Identifying and Assessing SEND at St Brendan’s
Every student arrives at College with different strengths, experiences and needs. At St Brendan’s, we take a thoughtful, person‑centered approach to identifying and assessing special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), ensuring support is appropriate for post‑16 learning and helps students build independence.
SEND may be identified through:
- Information shared by schools or colleges
- Existing reports or EHCP documentation
- Discussions with students and families
- Observations and monitoring once a student has started College
Identification is an ongoing process, recognising that needs can change as students develop confidence and independence.
Assessment focuses on understanding how a student’s needs may affect learning in a sixth‑form environment. This may include:
- Reviewing professional evidence
- Talking with students about what works best for them
- Monitoring progress and engagement
Support is reviewed regularly and adjusted where appropriate.
Post‑16 education encourages students to take increasing responsibility for their learning. We support students to:
- Understand their own needs
- Communicate what helps them learn
- Develop confidence and self‑advocacy skills
Working with parents and carers
We value the insight parents and carers bring and work in partnership to ensure everyone feels informed and confident in the support being offered.
If you think SEND support may be helpful, you can:
- Declare this on the application form
- Discuss needs at enrolment
- Contact the Inclusive Learning Team directly.
