Flakefleet Primary School’s Specialist Inclusion Base provides specialist support and an inclusive educational environment for children in EYFS and Key Stage 1 who have communication and interaction needs.
The Specialist Inclusion Base opened in September 2024 as part of the Local Authority’s programme to develop specialist inclusion provision within mainstream schools. It enables children to access high-quality, personalised learning while being part of the wider school community and developing meaningful relationships with their peers.
Children who attend the Specialist Inclusion Base will have been assessed by appropriate professionals and the Local Authority and will have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
Our Approach
Our aim is to provide a nurturing, supportive and inclusive educational experience where every child is valued, understood and enabled to achieve their potential.
Children are supported to develop their individual strengths, communication skills, independence and social confidence. They have opportunities to learn alongside their peers, take part in wider school life and develop important life skills.
We believe that inclusion is about creating the right environment and providing the right support so that every child can participate, belong and thrive.
Curriculum
Our curriculum is carefully adapted to meet the individual needs of each child. We use the Equals curriculum, alongside personalised learning goals, to provide meaningful and purposeful learning experiences.
Learning is responsive to each child’s strengths, interests and areas for development. Teachers and teaching assistants use a wide range of approaches and strategies to ensure that children can access learning and make progress.
The curriculum is regularly reviewed and adapted in response to children’s individual needs.
Environment
The Specialist Inclusion Base provides a calm, welcoming and stimulating environment designed to support children’s learning, communication and independence.
Visual supports, symbols, visual timetables and other communication approaches are used throughout the day to help children understand routines, express themselves and develop their communication skills.
The environment provides opportunities for continuous provision and play-based learning alongside small-group and individual activities. This enables children to learn through exploration, interaction and experiences that are meaningful to them.
Inclusion and Belonging
The Specialist Inclusion Base is an integral part of Flakefleet Primary School.
Children are encouraged to build relationships with their peers and participate in the wider life of the school wherever this is appropriate for their individual needs. This may include shared learning experiences, playtimes, assemblies, celebrations, enrichment opportunities and other school activities.
We work closely with staff across the school to create opportunities for children to develop confidence, friendships and a strong sense of belonging.
Working in Partnership
We recognise that the best outcomes for children are achieved when families, school staff and professionals work together.
Staff within the Specialist Inclusion Base work closely with parents and carers and a range of professionals involved in supporting each child. This may include:
- School Nursing Service
- Paediatricians
- Speech and Language Therapy Service
- ASC Reachout Specialist Teachers
- Lancashire County Council SEND Team
- Parents and carers
This collaborative approach helps us develop a shared understanding of each child and ensure that their provision remains responsive to their individual needs.
Transition and Working with Families
We recognise that transitions can be significant for children and families. Before a child joins the Specialist Inclusion Base, the SENCO and/or Specialist Inclusion Base teacher will work with the child’s current setting to support a smooth and positive transition.
Where appropriate, staff will visit the child in their current setting, attend meetings such as annual reviews and liaise with the child’s existing teachers and support professionals. This enables us to understand the child’s strengths, interests, communication style and support needs before they join us.
Once a place has been agreed by the Local Authority, families will have opportunities to visit the Specialist Inclusion Base, meet the staff and become familiar with the environment.
We value ongoing communication with families. Key information, achievements, celebrations and photographs can be shared with parents and carers through Class Dojo.
Parents’ evenings, annual reviews and regular communication provide opportunities for families and staff to work together, celebrate progress and ensure that each child continues to receive the support they need to flourish.
