Launch of the SEND and Alternative Provision strategy 2025 to 2030

Launch of the SEND and Alternative Provision strategy 2025 to 2030

James Robinson from the Medical Needs Team talks about how they are supporting children and young people in Calderdale who struggle to attend school due to medical needs.

 

Summarised video transcript

James Robinson introduces himself as the Team Manager for the Medical Needs Team in Calderdale. His role overlaps with the Specialist Inclusion Team, SEND services, and attendance.

Team Overview

  • The team consists of 9 teachers, 2 education support officers (ESOs), and James as coordinator.
  • They support young people unable to attend school due to medical conditions.
  • Originally focused on Year 11 students with physical health issues; now the caseload is around 50, mostly with mental health and anxiety concerns.
  • The age of referrals is getting younger, with more Year 8 and 9 students.

Teaching Approach

  • Teachers deliver core subjects: Maths, English, and Science.
  • They adapt to various learning needs and environments:
    • One-to-one sessions
    • Online teaching
    • In-centre support
  • Students may have additional needs or be significantly behind academically.
  • Staff are praised for their adaptability and dedication.

Challenges and Strategy

  • Reintegration into mainstream school is rare for students referred in Year 9 or 10.
  • Many are referred late, often after months out of school.
  • The team works with Calderdale Careers Service to plan post-16 pathways.

Proactive Intervention

  • Two ESOs were placed in three high-referral schools to work with Year 8 and 9 students showing early signs of anxiety and poor attendance.
  • Since their placement, referrals from these schools dropped from nearly 50% to 34%.
  • Plans to expand this model to more schools.

Early Monitoring

  • From September, the team will monitor Year 7 students using 15-day absence data.
  • A drop from 98% attendance in Year 6 to below 92% in Year 7 will trigger support.
  • Aim: intervene early to prevent escalation and long-term disengagement.

Innovative Tool: AV1 Telepresence Robot

  • AV1 robots allow students to attend lessons remotely.
  • Students can access lessons from home or within school buildings.
  • Robots are interactive, secure, and designed to aid reintegration—not replace school.
  • Currently, two robots are in use, with plans to expand.
  • Used to build confidence and familiarity with the classroom environment.

Case Example

  • A student uses the robot to attend maths lessons from the learning support unit.
  • Gradual reintegration is planned, supported by ESOs and family collaboration.

James emphasises that AV1 is a tool to support reintegration and curriculum access. The team is committed to early intervention, personalised support, and helping students re-engage with education.