11. Support for Vulnerable Pupils

At Aston Rowant School, we recognise that some children may be more vulnerable to safeguarding risks due to their individual circumstances. We provide tailored support for pupils with special educational needs (SEN), disabilities, and those who may require additional

emotional, social or behavioural assistance. Our SEND and Pastoral Teams work closely with families, external specialists and multi-agency partners to ensure that each child receives appropriate support, reasonable adjustments and targeted early help where needed.

We have a Play Therapist who works in school each Wednesday. She uses play-based techniques to help children express emotions, build coping skills, and work through social or behavioural challenges in a developmentally appropriate way. Because play is a child’s natural language, this approach allows pupils to communicate experiences they might not yet have words for. Having a Play Therapist on site can improve emotional wellbeing, boost confidence, reduce anxiety, and support positive behaviour. It also helps children feel more settled and ready to learn, often leading to better classroom engagement and stronger relationships with peers and staff.

We also monitor and support children who have an allocated social worker, recognising that these pupils may face increased safeguarding risks. Regular communication with social care ensures that we understand each child’s plan and can contribute meaningfully to multi-agency decision-making.