Supporting children and families through provision that provides equity, inclusivity and positive, rich learning experiences for all…
At Caldecote Preschool, we are committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive and nurturing environment where every child and family feels valued, respected and supported. We celebrate diversity in all its forms and believe that every child has the right to access high-quality early years education that enables them to thrive, achieve and belong.
We recognise that every child is unique, with individual strengths, interests, backgrounds and needs. Our curriculum and daily practice promote equality of opportunity and encourage children to develop confidence, self-esteem and respect for others. We actively celebrate different cultures, languages, family structures, abilities and experiences through our learning environment, resources, activities and partnerships with families.
In the early years, inclusive practice is essential in helping children develop empathy, confidence and a sense of belonging. We promote positive attitudes towards differences and encourage children to value and respect one another. By creating an environment where every child feels safe, heard and included, we help lay the foundations for lifelong learning, wellbeing and positive relationships.
We continuously reflect on and develop our practice to ensure that equity, diversity and inclusion remain at the heart of everything we do.
Special Educational Needs (SEND)
At our preschool, we are committed to providing an inclusive, supportive and nurturing environment where every child can thrive. Our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provision is guided by the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework and the values and best practice guidance of the Early Years Alliance.
We believe that all children deserve equal opportunities to learn, develop and achieve their full potential. We recognise that children learn in different ways and at different rates, and we are committed to meeting individual needs through high-quality inclusive early years practice.
Our setting is proud to have three fully qualified Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCos), ensuring that children, families and staff receive knowledgeable and consistent support. Our SENCos work closely with practitioners, parents and external professionals to identify children’s needs early and provide appropriate strategies, interventions and support plans to help every child flourish.
We provide:
– A fully inclusive environment where all children are welcomed and valued
– Early identification and support for children with emerging or identified SEND
– Individualised planning and tailored learning opportunities
– Strong partnerships with parents and carers
– Close collaboration with outside agencies and professionals where appropriate
– A graduated approach to support in line with the SEND Code of Practice
– Adapted resources, activities and environments to meet children’s individual needs
– Ongoing monitoring, observation and assessment to celebrate progress and next steps
– Where appropriate, additional staffing to provide dedicated 1:1 support for children with SEND needs
Through the EYFS curriculum, we support children’s communication and language, personal, social and emotional development, physical development and overall wellbeing, recognising that these are fundamental to every child’s learning journey.
We understand the importance of building positive relationships with families and believe that parents and carers are key partners in supporting children’s development. We work collaboratively to ensure that children receive consistent, personalised support both within the setting and beyond.
Our aim is to create a safe, inclusive and inspiring environment where every child feels confident, respected and able to participate fully in preschool life.
We understand that navigating SEND services can sometimes feel overwhelming for families. As part of our commitment to supporting children and their families, we are happy to provide information, guidance and signposting to local services that may be able to offer additional support, advice and resources.
Our experienced team and fully qualified SENCos are always available to discuss any concerns, answer questions and help families access appropriate support. We believe that early intervention, strong partnerships and open communication are key to ensuring the best outcomes for every child.
*Please note that a formal diagnosis is not required before seeking advice or support. If you have concerns about your child’s development, we encourage you to speak with us as early as possible so that we can work together to identify the most appropriate support.
Resources and Guidance
Cambridgeshire Local Offer
The Cambridgeshire Local Offer provides information about services, support, activities and resources available for children and young people aged 0–25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and their families. It includes information on education, health, social care, childcare, support groups and community services.
Cambridgeshire Online | SEND Information Hub (Local Offer)
SEND Information, Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS)
SENDIASS offers free, confidential and impartial advice, information and support for parents, carers, children and young people with SEND. They can help families understand their rights, navigate SEND processes, work alongside schools and professionals, and access appropriate support.
Pinpoint Cambridgeshire Parent Carer Forum
Pinpoint supports parents and carers of children and young people aged 0–25 with additional needs or disabilities, with or without a formal diagnosis. They offer information, workshops, training sessions, coffee mornings, support groups and opportunities for families to connect with others who have shared experiences.
Cambs SEND Parent/Carer Support from Pinpoint Cambridgeshire
SEND Service (0–25)
The Cambridgeshire SEND Service works with children, families, schools and early years settings to provide specialist advice and targeted support. The service includes educational psychologists, specialist teachers and practitioners who help children access learning and achieve positive outcomes.
Cambridgeshire Online | SEND Service 0-25
Health Visitors and GP Services
Health visitors and GPs can often be the first point of contact if you have concerns about your child’s development. They can offer advice, assessments and referrals to specialist services where appropriate.
Caring Together
Caring Together provides support for carers across Cambridgeshire, including parent carers of children with additional needs. Services include advice, wellbeing support, counselling, training opportunities and practical resources for families.
Caring Together Charity | Carers’ Support | Homecare | Cambs, Peterborough and Norfolk
SCIP (Special Needs Community Information Point)
SCIP (Special needs Community Information Point) is an information and advice service for families with children/young people from birth to 25-year-olds with a disability or additional needs. By joining SCIP you get access to:
- a SCIP Card
- Activity Passport
- Email updates on local events and activities
- Request information specific to your child
Cambridgeshire Online | SCIP (Special Needs Community Information Point)
Little Miracles
Little Miracles is a charity that supports families of children with additional needs, disabilities and life-limiting conditions. You can visit their webpage and join your local Facebook group to keep up to date with their latest events, news and activities.