Hear Alice speak about her active role as Lead SENCO for both The Woodland Group & The Oakland Group.
Here at Oakland Lodge, we are proud to offer a nurturing, inclusive environment where every child is valued, supported, and encouraged to thrive. We understand that each child is unique and may experience the world in different ways. We believe that every child has the right to an education that best suits them, regardless of their ability, and we are committed to creating a space where all children feel safe, respected, and celebrated. Whether your child needs a little extra support or more specialist care, we tailor our approach to meet their individual needs —because no two children are the same, and their early years’ experience should reflect that.
Our dedicated Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo), Alice Cook, works closely with children, families, and staff to ensure that all children with additional needs receive the care and support they deserve.
A SENCo, or Special Educational Needs Coordinator, is a key member of our nursery team, trained to support children who may have additional learning needs or disabilities. Alice holds a Level 3 Diploma in Special Educational Needs in Early Years alongside training in sensory processing & integration and completion of ‘Trauma Perceptive Practice’ – the Essex approach to understanding behaviour and supporting emotional wellbeing, leading with a deep commitment to inclusion.
• Identify children who may benefit from extra support. • Coordinate targeted interventions tailored to each child’s needs. • Guide and support staff to embed inclusive practices • Liaise with families to build strong, supportive partnerships. • Work with external professionals to provide specialist input. We follow the SEND Code of Practice 2015, ensuring our provision is aligned with national standards and driven by the belief that every child has the right to a rich, fulfilling early years experience.
Alice Cook
At the heart of our approach is the belief that parents and carers are not just part of the process—they are essential to it. You are your child’s first and most important teacher, and your insight, love, and perspective are central to their development. That’s why we place such a strong emphasis on building meaningful, trusting relationships with families from the very start.
We understand that navigating the world of SEND can sometimes feel overwhelming, and we want you to know: you are not alone. Our SENCo, Alice, is here not only to support your child, but to support you as a family. Whether it’s completing paperwork, attending meetings, or simply offering a listening ear—we are here to do this journey with you.
From the moment a concern is raised, or a need is identified, we will work closely with you to explore what your child needs and how we can help. We’ll take the time to explain each step clearly and honestly, and you will always be included in every decision made. We’ll help with making referrals to outside agencies, supporting you through the Early Help process, or requesting specialist assessments such as an Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment (EHCNA). We’re also here to support you emotionally, as we know that for many families, this journey can bring a mixture of emotions.
We hold termly One Plan meetings, where we come together to reflect on your child’s progress, set new goals, and adjust our approach as needed. These meetings are designed to be collaborative and relaxed, giving you space to share your views and celebrate your child’s successes. We are committed to ensuring your voice is always heard.
We’ll also be sure to connect you with wider services, offer advice on what’s available locally, and provide practical guidance for applying for additional support or entitlements. Whatever the need may be – whether it’s navigating funding, sourcing specialist equipment, or understanding formal documentation, we are here!
We are passionate about creating a nursery environment that nurtures the whole family. By forming strong, supportive partnerships, we can ensure consistency between home and nursery, helping your child feel secure, understood, and confident in every space they move through.
A One Plan is a tailored support strategy that focuses on:
• Your child’s individual strengths and needs.
• Setting small, meaningful goals.
• Tracking progress through regular reviews.
• Keeping communication open between all involved.
This method ensures your child receives consistent, loving support, both in nursery and at home, making a real difference to their confidence, independence, and enjoyment of learning.
Sometimes, we may need to involve external professionals to provide additional guidance and expertise. In these cases, Alice will coordinate support and maintain communication between all parties. This ensures a seamless approach that puts your child at the heart of every decision.
We may collaborate with:
• Speech and Language Therapists
• Occupational Therapists
• Health Visitors
• Hearing or Visual Impairment Specialists
• Physical & Neurological Impairment Teams
Every professional involved brings something valuable to your child’s journey—and together, we work as a team to ensure they feel safe, supported, and celebrated.
We also signpost families to a wide range of local services and resources that can provide extra help, advice, and activities. Here are some key links:
• The Essex Local Offer – Your central hub for SEND information, services, and guidance.
• Search Local Support Groups & Activities – Find groups, events, and services in your area tailored to families with children who have additional needs.
• Talk, Listen, Cuddle – A brilliant Essex-based initiative that supports early communication and bonding.
• Essex Child and Family Wellbeing Service – Supporting the health and wellbeing of children and families across the county.
• Essex Family Forum – A parent-led network offering support, events, and a voice for families of children with SEND.
Whether your child is just beginning their nursery journey or continuing to grow in confidence and independence, our team is here every step of the way! We understand the challenges families can face, and we are committed to making your child’s early years’ experience positive, inclusive, and empowering.
If you have any questions, or would like to speak directly to Alice, our SENCo, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re always here to talk, listen, and support you.
