A child has special educational needs if they require additional or different support from their peers in order to learn effectively. These needs may arise from one or more of the following four broad areas:

• Communication and Interaction
• Cognition and Learning
• Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH)
• Sensory and/or Physical Needs.

Nationally, around one in five children may need extra help at some point during their school journey, and a smaller number may require an Education, Health & Care Plan (EHCP).

Early identification makes a real difference. We carefully monitor pupils’ progress and wellbeing so that we can respond quickly if a need emerges.

We maintain a SEND register, not to label children, but to ensure their needs are recognised and met. Depending on need, pupils may receive:

• In-class support
• Small group or targeted interventions
• Specialist strategies and resources
• Emotional or social support.

Support is tailored to the child and reviewed regularly to ensure it remains effective.

We follow the graduated approach outlined in the SEND Code of Practice:

1. High-Quality Teaching – the foundation for all pupils
2. Targeted Support – additional strategies within the classroom
3. Specialist Intervention – personalised support plans and external advice
4. EHCP Assessment and Support – where long-term, significant needs require formal assessment.

As pupils make progress, they may move between these stages, and some may no longer need ongoing intervention.

With Families
Strong communication with parents and carers is essential. If your child is identified as needing extra support, you will be fully involved from the start. We will:

• Explain what support is in place
• Involve you in reviewing progress
• Keep in regular contact throughout.

Your insights and partnership are invaluable in supporting your child’s development.

With Specialist Services
When needed, we work closely with external professionals such as:

• Educational Psychologists
• Speech and Language Therapists
• Occupational Therapists
• Behaviour or mental health support services (e.g., CAMHS)
• Advisory teachers and specialist outreach teams.

Their expertise helps us ensure that children receive the right support at the right time.

Transitions can be a significant time for pupils with SEND. We provide additional support when children:

• Move between year groups
• Join our school mid-year
• Transfer to secondary school.

This may include enhanced visits, personalised transition plans or meetings with receiving teachers and families.
See also our Transition to Secondary School page.