It is an absolute pleasure to be headteacher of Wetheringsett Manor School and to be a part of so many success stories for our students. I initially came to Wetheringsett in June 2021 and quickly realised the potential of the site and school.

Since starting my role, I have been able to oversee the planning and construction of the Gym, Horticulture, Catering, Music studio and Science classrooms. We have also been able to improve the provision to incorporate Therapeutic outcomes for our pupils addressing Speech and Language, Occupational Therapy and Psychotherapy.

I have been working in special education for over 20 years, which I believe has given me a great insight into what can be achieved through determination and sheer willingness to succeed.

I firmly believe in establishing a school ethos where all barriers to success are challenged and pupils and staff work together to achieve. Some days can be challenging but, from experience these are usually the days that provide the greatest progressions.

I feel very proud to be the headteacher of a staff team that are always putting our students first and helping them to be successful learners both socially and academically.

My own background for teaching is in Maths and P.E, and I am also a qualified SENCo which enables me to have further impact when planning a successful school. Some of my favourite days are still when I manage to get the opportunity to get back in the classroom.

Outside of being a headteacher, I am a keen sportsman and still enjoy playing football, golf and most other sports. My footballing love is Liverpool FC and I also have a soft spot for Ipswich Town whom I used to work for as a football coach. This has always given pupils the chance to have a some fun at my expense, depending on results!

With over 18 years of teaching experience across a range of roles, I have developed a broad and versatile skill set in education. My career has encompassed teaching Physical Education, Careers, Vocational subjects, and coordinating Work Experience opportunities, giving me a strong foundation in both academic and practical learning pathways.

I am passionate about creating inclusive learning environments where all pupils are supported to achieve their potential. I am currently focused on embedding a new intervention and inclusion provision, designed to help pupils re-engage with their learning and develop essential skills for future success. Alongside this, I place great importance on providing students with meaningful work-based placements, ensuring they leave school with the confidence, knowledge, and experience to thrive in further education, training, or employment.

Outside of work, I still enjoy playing football and golf and am a keen supporter of Liverpool FC.

I’ve been SENCO at Wetheringsett Manor since June 2022 after previously working at one of the OFG sister schools for over 25 years. I have taught a wide range of subjects and worked with pupils from KS2 up to KS5. Over my time here I have helped with the growth of the school, which has expanded dramatically over the last couple of years to include lots of vocational subjects as well as the more traditional classroom-based ones.

My role helps ensure that this excellent academic and vocational curriculum is delivered within a therapeutic and nurturing environment. We build excellent relationships with pupils, families and other professionals working together to get the best for everyone. I am proud to be part of this school team.

I’m a big Ipswich Town fan and attend most home games, I also like listening to live music and enjoy going to concerts. It doesn’t matter to me what decade the music is from but listening to a band live is something difficult to beat.

I fully believe that our pupils have an excellent opportunity to do well here, and with a dedicated staff team who are passionate and determined to make a difference and gain the best possible outcomes for each of them. The best part of my role is seeing the success of pupils who have had previously negative experiences of school. Watching them flourish here within our school and helping them prove to everyone that they can achieve whatever they want if motivated properly.

My name is Perry Smith, and I am the Assistant Head of Behaviour and Welfare at Wetheringsett Manor. I have been part of the Wetheringsett community for the past four years, during which I have undertaken a variety of roles, including Pastoral Manager, before progressing to my current position.

I have over 16 years of experience in special education, having worked across a broad range of roles including Teaching Assistant, Care Worker, and Head of Care. This extensive background has provided me with a strong understanding of the diverse needs of young people and a deep commitment to supporting their welfare, personal growth, and educational journey.

Beyond my professional role, I am a qualified FA Level 2 football coach and an avid supporter of Leeds United. I enjoy coaching in my spare time, where I aim to help young people build confidence, develop their skills, and foster teamwork.

I have been a part of Wetheringsett Manor School since September 2022. Throughout my career, I have worked in several schools and health settings, gaining experience in supporting neurodivergent individuals, individuals with learning disabilities and needs, and those who have experienced trauma.

Since April 2024, I have been leading the in-house clinical team, which includes Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Psychotherapy, and Therapy Assistants. Our school clinical team provides both direct and indirect support to students and collaborates with external agencies to ensure the best outcomes for them, such as making referrals to the Children and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS). The team is highly skilled and enthusiastic, making it a pleasure to work alongside them.

I am a Speech and Language Therapist by profession, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Language Therapy BSc (Hons). I am also a member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) within the school. I have completed SCERTS training and am a qualified ELKAN and Signalong tutor. Additionally, I am a registered member of the Royal College of Speech & Language Therapists (RCSLT) and the Health Care Professionals Council (HCPC). Some of my additional training includes safeguarding, trauma-informed practice, person-centred counselling skills, clinical supervision, therapeutic work with self-harm and sexually harmful behaviour, as well as domestic abuse champion training.

I am passionate about helping young people develop healthy friendships and relationships. In my free time, I enjoy spending time in nature, going for runs, engaging in creative activities, and being with loved ones.

I’ve been part of the team at Wetheringsett Manor since January 2022 and have loved being part of a school where we can really get to know our students as individuals.

I’m passionate about creating a love of learning and, importantly, recognising that learning and success can look different for every student. I believe our curriculum is engaging, purposeful and accessible, with students given opportunities that genuinely reflect their individual needs, interests and aspirations.

For me, education is about preparing young people for much more than qualifications. I want our students to leave us with the skills, confidence and ambition to take their next steps and feel excited about where their future could take them.

Alongside my role overseeing education at Wetheringsett, I teach GCSE Art & Design and am also a Level 6 trained Careers Lead. I believe careers education should be part of students’ everyday learning, helping them see the purpose behind what they are learning and develop the skills they will need beyond school.

Outside of school, I’m a keen runner and love spending time outdoors, whether that’s walking my two pomeranians, hiking or paddleboarding (when the sunshine makes an appearance!).

Key Stage 2

Comprises of pupils in years 5 and 6

Key Stage 3

Comprises of pupils in years 7 to 9

Key Stage 4

Comprises of pupils in years 10 and 11