Graduated Response

At Holy Cross, we follow a graduated response of Assess, Plan, Do, Review to ensure pupils receive the right level of need at the right time. This offers a continuous cycle of improvement in line with the SEND Code of Practice 2015.

Waves of Provision

At Holy Cross, we offer four waves of support for our pupils.

Universal Provision

This wave offers high-quality inclusive teaching for all pupils at Holy Cross. Classes are taught by a subject specialist, ensuring a depth of knowledge and a clear understanding of pupils’ starting points. All pupils access a broad and balanced curriculum with high expectations and ambitious goals. Our curriculum is designed to regularly assess pupils’ understanding, regularly retrieve past learning and build upon foundational knowledge. All pupils have their individual Synergy profile where communication can be logged regularly and shared with teaching staff to ensure consistency and continuity across the curriculum.

Targeted Provision

We recognise that some pupils may need additional monitoring and/or support to access the curriculum and make progress. These pupils may have:

  • specific strategies or identified triggers and barriers, as recommended by the SENDCO on their Synergy profile to implement in the classroom
  • targeted assessments and screeners to build a better understanding of their barriers
  • targeted check-ins by their tight team of support staff
  • internal intervention

This wave of support enables Holy Cross to build a more detailed picture of the individual pupil so staff can respond early and effectively.

Specialist Provision

For pupils with persistent or complex needs, more specialist provision may be sought to ensure staff are able to develop a comprehensive understanding of the individual at this level. Pupils may have:

  • specialist referrals and assessments as determined by the SENDCO
  • specialist reports read by the SENDCO who will share appropriate recommendations with staff whilst maintaining the confidentiality of the report
  • multi-agency meetings
  • One-Page Profiles briefly outlining barriers to learning, intervention and specific adjustments and adaptations
  • internal intervention

This wave of support ensures that all staff understand the pupil’s needs at a deeper, specialist-informed level and can apply consistent, evidence-based strategies.

Intensive Provision

Pupils with the highest level of need will require intensive, specialist level of support in all areas of their learning. These pupils may have:

  • an EHCP reviewed annually
  • frequent communication logs to inform all stakeholders of possible triggers, barriers and progress
  • highly differentiated curriculum or alternative pathways
  • close collaboration with parents / carers and external professionals
  • external agency intervention
  • internal intervention

This wave of support provides a dynamic, responsive system where support is reviewed continuously and informs moment-to-moment decision-making.

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