Welcome to Sandy Hill

It is a joy to welcome you to our Sandy Hill family. I have been incredibly fortunate to spend my entire teaching career here, beginning as a Newly Qualified Teacher and growing through a variety of roles, including SENCO, Early Years Lead, and now Assistant Head. Early Years has always been my greatest passion, and it continues to inspire everything I do.

This year marks an exciting new chapter as I also take on the role of Early Years Stronger Practice Advisor for the Department for Education. Although I am stepping back from full‑time classroom teaching, you will still see me in and out of our Early Years spaces, working closely with staff and children, and playing a key role in planning and curriculum development. I am equally delighted to support the wider school through my Assistant Head responsibilities.

Thank you to everyone who attended our initial Welcome Meeting - it was wonderful to see so many families, and I look forward to getting to know you and your children as we begin this journey together.

All About Me boxes

'All ABout Me' boxes are a wonderful way for children to share who they are with their new classmates and teachers. Each box is filled with meaningful objects that represent their interests, families, hobbies, and the things that make them unique - anything from a favourite book or toy to a photo, a medal, or a special keepsake. These boxes help us celebrate individuality, build confidence, and create early connections as children learn about one another’s stories. Below, you’ll find videos of Mrs Evans,  Mrs Raikes, Mrs Penny and Miss Seberry sharing their own All About Me boxes, and we can’t wait to see what you choose to include in yours!

Our Early Years team is a warm, collaborative group with a wealth of expertise and experience, all working side by side to give every child the strongest possible start. We plan, reflect, and problem‑solve together every day, drawing on our shared knowledge to create a nurturing, engaging environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. That close teamwork is at the heart of everything we do. Please click on the book below to meet the team.