At Storal, we are dedicated to providing every child with the best start, particularly those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Woodville Nursery School in Woodville, Derbyshire, stands out for its commitment, with 39% of its children on the SEND register. Their dedicated team go above and beyond to provide each child with exceptional learning opportunities. From assisting families with SEND paperwork to offering workshops for parents on how to ensure their child is prepared for school, the team fosters a strong sense of community, and this dedication earned Woodville the Nursery World Preschool of the Year award.

Central to Woodville’s success is Rhiannon Thompson, their SENDCO (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator), who ensures that children receive personalised support while managing essential administrative duties such as referrals and EHCPs. Rhiannon’s expertise also extends to Storal’s wider network, where she recently led regional training on the importance of sensory breaks, providing valuable knowledge to our teams.

In all Storal nurseries, SENDCOs are integral to meeting the needs of children with SEND. Supported by our Regional Education Managers, who oversee and ensure high standards are maintained, SENDCOs work closely with local authorities to secure the right resources and offer a curriculum that includes tools like Makaton, a communication technique using signs and symbols which supports cognitive growth and independence.

Our sensory rooms and newly launched outdoor learning programs empower children with SEND, helping them build resilience, overcome challenges, and gain confidence. Ofsted has commended our holistic approach, which includes strong, collaborative partnerships with parents to ensure the support reaches the entire family.

We are committed to the professional development of our SENDCOs, offering Level 3 SENDCO training and regular opportunities for learning through CPD sessions and SENDCO surgeries. These termly events, led by experienced professionals like Rhiannon and Tammie Blockley, our SENDCO at Hermitage Nursery School in Whitwick, Leicestershire, promote knowledge-sharing and collaboration. The dedication of our SENDCOs has been recognised through awards, with Tammie winning SENDCO of the Year and Rhiannon being shortlisted for the same honour at the National NMT Nursery Awards this year.

At Storal, our focus on SEND extends beyond meeting requirements; it reflects our ethos of nurturing every child and supporting families with care and dedication. Through inclusive practices, thoughtful support, and continuous professional growth, we ensure that each child has the opportunity to thrive.