Inclusion
Special Educational Needs
The Academy’s SEN Policy is in line with the 2001 Code of Practice and is available on request. The main emphasis in the Code is Inclusive Education. Our Learning Support Department operates a flexible system which supports both students and staff.
Provision depends on the nature of a given need. It could include:
- in-class, one-to-one or small group support
- small group withdrawal focusing on numeracy, literacy, spelling or reading
- differentiated work in class and/or an adapted curriculum
- ‘Friendship Group’ work to improve social communication skills
- external agency support.
During their time at school, many students will experience a special educational need which may relate to learning, health or emotional factors. If you have any specific concerns about your son or daughter, please contact the Learning Support Manager.
Safeguarding
We are fully committed to ensuring that your child is safe whilst with us. Safety is identified as a strength of the school by both students and parents and was commented upon by Ofsted 2023.
As well as making every effort to ensure that the school site is safe and secure, there are stringent checks made on all applicants for posts at the school. All staff have been trained in Child Protection and we have three highly qualified Designated Officers: all adults are fully aware of their duty of care.
Within the Inspire curriculum, students are taught about keeping safe in various situations and there is a constant focus on e-safety in ICT lessons.
High Attaining Students
Parkside Academy is one of only a handful of secondary schools in the North East to hold the prestigious “Challenge Award” recognising our excellent provision for high ability children.
The school is committed to supporting all of our students, whatever ability, in achieving their potential. Those students who are identified as being more academically able are nominated for a register and are closely monitored to ensure the right level of challenge in their work. Many students benefit from the special events and masterclasses provided through the support programme for targeted groups.
Anti-Bullying:
Bullying, in whatever form, is unacceptable at our school and will be dealt with severely.
It destroys confidence and makes people feel vulnerable so we strive to create a climate where bullying behaviour is NOT acceptable to any member of the school community. We believe that students have the right to be happy and safe, to be themselves and to enjoy peace of mind.
We aim:
- to counter bullying behaviour
- to give help and support to those who have been bullied
- to use students of the school as a positive resource against bullying behaviour, such as our Peer Support Group.
We expect from parents and students:
- no tolerance of bullying behaviour and active support for the school’s anti-bullying policy
- a willingness to report any instances of, or suspicion of, bullying
We have a dedicated Anti-Bullying Co-ordinator at the Academy who works with students to help them understand the consequences and actions of bullying. Any issues are dealt with quickly, sensitively and effectively.
