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Cloughduv NS's First Autism Class

Every child belongs. Every child matters.

At Cloughduv NS, we believe that every child is unique, valued and deserving of the opportunity to reach their full potential. We are committed to creating an inclusive, nurturing and supportive school environment where all children feel safe, respected and a genuine sense of belonging.

We recognise that children learn in different ways and that some may require additional support to access learning and participate fully in school life. Our approach is guided by the principles of inclusion, respect, dignity, positive relationships and partnership with parents and guardians.

Supporting Every Child

Our special educational needs provision is an integral part of our whole-school approach to teaching and learning. We strive to identify and respond to each child's individual strengths, interests and needs through a flexible and responsive continuum of support.

Depending on individual needs, support may include:

• Differentiated teaching and learning within the mainstream classroom.
• Individual and small-group support from our Special Education Teachers.
• Additional support for communication, social and emotional development.
• Appropriate learning resources, assistive technology and sensory supports.
• Special class provision, where appropriate.
• Collaboration with parents, guardians and relevant professionals.

We regularly review the supports provided to ensure that they remain appropriate and responsive to each child's learning and development.

A Relational Approach to Learning and Wellbeing

Our practice is informed by the NCSE's Relate guidance, which recognises the importance of positive relationships, emotional wellbeing and understanding the individual child.

We seek to understand each child's perspective, recognise their strengths and listen to their voice. We understand that behaviour can communicate a need, an emotion or an experience, and we aim to respond with curiosity, compassion and care.

Through positive relationships, predictable routines and supportive learning environments, we work to help children feel secure, develop confidence and build the skills they need to engage successfully in school.

Our approach prioritises prevention, co-regulation and appropriate support, with an emphasis on helping children develop a sense of safety, connection and belonging.

Sensory and Regulation Support

As part of our ongoing commitment to inclusion and wellbeing, we have developed a dedicated sensory and regulation space within our school.

This space provides an additional supportive environment where children may access sensory experiences, opportunities for calm and support with regulation, as appropriate to their individual needs.

The sensory space forms part of our wider approach to creating an accessible and supportive learning environment. Its use is guided by individual needs and appropriate support strategies, with the aim of helping children feel comfortable, regulated and ready to participate in learning.

We recognise that sensory and regulation needs can differ from child to child, and we aim to respond to these needs with sensitivity, understanding and respect.

Inclusion, Participation and Belonging

We believe that inclusion extends beyond the classroom. It means ensuring that every child has opportunities to participate, build relationships, develop friendships and experience the many aspects of school life.

We value the unique contribution each child makes to our school community. Through inclusive teaching practices, positive relationships and appropriate supports, we strive to create an environment in which children can learn alongside their peers, develop independence and experience success.

Our aim is to ensure that every child feels welcomed, understood and valued as an important member of our school community.

Working in Partnership with Families

We recognise parents and guardians as essential partners in their children's education. We value their knowledge, experiences and insights and believe that open, respectful communication helps us provide the most appropriate support for each child.

We work collaboratively with families, listening to their views and sharing relevant information in a sensitive and appropriate manner.

We are committed to protecting the privacy, confidentiality and dignity of every child and family. Individual information relating to a child's educational needs or support arrangements is treated with care and is shared only where appropriate.

Our Commitment

At Cloughduv NS, we are committed to continually developing our inclusive practice through reflection, collaboration, professional learning and engagement with current guidance.

We strive to create a school where difference is respected, individual strengths are celebrated and every child is supported to learn, grow and thrive.