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How does the setting know if children need extra help and what should I do if I think my child may have special educational needs?

All children are allocated a Key Person, it is the responsibility of this person to make initial assessments of all allocated children. They will gather information from other colleagues, other professionals (if they are already involved), the parents, and via observing the child. After evaluating all this information, the child’s Key Person will complete an initial assessment of the child’s development. This initial process usually takes approximately half a term (4-6 weeks). This timeline might be shorter if the child is known to us, however, we expect a longer timeline for those who are settling into our preschool. At this point, we will be in a good position to determine whether the child requires additional support, and if so, we will inform the parent. 

If you, as their parent, has a suspicion that your child may have special needs, you are welcome to discuss this with your child’s key person or the SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator). Within the preschool, the SENCO is the person who will work closely with the Key Person to support and develop the child’s needs. We will be offering training courses for our parents to help them promote further learning and development. A website is being specially designed for these courses at preciousapproach.co.uk. Additionally, we update our Instagram with tips on promoting early language and other areas daily @earlychildhoodexplained. In the event of the preschool needing additional support from an expert/professional we will only do so with parent consent. In this case, a referral will be made to the local authority SEN advisory team. 

How will I know how my child is doing?

We have very effective communication with our parents. We have an open-door policy where parents can have formal or informal conversations with any member of our staff team at any time. We also operate an online learning journey where you can view what your child has been doing on a week-by-week basis. Your child’s learning journey will include your child’s Individual Education Plan and any progress made towards their targets will be clearly documented. We also assess all children at the age of two via our two-year-old check. The results of this will be shared with the parent and if any further action is required, we will consult you before making any referrals. 

How will the learning and development provision be matched to my child’s needs?

At Precious Playdays preschool, we believe that all children learn through sensation, perception, and action. Put simply, they learn through their body via embodied learning. This method suits those with special educational needs because we are very passionate about taking the child’s lead and co-constructing learning with them in any way, they choose to use their bodies. This might be pouring and scooping at the water tray or by lining up all the cars. We will meet them in this play and co-construct learning. Usually by playing simple

games like “ready, steady, go” to promote communication. Your child’s specific targets will be shared with the whole team to ensure that they are incorporated in their play as much as possible. 

What support will there be for my child’s overall wellbeing?

At Precious Playday preschool we see all children as opportunities. We will work tirelessly to “enter your child’s world” sometimes through intensive communication (this is where we mimic the sounds and babbles that your child makes). Using this method can have deep and profound results because your child may feel connected to the adult using this method. In turn, we find this method promotes eye contact and opens up communication. Once we have entered your child’s world, we can then co-construct learning with them as play partners. Additional to this we have robust safeguarding and positive behaviour policies in place to ensure that we are offering a secure and safe environment. If any specialist training is required, we will ensure that we train our staff at the earliest opportunity. 

What specialist services and expertise are available at or accessed by the setting? And what training and/or experience do the staff, supporting children with SEN, have?

We are extremely lucky to be a graduate-led setting, actually, we have two graduates! Lianne Maltman, manager, has a BA (Hons) and master’s degree in Early Childhood Studies. Peace Okyere, manager, has a BA (Hons) and has Qualified Teacher Status in Early Years Education. Both managers work directly with the children on a daily basis. Additional to this, Robina Yaser, supervisor, has completed a Level 3 Certificate for SENCOs in Early Years. Over the years we have accumulated an abundance of experience working with children with special educational needs. We also work with a number of external agencies and professionals, with consent of parents, including the Inclusion Development Officer, the local Family Centres, Health Visitors, Speech and Language Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Specialist Advisory Teachers, etc. 

How will my child be included in activities outside the setting?

Permission is also sought before we take any children outside the setting. If we feel that a special plan is required for your child, we will fully consult with you to ensure that all parties agree. This may include additional staffing. Parents will also be offered the opportunity to accompany outings on most occasions. 

How will I be involved in discussions about and planning for my child’s learning and development?

 Parents are regularly invited to participate in meetings to discuss planning regarding their child’s learning and development. This might occur in person or via zoom. We have staff available who speak a variety of languages; Pahari, Urdu, Romanian, Punjabi, and Twi.  

How accessible is the building/environment?

The building is located on ground level with easy access to the garden. The setting as a disabled toilet in addition to other toilets. There is a drop off area next to the preschool and all resources are at an accessible level for all children. 

How will the setting prepare and support my child with transitions between home, settings, and school? 

We aim to transfer all necessary information to their next school or setting within a timely manner. We also invite teachers or practitioners to visit to see the child in action before they make the move to their next setting. If there is a team of professionals involved in your child’s development, which is often the case of those with special educational needs, we will consult their specialists to ensure a smooth transition. 

How will Precious Playdays Preschool’s resources be used to support children with special educational needs?

We will ensure that your child has the equipment that they need to thrive and foster a love for learning. For example, for visually impaired children, we will ensure that we have resources that are larger so they can participate in all activities. 

Who can I contact for further information about the Early Years Offer in Precious Playdays Preschool?

The preschool managers, Lianne Maltman or Peace Okyere on 07852 327 302

 Reviewed: 05/10/2021