How do you communicate with the parent / carer whose child has SEND?
We would invite parents in to view the setting whilst a session is in progress so they can see if they feel we are right for their child. If they decide to go ahead we ask them to fill in aal relevant paperwork and ask for copies of letters from any professionals involved with the child or family. We would then do a minimum of 1 home visit and provide the parents with a social story of the setting prior to starting so they can share it regularly with their child. We use Tapestry to share observations and photos in setting as well as encouraging parents to add their own, we share IEP’s, talk before and after session to feedback to discuss any problems such as sleep, toilet, food issues etc.
How do you help children settle into your setting?
The key worker is usually the SENco so we will inform parents of this at induction stage. We will all do a home visit, leave a social story, staggered or delayed start if required.
The current SENco is Dana Hayes and can be contacted on 07876 045521.
What help and support does your setting offer to children with SEND as they move rooms or move on to school?
Ensure relevant paperwork filled out prior to transition (either EHCP or school transfer forms. We would invite the new school SENco to attend our setting and do their own observations on the child and have face to face discussions of requirements.
How do you find out how each child likes to learn?
Observations, feedback from parents and other carers. We also use Wellcomm if appropriate to help us gauge the childs understanding and communication. We use the outcome of this to plan activities. In some cases where a more in depth assessment is needed we gain parents consent for us to involve the area SEN development officer who will make their own observations, assessments and give us guidance on how we can assist the childs development further.
Inclusive practice / SEND training and expertise within this organisation
Current SENco has completed training in PEIC-D, portage, Sign along, has worked with ASD and hearing-impaired children.