At docklands day nursery we provide a safe and welcoming environment for all our children. We offer an excellent care and education to all our children, and we work in close partnership with all our parents as they are the first and most enduring educators of their children.

The nursery is consists of a range of cosy rooms specific to the age group of each child. (Baby room, Toddler and pre-school). The children engage in cooking activities as well as sensory play activities and many more. We have a generous outside play area which is equipped and resourced to the highest standard.

Nurseries and playgroups must help all children who go to their settings, including those with special needs.

They do this by:

• Having a SEND Policy. This explains how they help children with additional needs. You can find it on their website or ask staff for a copy.

• Specialist Support: A team member called a SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) has training and experience to help children with special needs. They will work with you as the child's parent and if needed, other specialist services.

• Staff Training makes sure staff know how to identify and help children with different needs.

• Working with Health Visitors to review development, progress, and identify needs e.g. 27th Month Review.

• Connecting with Children's Centres to get Early Help or MAT (Multi Agency Team) support if needed.

• Help with Transitions from the Area SENCo when children with SEND move on to reception class or primary school,

• How to access support from education and health specialist services. Your permission is needed before they can be involved.

Extra support funding for children with additional needs

To get extra help for children with special needs settings will know about:

• Disability Access Fund (DAF). When and how to apply for this funding for eligible children.

• Early Years Inclusion Funding. When it may be appropriate to apply for this funding for children with new or emerging needs. 

• Education, Health, and Care Assessment (EHCNA). When to request an EHCNA. If a child with SEND needs more support that can be provided through the above an EHCNA may identify they need an Education, Health, and Care (EHC) Plan funded from the high needs funding block. EHC Plans are reviewed every six months for children in early years settings.

Staff in settings are there to support all children, including those with special needs. If you have questions, please ask to speak with the settings SENCo.