SEND

At Hadleigh High School, we believe that every student should have the opportunity to achieve their potential, both academically and personally. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment in which students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) are valued, supported and able to participate fully in school life.

We recognise that students have different strengths, needs and ways of learning. Our approach is therefore centred on identifying barriers to learning and putting appropriate support in place so that students can access an ambitious curriculum and make positive progress. High-quality, inclusive teaching is at the heart of our SEND provision, with teachers adapting their approach where appropriate to meet the needs of individual learners. This is consistent with evidence-based guidance which emphasises that students with SEND should have access to excellent teaching alongside appropriate adaptations and additional support where needed.

Supporting students in the classroom

Our SEND provision begins in the classroom. We work with teachers to develop their knowledge, confidence and expertise in supporting students with additional needs. The SENDCo provides advice, guidance and professional development, including classroom observations, in-class support and opportunities for staff to develop effective inclusive teaching strategies.

Teachers use a range of approaches to help students overcome barriers to learning. These may include clear modelling and explanations, scaffolding, appropriate use of technology, structured tasks, flexible grouping and other adaptations based on the needs of the students in their classroom.

Where appropriate, students may also receive additional targeted support or intervention. This could take place within lessons, through small-group work or within our Learning Support provision. Support is reviewed regularly to ensure that it is helping students to become more confident, independent and successful learners.

Learning Support

Our Learning Support Department provides additional support for students who require it. We have a dedicated Learning Support classroom and smaller spaces that can be used for targeted interventions and small-group work.

Our approach is designed to support students within the mainstream school environment wherever possible. We aim to remove barriers to learning while maintaining high expectations and encouraging students to develop their independence.

We also recognise that some students may require additional support beyond the classroom. The Learning Support Department can provide a supervised and supportive environment at appropriate times during the school day for students who may benefit from additional structure or support.

For more detailed information about our Learning Support provision, the types of needs we support and how we work with students and families, please visit our Learning Support Department page on the school website.

Working with families

We believe that strong partnerships with parents and carers are essential. Parents and carers know their children well, and we value the information they can provide about their child's strengths, needs and experiences.

Where a student requires additional support, we work with families to understand their needs, identify appropriate strategies and review their progress. Students are also encouraged to take an active role in understanding their needs and developing the skills and confidence they need to succeed.

Where specialist advice is required, we may work with external professionals and services. This can include Educational Psychologists, Speech and Language Therapists, specialist teaching services, health professionals and other appropriate agencies. Any referrals or specialist involvement will be discussed with parents and carers as appropriate.

Our SENDCo

Our Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENDCo) has responsibility for coordinating SEND provision across the school and supporting staff to meet the needs of students with SEND.

Miss Jessica Cannon
SENDCo
Email: jcannon@hadleighhigh.net

If you have concerns about your child's learning or would like to discuss their individual needs, please contact the SENDCo or your child's Form Tutor in the first instance. We are committed to working with families to ensure that every student receives the support they need to access school, make progress and achieve their potential.