policies & procedures

Supporting Children with Special Educational Needs and Disability Policy

Our commitment at Planet Warriors Kids Club extends to ensuring all children enjoy a safe and enriching play environment. We embrace the inclusion of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), fostering equal opportunities for their participation alongside peers.

Key Understanding

We hold a unified vision for all children, aiming for their happiness and stimulation within the club.

All team members are expected to warmly welcome and familiarise themselves with children with SEND, championing equality and inclusion to help them reach their potential.

Recognising Diversity

• Many children with special educational needs may also have disabilities, though not all disabilities indicate SEN.

• Disabilities, whether sensory impairments or long-term health conditions, are defined by substantial impacts on day-to-day activities.

• SEN encompasses children with learning difficulties or disabilities requiring specialised educational provisions.

• We anticipate and address the diverse needs of children with SEND, ensuring their full inclusion without disadvantage.

• Understanding that needs may vary across communication, cognition, social-emotional, sensory, and physical realms, we tailor support accordingly.

Prior to attending

We ask parents and carers to provide comprehensive information via the registration process and additional forms, aiding our understanding of the child's specific needs.

Our SEND Lead Practitioner will engage with parents/carers to discuss and build a comprehensive care plans based on theirindividual requirements.

Inclusive Measures

We strive to eliminate barriers to participation, including making reasonable adaptions to activities and resources, securing additional funding for staffing or training etc.

Allocation of an Inclusion Play Leader may be required to ensure dedicated support, with tailored training and visits to the child’s home, school and club to ease transition.

Inclusive Practices

We prioritise getting to know each child, respecting their preferences, and collaborating closely with parents/carers.

Inclusion Play Leaders aim to facilitate interaction, independence, and communication support, fostering peer engagement and personal development.

Continuous Improvement

We regularly review and adjust the support provided, ensuring they align with the evolving needs of the child and best practice.

Parents and carers input is valued in shaping our approach, while collaboration with external agencies enhances our understanding and support capabilities.

The Designated SEND Lead Practitioner oversees support implementation and on-going staff training.

Training and Awareness

Team members receive comprehensive training, supplemented by external courses and annual inclusion-focused sessions, fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding.

Commitment to Inclusion

Prior to a child starting at the club, we will find out as much information as possible and work in partnership with the parent and carers to consider if our club is the right setting for the child and if we are able to meet the child’s needs. We will endeavour to make reasonable adjustments and explore what barriers can be removed.

Funding One to One Support

If one to one support is needed we will work in partnership with the Parents and  Local Authority to endeavour to access funding for the child either via the LA, through Government Direct Payments applied for by the parents or from other funding sources. We will not be able to fund one to one support directly. 

If we are unable to meet the needs of a child

If after the initial interactions or if the child tries the club and after a period of time it isn’t the right setting for them, we will speak with the parents explaining the reasons why we are unable to meet their needs and will signpost to other settings or to the Local Authority for support and advice of more suitable settings. 

Local Offer

We align with the Local Authority and maintain a Local Offer Document, ensuring clear pathways for accessing support services and relevant agencies.

This policy underscores our dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where every child can flourish and thrive.

Written in accordance with the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (2023): Safeguarding and Welfare Requirements: Child protection [3.4], Safety and suitability of premises, environment and equipment [3.57] and Suitable people [3.19].