Our DSP gives children the support they need in a way that works best for them. Children spend some time in their regular classes and sometime in the DSP. The DSP is a small group of children with up to 12 students.

Children complete the same assessments as other pupils in their year group. We use these results, along with information from teachers, to decide what support each child needs next and whether they move into mainstream.

Some children spend more time in their regular classes as they grow in confidence and skills. Others may need more time learning in the DSP.

Places in the DSP are flexible. Staff regularly review each child’s needs to make sure they are getting the right support.

Key staff within the DSP

Assistant Principal- Inclusion: Emma Topley

SENCO: Natalie Clarke

Lead Teachers: Natalie Clarke, Melissa Geary, Jennifer Glover

Lead TAS: Jemma Smith, Kirsty Potts, Marion Singleton

HLTA SUPPORT: Catherine Ruane, Shaima Sacranie

Transition to Year 7 – Communication and Interaction

When children start Year 7, some join our “Nurture Group” in the SEND area. This group helps children who need extra support with communication, interaction, and learning in smaller groups.

The children learn the same topics as other Year 7 students, but lessons are adapted to help them learn. English and Maths are taught by a teacher with primary school experience. Science and Humanities are taught in smaller groups by specialist teachers.

Children join other students for subjects such as art, design technology, and performing arts. Instead of learning a modern foreign language, they take part in special activities and programmes that help them develop important skills.

School work with previous setting to support transition. Transition books are provided, extra transition visits are provided, and we have a SEND coffee morning to support our students to settle into Secondary school.

KS3 Pathway * Same Teacher

Working with parents/carers

We share all success with parents, and they are invited in to discuss successes and any concerns. Staff are always happy to talk to parents and we have an honest and open relationship. This contributes to the success and progress seen in our students.

Working with other agencies:

As an Inclusion Base we work closely with other agencies including but not limited to:

• • The school counsellor
  • LCI team
  • SEMH team
  • Educational Psychologist
  • The school nurse
  • Connexions
  • The local education authority
  • Speech and Language therapist

Placement within our provision

Orchard Mead Academy does not have control over who is admitted to the Designated Specialist Provision (DSP), this is decided by the Special Education Service (SES) at panel meetings. Children attending this provision all require an Educational, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). Unfortunately, children who attend Orchard Mead do not have priority access to a space within the DSP.

We welcome visits from parents who have been referred to us through SES.