New SEND Provision Success at Greenfield Primary Academy

Primary school children in Hyde are reaping the benefits following the opening of a new Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) unit at Greenfield Primary Academy.

The new provision is already making a positive impact, with children settling quickly into their surroundings thanks to the dedication, expertise, and the care of the staff team.

The development of the new SEND unit has been made possible through a £1.5million investment from Tameside Council to create an additional 133 school places across Tameside for pupils aged 5-16 years-old with SEND. The development of purpose-built classrooms with specialist resources will meet a wide range of additional needs, providing high-quality, inclusive education close to home.

Every member of staff within the SEND unit brings a strong background in supporting children with additional needs and a genuine passion for inclusion, and ongoing professional learning ensures staff are up to date with the latest research, teaching strategies, and therapeutic approaches in SEND education.

Greenfield Primary Academy has placed inclusivity at the heart of its ethos, with children in the two SEND classrooms fully integrated within the wider school community, learning and playing alongside their peers. Transition is an integral part of the Greenfield Primary Academy approach, with staff taking the time to understand each child and family individually, and parents are delighted with the start their children have made in the new school term.

Danielle Lewis, parent of Eli, said:

"My son is happy, and the staff are incredibly supportive. They understand his needs and are non-judgemental, which means so much to a SEND parent."

The learning environments are carefully designed to meet the individual needs of every child. With provision including a soft play area, sensory area, regulation area and outdoor learning, children can access spaces that suit their specific requirements.

Greenfield Academy, which is part of The Harmony Trust, is dedicated to providing high-quality, inclusive education for all pupils, with Academy Principal, Zoe Neophitou, saying:

“The feedback from parents, especially those of children with SEND, reflects the dedication of our staff and the strength of our provision. We remain committed to ensuring every child feels valued, supported and able to thrive whether in mainstream, or as part of our SEND Unit."

Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Lifelong Learning and Culture, Councillor Leanne Feeley said: “The new SEND units at Greenfield Primary school has been a remarkable success, bringing joy to families and new opportunities for every child, whilst meeting the needs of young people in education.

“This investment into SEND education will also offer the opportunity of better outcomes for children who are able to have a school place to meet their individual needs closer to home.”

Parents and carers can find information on health, education and care by visiting Tameside’s Local Offer website at www. tamesidelocaloffer.co.uk.