Inclusion policy – Special Educational Needs and/or disabilities

Inclusion policy –  Special Educational Needs and/or disabilities

 

Aim of policy

 

Castle Daycare & Preschool is committed to the integration of children with Special Educational Needs and/or disabilities at all of their nurseries.  We believe that provision for children in the early years and assessment of their needs are of paramount importance and will give the best long term benefits to children, families and the whole community.

 

Points to consider

 

We recognise that all children, including those with Special Educational Needs and/or disabilities have the same rights to development, care and play.  All children attending our nurseries will be offered the same opportunities with support and assistance available to overcome any disadvantage they may have to face.  We will help and encourage every child, regardless of individual needs to reach their full developmental potential. 

 

Castle Daycare and Preschool aim to achieve this by:

 

• All our nurseries will have an appointed Special Needs Co-ordinator who has knowledge of the Code of Practice (2001) and the Equality Act 2010 in relation to special needs.

 

• We promote positive images of those with special needs.

 

• We offer wheelchair access where possible.  Where appropriate, ramp and lift access will also be provided.

 

• Where appropriate our nurseries will assess each child’s needs in terms of access, where appropriate our nursery will be adapted to accommodate the child/ren.

 

• We will provide suitable bathroom, toilet and changing facilities.

 

• By ensuring play areas will be accessible to all children.

 

• By treating all children as equals and encourage all children to participate in nursery activities, e.g. garden, music and movement.  When outings/visits are organised, children with special needs will always be included with appropriate travel and care arrangements made.

 

• By ensuring resources including, play equipment, toys and books will be used to support all children’s understanding of ability and children’s individual needs.

 

• By planning activities to include all children and ensuring children with special needs have full access to those activities.

 

• By maintaining accurate records based on appropriate observation.

 

• We will endeavour to employ members of staff who are experienced in the care of children with generic special needs.  The training needs of all staff will be identified.  Appropriate staff training and development will be a priority.

 

• Staff will work closely with parents/carers as partners to give day-to-day care for the child.

 

• Support will be offered to parents/carers by the staff team and/or referrals will be made or suggested.

 

• By ensuring that staff, parents/guardians/carers are aware of the policy and procedures.

 

• By ensuring confidentiality at all times