PINS Project - Partnership for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools

Since 2024, Cherbourg Primary School has been involved in the Partnership for Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Schools (PINS). This is a national programme designed to help schools further develop inclusive practice for neurodiverse children and young people. For the purposes of this project, neurodiversity includes a wide range of needs, including ADHD, autism, anxiety, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, developmental language disorder, foetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and other developmental differences. The project focuses on understanding and supporting children's needs, whether or not they have a formal diagnosis. Working alongside Hampshire's SEN/D Advisory Team, the Specialist Teacher Advisory Service (STAS), and the Hampshire Parent Carer Network, we have been reviewing and developing our provision to ensure that all children feel understood, included, and able to succeed. As part of this work, school staff have received training to help them:

• Develop a greater understanding of neurodiversity and the different ways children learn.
• Adapt classroom practice to better support a wide range of learning needs.
• Recognise how neurodiverse needs can affect learning, communication, emotional regulation, and behaviour.
• Use inclusive language and teaching approaches that help all children engage successfully in school.

As SENDCo, Mrs Freemantle has also undertaken a range of activities to support the school's ongoing development, including:

• Completing a sensory, environmental, and communication audit to identify ways to make our learning environments more inclusive.
• Reviewing policies and procedures to ensure inclusive practice is embedded throughout the school.
• Ensuring SEND and neurodiversity remain regular discussion points at staff and governor meetings.
• Using data and feedback to understand and improve the experiences of neurodiverse pupils and their families.
• Creating opportunities for parents and carers to share their views and contribute to school development.

Mrs Ellie Wickens and Mrs Kay Boukari have completed School-Wide Advocate for Neurodiversity (SWAN) training and are our school advocates for neurodiversity. They work alongside staff to promote inclusive practice, raise awareness of neurodiversity, and help ensure that our school environment meets the needs of all learners. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where every child feels valued, understood, and supported to reach their full potential. The PINS project has helped us strengthen our practice and continue our journey towards being a truly inclusive school for all.