In a Special Educational Needs (SEN) school, there are several teams of professionals who work together to provide the best possible education and support for children with special needs. In this blog, we’ll explore the different teams you can expect to find in a SEN school and the role each team plays in supporting the needs of students.
Teaching and Support Staff
The most visible team in any school is the teaching and support staff. In a SEN school, these professionals have specialist skills in working with children with special needs. They work closely with students to deliver tailored education and support, adapting the curriculum and teaching style to meet individual needs.
Therapy Teams
In addition to teaching and support staff, SEN schools also have dedicated therapy teams. These teams include Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs), Occupational Therapists (OTs), and Physiotherapists (PTs). They work closely with students who require specialized support, such as those with communication difficulties, physical disabilities, or sensory processing disorders.
Behaviour Support Teams
Behaviour support teams are a critical component of SEN schools. These professionals work with students who have challenging behaviour, developing individualized behaviour plans that are tailored to the student’s specific needs. The behaviour support team may include behaviour specialists, psychologists, or therapists.
Medical Teams
In some SEN schools, there are medical teams that provide specialized support to students with complex medical needs. These professionals may include nurses, doctors, or other healthcare specialists who work closely with the student and their family to develop individualized healthcare plans.
Leadership Teams
SEN schools also have dedicated leadership teams that oversee the overall operation of the school. This team includes the Headteacher, Deputy Headteachers, and other senior staff members who ensure that the school is meeting the needs of its students and providing high-quality education and support.
Family Support Teams
Finally, SEN schools may also have dedicated family support teams. These teams work closely with the families of students to provide support, advice, and guidance. This may include providing information on local support services, helping families to access funding for equipment and specialist support, and supporting families in managing the challenges of caring for a child with special needs.
In Conclusion
In a SEN school, there are many teams of professionals who work together to provide the best possible education and support for students with special needs. Each team has a specific role to play, but all are dedicated to ensuring that every student receives the individualized support they need to reach their full potential. By working together, these teams can create a nurturing and supportive environment that enables students to thrive and achieve their goals.
