This broad area of need includes vision, deaf and hearing, physical and multi-sensory impairments. It also includes physical needs and some medical needs. It is important to note that a pupil with a medical need is not necessarily on the SEND register.

Where a child has a sensory impairment or a physical need, we work with parents/carers and external agencies to make sure we remove any potential barriers to access and to learning, so that the child can be as independent as possible with high levels of self-esteem.

In this area of need, we:

• Assess using gross and fine motor checklists, guidance from NHS clinic reports, discussion and observation. We also use the Derbyshire Sensory processing Needs Toolkit. We make referrals to the NHS and to Derbyshire Sensory and Physical Team where required. Specialist teachers may visit school as a result to continue giving advice and provide resources or equipment.
• Set targets and plan opportunities for targets, including those from external agencies, to be met.
• Deliver targeted or specialist support according to advice and assessment, for example, physiotherapy sessions.

• Review progress and plan next steps for each child.

We use signs and symbols from Widgit Online to enhance communication in our classroom routines and in learning tasks.

Useful websites:

• Information and support | National Deaf Children's Society (ndcs.org.uk)
• Welcome to the Royal Society for Blind Children (rsbc.org.uk)
• Children's occupational therapy and physiotherapy :: Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (derbyshirehealthcareft.nhs.uk)
• Family services | Disability charity Scope UK
• Cerebral palsy - NHS (www.nhs.uk)