A SEND friendly school
A SEND friendly school is one where every child and young person feels welcome, included, and able to thrive. This will include:
- Vision, Values & Culture of Inclusion: Inclusion is at the heart of our school’s vision and values. We celebrate diversity and ensure every child is valued.
- Leadership, Governance & Strategic Commitment: School leaders and governors work together to support the SENCo and ensure inclusion is a priority in planning and monitoring.
- Co-production & Pupil / Parent Voice: Parents, carers, and pupils are actively involved in planning, reviewing, and making decisions about support.
- Accessibility, Environment & Resources: We consider physical access, sensory needs, classroom layout, and provide resources that help every child take part fully.
- Wellbeing, Social, Emotional & Mental Health Support: We prioritise wellbeing and mental health, with proactive support systems and strategies for all pupils.
- Universal Inclusive Pedagogy & Quality First Teaching: Teachers use a range of strategies – like scaffolding, flexible grouping, and high expectations – to meet the needs of all learners.
- Staff Capacity & Development: Staff receive regular training and support to develop their skills in meeting diverse needs.
- Equity, Diversity & Belonging: We actively celebrate differences, including ethnicity, language, neurodiversity, gender, and disability, and work to ensure everyone feels they belong.
- Community & Multi-Agency Collaboration: We work closely with health, social care, and other professionals, especially during transitions.
- Transition and Change Management: We support children and families through changes, such as starting school, moving classes, or transferring to secondary school.
- Behaviour / Relational Approaches / Restorative Practice: We use positive, relationship-based approaches to behaviour, focusing on support rather than exclusion.
- Monitoring & Self-Evaluation: We regularly review our inclusive practices, gather feedback from pupils and parents, and use data to improve outcomes for children with SEND.