Supporting children with SEND

Inclusive Learning at VIP Kids Nursery

At VIP Kids Nursery, we believe every child is unique. That’s why we’re dedicated to creating an inclusive, nurturing environment where children of all abilities can learn, grow, and thrive.

Our Commitment to SEND

We’re proud to support children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) through:

A warm, accessible, and inclusive setting
Collaborative partnerships with parents and professionals
Tailored support plans to meet each child’s individual needs
Early identification and timely intervention
A focus on helping every child reach their full potential

How We Support Children with SEND

Our approach includes:

A qualified SENDCo (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator) overseeing individual support
Personalised learning strategies and sensory-friendly spaces
Use of tools such as Makaton, visual schedules, and picture communication systems
Ongoing observation, assessment, and reviews
Strong links with external specialists (e.g., speech and language therapists, educational psychologists)

Partnership with Families

We believe strong relationships with families are essential. Through open communication, we work together to:

Understand your child’s strengths and needs
Set meaningful goals and support plans
Regularly monitor and celebrate progress

EHCPs and Next Steps

When needed, we guide families through the process of securing an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), including making referrals to external agencies and offering ongoing support.

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) – Our Approach

At VIP Kids Nursery, we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, just like all early years providers in England. What sets us apart is how we deliver it—flexibly, inclusively, and centred around each child’s unique learning profile.

What is EYFS?

The EYFS sets standards for the learning, development, and care of children from birth to age 5, focusing on:

Developing confident, independent learners
Building foundations in communication, emotional, physical, and cognitive development
Creating a safe, engaging, and joyful environment

EYFS for Children with SEND

We adapt the EYFS so that every child can access learning at their own pace. Our SEND-focused approach includes:

Individual Learning Plans (ILPs)
Visual supports, sensory play, Makaton, PECS, and assistive technology
One-to-one or small group learning opportunities
Emphasis on emotional regulation, communication, and interaction
Collaborative work with parents and outside professionals

Areas of Learning in EYFS

We support children across all seven EYFS areas of learning, with particular focus on the prime areas:

Prime Areas

Communication and Language
Personal, Social and Emotional Development (PSED)
Physical Development

Specific Areas

Literacy
Mathematics
Understanding the World
Expressive Arts and Design

We carefully tailor learning experiences to match each child’s developmental level and sensory needs.

Working with Families

Parents and carers play a vital role. We work closely with families to:

Celebrate each child’s strengths and milestones
Identify additional needs early
Set and review goals together
Build continuity between home and nursery

A Curriculum That Adapts to Every Child

We understand that children have unique developmental journeys. That’s why our curriculum is highly flexible and focused on the prime areas of learning, while providing access to a wide range of activities in all seven EYFS areas.

We also use the SCERTS model—a research-based framework supporting children with autism and related developmental needs—across all areas of our provision.

SCERTS: A Foundation for Success

SCERTS focuses on three core areas:

Social Communication (SC): Encouraging meaningful interaction, expressive/receptive communication, joint attention, and symbolic play.
Emotional Regulation (ER): Supporting children in managing emotions and maintaining engagement.
Transactional Support (TS): Providing structured tools like visuals, adapted environments, and collaborative family support.

This model guides our planning, assessments, and curriculum delivery.

Pathways to Progress

Children are grouped by learning and sensory profiles. We offer three tailored pathways to meet children where they are and help them flourish.

Pathway 1

Discoverers

For children engaging with the world through sensory exploration.

Focus: Sensory play, early communication, and meaningful interaction
Tools: Sensory stories, massage, movement-based learning, objects of reference
Communication: Non-verbal, gestures, visual supports
SCERTS Stage: Early Social Partner

Pathway 2

Investigators

For children developing functional play and focused attention.

Focus: Functional and early pretend play, communication development
Learning: Introduction to early maths, literacy, and expressive arts
Support: Visual communication systems, ‘First and Then’ routines
SCERTS Stage: Social Partner

Pathway 3

Pioneers

For children showing interest in symbolic play and wider learning areas.

Focus: Extended play sequences, expressive language, small group learning
Learning: All EYFS areas through structured play and activities
Communication: Verbal and/or sign language, symbol-supported language
SCERTS Stage: Moving toward Language Partner

Measuring Progress & Sharing Success

We use the Early Years Developmental Journal and SCERTS assessments to set baseline targets and track growth.
Each child has a personalised plan, whether it’s an IEP or part of an EHCP.
Observations are recorded in real time on our learning app Class Dojo, where families can see updates and celebrate their child’s journey.
Termly Family Support Meetings allow us to review progress, set new goals, and respond to family needs.

Get in touch

We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have a question, would like to book a visit, or simply want to learn more about what we offer, just fill in the contact form below and a member of our friendly team will be in touch shortly. We’re here to help and can’t wait to welcome you and your little one to VIP Kids Nursery.