HOW DOES THE SCHOOL KNOW IF CHILDREN/YOUNG PEOPLE NEED EXTRA HELP AND WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I THINK MY CHILD/YOUNG PERSON MAY HAVE SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS?

At Gladstone, we use a range of assessment materials and observations to help us to identify if a child may need extra support. Our teaching staff make on going assessments of the children in their classes. If they feel a child may not be performing to the expected level, they will then consult with the school’s SENCo- Mr S Stanford. He may then carry out further tests and collect relevant evidence. Some children may also be identified because they show that they need support through their behaviour, speech or a physical disability for example.

 

We also hold half termly challenge meetings with the teaching staff. In these meetings staff discuss any children who they are concerned about or who are not making the expected progress. These are held with both the Phase Leaders, members of the SLT and the SENCo. Staff are regularly observed and all progress data is closely scrutinised by the SENCo, this allows him to map provision around the school. All teaching assistants and support staff work closely with their class teachers, getting to know and understand the needs of our children and any concerns raised and decisions made are shared with our parents/carers.

 

In some cases, the child may feel that they need extra help and if so the school will talk through with the child, their concerns and see what could be put in place to support them.

 

If a parent/carer is concerned about the progress of their child, they should talk to their child’s class teacher to see if these concerns have been noticed in class. This could then be shared with the SENCo for further advice. We hold 2 Parent Consultation Evenings per year, where parents and carers have the opportunity to discuss their child’s progress with the teaching staff. At Gladstone, we have an ‘open door’ policy which means that parents and carers are encouraged to book an appointment with the class teachers if they are concerned.

 

Some children may join us with, or be referred by their Dr for, outside agency involvement and they may contact school to ask if we can provide further support for the child.

 

Mr Stanford will seek all information regarding any child who joins our school from either an EYFS settings or from another school. He will review the documentation and evidence and will decide what appropriate action needs to be undertaken in discussion with parents and carers.