Blossom Tree Class is our school-based enhanced provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) who benefit from additional support, specialist approaches and a carefully adapted learning environment. Our provision is designed around the individual strengths, needs and interests of each child, ensuring that pupils are supported to communicate, participate, learn and achieve alongside their peers.

At Blossom Tree, we have high expectations for every pupil. Our approach is rooted in positive relationships, purposeful learning and a strong understanding of each child as an individual. Staff provide appropriate adaptations, scaffolding and support to remove barriers to learning, while encouraging children to develop increasing independence, confidence and resilience.

Every day provides rich opportunities for communication, interaction, learning and personal development. Through carefully planned experiences, purposeful play and adult-led learning, pupils develop their knowledge, skills and understanding while working towards their individual next steps. We place particular emphasis on developing communication and language, social interaction, independence and positive relationships.

Learning Together

Being part of Blossom Tree does not mean learning separately from the wider school community. Inclusion is an important part of our approach. Pupils have regular opportunities to access learning, play and experiences alongside their Reception peers, with the adaptations and support they need to participate successfully.

These shared experiences provide valuable opportunities to practise communication, develop friendships, build confidence and apply learning in meaningful contexts. Adults carefully support interactions, helping pupils to develop their ability to engage with others and become increasingly independent.

We want every child in Blossom Tree to feel that they belong, they are valued and they can achieve. Our school-based enhanced provision provides the additional support some pupils need while maintaining the same ambition: to enable every child to flourish, develop their strengths and make meaningful progress from their individual starting points.

 

Everyday I engage in …

 

Total communication

This is a way of supporting children to communicate using a range of methods, rather than relying on speech alone. It may include spoken language, gestures, facial expressions, Makaton signs, symbols, pictures, objects, and communication aids. By using all available ways to communicate, children are better able to understand others, express their needs, make choices, and take an active part in learning and everyday activities. This approach helps to reduce frustration, build confidence, and promote successful communication for all children.

Intensive Interaction

This is a way of helping children develop their communication and social skills by following their lead and joining in with what they are interested in. Adults use eye contact, facial expressions, gestures, sounds, and simple language to create enjoyable back-and-forth interactions. These positive shared experiences help children build confidence, develop attention and engagement, and learn the foundations of communication, such as taking turns, listening, and responding to others.

Attention Autism

At our school, we use Attention Autism to support children's communication, attention and engagement. Through a series of exciting, visually motivating activities, children are encouraged to focus, listen, interact and share enjoyment with others. The approach is particularly beneficial for children with communication and interaction needs, including autistic children, as it helps to develop the foundational skills needed for learning, social relationships and successful participation in the classroom. Attention Autism sessions are fun, inclusive and designed to foster confidence, curiosity and a love of learning.

Sensory Circuits

These are short, fun activities that help children get their bodies and brains ready for learning. The activities usually include movement such as jumping, balancing, pushing, or stretching to help children improve their attention, coordination, and self-regulation. Sensory Circuits can help children feel calm, focused, and ready to take part in classroom learning.