shared the experience with our pupils.

To celebrate the 10 year anniversary of Nexus Multi Academy Trust, pupils at Heatherwood participated in the special themed day "Together In Colour." Jessica Brown said, "The children thoroughly enjoyed exploring the colourful activities, taking in all the sights and sounds, and spending time with other children from different classes in school."

Thank you to everyone who made the event possible. 

On 26th June 2026, we said "goodbye" to our ten fantastic Year 14 students. Their last week saw final memories being made, and the emotional Leavers Assembly brought a tear or two to many eyes. 

It has been wonderful knowing you all and watching your progress at Heatherwood. We wish you all good luck and best wishes for the future. 

As a special treat before they leave Heatherwood our Year 14 students spent a fantastic day on the Ethel barge. 

"The barges have lifts, enabling access to all areas of the boats for wheelchair users, or those with mobility difficulties. There are fully accessible toilets, and a well equipped kitchen on each boat. The Trust’s volunteers have all received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service for ‘Outstanding support for disadvantaged people’." - The Ethel Trust Community Barges Website.

Thank you to the staff who made this trip possible. 

The Heatherwood Dodgeball final was held in May 2026. The final saw Purple Class secure the win (and trophy) against The Arc. Caroline Potter (Purple Class Captain) has provided a match report:

"On behalf of Purple Class, pupils and staff, we would like to say a HUGE thank you for all your support during our legendary dodgeball journey. What started as “a bit of fun” somehow turned into Purple Class entering their sporting era and taking the title like absolute professionals.

The semi-final was intense. Nerves were high. Supporters were shouting. At one point we’re fairly sure at least three staff members forgot they were at work and thought they were at the Olympics.

And then came the final against Arc…
Competitive? Absolutely.
Dramatic? Without a doubt.
Entertaining? 100%.

There were dodges worthy of slow-motion replay, throws powered entirely by adrenaline, and enough cheering to be heard three classrooms away. The atmosphere was brilliant and the children were incredible.

Purple Class would like to thank:

• Their parents and families for raising such determined competitors,
• Their friends for the encouragement,
• Staff for the tactical advice (whether useful or not),
• and the amazing staff at Heatherwood for organising such a fantastic event and supporting the children every step of the way.

We truly could not have done it without you all.

Special mention also goes to the staff who may now need a quiet sit down and a strong cup of tea after becoming far too emotionally invested in a dodgeball competition.

The children had an amazing time, made wonderful memories, and showed fantastic teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship throughout.

Purple Class – Dodgeball Champions 2026.
We’ll try to stay humble… but no promises.

Thank you everyone!

From
The Purple Class Team"

Thirteen of our Post 16 pupils went on a 4 night residential stay to the Lake District at the end of April 2026. The group undertook lots of physical challenges and team-building activities.  Everyone acted with determination, maturity, and they all were a credit to Heatherwood. 

Thank you to the staff who accompanied our students and made the experience possible.