Special Educational Needs The Governors and staff of Sitwell Infant School work hard to ensure that children with Special Educational Needs & Disabilities (SEND) have access to a fully inclusive curriculum and can take part in everyday activities. The school operates within the guidelines contained within the revised Code of Practice that came into effect in September 2014. We will always consult parents if we feel that a child needs further support with learning and parents are encouraged to voice any concerns they may have with their class teacher or the Headteacher. Children will also be encouraged and helped to express their views and all staff work towards supporting these children effectively and boosting their self-esteem. All children entering school will be assessed and this highlights any possible developmental areas which may benefit from very early identification and intervention. The support which children with additional needs receive may be given in class or as an individual or small group member out of the classroom.
Accessibility A clear accessibility plan is in place in school to ensure that we consider the needs of all people with disabilities. We operate a fully inclusive policy in our school, catering for children with very diverse needs. The school has a disabled facility for hoisting and lifting children, with several members of staff trained in its use. The school has access ramps to the entrance and one exit, and except for one room, is all on one level. Parents with disabilities are encouraged to let the school know if there is any way we can make communication between home and school easier for them.
Support for children Children with additional needs will receive specific help from their class teachers, the SEND Co-ordinator and teaching assistants. Where necessary, the school and parents will consult with and receive advice from various outside agencies, such as Learning Support Advisory Teachers, Educational Psychologists or Speech and Language Therapists. At all times, the progress of children with additional needs is assessed and reviewed and individual or group education plans are produced accordingly. A number of bespoke learning packages to support individual children are put into place throughout the year, including support for specific learning needs such as numeracy or literacy, as well as personal, social or emotional needs.
Support for parents Class teachers are normally available at the beginning and end of the school day, should parents wish to talk about their child’s learning and progress or raise any queries they may have in relation to their specific needs. We have an open door policy in school and aim to work as closely as possible with parents to support our most vulnerable children. Our SENDCo is also available to speak to parents, as and when needed. At Sitwell Infants, the SEND Co-ordinator is Miss Astrid Griffiths, who is also the class teacher in Class 5. Full details of our SEND Policy is available on our website, alongside Rotherham’s Local Offer.
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