The Graduated Approach at Norcot

When we identify a child as requiring additional provision because of their Special Educational Needs, we need to follow the Graduated Approach as detailed in the SEND Code of Practice which includes as Assess, Plan, Do and Review continuous cycle. This is completed in partnership with parents.

🔍 Assess

We observe your child during play and learning to identify their strengths and any barriers. We'll talk with you about what you're noticing at home and sometimes work with specialists to build a complete picture.

📋 Plan

Working together, we agree on the support we'll provide and what we're aiming to achieve. This is recorded on a Personalised Education Plan (PEP) with clear, achievable steps.

✨ Do

Your child's key person puts the plan into action every day. We'll share strategies with you so you can support learning at home too.

🔄 Review

We meet at least three times a year to discuss progress, celebrate achievements, and plan next steps. Your views and your child's voice shape what happens

🏫 Universal Provision/Ordinarily Available Provision 

At Norcot Early Years Centre, every child receives high-quality, inclusive teaching that's carefully adapted to meet their individual needs. This is the foundation of everything we do, ensuring all children can access learning and reach their full potential. Our skilled practitioners plan learning experiences that are accessible to all, using a range of teaching strategies and resources to ensure every child can participate fully and make progress from their individual starting points. We work in close partnership with families at every stage to make sure your child receives exactly the support they need to thrive.

🤝 SEN Support Using Nursery Resources 

When a child needs additional or different support beyond our universal provision, we use our graduated approach – a continuous cycle of Assess, Plan, Do, and Review. At this stage, we provide targeted interventions using our nursery's own resources and expertise. This might include small group work, adapted activities, or specific strategies tailored to your child's needs. We work closely with you to agree on the support we'll provide, set clear outcomes, and regularly review your child's progress to ensure the provision is making a difference.

👥 Specialist Support with External Professionals 

For some children, we may need to invite external specialists to assess and plan more targeted support. This could involve professionals such as speech and language therapists, educational psychologists, or occupational therapists who work alongside our team to gain a deeper understanding of your child's needs. These specialists help us develop more specific strategies and interventions, ensuring your child gets the right support at the right time. We continue to work in partnership with you throughout this process, keeping you fully informed and involved in all decisions about your child's provision.

📋 Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plans 

For children with significant and complex needs that cannot be met through SEN support alone, we work closely with families and the local authority to request an EHC needs assessment. If an EHC plan is issued, we'll work collaboratively with you and external professionals to make sure the specialist provision your child needs is in place and making a real difference to their learning and development. We remain committed to working in partnership with you throughout this process to achieve the best possible outcomes for your child.