We, the concerned parents and community members of Palm Bay, urgently call for an increase in commitment to the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) children attending Palm Bay Primary School. Our children deserve a safe and inclusive learning environment that supports their unique needs, but unfortunately, we have witnessed a lack of communication, inappropriate techniques and strategies in place, safeguarding questions unanswered, and overall failure in meeting the needs of our SEND children.

Feel free to sign or comment, you can also send your thoughts and experiences to: rachelwilson77@proton.me. We welcome positive stories too, so please send these if your experience is different, it all helps to build a picture. 

1. Lack of Communication:

Parents have repeatedly expressed their concerns about the inadequate communication between the school administration and families with SEND children. It is crucial for parents to be informed about their child's progress, challenges faced during school hours, individual lesson plans, EHCP progress, and any changes made to support strategies. Effective communication fosters trust between parents and educators while ensuring that all parties are working together towards the best interest of each child.

 

2. Inappropriate Techniques and Strategies:

Numerous reports from parents indicate that inappropriate techniques are being used on SEND children at Palm Bay Primary School. These include outdated teaching methods that do not align with current research on effective interventions for students with special needs. It is essential for educators to receive proper training in evidence-based practices tailored specifically for SEND students to ensure they receive quality education.

 

3. Safeguarding Questions Unanswered:

Parents have raised concerns regarding safeguarding measures taken by Palm Bay Primary School when it comes to our vulnerable SEND children. It is imperative that schools prioritise safety protocols such as risk assessments, staff training on recognizing signs of abuse or neglect specific to SEND students' vulnerabilities, clear reporting procedures for incidents or concerns raised by both staff members and parents.

 

4. Failing SEND Children:

The most distressing issue we face is witnessing our beloved children being failed by an educational system meant to support them fully. Every child deserves equal opportunities to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. However, the current situation at Palm Bay Primary School indicates a significant gap in meeting the needs of SEND children. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that every child receives an education that empowers them to reach their full potential.

 

We respectfully request the following actions be taken:

 

1. Improve communication channels between school administration and parents of SEND children.

2. Provide ongoing professional development opportunities for teachers to enhance their knowledge and skills in teaching SEND students effectively.

3. Establish clear safeguarding protocols specifically addressing the vulnerabilities of SEND children.

4. Conduct a thorough review of current practices and policies related to supporting SEND students, with input from parents, educators, and specialists in the field.

 

By signing this petition, we are urging Palm Bay Primary School authorities to prioritize the needs of our SEND children by implementing these necessary changes promptly. Together, let's create an inclusive educational environment where every child can flourish and succeed.

 

Sources:

- Department for Education: Special Educational Needs in England (2019)

- National Autistic Society: Education Rights Service

- Council for Disabled Children: Safeguarding Disabled Children