Elstree (Pre-Prep) School

The Learning Development Department recognises the importance of early identification, assessment and provision for any child who may have Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEN/D). The earlier action is taken, the more responsive the child is likely to be, and the more benefit to their self-esteem it is likely to give. All pupils with SEN/D are identified at the earliest opportunity, assessed, and with agreement from parents, sent on for further assessment by an Educational Psychologist, or other specialist, if necessary.

The child's parents are informed that special educational provision is being made for their child and permission sought if this is required. To ensure that on-going observation and assessment occurs, the Learning Development Department provide regular feedback to teachers and parents about the child's achievements and experiences. The outcomes of any assessment forms the basis for planning the next steps of the child's learning.

Nursery and Reception classes follow the Foundation Stage Framework, learning through play and practical activities, both in the classroom, in our outdoor play areas as well as making full use of the extensive grounds of Elstree School. The children are supported in the remaining four specific areas, through which the three prime areas are strengthened and applied. The specific areas are Literacy, Mathematics, Understanding of the World and Expressive Arts and Design. During the Reception year, there is a balance of the seven areas and this provides ideal preparation for the transition to Year 1. Differentiation is put in place where necessary.

The form teacher will plan and differentiate The form teacher will plan and differentiate appropriately and the Scheme of work will depend on the needs of the child. 

The classroom assistant will work with the pupil on a one to one basis at times as instructed by the form/ subject teacher. Teaching from the Learning Development Department is offered to any child deemed to have Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEN/D).

A specialist teacher gives lessons on a one-to-one basis, (occasionally in groups, if appropriate) at an additional cost.

Learning Support provides learning that is additional to, and different from, that provided as part of the school's usual differentiated curriculum.

This is done both formally and informally. Informally, there is a constant dialogue between LS teacher, form tutor, subject teachers, pupils and parents as to how successfully the pupil can access the curriculum. Formally, the LS tutor will:- Check the results of regular screening tests, monitor progress made and update Pupil Passports for each child

The pupil to adult ratio is adhered to, the parent may be asked to join the trip.

Parts of the school are inaccessible to children with mobility difficulties. Elstree is a Grade II listed building and only certain changes can be made. 

The Head of Learning Development plans the future support for a particular child in discussion with colleagues, parents and any previous setting if applicable.

On an annual basis, the pupils on the SEN/D register are either formally re-assessed in the department, or an informal check with parents and/or form and subject teachers is carried out.

Pre-PRep - Miss Alice Holifield

Learning Development - Mrs Sarah Attwood

We pride ourselves on good communication with parents and staff will always be the first port of call for compliments and complaints. If parents do have a complaint, they can expect it to be treated seriously by the School and in accordance with a set procedure, comments are made directly to a Head of Department, the Deputy Head or the Headmaster and thus follows-

Stage 1 – Informal Resolution

Stage 2 – Formal Resolution

Stage 3 – Panel Hearing