Is it next week that everyone starts returning to school / college/ uni? It’s been a good few years since I left school so I lose track, but I’m still drawn to all the lovely stationery around in the shops at this time in readiness for the new academic year!

For me, going back to school was always a great joy, and no more so than the new term in September. I was lucky at school, I was never really bullied as such, I loved studying and I had some fantastic teachers. I know it’s not like that for everyone, but I want to focus on positives today.

September, for me, has always been ‘a new start’ time. When I was at school it meant a new pencil case, pens, erasers (don’t get me started on those….!) but more than that, it was a chance to start again. I always had great intentions – my handwriting was immaculate, homework done on time, books kept neat and tidy. Sometimes my new studious self even lasted well into October, before I eventually relaxed into the year, lapsed back into my old habits and tipexed ‘I love Culture Club’ on my pencil case!

Even now, September still fills me with a certain hope for a new beginning, and this year is no exception. I’m feeling empowered right now and ready to work hard on some personal plans and projects (erasers still feature quite heavily!) as well all those that we are planning for FirstSigns.

It will be a year on 1^st September since I joined Wedge as a director of FirstSigns (previously LifeSIGNS), and I think I may have to celebrate with a new notepad and some pens :)

Wedge and I have been through a lot this last year, as you know from all our previous blogs, and I’m even more excited to be starting my second year running FirstSigns now that our troubles are behind us and we can focus on the bright and exciting plans we have for the coming year, and the years beyond.

I’ve had a great deal of support these last 12 months from our lovely members, many of whom have made the darker times all seem worthwhile, with their kind comments and words of thanks. But I couldn’t have done any of it without Wedge. I have a reputation for being ‘fluffy and lovely’ which is great, but it’s not the whole truth I can assure you. I can be the most frustrating person anyone could fear to work with, but Wedge has always patiently been there to guide and support me as I adapted to my new role.

In years to come when I look back on this first year, I won’t be thinking of all the problems, abuse and attacks we’ve had; instead I shall think fondly of how we marched through adversity with our heads held high, towards a lighter and brighter future. I love working for Wedge, I love FirstSigns and when I log-in each day I feel as though I’ve found my way home.

Thank you to all our members, our supporters, our message board moderators and most importantly, thank you to Wedge for your patience and understanding; for believing in me, and for giving me the opportunity to work with you and your Organisation.

I’m sooo looking forward to a new year, a new start and some new stationery!

Jules