Our work with schools
All schools have to follow a broad and balanced curriculum. Children make progress at different rates and have different ways in which they learn best.
Teachers are expected to use different materials and activities to suit the children they teach, this is known as 'differentiation'. If you have concerns about difficulties that your child maybe having, speak to their class teacher.
Some children may have difficulties in particular subject areas or at particular times in their school life. Differentiation can help support them at these times.
Decisions about what level of help a child should get are based on the progress they are making and what help they are getting already.
Children who continue to face challenges in their learning, despite receiving high-quality teaching and use of differentiation, may need additional strategies, or different provision, in order to meet their needs. The SEMHL Team may be asked to help identify the particular barriers faced by the child at this point.
Schools request work with individuals, groups, classes or in staff training at termly planning meetings. Parents must give their consent and their views are requested before work begins.
What happens if a child has identified special educational needs?
If a child has identified SEN, the school’s Special Educational Needs Co-Ordinator (SENCO) will work with the parent and class teacher to plan what to do. This could be a special programme of work, particular equipment, time with a teaching assistant or teacher individually or in a group.
At times, school staff may need support to further understand and meet a child's needs. The SEMHL Team may be asked to provide such support. SEMHL Specialist teachers have a range of specialisms across both areas of learning and social, emotional and mental health (often referred to as behaviour needs or wellbeing).