How do you communicate with the parent / carer whose child has SEND?
At Woodlea House we believe communication in person is of paramount importance this can include at drop off and collection, parent evenings / meeting or during settling or other events, we also communicate via phone call and by email or messaging application when appropriate. We also use blossom as our online learning journey platform sharing significant events with the parents and their daily routine, encouraging parents to contribute as well. Using this information to support our planning and enable each child to have every opportunity to become happy and confident lifelong learners.
We build strong relationships with all our families ensuring that they are comfortable to come to us to discuss any queries or areas they need support with. Meetings are arranged with the Nursery Principal whenever needed.
How do you help children settle into your setting?
We want to make sure each child has a positive and happy start to Nursery life at Woodlea House, so we offer two settling-in sessions as standard, and we'll always be flexible if more time is needed. Our parents will work very closely with their child’s key person and decide what is best for your child discussing all the information about each child to provide for their individual care and development needs. Each child is different, some children settle in very easily, while others take a little longer, this is very normal. Patience is key, as well as a consistent routine at Home and at Nursery, that really makes a big difference.
It is really important that our team and parents work together to guarantee this happens. Here at Woodlea House we feel that it is a partnership between Home and Nursery so encourage parents to contact us if they have any questions or concerns. We never want our parents or children to be worried.
What help and support does your setting offer to children with SEND as they move rooms or move on to school?
At Woodlea House, we believe it is of vital importance that every child is provided with a smooth and seamless transition at every growth stage as they move forward through the nursery framework. Each child is unique, so we follow each child’s needs and only take that next step with them when they are ready; we take into consideration age, stage of development and friendship groups. Parents are included in every decision through regular conversations and feedback this may include the SENCO if required.
Transitions happen gradually; families will be invited to visit their new dedicated age group space and meet their child's new key worker. This will happen through their new key Nursery Practitioner visiting the children in their current room. Following this, they will have some explorer sessions in their new room where the children can bring their favourite toys/books to help them feel their most comfortable in their new environment. The room move will happen when your child is ready, and they are happy in their new setting with their key person with the support of the SENCO if needed. At every stage of their journey through Woodlea House, your child’s needs are put at the forefront of our practice to ensure that they are contented and settled throughout their time with us.
We work closely with the schools our children transition to the Nursery Principal attends the BCP transition event and passes on relevant information, including completing a transition form; a separate meeting with the setting SENCO and the school SENCO is arranged, if appropriate. Any relevant documents are also handed over to the school in communication with the family.
How do you find out how each child likes to learn?
During the settling sessions we ask parents to complete the ‘all about me’ on blossom, we also find out about the children’s routines and interests. We observe the children regularly and believe it’s important to share these observations with parents, our priority though is spending time with each child and how we really get to know them and discover how they enjoy learning, finding out their interests, likes and dislikes. Our practitioners are highly skilled in extending and supporting children’s development.
Inclusive practice / SEND training and expertise within this organisation
DSL and Deputy DSL have Multi-agency Working Together to Safeguard Children.
SENCO has SENCO, peic-D and promoting positive behaviour training.
All Practitioners attend in-house training where information including SEN strategies are shared. All team members learn how to sign words such as, ‘hello’, ‘please’, ‘thank you’, ‘snack’ and have access to visuals (picture cards, visual timetables) to use as appropriate.