special educational needs (sen) support

Curriculum entitlement for all

At Brooksbank, we believe that every student deserves the same curriculum entitlement, regardless of ability or need. Our dedicated teaching and support staff are committed to enabling students to access the curriculum at all levels. Our primary aim is to provide appropriate support for students within mainstream lessons, ensuring inclusivity and equal opportunities for all.

Take a look at our Learning Support Guide with will help to answer any questions you may have

Learning Support

Our well-resourced Learning Support Centre is designed to meet the needs of students requiring one-to-one support or those who benefit most from working in small groups. This centre is a hub of tailored educational support, offering personalised assistance to help students thrive.

Expert Learning Support Team

The Learning Support Team at our school is a blend of teaching specialists and learning support assistants. The team has extensive expertise in addressing a wide variety of needs, including:

  • Working with students with significant learning difficulties

  • Providing sensory support

  • Supporting students with additional needs

Additionally, our Education Welfare Officer plays a crucial role in supporting individual students and working closely with their families to ensure comprehensive care and attention.

Collaboration and Compliance

We prioritise collaboration among staff, parents, and students to ensure that individual needs are met in accordance with The Code of Practice and the Disability Act. Individual student profiles regularly reviewed by all staff and any cause for concern are highlighted and investigated to ensure the right support is in place.  

The Bridge: A Safe Haven

Our Bridge is a designated area specifically for students with social, emotional, and mental health needs. This unique space offers:

  • A quiet zone

  • Sensory lighting

  • An art therapy area

  • Weighted blankets

  • A mental health monitoring area

  • Specialised support

The Bridge provides a positive environment where students can regulate their emotions, take time out, and receive the support they need to thrive. Please note: The Bridge has a referral system in place.

  • Mrs Shenton – SENDCO Lead (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)

    Hello! I'm Mrs Shenton, a dedicated and enthusiastic SENDCO Lead at The Brooksbank School.

    With over 17 years of experience at Brooksbank, I am deeply committed to ensuring every child receives the support they need to thrive.

    In my role, I collaborate with teachers, parents and specialists to develop tailored learning plans, advocate for students with special educational needs, and create an inclusive and nurturing environment. My passion lies in unlocking each child's potential and fostering a community where all students can succeed.

    Read more

  • Mrs Riley – SENSO (Special Educational Needs Support Officer)

    Hello! I'm Mrs Riley, a passionate SENSO Assistant at The Brooksbank School.

    With a background in education and a deep commitment to supporting students with special educational needs, I work closely with our SENDCO Lead to implement individualised learning plans and provide targeted support.

    My role involves assisting with assessments, coordinating resources and ensuring our students receive the care and attention they deserve. I am dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where every child can flourish and reach their full potential.

    Read more

  • Mrs Fielding – Bridge Manager

    Hello! I’m Mrs Fielding, the Bridge Manager at The Brooksbank School.

    With a strong background in emotional support and a passion for fostering student growth, I oversee our transition program designed to help students move smoothly between different stages of their educational journey whilst supporting their mental health.

    My role involves coordinating with teachers, parents, and students to ensure seamless transitions, providing guidance and support to address any challenges, and implementing strategies that promote academic and social success. I am committed to creating a nurturing environment where every student feels confident and prepared for their next steps that promote positive wellbeing and mental health.

    Read more

  • The SENDCO is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the school's SEND policy. The SENDCo will co-ordinate additional support for students with SEND and liaise with their parents, teachers and other professionals who are involved with them.

    SENDCo responsibilities are:

    • Overseeing the day-to-day operation of the school’s SEND policy.

    • Supporting the identification of children with special educational needs.

    • Co-ordinating provision for children with SEND.

    • Liaising with parents of children with SEND.

    • Liaising with other providers, outside agencies, educational psychologists and external agencies particularly for children receiving support. Ensuring that the school keeps the records of all pupils with SEND up to date.

    The SENDCO is supported by the head teacher and all staff to try and develop effective ways of overcoming barriers to a child's learning and ensuring that they receive effective teaching through assessing the child’s needs and setting targets for improvement.

    SENDCo collaborates with curriculum leaders at the school to make sure that the learning requirements of all children with SEND are given equal emphasis and priority.

  • If you think there may be something holding your child back, express those concerns.

    If your child has not been diagnosed as having a special need, but you think things are not progressing as they should, call and speak with a member of the SEN team.

    If the needs are likely to be more than a minor concern that can be dealt with by the class teacher, the SENDCo may observe the child, talk to other staff members and look at any records that may indicate a difficulty.

    This may suggest that the child just needs a little extra help, or that SEND professionals need to become involved to diagnose a graver difficulty, and in the longer term perhaps initiate an Education, Health and Social Care (EHC) Plan.

Extracurricular Activities

We encourage all students, including those with special educational needs, to participate in our wide range of extracurricular activities. To ensure inclusivity, we offer targeted clubs such as:

  • Lego club

  • Boccia

  • Umbrella Club

  • Arts and Craft Club

These activities provide fun, engaging opportunities for students to develop new skills, build friendships, and enjoy their school experience to the fullest.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about our school's SEN support or would like to speak with a member of our SEN staff, whether your child is currently on the SEN register with us or you need information about supporting a student who isn’t, we are here to help.

Please book an appointment via our online calendar to arrange a convenient time for a chat.