SEND and Inclusion

Inclusion in Our Federation: Be the Light – Support, Nurture, Thrive

Inclusion at at the Upper Wharfedale Primary Federation is a purposeful and dynamic journey that begins the moment a child joins our schools. We are committed to ensuring that every child, regardless of their starting point or individual needs, has the support, guidance, and opportunities to shine. Our skilled team works closely with children, families, and staff to provide personalised support, helping each child flourish academically, socially, and emotionally.

We aim to equip every child with the skills, confidence, and resilience they need to meet the challenges they may encounter. Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) receive targeted support through personalised learning plans, interventions, and close collaboration with families and, where appropriate, external professionals. We actively involve all those who support the child, ensuring a coordinated and effective approach.

We firmly believe that with timely guidance and the right support, every child can make progress, develop proficiency, and tackle challenges successfully. Our approach is designed to build confidence, nurture skills, and foster a positive mindset for learning and life. Every child is encouraged to discover their strengths, overcome obstacles, and reach their full potential.

Our provision extends beyond the classroom. We work closely with families, local services, and the wider community to ensure children access the support they need. Children are encouraged to be active participants in their own learning and support, developing confidence, independence, and resilience that will serve them throughout life.

Pastoral support is central to our ethos. Children’s social and emotional wellbeing is promoted through daily or weekly check-ins, nurture groups, social skills sessions, and access to specialist counselling or trauma support. We are part of the North Yorkshire mental health and wellbeing initiative, Compass Buzz, and all staff are trained to support children effectively. Children are encouraged to speak to any member of staff if they have concerns, knowing they will be listened to, supported, and guided toward positive outcomes.

Our Inclusion Team works closely across the Federation to ensure consistency and continuity:

  • Miss Jo Oakes – Federation SENDCo

  • Mrs May Blair – Federation SENDCo

  • Mrs Greenwood – Pupil Premium and Attendance Lead

  • Sarah Vetch – Pastoral Support Officer

Each school has a designated safeguarding leader working alongside the Inclusion Team:

  • Lead DSL across the Federation: Miss Thompson

  • Designated Safeguarding Leads: Mrs Blair (Burnsall), Mrs Taylor (Cracoe), Mrs Steeples (Grassington), Miss Oakes (Kettlewell)

  • Deputy DSL: Mrs Greenwood

Contact Information

If you have any questions about SEND or your child’s support, please contact our federation SENDCos:

Key Documents

We believe inclusion and pastoral care are about possibility and empowerment. Children are supported to see themselves as capable, resilient, and valued members of the school community. Through nurturing, tailored support, and collaboration, pupils are able to overcome challenges, achieve success, and flourish. We want our children to be the light: to shine with confidence, contribute to their community, and embrace learning and life with optimism and resilience.

Ladder of Intervention Link​