West Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre Nursery Review

Communication can begin with a look, a sign or an object here. West Specialist Inclusive Learning Centre’s early years provision sits within a community special school, with personalised learning shaped around children’s education, health and care plans (EHCPs). The emphasis is on development at each child’s pace.

Farnley Partnership caters for children with complex and multiple learning needs from age two; provision for complex communication needs and autism at the Stanningley main site starts at three. Site and teaching group matter: placement takes account of professional advice, information from previous settings and parents’ views.

Play provides the starting point for communication and learning. In the Complex Communication and Autism (CCA) provision, principles from the Early Years Framework translate into open-ended exploration, practical experiences and interaction with adults and peers. Intensive Interaction is used daily, with planned opportunities to respond to children’s attempts to communicate. Personalised plans put communication first, making these exchanges part of learning rather than an incidental benefit of play.

Total Communication gives children several ways to express themselves. Objects of reference, eye-gaze technology and Makaton signing sit alongside visual supports and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), which includes communication beyond speech. For a child who cannot rely on spoken words, this means teaching can work through another route.

At Farnley, the engagement-based curriculum uses approaches including the MOVE framework and the Engagement Model. In the main-site CCA provision, timetables include hydrotherapy, sensory integration and rebound therapy, while occupational therapy input supports regulation and readiness to learn. The physical spaces match that work: both sites have adapted play equipment, a hydro pool and a rebound room. A sensory integration room is also on the main site.

In June 2022, Ofsted found that early years teaching built on children’s existing knowledge, with clear explanations and careful checks of understanding. Classrooms had plentiful play and learning resources, with outdoor areas for exploration. Reading was a priority in early years, including preparatory skills for children unable to access phonics. That gives early literacy a place alongside communication and sensory learning.

Joining includes a transition period to help establish the appropriate class and site. Staff consider the family’s views alongside medical information and advice from other professionals. Each class has a teacher and learning support assistants, with staffing levels varying according to pupils’ needs; teaching may be individual, in a small group or with the class.

Personal care follows individual needs. Children requiring regular intimate care have a care plan, and Farnley has nursing staff available through the day. Specialist changing facilities and overhead hoists at Farnley support children who need physical assistance. A key worker or key person is provided where necessary.

Snack activities in CCA use symbols or the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) to practise communication and shared attention. Contact with families includes Class Dojo, Microsoft Teams, telephone calls and email, alongside shared short-term targets and annual reviews. Family Support Workers also arrange a parent support group and direct families towards training.

Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. West SILC placements follow an EHCP route outside the usual school admissions process: requests involve the Casework Officer, an EHCP annual review and local authority consultation about whether the school can meet the child’s needs. Discuss the next placement through that process.

Transitions between classes and phases take account of previous learning, professional and medical information, and parents’ views. This supports planning for the child’s next teaching group; it is separate from any entitlement to a place.

For enquiries, contact the main office on 0113 386 2450 or email info@westsilc.org. Placement requests begin with the Casework Officer. Admissions can happen during the school year when a place is open.

Uniform is optional at Farnley Partnership. Families can choose a West SILC sweatshirt or cardigan, allowing clothing decisions to take account of their child’s comfort and care needs.