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Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) in the early years

Statutory Framework, SEND Code of Practice and Equality Act
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All providers in receipt of local government funding must have regard to the Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Code of Practice. The Code covers the 0-25 age range and includes guidance relating to disabled children and young people as well as those with SEN. There is a clear focus on active participation of children and parents in all decision making at individual and strategic levels. This links with the EYFS Statutory Framework

Kent SEND Strategy
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The aim of the Kent SEND strategy is to improve the educational, health and emotional well-being outcomes for all of Kent's children and young people with special educational needs and those who are disabled (SEND).

Access Kent funded (free) inclusion support from Equality and Inclusion Team
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  • pre-Early Years Local Inclusion Forum Team (EY LIFT) advice and support including use of Best Practice Guidance and associated paperwork
  • advice for a newly appointed Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO)
  • discussion regarding appropriate referral routes and multi-agency paperwork
  • post-EY LIFT support including modelling of multi agency strategies.

Use the electronic request form to request support.

Alternatively, you can download and complete the Equality and Inclusion Special Educational Needs and Disability Support Request (DOCX, 51.7 KB) and email to EYinclusion@theeducationpeople.org.

The Local Offer

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Introduction to The Local Offer for Early Years Providers. Free and easy to follow e-learning now available.

Kent's Local Offer is available through SEND Information Hub - Kent This website gives children and young people with special educational needs or disabilities and their families information about what support services the local authority think will be available in their local area. Every local authority is responsible for writing a Local Offer and making sure it is available for everyone to see.

Other useful pages on Kelsi
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Equality and Inclusion resources

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Resources for SENCO, AENCO, Inclusion Coordinator and Childminder.

Support for SENCOs in early years settings

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Access this link for information about how Equality and Inclusion Team work with Specialist Teaching and Learning Service, EY LIFT, SENIF and EHC plans.

Return to Equality and Inclusion landing page