SEND and inclusion
Support shaped around each student
Co Adventurers St Thomas is being developed as an independent special school for children aged 5 to 14 with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), including social, emotional and mental health needs.
Our approach recognises that students arrive with different experiences and starting points. We adapt teaching and support to help them participate meaningfully, with attention to their emotional readiness as well as their learning needs.
Understanding individual needs
We take time to understand each student’s strengths, interests and barriers to learning. Information from families and professionals helps staff plan appropriate support, alongside observations and conversations with the student.
Where a student has an education, health and care plan (EHCP), its outcomes help guide learning goals and provision. Support is reviewed as staff develop their understanding of what enables the student to engage and progress.
Relationships and emotional support
Trusted relationships with consistent adults underpin our approach. Teachers and mentors recognise that previous experiences can affect a student’s confidence and ability to feel safe in education.
Our attachment-aware and trauma-informed practice helps staff respond to those needs. Mentoring, clear routines and opportunities for reflection support students in managing emotions and preparing for learning. Restorative conversations help them work through difficulties and understand their effect on others.
Adapting learning and participation
Staff adjust the pace, level of challenge and ways students take part. Adaptations described in our curriculum documents include:
- Visual timetables and clear routines
- Movement, sensory and regulation breaks
- Preparation visits before unfamiliar activities
- Adapted equipment and sensory support
- Flexible roles within activities
- Adult modelling and help with recording ideas
Support responds to the individual and the activity. Students have opportunities to consolidate skills while being encouraged towards greater independence.
Inclusion beyond the classroom
Outdoor Learning and Adventurous Learning are adapted to students’ needs and readiness. Preparation and carefully supported challenges help students build towards participation over time.
A student may need a different role, additional preparation or a quieter space during an activity. Staff retain flexibility while keeping a clear educational purpose and appropriate safety arrangements.
Working with families and professionals
Parents and carers contribute valuable knowledge about their child. We welcome their involvement in planning and reviews, including information about what helps their child feel secure and take part.
We also work with local authorities and other professionals to connect educational support with EHCP outcomes and plans for the student’s next steps.
Equality and accessibility
Our curriculum policy commits us to making reasonable adjustments for students with disabilities or additional needs. These may involve teaching, the environment or the way progress is assessed.
Our Equality Policy and Accessibility Plan provide further information about the school’s arrangements.
Policies and further information
The following documents explain our arrangements in more detail:
- SEND PolicyAvailable on request
- Inclusion PolicyAvailable on request
- Equality PolicyAvailable on request
- Accessibility PlanAvailable on request
Documents will be available to download here. For a free copy now, email office@coadventurersstthomas.co.uk.
Discuss your child’s needs
If you would like to explore whether Co Adventurers St Thomas could provide suitable support for your child, or for a young person you work with, please contact us.