Frequently Asked Questions

What does SEND mean? 

SEND stands for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. A student may have SEND if they need additional support to help them access learning or participate fully in school life. 

How does the school identify students with SEND? 

Students may be identified through: 

• Information from primary schools  

• Parent or carer concerns  

• Teacher observations and assessments  

• Screening assessments  

• External professional reports  

• Progress monitoring and attainment data  

We work closely with families throughout this process. 

What support is available for students with SEND? 

Support may include: 

• Adaptive teaching strategies  

• In-class support  

• Small group interventions  

• Literacy or numeracy support  

• Social skills programmes  

• Emotional wellbeing support  

• Exam access arrangements  

• Mentoring and pastoral support  

Support is tailored to individual student needs. 

How will I know how my child is progressing? 

We regularly monitor student progress through: 

• Teacher feedback and assessments  

• SEND reviews  

• Parent meetings  

• Reports and communication home  

• Student voice and wellbeing check-ins  

Parents and carers are encouraged to contact the school at any time with concerns or questions. 

Who should I contact if I have concerns about my child? 

Your first point of contact is usually your child’s form tutor or Head of Year. You may also contact the SEND department directly to discuss support or arrange a meeting. 

What is an EHCP? 

An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document outlining a child or young person’s educational needs and the support required to meet them. 

More information can be found through the Kent SEND Local Offer. 

Does a child need an EHCP to receive support? 

No. Many students receive SEND support in school without having an EHCP. Support is provided according to individual need. 

How does the school support students with autism or ADHD? 

We use a range of strategies including: 

• Structured routines  

• Visual supports  

• Sensory considerations  

• Clear communication  

• Safe spaces and emotional regulation support  

• Personalised classroom strategies  

We also work alongside external professionals where appropriate. 

How are students supported with emotional wellbeing and mental health? 

Students can access pastoral and wellbeing support through: 

• Mentoring  

• Inclusion support  

• Emotional literacy interventions  

• External referrals where needed  

Families may also find support through YoungMinds and Kooth. 

How are students supported during transition from primary school? 

We understand that transition can be a significant change for students. Support may include: 

• Additional transition visits  

• Meetings with families and primary schools  

• Personalised transition plans  

• Photo guides or visual timetables  

• Summer school opportunities  

What exam support is available? 

Students who meet the criteria may receive exam access arrangements such as: 

• Extra time  

• Rest breaks  

• Use of a laptop  

• Reader or scribe support  

These arrangements are based on formal assessments and normal ways of working in school. 

How does the school work with outside agencies? 

We may work with a range of professionals including: 

• Educational Psychologists  

• Speech and Language Therapists  

• Specialist Teaching and Learning Services  

• Early Help teams  

• Mental health services  

• Social care professionals  

We work collaboratively with families and external agencies to provide joined-up support.