How does the early year's provision identify and assess children with special educational needs and disabilities?

How does the early year's provision identify and assess children with special educational needs and disabilities?

To track a child's individual progress in relation to their learning and development we use summative and formative assessment.  In accordance to our SEND policy, children identified as having additional needs are given support via quality first teaching and, in some instances, one-to-one support through external funding and through support from the Early Years Team.  All assessments are shared with parents and reviewed termly.

How will the curriculum be matched to meet children's developmental needs?

How will the curriculum be matched to meet children's developmental needs?

As we are an inclusive setting, our unique, tailored curriculum and all learning opportunities are centered around each individual child's specific needs.

What specialist services and expertise are available at or accessed by the early years setting?

What specialist services and expertise are available at or accessed by the early years setting?

As we are a private setting located on a school site, we are very fortunate to have access to some of the school facilities.  We have also fostered good partnerships with the local Health Visiting Team, other local schools, The Hub at Barnard Castle and the Equality and Inclusion Team at County Hall.

What training have the staff supporting children with SEND had, or are having?

What training have the staff supporting children with SEND had, or are having?

Our SENCO has attended various courses in relation to SEND. Several members of staff have taken part in specialist speech and language training. All staff have up to date Makaton training.

How accessible is the early years setting environment? (indoors/outdoors)

How accessible is the early years setting environment? (indoors/outdoors)

Our setting is accessible to all users regardless of disability, both indoors and outdoors.

How will the early years provision prepare and support my child(ren's) transition to their next educational establishment?

How will the early years provision prepare and support my child(ren's) transition to their next educational establishment?

As we are located within the School we are able to offer excellent transitions for our children who will move up into the schools foundation stage unit and beyond. Children are able to familiarise themselves with our setting and our school from a very young age.  

If children with SEND need extra support with transition, staff from will accompany them on visits into the school's setting.  At the end of last academic year, we also made a transition book of the new learning environment and staff to aid a specific child's transition needs.