How we support children/young people with SEN starting at our school
New starters for Nursery and Reception children are provided with the following opportunities:
- Parent Open Information meeting
- Children’s visits the half-term before starting Nursery
- Children’s visits to Reception class in the Summer Term
We are extremely flexible and are prepared to organise extra transition sessions or meetings with external agencies to make transition as easy and stress-free as possible.
How we support children/young people with SEN moving between classes in our school
We benefit from being a small school as all staff know every pupil. Transition from each Year Group is therefore easier for the children as they already know their new class teacher. We also have transition days so children are familiar with the new classroom environment and organisation.
How we support children/young people with SEN leaving our school
We work in partnership with our feeder secondary schools to provide an enhanced level of transition for those who we feel would benefit from this. This may take the form of additional visits for pupils or one to one / small group working with secondary school staff.
The period of transition depends on the individual needs of the pupil. If it is felt appropriate secondary school colleagues will come into school to meet the current class teacher, parents and most importantly the pupil. We have found this strategy particularly useful in easing any worries or concerns parents and pupils may have.
Admission arrangements for a pupil with SEND
To apply for a place at any primary school for a child who is in reception year or above, you must complete a primary school transfer form from Durham County Council Admissions, Appeals and Transport Entitlement Team. If you require a paper copy or admission advice please contact the team by phoning 03000 265 896. You can also view the Admission Policy in the School Policies section of our website.
Once you have completed and returned the application form to the team, you will be notified by letter as to the outcome of your application. If a place can be offered you will be advised of a date by which you must take up the place. It is also recommended that you contact the school for further details of your child’s admission. If a place cannot be offered you will be advised of your right both to appeal and to place your child’s name on the waiting list for your preferred school.
Visit the Durham County Council website for information regarding Primary School Admission Arrangements
To appeal against an admission decision visit: School admissions-appeals.
For pupils with special educational needs or disabilities, we would ask parents to discuss the identified needs with the school prior to starting so that appropriate intervention and support can be planned and implemented. Advice from the LA or other agencies may be requested to ensure any the school can meet any needs appropriately.
Applying for a school place if your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan or a Statement of SEN
Children and young people with an Education, Health and Care Plan (or Statement of Special Education Needs) follow a different admission and transfer process for a new school. Please continue to complete Durham County Council’s parental preference form, as part of the admission process to a new school. You continue to have a right to request a particular school and this will be considered alongside the information that we have about your child’s special educational needs. The information would have been provided as part of the Education, Health and Care assessment or following the review meeting.
You are more than welcome to visit us before you make your decision. The admission limit for the number of pupils in each year group at our school is 19. Sunnybrow Primary School provides education for children aged 4-11 years old. We also have a Nursery which offers provision for pupils aged 3 years. There are 10 spaces. Please see our Nursery page for more information.
If you would like to discuss your SEND requirements in detail please contact the school to arrange an appointment.
