Since September 2014 Local Authorities (LA) and schools have been required to publish and keep under review information about services they expect to be available for children and young people with special educational needs (SEN) aged 0-25. This is known as the ‘Local Offer’.
The intention of the Local Offer is to improve choice for families and will also be an important resource for parents in understanding the range of services and provision in the local area.
Further information about the Local Offer can be found on the County Durham Families Information Service website.
SEND Information Report
Schools also have to publish a SEND Information Report on their website. This will provide details about how we implement our policy for children and young people with SEND.
SEND Policies
If you would like to discuss your SEND requirements in detail please contact the school to arrange an appointment with Mrs Doyle our new SENDCo on tel. 01325 300 339.
Sensory Pod
At St. Mary's Catholic Primary School, the sensory pod is a dedicated space designed to support pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This tranquil environment provides a safe and nurturing area where students can engage in sensory activities tailored to their individual needs. The sensory pod helps reduce sensory overload, allowing pupils to self-regulate and manage their emotions effectively. By offering a quiet, controlled setting with soft lighting, comfortable seating, and various sensory tools, the pod enhances concentration, reduces anxiety, and minimizes challenging behaviours, making it an invaluable resource for inclusive education at St. Mary's
Support Staff
At St. Mary's Catholic Primary School, our dedicated support staff are extensively trained in a variety of specialized programs to enhance the learning experience for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). These programs include Attention Autism, which focuses on developing attention and communication skills; Intensive Interaction, aimed at improving social interaction and communication; Early Communicators, designed to support early language development; Box Tasks, which help build independence and task completion skills; and Zones of Regulation, a framework for teaching self-regulation and emotional control. This comprehensive training ensures our staff are well-equipped to provide tailored support, fostering an inclusive and nurturing educational environment.
Parent Coffee Mornings
At St. Mary's Catholic Primary School, our experienced SENDCO, Mrs. Stewart, hosts half-termly coffee mornings specifically focused on supporting parents of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). These gatherings provide a welcoming space for parents to share their concerns and experiences, ensuring that their voices inform our practices. During these sessions, Mrs. Stewart offers training and support on various topics, including sensory needs, autism, and speech and language development. These coffee mornings foster a sense of community and collaboration, empowering parents with the knowledge and resources they need to support their children's education and well-being.