Special Educational Needs

Each child is unique and has individual needs. They learn at different rates and reach milestones at different times and this process continues throughout lifelong learning.

In every class at school there will be children who may at some time during their school years have special educational needs (SEN) identified. These learning difficulties could be short or long term.

Schools work in partnership with parents to monitor their child’s development and, where there are concerns, take steps to help him/her to learn more effectively to maximise inclusion and opportunity for all children.

What should I do if I am worried about my child’s development at school?

Talk to your child’s teacher who will discuss your child’s progress with you. If necessary they may seek advice from the school’s Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO), who is a qualified teacher within the school.

What if the school has concerns about my child’s progress?

The school must contact you to discuss ways of helping your child learn more effectively.

What will the school do to help?

All those involved in supporting your child at school, in partnership with yourself and your child will identify strengths and needs, target areas of difficulty and together agree steps that may be taken to support learning. This will usually lead to an Individual Education Plan (IEP). The teacher and SENCO with yourself and your child will review the IEP at appropriate intervals.

What kind of support may be given?

Adapting class work to suit individual needs
Encouragement
Regular opportunities to practise important skills
Extra time with an adult who is able to reinforce new learning.
Your child’s teacher(s) will suggest ways you can help at home.

Although all teachers are trained to support children with special educational needs, sometimes they may require specialist advice from people with relevant expertise e.g. speech therapist, educational psychologist, school nurse.

Where can I go for further information and support?

Talk to the SENCO or Head Teacher.

Ask at school for a booklet called "Support for your child" or view it online here. This booklet details the help available.

If you would like additional support you are very welcome to contact the Parent Partnership Officer about the Parent Partnership Service. The service encourages equal partnership between parents or carers and the people who are involved with special educational needs.

The Parent Partnership Service provides a range of flexible services including: -

Support and information over the telephone
An Independent Parental Supporter to help you with paperwork or support you at meetings.
Written information about SEN
Interpreters
Signers for the hearing impaired
A directory of local support groups.
Independent mediation between parents and the LEA or school.

Contact

The Parent Partnership Service
OEM Building
Whiteacres
Cambridge Road
Whetstone
Leics
LE8 6ZG
Tel 0116 2752097

If you require an alternative language or different formats telephone 0116 2752097