The Den - SEND unit

The Den is a SEND unit for children with complex communication needs.  All children will have an EHCP related to their communication needs.  Places are allocated by Swindon Borough Council.  
 
This year we opened our second class.  We now have Blue Class for children on a semi-formal curriculum, they are ready for some short bursts of formal learning at a level that they can access.  Pink Class has a pre-formal curriculum, therefore we work with children on a 1:1 basis, working directly on their targets.  We also have some whole class sessions.
 
We have a high staff ratio with one member of staff for every two children.  This allows us to work on their individual targets daily as well as working towards whole class objectives.  We use a programme called Attention Autism, affectionately known as "bucket time" which works on building children's attention and focus.  Sensology sessions provide the opportunity for children to experience different textures, smells, sounds and tastes all related to our current book or topic.  
 
We work closely with speech and language therapists and other professionals to provide the very best care and education for our children, working on their next steps.  
 
 
We are so excited to be in our unit.  We have a new sensory room, therapy/lunch room, two classrooms, toilets and communal areas as well as a wonderful new outdoor area. The children have settled in so well and are very proud of the new Den.  The new space enables us to support all of the children with their regulation, communication and learning.