School Access Initiative (SAI) Policy and Procedure

The School Access Initiative (SAI) Policy and Procedure outlines how these schools can apply for adaptations for individual pupils which will cost in excess of £10,000. SAI funding has been available for several years. The case studies below show a small example as to how SAI funding has been used to support accessibility in KCC schools:

Adaptations

The playground area for Reception has been resurfaced, this was funded by SAI. This is to support a pupil who has Vascular Ehler’s Danlos Syndrome (VEDS). The risk is that even minor falls to hard surfaces could result in organ damage. The soft surfaces allow the pupil to access play with peers and feel included. This school is also having a care suite built for another Reception pupil. This pupil has a wheelchair and mobility needs caused by stroke and a heart condition. The care suite will allow for personal care at school.

Approximately five years ago SAI funded a ceiling tracked hoist in a care suite and widening of doorways. These adjustments are now enabling a year 3 wheelchair user who has Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) to be successfully educated in a local mainstream school close to their home. As with many of these projects, without this work this pupil would have needed to go to an SRP or specialist placement.

This school normally has at least 6 children with physical difficulties on roll. SAI has funded a second care suite in the existing SRP, a therapy room and an accessible toilet for children who can walk but have limited mobility. This has all made for better outcomes for the children. The older children and parents have noticed that for example there is no queue to access the care suite, and parents have also appreciated the benefit of having a dedicated therapy room on site.