Sensory and Physical
Within the code of practice (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/send-code-of-practice-0-to-25), sensory and/or physical is defined as follows:
Paragraph 6.34
‘Some children and young people require special educational provision because they have a disability which prevents or hinders them from making use of the educational facilities generally provided. These difficulties can be age related and may fluctuate over time. Many children and young people with vision impairment (VI), hearing impairment (HI) or a multi-sensory impairment (MSI) will require specialist support and/or equipment to access their learning, or habilitation support. Children and young people with an MSI have a combination of vision and hearing difficulties. Information on how to provide services for deafblind children and young people is available through the Social Care for Deafblind Children and Adults guidance published by the Department of Health.’
Paragraph 6.35
‘Some children and young people with a physical disability (PD) require additional ongoing support and equipment to access all the opportunities available to their peers.’
Physical and sensory needs cover a wide range of medical conditions in addition to those mentioned above. Some children with physical disabilities may be very cognitively able so the levels of support must be tailored to a person-centred needs analysis of each child’s needs and preferences, taking into account the views of children and their families.
At Powick C of E Primary School, we work closely with:
Paediatric Occupational Therapy
Paediatric Occupational Therapists work in partnership with children, young people and their families. They support children and young people to participate in everyday life, as this is important for their long-term health and well-being.
It is important that children and young people are able to participate in what is meaningful to them at home, school and in leisure activities. These may include:
A referral to an occupational therapist can be made by a Health Professional e.g. GP or school nurse.
Paediatric Physiotherapy
The Paediatric Physiotherapy Service will see children who have physical difficulties and/or pain with gross motor skills
A referral to an occupational therapist can be made by a Health Professional e.g. GP or school nurse.
Worcestershire Sensory Impairment Team
The Sensory Impairment Team promote inclusive practice and positive outcomes for children with visual, hearing and multisensory impairments. Teachers in the team have had substantial class teaching experience prior to gaining specialist mandatory qualifications, meaning we can offer realistic and achievable solutions, tailored to the needs of the child and the demands of the curriculum. They also benefit from an Educational Audiologist, Mobility/Habilitation Officer and Peripatetic Teaching Assistants, all of whom hold specialist professional qualifications.
Regency High Physical Disability Outreach Service
The Physical Disability Outreach Service support educational staff and children with physical disabilities. They offer on-site visits, assessments, equipment loans, staff training, short term classroom support and advice on a range of disability related issues across all Key Stages including Early Years.