At Otterburn Primary School and Nursery, we believe that every child deserves to feel happy, safe, valued and included.
We are committed to providing a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where all children are supported to develop confidence, independence and a love of learning.
We recognise that every child is unique and that some children may require additional support at different stages of their education. We work closely with children, families and external professionals to identify individual needs, remove barriers to learning and ensure that every child has opportunities to achieve their full potential.
Our approach is rooted in high expectations, strong relationships and a commitment to ensuring that all children can participate fully in school life.
Our SEND Information Report and Policy
Our SEND Information Report explains how we identify and support children with special educational needs and disabilities, including the provision available across our Nursery and Primary School.
It provides information about our approach to teaching and learning, how we involve parents and carers, how we assess progress and the support available to children and families.
Accessibility and Inclusion
We are committed to ensuring that children with disabilities can access learning and participate fully in school life.
Our Accessibility Plan outlines the steps we are taking to improve access to the curriculum, school environment and information for pupils with disabilities. Accessibility Plan 2025–2028
Available here: Equality and Accessibility Information
Our SENDCo – Who to Contact
Our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator (SENDCo) is Mrs Alison Woodcock.
Our SENDCo works closely with children, families, staff and external professionals to ensure that appropriate support is in place for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
If you have any concerns about your child's learning, development or additional needs, please speak to your child's class teacher in the first instance.
You can also contact the school to arrange a discussion with our SENDCo.
Email: admin@otterburn.northumberland.sch.uk
Questions or Concerns
We value open communication and positive partnerships with parents and carers.
If you have any questions or concerns about the SEND support your child receives, please contact your child's class teacher or our SENDCo.
We will work with you to understand your concerns and identify appropriate next steps.
Further information about raising concerns and making a complaint is available in our SEND Information Report and the school's Complaints Policy.
Useful SEND Links and Support for Families
We recognise that finding the right information and support can make a real difference for children and their families.
The following organisations provide helpful advice, information and resources.
Northumberland SEND Local Offer
Information about SEND services and support available to children and young people aged 0–25 in Northumberland.
https://www.northumberlandsend.co.uk/
Northumberland Information, Advice and Support Service (NIASS)
Free, confidential and impartial information, advice and support for children and young people with SEND and their families.
https://northumberlandiass.org.uk/
Northumberland Parent Carer Forum
Information, support and opportunities for parents and carers to share their experiences and contribute to the development of SEND services.
Speech and Language UK
Practical information and resources to support children's speech, language and communication development.
https://speechandlanguage.org.uk/
Contact – For Families with Disabled Children
Information, advice and support for families of children with disabilities and additional needs.
IPSEA – Independent Provider of Special Education Advice
Free, independent information and legally based advice about SEND rights, SEN support and Education, Health and Care Plans.