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Start Point, Sholing is a pre-school opportunity nursery which specialises in Special Educational Needs & Disabilities (SEND).

We have had many children who come under the SEND bracket. Last year alone, we had 62% of our intake at risk with their speech & language. We often have a waiting list.

We have supported children with autism, ADHD, speech & language needs, hearing impairment, physical impairments, cerebral palsy, chromosomal disorders, seizures, global delay – we will help any family in getting the right care for their child.

We have staff who have completed the level 3 and level 2 SENCO awards. We encourage our staff to undertake additional learning that will help our children. We also encourage Makaton (which aids language using sign).

We have a variety of outside practitioners that come in when a child has been referred. This starts  with an Early Year's Advisory Teacher to observe the child & advise us what steps are key to do next.

We also link with speech & language therapists, physical therapists, educational psychologists, occupational therapists, portage workers, community paediatrician, development workers, social workers (if the child has a social plan), assessment coordinator (if a child needs an EHCP).

We have had involvement with specialist teachers when we have had children with a specialised disability, and have involvement from a dental nurse who aids us with the supporting children and families with toothbrushing.

We also support college students and student teachers from our local school, and attend inclusion meetings regularly.

As you can see we are more than your normal nursery and we are all very passionate about Start Point and helping our local families.

We are being supported by UNISON, GMB & Unite the Union.