l. Admissions Arrangements (Including SEND Considerations)
We welcome applications from all families and are committed to ensuring that children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) have fair and equal access to our school. Our admissions process follows the statutory requirements set out in the School Admissions Code and is applied consistently to all applicants. Schools must publish how applications are considered, oversubscription criteria, and the arrangements for in‑year admissions as part of their website obligations.
Children with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
In line with national legislation, children with an EHCP naming our school are admitted automatically. Their needs will have been discussed through the EHCP consultation process, ensuring that the placement is appropriate and that reasonable adjustments, resources and support can be planned prior to transition. This aligns with statutory expectations that schools explain how pupils’ needs are assessed and how provision is secured.
Applications from Children with SEND (Without an EHCP)
Children with SEND but without an EHCP follow the same admissions process as all other pupils. Admissions authorities must not refuse a place on the grounds that a child has SEND or may require additional support.
Upon admission, we work closely with families to understand their child’s needs, following the statutory requirement to involve parents fully in the identification, assessment and planning process. Where necessary, we liaise with previous settings or external agencies to ensure a smooth start. https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/online-safety/online-safety-for-schools
Supporting Transitions into School
Transitions are part of the SEND Information Report, including arrangements for key‑stage changes or admission into the school.
As part of our welcoming and family‑oriented culture, we support children with SEND through:
- Enhanced transition visits
- Meetings with the SENCO
- Opportunities for parents to share insights
- Personalised transition plans
- Adjustments to class routines or environments as needed
These preparations ensure that pupils begin their journey with us feeling secure, known and supported.
Reasonable Adjustments for Admissions Processes
We make reasonable adjustments to ensure that disabled pupils and those with SEND can access all aspects of the admissions process, including:
- Support completing forms
- Accessible communication formats
- Opportunities for additional school visits
- Meetings with the SENCO prior to entry
Schools are required to outline how adaptations to the environment and curriculum support learners with SEND.
In‑Year Admissions
Our website provides clear information on how in‑year admissions are handled, as required by Ofsted’s website expectations.
Families of pupils with SEND are encouraged to contact the school to discuss needs prior to admission so that support can be planned.
Oversubscription Criteria
Where applications exceed available places, oversubscription criteria — published annually on the school website — are applied fairly and transparently. These criteria must be clearly published on all school websites.
SEND is not an oversubscription category, but reasonable adjustments and needs‑based preparation occur after a place is secured.
Working in Partnership with Families
As required in SEND statutory frameworks, we actively involve families in understanding and planning for their child’s needs from the very beginning.
We believe early communication strengthens relationships, builds confidence and sustains successful transitions.