Our playgroup has large, light and airy room for 2 to 4-year olds to play and learn with lots of cosy spaces. We make learning fun and ensure that kids will enjoy coming to the playgroup. In our playgroup we have lovely outdoor play area which develops children’s physical health, emotional wellbeing, independence, creative and critical thinking skills, respect for themselves, others and for the environment.

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.