During the course of their time in pre school and school many children will experience difficulties at some point in their schooling. The vast majority of these pupils will have their needs met through arrangements at their mainstream school or early years setting. A small percentage of pupils, whose difficulties are likely to be highly significant and long term, may require a statutory assessment, which could lead to a Statement of Special Educational Needs being issued.

The Special Educational Needs Service Administration Team based in the Civic Offices in Grays, have responsibility for implementing the SEN Code of Practice 2001, in relation to pupils and pre-school children with special educational needs.

The team works closely with a wide range of agencies including parents, schools, Pupil Support Service, Educational Psychology Service, the Education Welfare Service, Health professionals, pre-school settings, Social Services and the Parent/School Partnership Service.

The Area Senco Team assist early years education providers to include all children whatever their additional or special needs, ensuring that all children benefit from the educational opportunities offered.

Many children have difficulties at some time during their attendance in pre-schoolplaygroups or nurseries. In most cases problems are sorted out fairly quickly, but some children need additional help. This can be given through Thurrock LEA (Local Education authority) who employs a team of Area Senco s and Educational Psychologists. They work with preschools to help children with any special educational needs.

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Who are we?

We are a team of teachers who specialise in supporting children in early years who have special educational needs.

How are referrals made?

In every pre-school and nursery there is a member of staff who is responsible for special needs, known as the Setting Senco . If the Setting Senco feels they need specialist advice about how to help your child this will be discussed with you. The Setting Senco may then ask the Area Senco to advise. This must be with the full knowledge and consent of parents or those with parental responsibility.

Some referrals are made by other professionals working with the family, such as Health Visitors or Social workers. These must be discussed with parents first and are only accepted if you have given your permission.

If you are concerned about your child and would like the help of an Area Senco we suggest you talk with the person responsible for special educational needs in the preschool or nursery, or perhaps your Health Visitor.

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What may happen?

Area Sencos are often asked to advise on:

Working out strategies to deal with behaviour
Setting targets and planning teaching activities for children with learning difficulties
Assisting with planning transition into school

When your child transfers to school or nursery, the Area Senco may suggest they are made aware of your child's additional needs and that records are shared with the school.

The Area Senco team keeps a record of involvement with all the children who are referred to them. The setting will give you a copy of any reports that the Area Senco makes about your child.

Further information can be obtained from the SEN advisors.

The Special Educational Needs Services can be contacted at:

Special Educational Needs Services
Education Department
PO Box 118
Grays
ESSEX
RM17 6GF

Email: education@thurrock.gov.uk

Telephone: 01375 652652
Fax: 01375 652792

For information on financial support, including Disabled Students Allowance, see our Student Finance page.

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