A NEW special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) specialist teacher has been recruited for schoolchildren in Dulverton.
The Moorland Federation, which runs eight small schools in West Somerset, including Dulverton Junior and All Saints Church of England, has appointed Helen Jenkinson.
Federation executive headteacher Naomi Philp said Ms Jenkinson’s appointment marked the beginning of transformative support for pupils at both schools and also across the others in the group.
Ms Philp said: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Helen Jenkinson to the team.
“Her expertise, compassion, and deep-rooted belief in the value of every child’s unique energy and spirit will be transformational, not only for the pupils, but for our whole school and federation community.”
Ms Philp said Ms Jenkinson brought with her a wealth of experience working with pupils from early years to 18 years, having worked across a diverse range of settings, including first, middle, and secondary schools, as well as specialist provisions.
She said the new provision reflected the federation’s shared commitment to flexible, inclusive education tailored to each child, and aligned with Ms Jenkinson’s personal philosophy.
The new provision would begin in September, working closely with families, staff, and the wider community to ensure success.
Ms Jenkinson, who originally trained as an English teacher, said: “I believe in working with the whole human, valuing each child not only for their potential, but for who they are right now.
“It is not just about achieving, it is about belonging, thriving, and being celebrated.
“I am so excited to be part of this vision the Moorland Federation is bringing to life.”
Ms Jenkinson, a passionate advocate for holistic education, said she would draw on her background as founder of the Exmoor Wellbeing Centre, where she championed practices which nurtured the whole person, mind, body, and spirit.