Abingdon Preparatory School

Additional Information

Abingdon Preparatory SEND provision (https://www.abingdon.org.uk/prep/aps_school_policies)

Abingdon Preparatory School (APS) is an independent day school for boys from 4-13. Entrance procedures differ depending on the age of the child. Entrance into Reception is through the ‘Observation Play Morning’ and the two year check. For entry into Years 1, 2 and 3 there is an Observation morning during which there are informal assessments in phonics, maths and social communication. For entry into Years 4-8 the boys sit a Cognitive Ability Test then spend a day in class during which there are informal assessments in Maths and English. The school requests a reference and report from the current school. EAL speakers may have additional informal assessments to determine their understanding and usage of the English language. The school’s curriculum is suited to the needs of the more able pupil; however, among the school population there is an average representation of mild/moderate Specific Learning Difficulties including mild/ moderate 1 dyslexia, mild/moderate dyspraxia, mild attention deficit and hyperactive disorder and mild communication disorders including mild autistic spectrum disorders.

APS is committed to offering a curriculum that can meet the individual needs of all its pupils, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). At APS we aim to address children’s cognitive, physical, social, emotional and behavioural needs. We are committed to taking all reasonable steps to ensure that all APS children, and their parents and carers feel included. To this end, the School will make its best endeavours to meet the needs of each pupil within the resources available. This policy therefore seeks to inform teaching and learning throughout the school as well as ensure that provision is made for pupils with SEND. Provision for pupils with SEND is a matter for the school’s governors, the Head Teacher, the Head of Learning Support, and all members of teaching staff. APS is committed to a fully inclusive approach to SEND.

The school has a small Learning Support Department consisting of a 0.9 Head of Learning Support. In addition to this there is one 0.62 specialist Learning Support teacher who offers 1:1 lessons by recommendation from the Head of Learning Support. Teachers within the department hold specialist qualifications and expertise in supporting pupils with Specific Learning Difficulties. The cost of 1:1 Learning Support lessons is covered by the parent.