Local SEND Improvement

At the ‘Shout Out for SEND’ conference in November 2022 young people told us:

• The language and words used need to be more supportive
• There have been many instances where teachers don’t understand the young person’s needs
• We need to adjust things to help young people with SEND be included both in school and in the community
• They can be themselves around their learning support assistants (LSA) as they are accepting and make them feel comfortable.

The young people shared where this has been done both well and not well.

This has been reiterated by our work with the Shout Out For SEND representatives, young people’s groups and SEND Young Inspectors.

This feedback has helped shape the aims and objectives of our strategy and informed our SEND Improvement Plan.

Our vision is to build a better future for all children and young people with SEND so that they realise their full potential.

We will ensure children and young people:

• Are safe
• Live fulfilling lives
• Are healthy
• Reach their potential in education and other aspects of their lives
• Are resilient and can identify their own solutions
• Make a positive contribution to their community

Our key principles are:

• Early intervention to meet need, enabling growth and building resilience
• Timely and clear communication
• Trusting relationships with and between all professionals
• Inclusive early years settings, schools and colleges
• Support provided by parents, carers, families, friends and communities is recognised and valued
• High quality, cost-effective and consistent services across the local area

These principles underpin all aspects of the Strategy.

Our aims and objectives are focused on the four Preparation for Adulthood outcomes outlined in the SEND Code of Practice, providing a structure to our aspirations. These include:

• Healthy living
• Socialising and taking part
• Ambitions for the future
• Independence