How The Curriculum Caters For Children With SEND
Academy 360 is an inclusive academy where every student is valued, respected and supported to achieve their full potential. We are committed to the inclusion, progress and independence of all learners, including those with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND).
Our secondary curriculum is designed to support academic achievement, emotional and social development, and preparation for life beyond school. We actively work to meet the needs of all members of our school community.
A young person has Special Educational Needs if they have a learning difficulty or disability that requires special educational provision which is additional to, or different from, that made generally for others of the same age (SEND Code of Practice, 2015, p.16).
Teachers are responsible for the progress of all students in their classes. High-quality, inclusive teaching is the first and most important step in supporting students with SEND. All students are challenged to achieve their best and expected to make at least good progress from their individual starting points, including in preparation for key assessments and examinations.
Staff have a strong understanding of students’ needs and work closely with external professional agencies when additional guidance or support is required. We value strong partnerships with parents and carers, ensuring open communication and shared decision-making. Digital tools and assistive technologies are used where appropriate to enhance access to learning. High-quality continuing professional development (CPD) ensures staff are confident and skilled in meeting a wide range of needs.
Leaders have strengthened capacity within the SEND team and prioritised the upskilling of classroom teachers and support staff. Needs are identified swiftly, and supportive partnerships with parents are developed through regular communication. Termly Inclusion Fusion meetings provide opportunities for collaboration and review, and parents are encouraged to engage with school communications, including social media and signposting to support networks.
Parents’ views are gathered regularly through surveys and conversations. Feedback shows that parents value the support provided, while recognising the increasing national demand for SEND provision.
Curriculum Approaches and Classroom Practice
Specific approaches used across the secondary curriculum include:
- Seating arrangements to promote inclusion.
- Differentiated activities to support and stretch learners in all lessons.
- Access to digital devices and accessibility tools.
- Resources that are accessible yet appropriately challenging.
- Visual aids and displays to support understanding where required.
- Additional adults to scaffold learning where appropriate.
- Opportunities for collaborative work and discussion.
- Clear and consistent teacher–student communication.
- Feedback (verbal and written) that supports progress.
- Independent learning and homework tasks set in line with peers.
- Targeted interventions and exam preparation sessions when required.
Please also refer to our Pupil Premium Strategy and Teaching and Learning Model for further details on how we support all learners to succeed.