Consulting with our SEN Pupils, Parents & Carers

At Ribbon Academy, we believe that parents, carers and pupils are key partners in supporting successful outcomes for children and young people with SEND. We are committed to working collaboratively with families and ensuring that pupils are actively involved in decisions about their education, support and future aspirations.

We value the views, wishes and feelings of every child and recognise that meaningful participation is essential in helping pupils achieve their full potential. We use a person-centred approach to SEND provision, placing the child at the heart of planning, decision-making and review processes.

Parents and carers are encouraged to contact school whenever they have questions or concerns regarding their child’s progress, wellbeing or support arrangements. Class teachers remain the first point of contact and work closely with the SENDCo to ensure families are kept informed and involved.

We consult with pupils and families in a variety of ways, including:

• Termly SEND Support Plan reviews.
• Annual Review meetings for pupils with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
• Parent consultation evenings.
• Person-centred planning meetings.
• Pupil voice activities and discussions.
• Meetings with the SENDCo, class teachers and support staff.
• Multi-agency meetings involving external professionals where appropriate.
• Surveys, feedback opportunities and informal discussions with families.

Pupils are encouraged to share their views about what helps them learn effectively, any challenges they are experiencing and the support they feel would be beneficial. Their opinions are considered when setting outcomes, planning provision and reviewing progress.

Ribbon Academy has a strong commitment to partnership working. Through our involvement in the Neurodivergence in Schools Project (NISP), parents and carers have been able to access specialist advice and consultation clinics, helping them to better understand and support their child’s strengths and needs. This collaborative approach strengthens communication between home and school and supports positive outcomes for pupils.

We recognise the importance of children’s emotional wellbeing and ensure that pupils can access additional support when needed. Through our nurturing school ethos, targeted pastoral support and partnership with Place2Be, children are supported to develop confidence, resilience, self-esteem and positive relationships.

Where concerns about a child’s progress arise, parents and carers are involved at the earliest opportunity. Decisions regarding additional support, SEND Support Plans, referrals to external agencies or requests for statutory assessment are made in partnership with families and, wherever possible, with the child themselves.

The SENDCo works closely with staff, families and external professionals to monitor progress, review provision and ensure support remains responsive to individual needs. We are committed to maintaining open, honest and positive communication with families and value feedback as an important part of continually improving our SEND provision.

At Ribbon Academy, we strive to create a culture where every pupil feels listened to, valued and included, and where parents and carers are recognised as essential partners in helping children achieve success both in school and beyond.