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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How does Holte School identify if a child has SEND?
At Holte School, we use a range of information to identify whether a pupil may have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This may include information from primary schools, parents and carers, teachers, external professionals, assessment data, attendance information, and observations of a pupil’s progress and wellbeing.
Where concerns are identified, we will work closely with parents/carers and follow the Graduated Approach (Assess, Plan, Do, Review) to determine the most appropriate support.
What should I do if I think my child may have SEND?
If you have concerns about your child’s learning, progress, wellbeing, or development, please contact your child’s Form Tutor or Head of Year in the first instance. You may also contact the SEND Team directly.
We value parents’ knowledge of their children and will work collaboratively with you to understand your concerns and identify any support that may be required.
How will I know if my child is receiving additional support?
If your child requires support that is additional to or different from that provided through Quality First Teaching, you will be informed by the school.
We will discuss your child’s strengths, areas of need, the support being provided, and how progress will be monitored. Parents and carers are encouraged to contribute to planning and reviewing support throughout the year.
How does Holte School support pupils with SEND?
All pupils benefit from high-quality, inclusive teaching within the classroom.
Where additional support is required, pupils may access:
- Adapted teaching strategies and resources.
- Small-group interventions.
- Literacy and numeracy support.
- Social communication programmes.
- Emotional wellbeing and SEMH support.
- Access to specialist resources and technology.
- Support from external agencies where appropriate.
Provision is tailored to meet individual needs and reviewed regularly to ensure it is having a positive impact.
How is my child’s progress monitored?
Teachers continually assess and monitor progress through classroom assessment, observations, and formal assessment points throughout the year.
The SEND Team works closely with teaching staff to review the progress of pupils with SEND and evaluate the effectiveness of any interventions or support programmes. Parents/carers will receive regular updates through review meetings, reports, and communication with school staff.
How are parents involved?
We believe that strong partnerships between home and school are essential.
Parents and carers are encouraged to:
- Attend review meetings.
- Share information about their child’s strengths and needs.
- Contribute to support plans and targets.
- Contact the school whenever they have concerns or questions.
We are committed to ensuring that families are fully involved in decisions regarding their child’s education and support.
How are pupils involved in decisions about their support?
Pupil voice is central to our SEND provision.
We encourage pupils to share their views about what helps them learn, any challenges they experience, and the support they feel is most effective. Their views are considered when planning and reviewing provision.
What external agencies does Holte School work with?
Where appropriate, we may seek advice and support from a range of external professionals, including:
- Educational Psychology Service
- Communication and Autism Team (CAT)
- Pupil and School Support (PSS)
- Speech and Language Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- School Nursing Service
- Mental Health Support Teams
- Sensory Support Services
- Children’s Services and Early Help
Any referrals to external agencies will be discussed with parents/carers beforehand.
How does Holte School support transition?
We recognise that transitions can be challenging for some pupils.
Additional transition support may include:
- Enhanced Year 6 transition programmes.
- Additional visits to school.
- Transition meetings with families and primary schools.
- Personalised transition plans.
- Opportunities to meet key staff and familiarise pupils with the school environment.
We also support pupils as they move between year groups and prepare for post-16 education, employment, or training.
What if I am unhappy with the support my child receives?
We encourage parents and carers to raise concerns as early as possible so that they can be resolved quickly.
In the first instance, please contact your child’s Form Tutor, Head of Year, or the SENDCo. If concerns remain unresolved, parents may follow the school’s Complaints Procedure, which is available on the school website.
We are committed to working collaboratively with families to achieve the best outcomes for every pupil.
How can I contact the SEND Team?
If you would like further information about SEND provision at Holte School, please contact the SEND Team through the school reception or via the school’s main contact details.
We are always happy to discuss any questions or concerns and work together to support your child.