Our SEND Provision

Our aim within the Ribbon Academy is…

‘To develop a modern, world – class curriculum that will inspire and challenge all learners and prepare them for the future.’

Ribbon Academy operates its inclusive provision in line with Durham Local Authorities SEND policies and procedures. All of our pupils follow the Early Years Foundation Stage and the National Curriculum at a level and pace suitable for their ability, whilst our SEND philosophy places children at the heart of personalised learning and our curriculum is tailored to meet individual pupil needs. At times, modifications to the curriculum may be implemented, supported by the use of PIVATS, or similar programmes, which provide a structured approach to assessing, planning for learning, tracking and measuring small steps of attainment. To fulfil this vision, within Ribbon Academy, we are committed to:

  • A range of teaching and learning styles
  • Differentiated materials (both for reinforcement and extension)
  • Access to ICT
  • Additional in class support
  • Additional out of class support
  • Flexible groupings (including small group work)
  • The appropriate use of rewards and sanctions
  • Mentoring and counselling
  • A broad range of extra-curricular activities, including additional learning opportunities before and after school
  • Assessment procedures that emphasise pupils’ strengths and achievements
  • Applications to examination boards to obtain access arrangements as appropriate

By the time children leave our school in Year 6, all achievements, additional needs and learning styles will be passed over in a fully transparent transition period including parent meetings, meetings with new school staff and children’s taster days.

(It is important to note that not all pupils referred to our SENDCo will permanently be placed upon our SEND register; any support and guidance given may be short, medium or long term depending on need).

Ribbon Academy has a relentless focus upon sustained progress and achievement and we are committed to the equal inclusion of every pupil across all areas of school life. We recognise the diverse and individual needs of all of our pupils and take into account the additional support required by those children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). At Ribbon Academy, we recognise that all pupils are entitled to a quality of provision which will enable them to achieve their full potential. We believe in positive intervention; removing barriers to learning; raising expectations and levels of achievement, and working in partnership with other agencies in order to provide a positive learning experience for all SEND pupils from the earliest point at which difficulties arise.

We believe that the time spent at Ribbon should prepare our young people for future life and equip them with the skills they need to be independent, resilient members of the community. As such, we ensure that the years spent with us are about so much more than an education based upon exams; life at Ribbon is an experience which will remain with, and prepare, our students for the rest of their lives.

Our SENDCo is responsible for the operation of the Special Educational Needs Policy and co-ordination of specific provision in school to support individual children with SEND. She will liaise with staff to monitor pupil progress and plan further interventions where progress is slower than expected, as well as having regular contact with a wide range of external agencies that are able to give more specialised advice.

‘Reading is a priority, with an effective phonics program starting in early years, fostering a love for reading among pupils.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘The school provides rich extracurricular opportunities, such as “Ribbon Radio” and the “Poets’ Podium”, which help develop pupils’ confidence.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Pupils thrive in an inclusive, nurturing environment where their accomplishments are celebrated.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Early Years Provision: The provision for early years is rated “Outstanding”. The staff provide an exceptional range of carefully planned learning activities that encourage curiosity, independence, and the development of spoken language from day one.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Inclusivity and Nurturing Environment: The school is described as inclusive and nurturing, with high expectations for pupils’ behaviour and achievements. Celebratory displays showcase pupils’ accomplishments, creating a positive and inspiring learning environment.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Early years provision is rated “Outstanding”, with staff providing a magical learning journey that encourages curiosity and independence.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Behaviour and Attitudes: Behaviour and attitudes at the school are rated “Good”. Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning and demonstrate a strong understanding of the school’s values.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Pupils feel safe and have positive attitudes towards learning, understanding and demonstrating the school’s values.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘The school has a strong safeguarding culture, with effective systems in place to ensure the welfare and safety of all pupils.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Safety and Well-being: Pupils feel safe at the school, describing it as a “safe spot”. There is a strong culture of safeguarding, with effective systems in place to report and follow up on concerns. The pastoral team works tirelessly to ensure the welfare of all pupils.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Leadership and management are “Good”, demonstrating high ambitions for all pupils and a strong culture of mutual support among staff.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Parents are highly supportive of the school, agreeing that their children are happy and well-supported.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘The Ribbon Academy is rated as “Good” overall, reflecting high standards in various aspects of school performance.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘The quality of education at the school is “Good”, with a broad and inspiring curriculum that builds knowledge progressively.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Leadership and Management: Leadership and management are rated “Good”. Leaders have high ambitions for every pupil, and there is a strong culture of mutual support and teamwork among the staff. The governing body and trustees are knowledgeable and committed to the success of the pupils.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Reading and Literacy: Reading is prioritised, with an effective phonics program starting in the early years. Pupils’ love for reading is nurtured through various competitions and a well-stocked library.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Behaviour and attitudes are rated “Good”, with pupils showing positive behaviour both in and out of lessons.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Quality of Education: The quality of education provided is considered “Good”. The curriculum is broad, inspiring, and well-thought-out, enabling pupils to build on their knowledge progressively.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Personal Development: Personal development at the school is rated “Outstanding”. The curriculum provides a wide range of experiences that prepare pupils for success beyond the school gates, including educational visits and active citizenship opportunities.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Community and Extracurricular Activities: Pupils engage in activities like ‘Ribbon Radio’ and the ‘Poets’ Podium’, developing confidence and showcasing their talents. The school also runs breakfast clubs, after-school activities, and a community café, enhancing the sense of community and belonging.’

OFSTED COMMENTS

‘Personal development is “Outstanding”, offering a wide range of experiences that prepare pupils for success beyond the school.’

OFSTED COMMENTS