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 SENCo is Sharon, who works closely with children, families and staff to support all children with additional needs.
It is a requirement for all settings to have a designated Special Educational Needs Co-Coordinator (SENCO). The settings SENCO will oversee and identify areas where additional support may be necessary for individual children. This could be in any area of learning – ranging from their communication skills through to physical development.
It is the role of the SENCO to ensure that all staff members are following the Special Educational Needs & Disability code of Practice 2015. The core values of this will be embedded into our day-to-day routines and activities to ensure that no child is left at a disadvantage, and that each child is given equal opportunity to succeed. To provide an inclusive environment, the SENCO must see to it that practitioners are all providing the same support. It will be the role of the SENCO to teach, lead and advise these team members and to also lead by example. Learning settings policies and procedures are a staple starting point in inducting any new staff, so this ensures all the team are aware of SEN policies and practice expectations. As each individual child’s needs will change and need varied support over time, it is the role of the SENCO to provide staff with adequate knowledge to support each child as an individual.
Sharon
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.
Suffolk’s Local Offer gives you clear, accessible and accurate information about the services available for children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).
In Suffolk, we want services that are able to respond to local needs and aspirations. This is why children; young people and their parents/carers work with the county council and partner organisations to review and develop services. The process of services working alongside children, young people, and families as partners are called ‘co-production’.
Suffolk’s Local Offer website holds information about education, health, and care services, as well as leisure activities and support groups – all in one place.
The information available on the Local Offer website describes the support available to families, and all children and young people with SEN and/or disabilities.
This support includes:
Universal services for example early years and childcare providers, schools and GPs;
Short-term support for children and young people with SEND who require additional support (in addition to what’s provided by universal services); and
Specialist services for children and young people with SEND who need specific longer-term support.
The information about services and support detailed in the Local Offer website, which is part of Suffolk Info Link, is provided by organisations, and not by Suffolk County Council. Even though an organisation, group, activity, or service is included it does not mean it is recommended by Suffolk County Council, or that we have checked its quality. We recommend that you should always check with providers to be confident that their service or organisation meets the needs of your child, children, or family.