Hello and welcome to the third edition of the Lyndhurst SEND newsletter!
Here we will be addressing all things related to SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) – news, views, advice, strategies, stories and information.
If you have any concerns about your child’s progress at school, please speak firstly to their class teacher. If you want to contact the SENDCO directly, please email Ms Ali Jones, at ajones@lyndhurst.southwark.sch.uk
SENSORY ROOM FUNDRAISING QUIZ NIGHT
Does anyone know a fantastic quiz show host who would be willing to donate their services to help with our proposed quiz night in September (for families and staff)? We are planning a Sensory Support Quiz Night to help raise money for the redevelopment of the Sensory Room, which is used daily by many of our children seeking sensory input. You can find out more about why sensory provision is so important here:
Sensory Processing Disorder Checklist - The OT Toolbox
What is Sensory Integration? (sensoryintegrationeducation.com)
If you know someone who would be willing to host, or would you like to get involved in the Sensory Support Quiz Night, please contact Ms Ali Jones via email at ajones@lyndhurst.southwark.sch.uk
SEND-FRIENDLY LYNDHURST CARNIVAL
At this year’s Lyndhurst Carnival (Saturday 24th June), the first half an hour will be dedicated to providing a quieter experience (and shorter queues) specifically to support children with SEND. Ms Jones and Ms Wedgwood (Assistant SENCO) will be on the gate to welcome you and your families, so please do come at 2.30pm to enjoy the first part of the Carnival in a quieter environment. Of course, we hope all children and families will stay on for the remainder of the carnival (which continues until 6pm). See you on Saturday!
Poster
Improving the lives of autistic children
A new education report has been published by the National Autistic Society. The report isn’t just about the things that aren’t working. It is full of examples that demonstrate the power that small adjustments can make to the lives of autistic children and young people. Read more here: Education Report 2023 (autism.org.uk)
Community Sports Club
There’s a new SEND initiative in Bromley; Pulse Social – Community Sports Club provides inclusive games and multi sports for D/deaf, disabled and neurodivergent young people.
Session information
When: Tuesdays, term time, starting 28th March 2023
Time: 5 pm – 6 pm
Where: Bromley Methodist Church, College Road, Bromley, BR1 3NS
Age: 8 – 17 years old
Cost: First session free, £5 per session thereafter
Register here:
https://bit.ly/PulseMultiSports
Call: 020 8191 8507
WhatsApp: 073 7559 4559
Email: info@pulsesocial.co.uk
Poster
British Vogue releases its first Braille edition
Titled Reframing Fashion, the May edition of Vogue magazine focused on disability justice, accessibility and pride and featured 19 brilliant, beautiful and impactful disabled talents from across fashion, sport, the arts and activism, captured in a series of celebratory portraits and interviews. How To Get Your Audio And Braille Editions Of British Vogue’s May 2023 Issue | British Vogue
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE SEND TEAM:
The Pocket Guide to Neurodiversity by Daniel Ahern. This is a helpful guide to developing a deeper understanding of some of the key concepts of neurodiversity in real-life circumstances, as well as acknowledging the positive traits of neurodivergence.
How to Be a Superhero Called Self-Control: Super Powers to Help Younger Children to Regulate their Emotions and Senses by Laura Brukner. Self-Control teaches children with emotional and sensory regulation difficulties how to calm themselves using self-massage, deep pressure, breathing exercises, and activities such as making an imaginary list and finding their own peaceful place.
Transition time
The prospect of changing teachers/classrooms can be daunting. All children will get the opportunity to meet their new teacher (and SEND TA where relevant) before the end of term. Teachers, TAs and the SENDCO will be involved in handover meetings and information sharing. Talking to your child about the change and using social stories and comic book conversations can be a great help Social stories and comic strip conversations (autism.org.uk). If your child is particularly worried or feeling anxious, please do contact Ms Jones, SENDCO, to arrange an appointment to discuss a transition support plan.
End of year reports
End of year reports will be sent to all parents and carers on Friday, 14th July. If you have any questions about the reports with regard to your child’s attainment and progress, please do speak to your child’s class teacher for clarification. If you have concerns about your child’s progress and wish to find out more about SEND support, please email Ms Jones, SENDCo on ajones@lyndhurst.southwark.sch.uk
Useful contacts
AHD SUPPORT: Support | ADHD UK
AUTISM SUPPORT: Southwark Autism Support Team (AST) - contact Mr B for advice on 078 0286 0871 or blagoje.vucinic@southwark.gov.uk
Southwark Information and Advice Service (SIAS) 0207 525 3104 or
