SEND Newsletter #2

💌 Welcome from our SENCO

Welcome to our Autumn 2 SEND newsletter! As we move into the colder months and look forward to the festive season, we want to continue celebrating the wonderful individuality of our children and working together to help everyone feel safe, included and ready to learn. We know that every child’s journey is different. Thank you for the support, understanding and partnership you bring to our school community.

🌟 Small Steps, BIG Achievements!

Progress comes in many forms. It might be trying something new, asking for help, communicating a feeling, developing independence or building a friendship. This half term, let's celebrate effort, courage, kindness and progress — not just outcomes. Every small step deserves recognition!

🧠 Our SEND Focus: Managing Change and Transitions

Autumn 2 can be an exciting but busy time, with changes to routines, darker evenings, seasonal events and the anticipation of Christmas. Some children may find these changes overwhelming. Here are a few ways we can help children feel prepared and secure:

• Keep routines predictable: familiar routines can provide reassurance.
• Prepare for changes: talk about upcoming events and use a calendar or visual timetable.
• Use clear, simple language: explain what will happen next and allow time to process information.
• Recognise feelings: listen without judgement and reassure children that all feelings are okay.
• Allow time to recharge: quiet time, movement breaks or a calm space may help children feel regulated.

Remember, what works for one child may not work for another. Follow your child's cues and celebrate what helps them feel safe and supported.

🏡 Try This at Home: The “Now and Next” Strategy

A simple Now and Next board can help children understand expectations and prepare for transitions.

NOW: Put your shoes on.

NEXT: Choose a favourite story.

Use pictures, symbols or words that your child understands. Keep instructions manageable, offer encouragement and celebrate each step towards independence.

💚 Inclusion in Action

At Swinefleet, we want every child to feel that they belong, that their voice matters and that their strengths are recognised. We continue to work together to support communication, emotional wellbeing, independence, friendships and access to learning.

If you have noticed something that helps your child at home, please share it with us. Your knowledge of your child is invaluable.

📅 Looking Ahead

Dates and opportunities next half term:

• Parent drop in session: Friday 27th November 130pm-2pm
• Next SEND newsletter: Week beginning December 14th.

Please contact us if there is a topic you would like us to cover in a future edition.

📞 We're Here to Help

Mrs Wilde – Acting SENCO Swinefleet Primary School
☎️ 01405 704386

If you have questions about your child's learning, development or wellbeing, please get in touch. We are always happy to work in partnership with you.

💙 A Final Thought

Different needs. Different strengths. One school community.

Thank you for your continued support. We wish all our families a happy, healthy and enjoyable half term ahead!

The SENCO
Swinefleet Primary School

These are an opportunity to chat with myself and other parents with coffee and biscuits included!

• 1:30 - 2pm

• Contact – practical advice and support for families of disabled children: contact.org.uk
• IPSEA – information about SEND education rights in England: ipsea.org.uk
• NHS – Children's Mental Health – advice about emotional wellbeing and finding support: nhs.uk/mental-health/children-and-young-adults

If there is anything you would like to see included in these newsletters, if you have any questions or there are any workshops you would like us to put on which you think may be useful then please feel free to contact me via the school office.

swinefleet.primary@eastriding.gov.uk FAO Mrs Wilde

01405 704386

Thank you for your continued support,

Mrs Wilde