SEND

At Fishponds CE Primary School we provide a broad, balanced curriculum for all our pupils and high quality teaching which is differentiated and personalised and accessible to every one of our pupils. We encourage all pupils to develp their skills and aim to give them to tools they need to grow their self-confidence in a nurturing, enriching and safe environment where every child is treared as an individual. We want all of our children to be able to find a love of learning and be able to develop good relationships with others.

For children with SEND we aim to support them to succeed in their education and make a successful transition between educational settings and into adulthood. The views, wishes and feelings of the child and their parents are incredibly important and we support and encourage children and parents to participate fully in decision making.

All our staff work as a team to try and make school the best place it can be for children of all needs and abilities. If your child is already in school and you are concerned about their learning, in the first instance, please make an appointment with theie class teacher to discuss your concerns.

Our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCo) is Mrs Vicky Caddell. Mrs Caddell advises our staff team in regards to special educational needs and disabilities and ensures that our school is inclusive. Mrs Caddell also liaise with other professionals (e.g. Speech and Language Therapists, Educational Psychologists, Behaviour Support, Occupational Therapists and the Local Authority SEND team) to ensure that all children in our school are given the best possible provision to support their needs. 

If you have any concerns about your childs educational needs please contact with Mrs Caddell to arrange a meeting (v.caddell@fceps.org.uk). Mrs Caddell can advise on ways to help at home and work with staff in school to help you child with their engagement. 

Bristol’s SEND Local Offer provides a central hub of information, guidance and support for children and young people aged 0 to 25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), as well as their families and professionals. The website brings together details about education, health, social care and other services available in Bristol, including early years support, school provision, transition planning and opportunities for training and independent living. It’s designed to make it easier for families to understand what help is available and how to access it. The Local Offer is regularly updated and shaped by feedback from parents, carers and young people, helping ensure services meet local needs. 

SEND and You (SAY) is the official SENDIAS (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information, Advice and Support) service for Bristol, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset. It offers free, confidential and impartial support to children and young people aged 0–25 with SEND, as well as their parents and carers. Whether families are just beginning to explore their child’s needs or are navigating more complex processes like Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), SEND and You is there to help every step of the way.

The service provides expert advice on a wide range of topics, including understanding SEND law, preparing for meetings, resolving disagreements, and making sure children and young people’s voices are heard. Families can access support by phone, email, or through helpful resources and workshops available on the SEND and You website.

SEND and You works closely with local communities and professionals to make sure families feel informed, empowered and supported.