SEND

Our approach to SEND

We believe that all children should have access to a broad, balanced and ambitious curriculum and should be fully included in the life of our school.

We recognise that children learn and develop in different ways. Some pupils may need additional or different support at particular points during their time at school. We aim to identify these needs early and work in partnership with families to put appropriate support in place.

How we support children with SEND

We are committed to ensuring that every child is included and supported to achieve their full potential. We provide high-quality teaching for all pupils and use a graduated approach to identify and meet individual needs. This means we assess a child's needs, plan appropriate support, deliver interventions where required, and regularly review progress in partnership with parents, carers and pupils. The support provided will always be tailored to the individual needs of the child. Where necessary, additional support from external agencies may be sought to help us meet a child's needs effectively. Parents and carers will be informed and involved throughout any referral process. 

What should I do if I have a concern?

If you are concerned about any aspect of your child's learning, development, communication, behaviour or wellbeing, please speak to us. You do not need to wait until a formal assessment or diagnosis has been made before asking for help.

What happens after you contact us?

Every child's situation is different, so there is not one single pathway that applies to everyone. Following an initial conversation, we may gather further information from your child's teachers, review their progress and discuss what strategies have already been tried.

Where additional support is appropriate, this will be planned and reviewed. Parents and carers will be kept involved in conversations about their child's needs and provision.

Where necessary, and with appropriate parental involvement, we may also seek advice or support from specialist services.

Our aim is to work collaboratively with families throughout the process. We hope that any concerns can be resolved through discussion with school staff and the SENDCo. However, if you remain dissatisfied, please follow our Compliments, Concerns and Complaints policy.

The Local Offer

Local Authorities and schools publish information about the services and support available to children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. This is known as the Local Offer.

The Local Offer helps families understand what support is available locally and how to access services.

You can find further information on the Sunderland SEND Local Offer .

Further information & support

The following organisations provide additional information, guidance and support for children, young people and families.

• Sunderland SEND Local Offer
• Kooth – online mental health and wellbeing support for young people.
• Qwell – free digital mental wellbeing support.
• YoungMinds – mental health information and support.
• National Autistic Society
• The Toby Henderson Trust
• British Dyslexia Association
• Dyspraxia Collective
• TreeTops Occupational Therapy
• Speech and Language UK
• Mencap