The school is two-form entry and the vast majority of children come from the local infant school (Stannington Infants). The children start from a broadly average base, academically.
Some children from the IR integrate fully in mainstream classes with support, some pupils access lessons in the mainstream classes, where appropriate, whilst others with more complex needs spend most or all of their time in the IR.
The school provides a broad, balanced and rich curriculum.
Details around accessibility
The school has a perimeter fence with a vehicle gate and a pedestrian gate both accessed by visitors via intercom communication with reception staff.
In order to improve access, Nook Lane has invested in the construction of a ramp adjacent to the steep steps leading down to the school. Although the main entrance still has a small number of steps leading to it, access can be gained to the school via several classrooms (all year groups have access to and from the playground).
There are two buildings. The main building is single storey and largely accessible. There are two classrooms housed in a mobile with steps and ramped access (fire exits). Once accessed, both buildings can accommodate a wheelchair user, although the main building is more spacious than the mobile classrooms.
Visual timetables are routinely used in classrooms for children with autism and communication difficulties.
The school has facilities for disabled changing and toilets.
The school can cater for children who need a quiet space during noisier parts of the day (for example, lunchtimes) This is routinely provided for children with autism both in the mainstream and the Integrated Resource.
Staffing arrangements/training to support children or young people with SEND
Staff have participated in dyslexia-friendly training.
Teaching assistants have most recently participated in mental health training, attachment difficulties, trauma, conflict and behaviour. The SENCo and a class teacher have attended a 2 day Introduction to Mental Health, a 2 day neuro-developmental disabilities programme.
The SENCo has completed trauma informed training, a 10 day training course resulting in a diploma. All staff are receiving trauma training from the SENCo.
The SENCo has received training in identifying and supporting children with mental health difficulties and has completed the Lead Senior Mental Health training approved by the DfE.
Stafgf have received bereavement training.
Nook Lane has three staff who are responsible for the administration of medicines. The school has provided help with personal care for specific pupils, where it is required.
Maximum places
Average class size: 30
Additional information
At Nook Lane class teachers are responsible for the progress of children with SEND, with the support and advice of the SENCO.
Children are routinely taught in their form class group for lessons.
Teachers differentiate the work in class to enable all children to be supported and challenged appropriately.
There are 6 teaching assistants working across the mainstream school. Teaching assistants support in class and also run additional interventions.
The range of interventions includes: Rainbow Readers/Phonics/ TRUGS (Teaching Reading Using Games/ same day maths additional maths focus groups.
Children are also supported with their social and emotional development through Lego Therapy/social skills groups, the Incredible 5 Point Scale, Zones of Regulation and FRIENDs Group.
Children who have experienced trauma are supported using elements from the TISUK (Trauma Informed Schools UK) strategies and practice.
Children say that they enjoy attending additional intervention programmes and like having the support of the teaching assistants in class. TRUGS and Rainbow Readers are the most popular interventions.
Nook Lane provides specific tailored speech and language programmes (NIP – Narrative Intervention Programme)/VIP (Verbal Intervention Programme) and LEAP for those children who require this form of support. These programmes are delivered by a specialist teaching assistant with advice from the speech and language team.
For vulnerable children in the school, in connection with outside agencies, has delivered Theraplay, Circle of Friends, social skills groups.
The school works closely with the Family Intervention Service (formerly MAST) to support mental health concerns and any additional concerns for the child/family. We have an open door policy where parents/carers and families are made to feel welcome. Appointments are arrnaged for more detailed discussions, alongside termly review meetings for children receiving additional support.
