At Diamond Wood Community Academy, we are committed to providing an inclusive, nurturing environment where all pupils are supported to achieve their full potential. We believe every child is unique and work closely with families to remove barriers to learning so that all pupils, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), can thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
Our Approach
We place a strong emphasis on early identification and timely intervention. By working collaboratively with pupils, parents, staff and external professionals, we ensure that support is carefully planned, regularly reviewed and responsive to individual needs.
Identifying SEND
SEND may be identified through:
- Ongoing teacher assessment and observation
- Monitoring of progress and development
- Discussions with parents and carers
- Information from previous settings
- Advice from external professionals
Early identification allows us to put effective support in place as soon as possible.
Supporting Pupils with SEND
Support for pupils with SEND may include:
- High-quality, adaptive classroom teaching
- Targeted interventions delivered individually or in small groups
- Reasonable adjustments and specialist resources
- Support from trained teaching assistants
- Social, emotional and mental health support
Some pupils may have a SEND Support Plan or an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
Our SENDCo
Our Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENDCo), Mrs Lyons, is an experienced teacher with a strong background in the Early Years. This expertise is particularly valuable in supporting early identification of needs and ensuring timely, effective intervention. Mrs Lyons works closely with staff, families and external professionals to ensure pupils receive the right support at the right time.
If you have any concerns about your child’s learning, development or wellbeing, please come and talk to us. We are here to help.
Working with Parents and Carers
We believe strong partnerships with parents and carers are essential. We are always here to listen, support and work together to meet your child’s needs. Parents and carers are encouraged to speak to us at any time if they have concerns or questions.
Coffee Mornings and Family Support
We regularly hold SEND coffee mornings, providing a relaxed and welcoming space for parents and carers to:
- Talk openly with school staff
- Meet our SENDCo and support staff
- Speak with visiting support agencies
- Share experiences and ask questions
These sessions offer an informal opportunity to access advice and build supportive connections.
External Agencies and Specialist Support
When appropriate, we work alongside a range of external professionals, including:
- Educational Psychologists
- Speech and Language Therapists
- Occupational Therapists
- Specialist advisory teachers
- Health and social care services
This ensures a joined-up approach to supporting pupils and families.
Kirklees Local Offer
The Kirklees Local Offer provides information about services and support available for children and young people with SEND and their families within Kirklees. This includes education, health, social care and community services.
Families are encouraged to explore the Kirklees Local Offer website for further advice, guidance and support. Click here to be redirected to it.