SEND - Special Educational Needs and Disability
At Deanshanger Primary School, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all pupils are supported to succeed. We recognise that children develop at different rates and may need additional support at various points in their education. Our approach focuses on high expectations, inclusive classroom practice and timely support so that every child can access learning and make progress.
Our Inclusive Approach
We follow the SEND Code of Practice and place strong emphasis on high-quality teaching as the foundation of support for all pupils. Teachers adapt learning carefully so that barriers are reduced and children can work as independently as possible. Additional provision is introduced when needed and is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains effective. Not all children receiving extra support will be placed on the SEND register. Decisions are based on careful assessment, progress over time and professional dialogue with families. Where pupils have identified SEND, support plans are created with clear outcomes and are reviewed with parents throughout the year.
Promoting Independence
At Deanshanger Primary School, our priority is to help every child become as independent and confident as possible in their learning. Support is carefully planned so that pupils develop the skills and strategies they need to succeed without becoming overly reliant on adult assistance. We are fortunate to have skilled Teaching Assistants who play an important role in supporting learning across the school. Teaching Assistants are not allocated solely to individual pupils. Instead, they work flexibly to support all children, helping to create an inclusive classroom environment where everyone can access learning.
Teachers remain responsible for the progress of every child in their class. Both teachers and support staff move in and out of learning activities as needed, providing guidance, modelling and encouragement before stepping back so that pupils can practise skills independently.
This approach helps pupils to:
- build resilience and confidence
- develop problem-solving skills
- participate fully alongside their peers
- prepare for the next stage of their education
Graduated Response to Need
Support at Deanshanger follows a graduated approach:
- Quality First Teaching that is inclusive and responsive within the classroom.
- Targeted support and structured interventions where additional help is required.
- Specialist advice from external professionals where needs are more complex.
This structured approach ensures that support is purposeful, proportionate and regularly reviewed.
Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)
For some pupils, support from the school’s own resources may not be sufficient. In these cases, the school may work with families and the Local Authority to request an Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessment. The Local Authority determines whether an EHCP is issued and what provision is required.
What to Do if You Have Concerns About Your Child
If you have concerns about your child’s learning, behaviour or wellbeing, please speak to your child’s class teacher first. Class teachers are best placed to understand day-to-day learning and will work with you to explore any worries. Where further support is needed, the class teacher will consult with our SENDCo, Mrs Burnside, to ensure appropriate advice and next steps.
To contact the school, please email:
office@deanshanger.northants.sch.uk
Please include FAO: followed by your child’s class teacher’s name in the subject line.
This approach helps us respond consistently and ensures concerns are directed to the right member of staff quickly.
Working in Partnership
We believe that effective support relies on strong collaboration between home and school. We aim to communicate openly, listen carefully to concerns and work together to find supportive, practical solutions for every child.
Local Offer
Information about local SEND services and support available to families can be found through the Local Authority’s SEND Local Offer. This provides guidance about education, health and social care provision within the local area.
School SENDCo– Mrs Burnside
Further conversations between the SENDCo, the Class Teacher and parents can be arranged as appropriate to discuss any developing needs. The SENDCo is responsible for coordinating any additional support that your child may need.
Head of School- Mr Bolton
Executive Headteacher – Miss Morris
The /Head of School/Executive Headteacher oversees all areas of the school’s provision. If appropriate, the Head of School/Executive Headteacher will be involved in meeting with parents to discuss children’s progress and decide upon how the school can best meet your child’s needs.
SEND Governor - Mrs Partridge
Our SEND Governor supports the school in ensuring that the needs of all children are met in line with the SEND Code of Practice (2014).
