Introduction

The Somerset Core Standards for Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) are being redeveloped. A draft document has been produced by working groups, and we would like you to have your say about the document to make sure that it is co-produced and is fit for purpose.

You can find a video which explains what the Core Standards are here

Who was involved when the current Somerset Core Standards were produced?

A range of groups was involved including schools and other education settings, parents, carers and professionals from across Somerset including Somerset Council (SC) and Somerset NHS Clinical Commissioning Group (SCCG).

Why are we redeveloping the Somerset Core Standards?

This work is part of the SEND improvement programme, as outlined in the Written Statement of Action. We want to develop a clear, concise, accessible and user-friendly framework that outlines provisions for pupils with SEND in Somerset and is in line with the guidance in the Special Education Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) Code of Practice 2015.

The revised Core Standards will provide stakeholders (parents, carers, educational settings and professionals) with information to understand the type of support and provision a young person with SEND may require to meet their needs and to make sure educational progress is made. The revised Core Standards will support consistency in SEND provision across Somerset.

How do I take part?

• Read the draft document with a particular focus on the ‘Broad Areas of Need’ sections
• Submit your feedback using this questionnaire by 10 January 2022 – In appreciation of the huge challenges schools and families are facing this term around Covid, we have extended the deadline for Questionnaire responses to 10 January 2022.

The draft content in this survey has already been seen by various stakeholder groups, so you may notice some inconsistencies in the current draft. These will be corrected once we complete a final edit, including feedback gained from this survey.

What will happen next?

As a result of this work, the updated Core Standards will provide parents, carers, young people, educational settings and professionals with the latest information about support and provision available for children and young people with SEND. Our aim is for every child’s needs to be met so that they get the most from their education. To make sure there is a consistent approach to SEND provision, the updated standards will be embedded Somerset-wide and throughout the system.

If you have any questions about the questionnaire, please email VirtualSchool@somerset.gov.uk with the subject ‘The Somerset Core Standards Review Questionnaire’.

Thank you for supporting this project