Inclusion

We believe that the most important function of the school is to maintain an environment in which every member of the school is able to achieve success and self-fulfilment.

There must be a total consistency of expectation that everyone (irrespective of gender, race or culture) should feel safe and secure, have empathy for all others, and place a high value upon individual achievement and personal development.

 

Whitehouse Primary School aims to:

- celebrate diversity

- respond to pupils’ needs with appropriate support

- work collaboratively with families to overcome potential barriers to learning for individuals or groups of pupils

 

Offering an inclusive curriculum is one way in which we ensure the best possible progress for our pupils whilst acknowledging their abilities or additional needs. All children including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) have the maximum opportunity at school to attain and make progress whilst developing independence, confidence and high self-esteem.

If a member of school staff, or a family member, feel that a pupil is facing barriers to their learning then discussions around how to best support the child will take place. Working closely with families is important as a collaborative, consistent approach is more likely to be successful. For some children, high quality teaching strategies will best suit their needs. For others, a more targeted approach may be required and specialist support from external agencies may be beneficial.

The majority of our children’s needs are met within their classroom but sometimes targeted and/ or specialist provision is required to ensure that a child’s needs are met. This may be delivered through key stage interventions, targeted time with the class teacher or on occasion 1:1 support provided by teaching assistants.

At Whitehouse, a small number of children with complex communication and interaction needs who demonstrate the ability to learn through a less formal learning offer may access Oak provision on a full time or part time basis. The provision takes into consideration a learner’s unique requirements and offers a bespoke curriculum so that an individual can flourish academically, socially and emotionally. By weaving in functional skills as part of day-to-day learning, we are preparing pupils for adulthood so that they can offer a valued contribution to society. Prior to implementing a targeted or specialist intervention, conversations will be arranged with families to gather their views and their aspirational targets for their child so that the provision’s purpose is clear and impactful.

At Whitehouse, we have a large inclusion team, made up of our Heads of Pupil Support who are Laura Ward and Grace Leech. Laura Ward also holds a SENDCo qualification. They work closely with our Pastoral Leads Jackie Puddephatt and Dan Bass who provide pastoral support, family support and lead safeguarding within the school. Laura and Grace direct the learning support assistants who provide support for children with SEND.

If you have any queries relating to your child’s needs or abilities, your first point of contact will be their class teacher who will know your child best. Should you feel you require further support then please contact Mrs Ward or Mrs Leech via email SENDCO@whitehouseprimary.co.uk or via the school office on 01908 533288.