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The Orchard School

Additional SEND Support 

This section identifies further intervention or support that is required by some children with SEND. This may include specific interventions, support from external agencies, training on specific needs for staff and access to additional resources. 

Surrey Local Offer

Communication and Interaction

  • Visual prompts are in place and used to support language including key vocabulary, now and next, visual timetables, gesture and signing.

  • Extra time is allowed for processing what has been said (10 seconds).

  • Instructions or requests, if not understood, are simplified and additional visuals used to support.
  • Understanding is checked by getting child to feedback or by asking questions.
  • Distractions in the learning space are limited.
  • Topic vocabulary is pre-taught.

  • Teaching staff repeat back what has been said to either expand the sentence, complexity or length; add a different vocabulary word, or model correct grammar.

Talking is encouraged by commenting and giving choices rather than questioning. 
First Next Then Board

Daily Routine Cards

Visual Timetable for Home

Now and Next BoardBedtime Routine

 Cognition and Learning

  • Class team focus the child’s attention to the task by saying their name first. 
  • Information is given in short chunks, repeat when necessary, and give time for processing. 
  • A listening partner is used to remind the child what to do. 
  • Good listening is praised. 
  • Regular, short breaks are provided. 
  • Visual timetables are implemented.
  • Timers are used when appropriate so the child knows the expectation and that they only need to focus for a specific and comfortable amount of time. 
  • The child person has access to sensory equipment to support attention and listening. e.g., chew toys, fiddle toys, wobble cushions. 
  • Social stories are used with the learner.
  • The child is given additional time before being asked to respond. 
  • There is pre-teaching in place to help prepare the learner for the new topic.  
  • Little Wandle phonic resources
  • Colourful Semantics videos which explain what colourful semantics is and how it is used

An Introduction to Colourful Semantics

Supporting Language Development Using Colourful Semantics

Social Emotional and Mental Health

  • Consistent message of 'we want in the class learning' and 'you are important and special to us'
  • The child has choices to allow them some control with the same result e.g., would you like to do this now or in 5 minutes? 
  • Appropriate de-escalation strategies are in place (e.g., time out card). Time out card
  • There is a flexible and creative use of rewards e.g., ‘catch them being good’ sticker charts, class rainbow.
  • The Rainbow Room can be utilised as a safe space/quiet area if needed.
  • Mindworks (CAMHS) 
  • Zones of Regulation 

Why Teach Emotional Literacy?

At the Orchard, we understand that all behaviour is a form of communication. If a child is displaying unwanted or inappropriate behaviour, our primary response is to question, why? 

The Zones of Regulation are central to how we work as a school community. Please visit our dedicated page to find out more. 

Parent Home PACK  

Physical and Sensory

  • All staff are aware of any child’s sensory/ physical needs and implications in all teaching and learning environments and how to accommodate these.

  • The child is seated with a clear view of the teacher/speakers face and any visual material.

  • Instructions are delivered clearly and at an appropriate volume.

  • Visual reinforcement (pictures and handouts) are provided to support learning.

  • Advice from the Occupational Therapist (OT) is incorporated in the child’s programme.
  • Extra time to complete tasks is provided.
  • There is a ‘calming’ space in the school that can be accessed as and when needed.
  • Activities that provide sensory feedback are provided - a chewy, heavy pushing and lifting activities, morning gross motor skills circuit, wobble cushions, TheraBand on the legs of the chair.
  • Movement breaks are provided that are specific and prevent over-stimulation.

Brain break activity cardsMovement break visuals

Autism

Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), sometimes called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a lifelong spectrum condition which affects people in different ways and is caused by differences in the brain. People with ASC may have difficulties with social communication and interaction, repetitive and restrictive behaviour, under- or over-sensitivity to light, sound, taste or touch, highly focused interests, anxiety, meltdowns and shutdowns. Watch a video explaining autism here.

Support for Parents

The National Autistic Society have a support branch in Surrey and run regular meetings for parents of children with Autism. These meetings take place both in person and online and importantly, parents can still attend even if the child has not received a formal diagnosis. More information about these meetings can be found here: NAS Surrey Branch | NAS Surrey Branch Meetings & Events

The National Autistic Society also run a parent course which is called Stepping Up for Autism. This is an 8-week course of 2-hour weekly sessions, including supporting behaviour. We highly recommend investment in this course if you have a child with Autism, or a child awaiting a diagnosis of Autism.

More information can be found here:

Mindworks Surrey

Stepping up to Autism courses

For parents of young children with autism in the UK, the following online resources can provide valuable information, support, and guidance:

  1. The National Autistic Society:

    • Website: autism.org.uk
    • Offers resources specifically for parents and caregivers of young children with autism, including information on early diagnosis, early interventions, and educational support.

  2. Ambitious about Autism:

    • Website: ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk
    • Provides tailored support for young children with autism, including early years services, educational programs, and family support.

  3. Contact:

    • Website: contact.org.uk
    • Offers advice and support for families with young children with autism, including information on early signs, diagnosis, and accessing support services.

  4. The National Autistic Society EarlyBird Programme:

  5. Autism Education Trust:

    • Website: autismeducationtrust.org.uk
    • Offers resources and training for parents and professionals working with young children with autism in educational settings.

  6. The Curly Hair Project:

    • Website: thegirlwiththecurlyhair.co.uk
    • Provides resources, books, and workshops to help parents understand and support young children with autism, created by an autistic author.

  7. Resources for Autism:

    • Website: resourcesforautism.org.uk
    • Offers practical services, including play and youth groups, for young children with autism and their families.

  8. Autistica:

    • Website: autistica.org.uk
    • Focuses on autism research and provides resources and information to support young autistic children and their families, including early diagnosis and intervention.

  9. Family Fund:

    • Website: familyfund.org.uk
    • Provides grants and financial support to families with young children with autism for essential items and services, such as sensory toys and educational materials.

These resources can provide comprehensive support and information to help parents in the UK navigate the challenges of raising a child with autism.

 ADHD/ADD

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Attention-Deficit Disorder (ADD) are common neurodevelopmental conditions that affect children's ability to focus, control impulses, and manage their energy levels. These conditions can impact academic performance, social interactions, and everyday activities. However, with proper support, strategies, and possibly medical treatment, children with ADHD or ADD can thrive. Understanding, patience, and collaboration between parents, educators, and healthcare professionals are crucial in helping children navigate their challenges and reach their full potential.

For parents seeking online resources about Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Attention-Deficit Disorder (ADD), here are some valuable options:

  1. ADHD Foundation:

    • Website: adhdfoundation.org.uk
    • Offers information, support, and resources for families affected by ADHD, including educational materials and training programs.

  2. ADDISS (The National Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service):

    • Website: addiss.co.uk
    • Provides information, support, and training for parents, teachers, and health professionals dealing with ADHD.

  3. YoungMinds:

    • Website: youngminds.org.uk
    • Focuses on children's mental health and provides resources and support for parents of children with ADHD.

  4. NHS (National Health Service):

  5. ADDvanced Solutions Community Network:

    • Website: addvancedsolutions.co.uk
    • Provides community-based learning, coaching, and mentoring for families living with ADHD and other neurodevelopmental conditions.

  6. The National Autistic Society (information on ADHD):

These resources can provide comprehensive support and information to help parents in the UK navigate the challenges of raising a child with ADHD or ADD.

Further Resources

Funny conversation starters

Talking Points CardsThis is a set of cards you can purchase to support family discussions. 

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