SEND Unit
Here at Dorchester, we have a long history of strong, inclusive practice. We welcome children of all abilities and aim to create a safe haven for them to flourish. Over the past few years we have welcomed a large number of children with additional and complex needs, all of whom have made our school a better place to be.
In September 2023, with the support of the Local Authority, we officially formalised our internal support classroom into a SEND Unit for up to twenty children, all of whom have an Education, Health and Care Plan, with Communication and Interaction as their primary need. Places are commissioned by the Local Authority and all places have been full since formalising.
After further consultation with the Local Authority around the demand for specialist places in the local area, we increased the number of places to thirty in January 2026.
Children in our SEND Unit have access to a bespoke, purposeful curriculum focussed on meeting their individual needs. The spaces in our SEND Unit have been carefully thought out to provide a safe, secure environment for children to flourish. We have a team of experts who have significant experience of working with children with complex needs and who undertake regular training to ensure their knowledge is kept up-to-date.
Each classroom is staffed by a qualified, experienced teacher, supported by at least two skilled Achievement Support Assistants (ASAs).
Curriculum
First and foremost, the curriculum in our SEND Unit is flexible so that it meets the different needs of individual children. Many opportunities are built in for children to work towards the targets outlined in their EHCP.
When children are ready, they begin on our progressive curriculum model, starting with The Springboard Curriculum and moving on to the Early Years Framework and The National Curriculum if, and when they are ready.
Termly Newsletters
Please take a look at our termly overviews:
Want to find out more?
If you'd like to find out more about our SEND Unit, the work we do and/or come and visit our setting, please contact the school on 01482 825207 and ask to speak to our SENDCo: Mrs Chironda or our Assistant SENDCos: Miss Townsend and Miss Ashton.
