At Kielder First School and Little Squirrels Nursery we believe that all children and young people are entitled to an education that enables them to achieve their best and leave school or college prepared for adult life.  We ensure that high quality teaching, appropriately differentiated for individual pupils, is the first step in responding to possible special educational needs. For pupils that need special educational provision there is a graduated response. Some children will benefit from specific support from the school or external experts. At Kielder First School we have always catered for individual needs and personal outcomes and the 0 to 25 Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Code of Practice emphasises this.

Below are FAQs but please get in touch if you need to.

How will school staff support my child?

The level of support your child receives will depend on their needs. Fay Hartland, Headteacher is the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator, although all staff play a role in supporting children. We have 2 Teaching Assistants who work with individual children or small groups who need extra support.

How will I know how my child is doing?

In addition to normal reporting arrangements, we have an open door policy so parents and carers are able to drop in whenever they wish for a quick chat or make an appointment at any time for a longer discussion.  We often catch parents and carers to tell them about their child’s achievement or make comments in their Reading Diary.  Children also gain Star of the Week and we have regular performances.

How will the curriculum be matched to my child’s needs?

During the school day, work will be adapted by the teacher, so that it meets the individual needs of your child. Both the teacher and teaching assistant, support groups and individuals within the classroom.

What support will there be for my child’s overall well-being?

As our school is so small, all the staff know the children extremely well and are therefore able to support the whole child.  Again, our open door policy allows for quick chats as well as more detailed discussion.

What specialist services are available at or accessed by Kielder First School.

The Local Inclusion Support Team is an umbrella organisation who is able to offer most specialisms.  We also work closely with our Parent Support Partner based at Haydon Bridge High School.

What training are the staff supporting children and young people with SEND had or are having?

The Headteacher/SENCO is studying for the SENCO award. Staff training needs are assessed regularly. Recently staff have attended training to support children by keeping them safe, first aid, maths support and phonics. We have also had specialist support workers to work alongside Teaching Assistants to train and support them in the work they do with specific children.

How will you help me to support my child’s learning?

At regular discussions and meetings, children’s progress is reviewed and depending on the needs of the child, relevant support will be offered.

How will my child be included in activities outside the classroom including school trips?

All school trips require a Risk assessment. For children with significant needs they may require an individual Risk assessment involving parents to ensure that they are able to take part in the trip successfully.

How accessible is the school environment?

The majority of the building is wheelchair accessible with an upgraded ramp being added this year.  Internally there is a disabled toilet and handrails on internal stairs. 

Who can I contact for further information?

You may contact any member of staff in school.  The query will be passed to the appropriate person if your first contact is not able to answer your question.