Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are supported well. The special educational needs coordinator (SENCo) makes sure that any additional needs are quickly identified. Teachers help pupils with SEND to be successful with their learning. Extra support is provided for pupils who need it. (Ofsted, 2021)

What is SEN?

Some children find learning more challenging than others and may need extra support to achieve their full potential.

For example, they might have difficulty with:

· Expressing themselves

· Interacting with others

· Reading, writing and maths

· Following lessons

· Controlling their emotions

· Sensory or physical mobility 

All teachers at St Joseph's are teachers of children with special educational needs, they are responsible for all children in their class.

They will plan the daily provision for all children and will be supported and advised by the Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) if necessary.

Our SENCO is Mrs Hughes and you can contact her via the school office or by using the form below.

What is SEN Support?

SEN support describes the additional help that assists children to access the curriculum. 

This might include:

· Extra help in the classroom

· Small group or one-to-one learning

· Support from specialist

If you or the teacher identify a need for SEN support, assessment and/or outside agency support then the SENCO becomes the lead person for coordinating the team around your child and works with yourself, the class teacher, teaching assistants and outside agencies to ensure they receive the support they need in order to reach their full potential.

How do I know if my child needs SEN support?

If your child is not making expected progress for his/her year group, he/she may need SEN support.

The progress and well-being of all children  is formally discussed with your child’s teacher, the headteacher & SENCo at Pupil Progress Meetings three times a year.  We will update you of any changes.

How will the school decide what type of support my child receives?

Every child’s needs are different, and may change over time.

The school should assess each child’s needs closely to identify which support suits him/her best.

The school should also regularly review the support your child receives to see what is working and what  isn’t, and incorporate your views on this too.

The SEN register is ‘fluid’ and updated 3 times a year so you may find that your child will come on and off it as they progress and needs change.

Our school's SEN Policy is in line with the Special Educational Needs and Disability Code of Practice that came into place in England on 1st September 2014.  Please have a look at the policy and let us know if you have any comments or questions, your input is greatly valued.