Strengthening Support for Families Across Our Schools
This month, our team has been out at the school gates, actively meeting and greeting families across all our settings. In addition, we have supported many parents and carers through one-to-one sessions, offering guidance on behaviour, routines and boundaries, emotionally-based school non-attendance, wellbeing, SEND support and finances. Moreover, we work closely with schools to ensure the right support is provided for the children and families we work with.
At CHEXS, we pride ourselves on being an approachable and consistent presence within our communities. By building strong relationships with both families and school staff, we are able to identify concerns early and respond in ways that feel supportive and non-judgmental.
Furthermore, our team takes the time to listen carefully, understand individual circumstances, and connect families to practical help, local services, and ongoing support. Consequently, this joined-up approach helps families feel more confident, resilient, and better equipped to support their children both at home and in school.
Real Talk Parent Hub
The Real Talk Parent Hub continues to grow, with our regular attendees and some new parents joining us each week. This half term we were especially pleased to welcome SPACE
Hertfordshire, who joined one of our Real Talk sessions and provided invaluable insights and practical advice on SEND, helping to equip parents with the confidence, knowledge and tools needed to navigate their journeys.
In 2026 we are looking forward to welcoming families to future sessions in the new year at the Tesco Brookfield Community Room. Please keep an eye on our social media channels for updates, session dates and details of the guest speakers we have lined up for 2026.
Winter Crafts
Lots of children and families attended our much-loved Winter Crafts Sessions in schools, and overall, these proved to be a fantastic success. Not only did they give families an opportunity to enjoy creative activities, but they also offered festive fun and meaningful time together.
Furthermore, we held several sessions across different dates in all of our partnered schools, during which children created wonderful winter crafts while parents joined in too. It was truly lovely to see families spending quality time together in such a relaxed and joyful setting. Looking ahead, we are also excited to be hosting another family craft session on 18th December, from 3.30pm to 5pm at Cheshunt Library, and we would love to see families there.
Parenting Un-Plugged
This term also saw the launch of our new Parenting Unplugged SEND Support Group at Cheshunt Library. It was, without a doubt, a huge success, as it provided a safe and supportive space for parents and carers to connect, share experiences, and access tailored support.
In addition, our guest speaker was Lily Crane, SEND Implementation and Support Officer from the Local Authority, who shared valuable insights and practical guidance with everyone in attendance. As places do book up quickly, we encourage anyone interested in joining our next session on 13th January to act promptly and secure their spot via Eventbrite.
Supporting Families Through the Festive Season
As ever, we have continued to support families experiencing financial pressures by helping them access foodbanks and providing utility top-ups, which have helped to alleviate some of the challenges they are facing.
In addition, the team have attended School Christmas fayres, community pop-up events and parent consultations, ensuring we remain visible and accessible to the families we work with. To add some seasonal cheer, one of our Family Support Team members even took on the role of Father Christmas at a school event, spreading joy, smiles and Christmas magic!
Looking ahead, we are excited for the new term and, as always, remain fully committed to supporting our families both in school and throughout our wider community.
Looking Ahead
Moving towards the winter term, the CHEXS Family Support Team will be looking forward to connecting to families in our community:
✅ More Parenting Un-Plugged sessions, offering new exciting expert-led workshops and guidance
✅ Provide emotional and practical support in schools and the community
✅ Run engaging Real Talk sessions with valuable guest speakers!
✅ Coffee Morning at our partnered schools.
✅ Support families through one-to-one sessions tailored to their individual needs
We remain committed to walking alongside families with compassion, practical tools, and a whole-community approach to support.
💙 Thank you to every parent, school, and supporter who makes this work possible. Together, we’re building stronger families and brighter futures.
Meet the Team Supporting Families Every Step of the Way!
At the heart of everything we do at CHEXS is our compassionate Family Support Team. With specialist knowledge in family wellbeing, safeguarding, and community engagement, they provide personalised support, expert guidance, and a friendly face to families when they need it most.
Whether it’s one-to-one sessions, group workshops, or everyday advice at the school gates, this incredible team is dedicated to empowering families and building brighter futures together.
Learn more about their experience, approach, and the difference they’re making every day.
Jenny Hammond: Read More – Deputy Family Support Lead
Andrea Bye: Read More – Family support worker
Andrea Baxter: Read More – Family support worker
