Frequently Asked Questions
We have put together answers to some of our most frequently asked questions. If you can’t find the information you are looking for, contact us today and we will be glad to help.
What is the process for getting a place at the school?
If a parent/carer feels Three Bridges school may be appropriate provision for their child, they should contact their SEN case worker at the LA to inform them. The LA will then consult with us. Every referral will be reviewed and considered independently by the school’s Senior Management Team. This process is to ascertain if the school can meet the needs of the learner before confirming if a placement can be offered and will be in line with the statutory 15-day consultation period.
Does my child need and Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) to attend the school?
Yes, all learners require an EHCP before admission will be considered to Three Bridges School, in line with our Admissions Policy.
How are children and young people supported at the school?
All learners have an Individual Education Plan which outlines their individual needs and challenges, how staff can support them, and the learner’s goals for the future.
We provide education that is engaging and innovative. Through a varied and differentiated curriculum we aim to teach learners how to grow into positive, responsible young people who are able to not only have a positive impact in their local community but to also successfully transition into further education, employment, volunteering and adulthood.
What type of provision is available at the school?
Three Bridges school works with learners aged between 11 and 19 who have special educational needs.
What training do school staff have?
Our staff are highly trained in all areas of Special Educational Needs, from Social Emotional and Mental Health to Autism Spectrum Disorder. We also offer a range of training and mentoring opportunities which give our staff all the tools they need to inspire and support all learners to fulfil their potential.
How will my child be assessed and monitored?
Three Bridges school assesses all learners in the areas of learning. This is recorded on our Evidence for Learning system. https://www.evidenceforlearning.net/
Each year an Annual EHCP Review is held, and parents/carers are invited to this, as well as any other key professionals. At the meeting, the progress of the learner is discussed together with any further support requirements which may need to be put in place.
How will my child be included in discussions about their learning and development?
Learners are invited to attend their Annual SEN Review meeting so they are able to be involved in discussions about their learning and development and to provide their own feedback on their education and progress.
We continuously talk with learners about their learning journey.
How will I know how my child is doing? How will I be included in planning for my child’s education?
We believe that effective communication with parents and carers is of the utmost importance. Parents and carers are fully involved throughout their child’s time with us, from the induction process and beyond. We believe you know your child best and your views and support are key to a positive integration and journey through our school. We communicate regularly with parents and carers, including weekly check-in calls with our parent/carer lead, and teacher reports to keep you fully involved in your child’s education.
We operate an ‘open door policy’ and parents and carers are welcome to visit the school at any time.
Our Home-Education policy provides further details of how we communicate with you.
Who can I contact for further information about my child at school or for further information?
Should you have any questions regarding your child, telephone the school using the site specific contact details on our contact page, and our reception team will direct you to the relevant member of staff. If you would like further information about the school, you can telephone or email, or submit a message using our website contact form.
How will you help me support my child at home and in the community?
Further support you may need can be requested via our parent/carer lead or your child’s teacher. Contact us for further information.
How will the school prepare and support my child to join the school, transfer to a new school or their next stage of education?
Three Bridges school has a robust transition process which is personally designed to meet the individual needs of each learner.
This process is underpinned by following an initial assessment process, capturing the views of learners and their families, creating bespoke and personalised learning plans before learners join us, and by supporting learners educationally and emotionally throughout transition and beyond.
Learners have access to careers advisors and will also learn how to write job applications and practice interview techniques. We also support learners to liaise with Post 16 Colleges to ensure they are matched with the most suitable courses when they take their next steps in education.
Through delivery of our Careers and IAG programmes, we equip every learner with the foundations, education, qualifications, skills, and opportunities needed for lifelong success.
Who do we speak to if we have a concern or complaint about the school?
We welcome an open dialogue with parents/carers and hope we can resolve any concerns as quickly as possible. If you have any concerns or are not happy with an aspect of school, then please request an informal meeting with your child’s teacher and/or the Principal, if matters need escalating. If this does not resolve the concern, then please refer to our Complaints Procedure which explains how parents/carers can lodge a complaint. The Complaints Procedure is available from the school office, on request via email, or on our website.
