Introduction to the toolkit
The Pre-School Graduated Response Toolkit supports early years providers in meeting the needs of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). It is based on the SEND Code of Practice (2015), which sets out statutory guidance under the Children and Families Act 2014.
Purpose of the toolkit
- Guidance for early years providers on supporting children with SEND at the Graduated Response level.
- Support for the local authority when considering Education, Health and Care needs assessment (EHCNA) requests.
What's included?
The toolkit is divided into eight sections:
1 - Introduction
Explains the SEND Code of Practice, principles of the toolkit, local context, and funding arrangements.
2 - Working with parents and carers
Guidance on building positive relationships, gaining consent, and having sensitive conversations. Includes information and support available for families.
3 - Management responsibilities
Tools for nursery leaders to assess SEND provision, including whole-setting audits and action plans. Helps identify training needs for staff.
4 - Key person responsibilities
Practical advice for key workers on supporting children with SEND. Includes self-audit tools and guidance on assessment, curriculum, and adapting the environment.
5 - Typical development
Links to developmental milestones to help identify early concerns about a child's progress.
6 - SEND support in nurseries
Guidance on assessment and intervention using the Assess, Plan, Do, Review cycle. This covers the four broad areas of need:
- Cognition and learning
- Social, emotional and mental health
- Communication and interaction
- Physical and sensory
7 - Using outside agencies
Information on accessing specialist services and referral routes for additional support.
8 - Transitions
Advice on supporting children through changes, such as starting nursery or moving to school.
