Hobbyhorse is committed to the integration of children with special needs. All children have the right to be educated and develop their full potential alongside each other. It is a positive experience to be able to share the same opportunities and overcome any difficulties together.
To recognise any special needs a child may have and to ensure all staff are aware of the DfES Code of Practice on identification and assessment of special needs.
To employ a special needs coordinator (SENCO) who is experienced in the care and assessment of children with special needs.
To assess each child's special needs and adapt our facilities where practicable.
To liaise with other agencies, including the health and education authorities and to seek advice, support and training as appropriate.
To encourage staff to gain experience and where appropriate training in the care of children with special needs.
To ensure that all children are treated as equals and are encouraged to take part in every aspect of the nursery day.
To promote positive images of those with special needs wherever possible.
The nursery believes that each child's needs are unique therefore any attempt to categorise children is inappropriate.
Children with special needs will be educated as far as practicable alongside peers without special needs. This interaction will give valuable experiences to all children and adults involved.
The nursery is committed to working alongside parents, in the provision for their child's individual needs to enable us to fulfil our aim of helping all children to develop to their full potential.
All children with special needs have a right to a broad and well-balanced education.
Depending on the individual child's disability the nursery will endeavour to provide suitable adult/child ratios.
The nursery will find out as much as possible about the child's condition and the way that effects his/her educational and personal needs by:
All children will be given a settling in period when joining nursery according to their needs.
The nursery has a Special Needs Coordinator whose name can be found on the parent notice board. Parents are encouraged to speak to the Special Needs Coordinator if they have any concerns about special needs or the nursery's attitudes and policy to children with special needs.