Most children have a special educational need at some point during their school career and it is important to recognise and address the need as soon as possible. Needs may be related to emotional difficulties, learning or behaviour.

Children who are very able have special needs as well as those experiencing difficulties. All pupils are monitored individually by the class teachers using a sheet designed for this purpose. Where monitoring reveals a need immediate action is taken which has a set procedure controlled by the Code of Practice for Special Educational Needs (2002).

The school has its own Special Educational Needs Policy based on the Code of Practice.

• At Teacher Action, children for whom there is a concern are supported by the class teacher, who consults with the school co-ordinator for SEN and wherever possible additional help from within the school’s resources is given.

• At School Action, the class teacher involves the Special Needs Co-ordinator and an Individual Education Plan is drawn up.

• At School Action Plus, advice or support is sought from outside agencies such as Learning and Behaviour Service and the Educational Psychology Service.

If needs persist parents are consulted and permission sought for the involvement by other professionals as deemed appropriate:

School Medical Service
Educational Psychologist
Educational Welfare Service
Learning and Behaviour Support Team

Children may be placed on the school’s SEN Register, which will be the first stage of the set procedure. Parents are informed, consulted and involved at all stages of identification, monitoring and evaluation.

Children with special aptitudes are not included in the Code of Practice and therefore funding has to come from the school’s own resources. The school identifies and monitors the needs of these children in consultation with parents. Advice from other agencies may be sought.