special educational needs (sen) support
Curriculum entitlement for all
At Brooksbank, we believe that every student deserves the same curriculum entitlement, regardless of ability or need. Our dedicated teaching and support staff are committed to enabling students to access the curriculum at all levels. Our primary aim is to provide appropriate support for students within mainstream lessons, ensuring inclusivity and equal opportunities for all.
Take a look at our Learning Support Guide to help you answer any questions you may have.
Learning Support
Our Learning Support Centre is designed to provide the right support for students whose plans highlight the need for additional help in specific lessons, SEMH provision, or focused interventions in areas such as fine motor skills and speech and language.
The Centre acts as a welcoming hub of tailored support, offering personalised guidance to help every student flourish. In addition, we provide homework support after school, ensuring that students can confidently access all online learning platforms. Students can also access the homework systems at break and lunch in the LRC.
Learning Support Team
The Learning Support Team at Brooksbank is made up of dedicated staff, including learning support assistants, who bring a wide range of experience in meeting diverse student needs.
The team provides support for students with significant learning difficulties, offering sensory, educational and emotional support and they work closely with those who have additional needs.
Alongside this, the Pastoral Team and Educational Welfare Officer play a vital role in supporting individual students and working in partnership with families to ensure each child receives the care and attention they need.
Collaboration and Compliance
We prioritise collaboration among staff, parents, and students to ensure that individual needs are met in accordance with The Code of Practice and the Disability Act. Individual student profiles are regularly reviewed by all staff and any causes for concern are highlighted and investigated to ensure the right support is in place.
The Bridge: A Safe Haven
Our Bridge is a designated area specifically for students with social, emotional, and mental health needs. This unique space offers:
A quiet zone
Sensory lighting
An art therapy area
Weighted blankets
A mental health monitoring area
Specialised support
The Bridge provides a positive environment where students can regulate their emotions, take time out, and receive the support they need to thrive. Please note: The Bridge has a referral system in place.
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Mrs Shenton – SENDCo Lead (Special Educational Needs Coordinator)
Hello! I'm Mrs Shenton, a dedicated and enthusiastic SENDCo Lead at The Brooksbank School.
With over 17 years of experience at Brooksbank, I am deeply committed to ensuring every child receives the support they need to thrive.
In my role, I collaborate with teachers, parents and specialists to develop tailored learning plans, advocate for students with special educational needs, and create an inclusive and nurturing environment. My passion lies in unlocking each child's potential and fostering a community where all students can succeed.
h.shenton@brooksbank.tlt.school
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Mrs Riley – SENSO (Special Educational Needs Support Officer)
Hello! I'm Mrs Riley, a passionate SENSO Assistant at The Brooksbank School.
With a background in education and a deep commitment to supporting students with special educational needs, I work closely with our SENDCo Lead to implement individualised learning plans and provide targeted support.
My role involves assisting with assessments, coordinating resources and ensuring our students receive the care and attention they deserve. I am dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where every child can flourish and reach their full potential.
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Miss McMahon – Bridge Manager
Hello, my name is Miss McMahon, and I am the Bridge Manager at The Brooksbank School.
With a background in supporting students and a passion for helping young people thrive, I support students transitioning through their educational journey while promoting positive mental health and wellbeing.
My role involves working closely with students, parents/carers, and staff to ensure that transitions are as smooth and successful as possible. I provide guidance and support to help address any challenges students may face and implement strategies that encourage both academic achievement and social development.
I am committed to creating a nurturing, inclusive environment where every student feels supported, confident, and well-prepared for the next stage of their education. Through a focus on wellbeing, resilience, and personal growth, I strive to help each student reach their full potential.
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The SENDCO is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the school's SEND policy. The SENDCo will co-ordinate additional support for students with SEND and liaise with their parents, teachers and other professionals who are involved with them.
SENDCo responsibilities are:
Overseeing the day-to-day operation of the school’s SEND policy.
Supporting the identification of children with special educational needs.
Co-ordinating provision for children with SEND.
Liaising with parents of children with SEND.
Liaising with other providers, outside agencies, educational psychologists and external agencies particularly for children receiving support. Ensuring that the school keeps the records of all pupils with SEND up to date.
The SENDCO is supported by the head teacher and all staff to try and develop effective ways of overcoming barriers to a child's learning and ensuring that they receive effective teaching through assessing the child’s needs and setting targets for improvement.
SENDCo collaborates with curriculum leaders at the school to make sure that the learning requirements of all children with SEND are given equal emphasis and priority.
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If you think there may be something holding your child back, express those concerns.
If your child has not been diagnosed as having a special need, but you think things are not progressing as they should, call and speak with a member of the SEN team.
If the needs are likely to be more than a minor concern that can be dealt with by the class teacher, the SENDCo may observe the child, talk to other staff members and look at any records that may indicate a difficulty.
This may suggest that the child just needs a little extra help, or that SEND professionals need to become involved to diagnose a graver difficulty, and in the longer term perhaps initiate an Education, Health and Social Care (EHC) Plan.
Extracurricular Activities
We encourage all students, including those with special educational needs, to participate in our wide range of extracurricular activities. To ensure inclusivity, we offer targeted clubs such as:
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Lego Club
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Boccia
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Umbrella Club
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Arts and Craft Club
These activities provide fun, engaging opportunities for students to develop new skills, build friendships, and enjoy their school experience to the fullest.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about our school's SEN support or would like to speak with a member of our SEN staff, whether your child is currently on the SEN register with us or you need information about supporting a student who isn’t, we are here to help.
Please book an appointment via our online calendar to arrange a convenient time for a chat.