Councillor Kerry Bailes Visits Manor Wood School
Manor Wood School was delighted to welcome Councillor Kerry Bailes for a visit and tour of our specialist provision.
During her visit, Councillor Bailes shared her own inspiring journey, having left school without qualifications before going on to build a successful career in public service – demonstrating the opportunities that can come through determination, ambition and the right support.
Councillor Bailes met with Headteacher Caroline Belchem to discuss the school’s vision, future development and commitment to supporting pupils with social, emotional and mental health needs. The visit provided an opportunity to showcase the school’s nurturing environment, therapeutic approach and ambitious plans for the future.
During a tour of the school, Councillor Bailes spent time meeting pupils and staff and commented positively on the welcoming atmosphere. She was particularly impressed by the pupils, who were polite, respectful and engaged throughout the visit.
Councillor Bailes also met with Patrick Holness, Deputy Headteacher, to learn more about Manor Wood School’s curriculum, educational provision and aspirations for its pupils.
Discussions highlighted a shared passion for improving opportunities for children and young people within the local community, with Councillor Bailes expressing a particular interest in supporting initiatives around reading and local history. These could help pupils develop an even stronger connection with their local community and heritage.
As part of this support, Councillor Bailes has kindly offered to donate a selection of books by a local author, reflecting a shared belief in the power of reading and Caroline’s passion for fostering a love of books among pupils.
At Manor Wood School, reading is at the heart of learning. Sharing books and stories can open doors to imagination, communication and knowledge, while supporting pupils’ wider academic and personal development. Developing a lifelong love of reading therefore remains an important priority across the school.
Caroline Belchem, Headteacher, said:
“We were thrilled to welcome Councillor Bailes to Manor Wood School. It was wonderful to share our vision, introduce our pupils and discuss ways we can work together to enrich opportunities for children.
“Her enthusiasm for reading and local history aligns closely with our values, and we are incredibly grateful for her generous offer to donate books from a local author. Reading has the power to transform lives and create opportunities, and we look forward to developing this partnership further.”
The Manor Wood School community would like to thank Councillor Bailes for taking the time to visit and for her support. We look forward to working together on future initiatives that inspire our pupils and strengthen connections within the local community.
