SEND

We aim to develop and support the young people in our care in every way possible so that they can successfully progress and achieve greatness in its many forms throughout their lives. The care of young people and their successful progress throughout their time at Coloma is our primary concern.  To achieve this aim, we work closely with parents to ensure that each child reaches their full potential.

We have a team of dedicated staff who support within classes as well as in small groups and with one-to-one tuition, guidance and advice. Coloma Convent Girls' School fully endorses the SEND Code of Practice (2014) core principles.  

If you wish to discuss your child, their progress or any additional support they might need, please contact;

Miss M Wake, Assistant Headteacher for Inclusion, via email to mwake@coloma.co.uk or by telephone on            0208 654 6228. 

Mrs L Bero-O'Sullivan, SENDCo, via email to sendco@coloma.co.uk or by telephone on 0208 654 6228. 

SEND Report 

Accessibility Plan 

SEND Policy

Coloma Convent Girls' School is committed to ensuring that all students with disabilities are properly supported so that they can:

  • Play an active and full role in school life
  • Access and enjoy the same opportunities as any other student, including school trips, Physical Education and Sport, and extra-curricular activities
  • Remain healthy and safe
  • Achieve their academic potential
  • Nurture their God-given talents

All students at Coloma have access to a broad and balanced curriculum, and barriers to participation are removed wherever necessary. Students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are identified early and supported through a range of tailored interventions. Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) are shared with and discussed among all staff involved in a student’s education and care. Where appropriate, staff receive medical training and guidance from healthcare professionals to ensure students’ needs are met safely and effectively.

While not all areas of the school are fully accessible for students with limited mobility, thoughtful timetabling and classroom allocation ensure that all curriculum areas are available to students. Wheelchair access is available in the 6th Form Centre, DT block, ground-floor classrooms, and the Performing Arts Centre. Some classrooms are equipped with a Sound Field System to support students with hearing impairments. Reasonable adjustments are made wherever necessary to ensure all students can participate fully in school life.

Coloma actively promotes equality and inclusion through the curriculum and by creating a supportive and respectful environment for all students. Progress and outcomes for students with SEND are regularly monitored and reviewed in partnership with parents and carers, ensuring that each student has the support they need to achieve their potential.

The school’s admissions policy outlines how we welcome and nurture all students, including those with disabilities. This policy can be found on the Admission Page.

The school works with a number of external agencies to seek advice and support to ensure that the needs of all children are fully understood and met. These include:     

  • Educational Psychology Service           
  • Speech and Language Therapy
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Croydon Sensory Support Service
  • CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service)
  • Virtual School for Looked After Children

Additionally, parents may wish to seek support from Family Lives Parent Partnership Service 

020 3131 3150

The Parent Partnership Service provides independent information and advice and guidance for parents and carers of children and young people with SEN.

Further information about support and services for pupils and their families can be found at:

Croydon.Gov.UK - Special Educational Needs

Top Revision tips for students with SEND
Though written for teachers, these strategies may be useful approaches for parents to try at home when exam season looms - and it is never to early to get young people into good revision habits: Click here.

Supported internships: post-16 options  for young people with EHCPs
Written to provide parent-led information and resources, this website can signpost  parents to explore this under-explored route into employment: Click here.

Inside our autistic minds: what parents can learn
BBC Bitesize has some excellent resources related to SEND in their parent toolkit and this article explains masking, camouflaging and non-speaking autism with clips from Chris Packham's documentary series: Click here.

Right Support, Right Place, Right Time
Parents may be aware that earlier this year, a report was published outlining the government's plans for SEND reform. You can read the full report here.