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1 year on – the SEND provision at Littlecoates is going from strength to strength

10:47 am, Friday, 22nd November 2024 - 3 months ago

Schools and education

Specialist provision for children with Special Educational Needs, introduced 12 months ago in North East Lincolnshire, has been praised for its positive impact.

The Launchpad’s ‘turnaround provision’ at Littlecoates Primary School on the West Marsh is aimed at those children who have an Education, Health and Care Plan, with primary needs of communication and interaction.

It was introduced last September for early years children and those in Key Stage 1 (aged 4, 5 and 6.)

The aim is to help those children adjust to mainstream school with short-term support from specialist staff who can understand and cater to those with communication and interaction needs.

So far, 11 children have utilised the new provision and eight  are accessing mainstream lessons and PE sessions, with further integration planned. One year 2 child is now fully integrated into a mainstream classroom.

Families who have benefited from this new addition at Littlecoates have praised the resource and have commented on what a positive impact it is having on their children.

One child’s parents said: “I love how Launchpad has provided a safe and happy environment for all the children, with many different activities catering to their individuality.”

Principal of Littlecoates Primary Academy, Nev Wilkinson said: “We have had a successful year, though it has been a steep learning curve for everyone. I’m proud of the successes.

“Our goal is to transition these children into mainstream classes or find them an onward destination that fully meets their needs and where they can thrive.

“Those who work directly with the children have, where appropriate, cascaded their skills so the whole school team has benefitted from understanding this aspect of SEND.

“We have developed relationships with other agencies, such as the local authority’s speech and language therapy team.

“I’d like to thank the council for its support and ongoing advice.”

Portfolio holder for Children and Education at North East Lincolnshire Council, Councillor Margaret Cracknell, said: “It is wonderful to hear that the initial cohort of children at Littlecoates Academy is thriving in this innovative provision.

“It is clear from the feedback from both parents and staff that it is having a positive impact on the children and I’m sure it will continue going from strength to strength.”

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