Support for Parents
We know that being a parent of a child with additional needs can sometimes be challenging and overwhelming (we know it is also very rewarding!) so this page has been developed to support you in understanding what we offer as a school as well as providing information about support available for your child.
A day in the LIfe
Throughout the school day children with additional needs are supported in a variety of ways. This document helps you to understand more about ‘A day in the life’ of a pupil with special educational needs.
How parents and carers and the pupils are involved in the planning
We pride ourselves in having excellent relationships with parents and carers keeping them informed and updated on their child’s education. We invite parents in throughout the year to contribute to discussions and make suggestions as to what they feel their child needs. We communicate effectively through the school website, newsletters, interim reports and parents evenings.
Children who have special educational needs have three review meetings each year to set new targets and discuss progress, these meetings involve the parents and child through our steps to success proforma. At the meeting we assess targets and set new ones, this is based on a contract with the parents and child. Where we meet together and work together on ensuring the best possible provision for your child.
Specialist Support Available
Specialist support is available both from school and from other agencies, such as the Learning Support Service, speech and language therapy, or outreach support from a specialist teacher.
Specialist support is accessed from a variety of professionals, depending on the needs of the child. The specialist agencies we access include:
- Educational Psychologist
- Learning Support Services
- Autism Communication Team
- Speech and Language Therapy Service
The Speech and Language Therapy Service is based at Kimberworth Place and can be contacted by phone on 01709 423229.
Details of other specialised services are available on request.
Accessibility of the School for Pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
Physical Disabilities
Our Disability Equality Policy includes an Accessibility Plan. This states that risk assessments are carried out for pupils with a physical disability within the classroom environment.
We liaise with appropriate agencies regarding furniture and any specialist resources that may be needed. This is also in place for school visits and residentials.
Pupils with Medical Needs
If a pupil has a medical need, a Care Plan is compiled with support from the school nurse and in consultation with parents and carers. These plans are discussed with all staff involved with the pupil.
All staff receive Epipen training delivered by the local NHS Trust. Where necessary, and in agreement with parents and carers, medicines are administered in school, but only where a signed Medicine Consent Form is in place. This ensures the safety of both the child and staff members.
All staff have basic First Aid at Work training.
Sensory Barriers
In the case of vision impairments, we consult with parents, carers and professionals, and take advice from the Vision Impaired Support Service in Rotherham LA.
We ensure that communication documents are accessible for all. This may also involve considering seating arrangements in the classroom, enlarged text and appropriate levels of lighting.
We have a sensory room in school where all children can access a calming space. This supports children with sensory needs, and children really enjoy having an environment where they can learn and engage in nurture programmes.
Hearing Impairment
We consult with parents, carers and professionals to seek advice and access the right resources for the classroom and around school, including assemblies.
We also consider the acoustics within school. Where appropriate, the Headteacher and Governors would assess budget and funding implications for a loop system.
Support and Guidance for Parents and Carers
As a school, we value the contribution that parents and carers make to their child’s education. Parents at our school are overwhelmingly supportive of the school.
We work hard to encourage parents from different backgrounds to become involved so that they can support their children’s learning effectively. We offer many opportunities for parents and carers to become involved in the life of the school, including family learning afternoons and regular support meetings.
Our Inclusion Manager, Mrs C Marsden, and Headteacher Mrs L Rennison, are available to offer advice and support. We will also seek advice from professionals to ensure that appropriate support and guidance is available.