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Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised is the fastest growing Department for Education-validated phonics programme, already supporting over 5,000 schools to teach every child to learn to read!

Ready to transform reading in your school?

Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised is successfully supporting thousands of schools to grow confident readers who enjoy Reading for Pleasure.

Sign your school up for a great value annual membership subscription to:

Watch why Little Wandle works

Our 'by schools for schools' approach is at the heart of everything we do at Little Wandle. Hear from Little Wandle members and our Co-Founders Rachel Davis MBE (Headteacher, Little Sutton Primary School) and Mark Siswick (Co-CEO of Wandle Learning Trust which includes founding school Chesterton Primary) about how this approach is ensuring success.

of members say phonics is now taught more consistently

rate our CPD as good or excellent

agree children now enjoy reading more

Fluency

Register for your Little Wandle Fluency account

If you are a Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised member, the Little Wandle Fluency teaching notes, word cards and guidance for use with Big Cat for Little Wandle Fluency books (Year 2+) are included in your subscription. You'll find Fluency content in the Programme content area of our website.

If your school is using the Big Cat for Little Wandle Fluency books, and you are not a Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised member, register for a free account to access Little Wandle Fluency content here. Registration is on a per school basis with 100 log-ins per account.

Register for my Fluency account

Little Wandle has raised expectations enormously and that's had a really good impact on standards across the school.

Rob Cooper

Middle Street Primary, Brighton

Leaders ensure that they regularly assess pupils who are learning to read. Any pupils at risk of falling behind are quickly identified.

Dunchurch Infant School, Warwickshire

Little Wandle member since December 2021

Fully matched books and resources

In partnership with Collins we offer a full range of classroom resources and 250+ decodable Big Cat books fully matched to our progression.

Working closely with a diverse range of authors and illustrators ensures children and their worlds are reflected in the books they read, which include an exciting mix of stories and non-fiction.

Ready to Wandle?

If you're ready to transform teaching of early reading, we can't wait to have you on board!

More than a little Wandle-ful

We're very proud of our member schools who pull out the stops every day to ensure that every child can read for pleasure. We'd love you to meet them.

Read all about it

Sharing great practice and celebrating each other's successes is what our socials are all about. Take a look at the latest from our members.

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A complete Phonics resource to support children...

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Building your child's resilience, self-esteem and confidence Sign up now 0 Modules For parents 0 Different Age based programmes for children "We are loving the modules, I feel I have learnt so much and already seeing differences in how I am parenting, which I feel is having a great impact on the kids already.

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Having good relationships with the people in a child or young person's life is important to help them do well in life. We want to help children and young people to understand what a good relationship is.

All relationships have their tricky moments. But it's when there is too much arguing or people are giving each other the silent treatment a lot, it can be harmful to children. This might mean children's wellbeing and behaviour is affected, their health can suffer or that they don't do as well at school.

To help children with their relationships, we need to show them how to deal with disagreements effectively. One of the most effective ways we can do this is by being healthy relationship role models. This includes communicating well and managing our emotions so that a disagreement doesn't turn into a blazing row.

This (being a healthy relationship role model) is sometimes easier said than done...

Select a button below to find out more information on understanding what can trigger arguments, and to develop our ability to manage things in a calmer, more helpful way.

Parental conflict is very different to domestic abuse. No one should ever make you feel threatened or unsafe. If this is how you feel or you are worried about your own behaviour, there are organisations and services that are there to support you. Access Domestic abuse support and information (Hampshire County Council) to find details on the support service available.

You can also call the Advice Line: 03300 165 112.

Always dial 999 if you are in immediate danger or in an emergency.

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Strengthening Parental Relationships (parents & carers) - Hampshire SCP

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Having good relationships with the people in a child or young person's life is important to help them do well in life. We want to help children and young people to understand what a good relationship is. All relationships have their tricky moments.

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Development

Concept and content has been developed in partnership with teachers and education experts, with guidance from The National PSHE Association, to create a hub to support schools and mentors to deliver education specific to safety, law and consequences by providing credible information and resources that align with common topics explored within current PSHE, PDL, RSE, Citizenship curriculum and other education/intervention methods.

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Development Concept and content has been developed in partnership with teachers and education experts, with guidance from The National PSHE Association, to create a hub to support schools and mentors to deliver education specific to safety, law and consequences by providing credible information and resources that align with common topics explored within current PSHE, PDL, RSE, Citizenship curriculum and other education/intervention methods.

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To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.

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Solihull Approach | Parenting - We're all about emotional health and wellbeing!

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Book Click here to book Solihull Approach training or event. An exciting, well-established model that really works! Welcome to the SOLIHULLAPPROACH Are you a parent? Go to inourplace to discover our range of online courses. Go to inourplace We’re all about emotional health and wellbeing! Across the UK and internationally, the Solihull Approach supports mental

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Find information about what is going on in your area, details on how to access services, organisations and activities in Hampshire, and the advice and support that is available.

Choose a category

Latest News

Over 90% of families in Hampshire organise their own journeys to school. They walk, cycle, use public transport, lift-share with other families or take their child to school in the family car. Have a look at Hampshire County Council's Travel to school page for ideas and information. For a minority...

100% of school leaders believe that food and diet can affect cognitive function and children's learning progress, according to the latest survey results from HC3S, Hampshire's main school lunch provider. 90% of schools value HC3S as a partner in supporting nutrition at school, so find out more about how HC3S...

We would like to hear from young people in Hampshire about what you would like to see on this website. What information would be helpful for you that's not on here? What do you like about this website? What do you not like about this website? Any feedback...

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Family Information and Services HubNeed to find childcare? If you are having difficulties in finding appropriate childcare services please complete this online form to request help.

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Self-harm affects thousands of young people in the UK. These resources help professionals respond to self-harm in the young people that they work with.

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Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust and Barnardos are working together to deliver the Healthy Child Programme throughout Hampshire. This website provides details for access to health visiting and school nursing services, workshops for healthy eating and support with post-natal depression.

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Self Harm Awareness Training | Mental health awareness training and development from Solent Mind

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Self harm awareness training for education providers.

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24/7

You can text us any time, day or night.

Confidential

Your messages with us are confidential and anonymous.

Free

It is free to text Shout from all major mobile networks in the UK.

Get involved

Donations doubled in the Big Give Christmas Challenge

Simply support Shout's Big Give campaign by midday on 5 December, and your donation will be doubled!

Can you help us hit our match funding target of £50,000 and support a further 5,000 people this winter?

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Ways to cope with upsetting events in the news

If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious or sad about what's going on in the news, know that you're definitely not alone. Here are some actions we can take to help us cope better through times like this.

Find out more

I think Shout saved my life tonight... no one has ever made me feel so safe, listened to and understood

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Online resources and support

However you're feeling right now, you don't have to face it alone. We're here to support you with your mental health.

Take a look at our resources, information and support, find further help or reach out to one of our volunteers.

Resources for you

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Shout - UK's 24/7 Crisis Text Service for Mental Health Support

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Shout 85258 is the UK's first 24/7 text service for anyone in crisis. Get free, confidential mental health support anytime, anywhere. Text 'SHOUT' to 85258.

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Kooth is a free, anonymous online counselling and emotional wellbeing support service for young people aged 11-25 years (up to 26th birthday) in Hampshire. It offers a safe way to access support for emotional health and wellbeing needs from a team of professional qualified counsellors.

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We are going to talk you through the steps you can take to keep yourself safe.

If you are upset and having thoughts and urges about hurting yourself, someone else or ending your life then stop, take a deep breath and read this page, or click the button to listen:

Have you made an attempt on your life or self-harmed and need urgent medical attention?

Let someone know you do not feel safe or are struggling (a parent/carer or professional helpline).

Text 'HANTS' to 85258 to be connected to a trained volunteer who can help with anxiety, stress, loneliness or depression

NHS Mental Health Triage Service
You can call 111 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) or visit www.111.nhs.uk and speak to the NHS Mental Health Triage Service.

Alternatively you can call:

Freephone Samaritans
116 123
(24 hours a day, 7 days a week)

Freephone Childline
0800 1111
(24 hours a day, 7 days a week)

Follow your crisis or relapse prevention plan if you have one.
SHOUT text messaging service
This service provides free, 24/7 crisis support across the UK. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need support.

Anyone in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight can text 'HANTS' to 85258 to speak by text with one of Shout's trained volunteers. Texting is anonymous and will not show up on your phone bill.

For more information visit the SHOUT website.

Call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

If you are with someone, let them know what you have done.

If you are on your own, get to a safe place and call someone (a parent/ carer or professional helpline):

Freephone Samaritans
116 123
(24 hours a day 7 days a week)

Freephone Childline
0800 1111
(24 hours a day, 7 days a week)

Have you already got a crisis or relapse plan that you can follow?

SHOUT text messaging service
This service provides free, 24/7 crisis support across the UK. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need support.

Anyone in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight can text 'HANTS' to 85258 to speak by text with one of Shout's trained volunteers. Texting is anonymous and will not show up on your phone bill.
For more information visit the SHOUT website.

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We are going to talk you through the steps you can take to keep yourself safe. If you are upset and having thoughts and urges about hurting yourself, someone else or ending your life then stop, take a deep breath and read this page, or click the button to listen: Have you made an attempt on your life or self-harmed and need urgent medical attention?

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Parenting Smart offers practical advice for parents and carers of children aged 5-11. All of our content is created by Place2Be's parenting experts. It's based on evidence and their experiences working with children, young people and their families.

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Our Children’s Therapy Service team works closely together to support children and young people who need specialist help from one or more of our therapy services. These include Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech and Language Therapy.

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Mental Health Foundation | Good mental health for all

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Explore information to help you understand mental health and get advice on how you look after your own mental health or support someone you know with theirs.

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We’re Mind, the mental health charity | Mind

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We're Mind, the mental health charity. We're here to make sure no one has to face a mental health problem alone.

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Feeling stressed, anxious, low or struggling to sleep? Every Mind Matters can help with expert advice, practical tips and personalised actions to help stay on top of your mental wellbeing.

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24/7

You can text us any time, day or night.

Confidential

Your messages with us are confidential and anonymous.

Free

It is free to text Shout from all major mobile networks in the UK.

Get involved

Donations doubled in the Big Give Christmas Challenge

Simply support Shout's Big Give campaign by midday on 5 December, and your donation will be doubled!

Can you help us hit our match funding target of £50,000 and support a further 5,000 people this winter?

Find out more

Get help

Ways to cope with upsetting events in the news

If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious or sad about what's going on in the news, know that you're definitely not alone. Here are some actions we can take to help us cope better through times like this.

Find out more

I think Shout saved my life tonight... no one has ever made me feel so safe, listened to and understood

Shout texter

GET HELP

Online resources and support

However you're feeling right now, you don't have to face it alone. We're here to support you with your mental health.

Take a look at our resources, information and support, find further help or reach out to one of our volunteers.

Resources for you

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Shout - UK's 24/7 Crisis Text Service for Mental Health Support

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Shout 85258 is the UK's first 24/7 text service for anyone in crisis. Get free, confidential mental health support anytime, anywhere. Text 'SHOUT' to 85258.

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Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust and Barnardos are working together to deliver the Healthy Child Programme throughout Hampshire. This website provides details for access to health visiting and school nursing services, workshops for healthy eating and support with post-natal depression.

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Our Local Offer provides information, advice and support for children and young people aged from 0 to 25 years with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their families.

What is SEND?

Children and young people with SEND may have learning difficulties or disabilities that make it harder for them to learn. They may struggle to make friends, or their physical ability is affected. They often need extra help and support.

On the following pages, you can find information and signposting to help children, young people and their families get the right help and support to meet their needs.

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Our Local Offer provides information, advice and support for children and young people aged from 0 to 25 years with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their families. Children and young people with SEND may have learning difficulties or disabilities that make it harder for them to learn.

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Family Information and Services Hub

Breadcrumb trail

Home

Hampshire's Local Offer for Special Educational Needs and / or Disabilities

Browse by subject

Latest News

Over 90% of families in Hampshire organise their own journeys to school. They walk, cycle, use public transport, lift-share with other families or take their child to school in the family car. Have a look at Hampshire County Council's Travel to school page for ideas and information. For a minority...

100% of school leaders believe that food and diet can affect cognitive function and children's learning progress, according to the latest survey results from HC3S, Hampshire's main school lunch provider. 90% of schools value HC3S as a partner in supporting nutrition at school, so find out more about how HC3S...

We would like to hear from young people in Hampshire about what you would like to see on this website. What information would be helpful for you that's not on here? What do you like about this website? What do you not like about this website? Any feedback...

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Family Information and Services Hub | Hampshire's Local Offer for Special Educational Needs and / or Disabilities

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Your Local Offer - Information and services available in Hampshire for children and young people (birth to 25) who have Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) The Local Offer includes information about education, health, social care, preparation for adulthood, leisure services and impartial information advice and support....

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The Wellbeing Support Service is funded by CAMHS, so referrals need to come through a Health service such as school nursing service or the GP. For example, a parent calling their GP and asking for a referral to the PBS Wellbeing Support Service will be contacted in due course by our Parent Support Advisor to plan their next steps.

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Primary Behaviour Service - Wellbeing Support Service

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The Wellbeing Support Service is funded by CAMHS, so referrals need to come through a Health service such as school nursing service or the GP.

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We make sure government funding for education gets to the people who need and want it the most.

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This website places cookies on your computer to improve your experience. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. For more details, see our privacy policy. I agree

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The British Dyslexia Association is the voice for the 10% of the population that are dyslexic

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Donate

Please give today and help Autism Hampshire to be there for autistic people, and their loved ones, when they most need us.

Care

Working for Autism Hampshire can be both rewarding and challenging. Do you have what it takes? If think that you do, it would be great to hear from you.

Contact

Our friendly staff are ready to help you. Get in touch and we will do our best to answer your questions and help you find the information that you need.

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Please give today and help Autism Hampshire to be there for autistic people, and their loved ones, when they most need us. Working for Autism Hampshire can be both rewarding and challenging. Do you have what it takes? If think that you do, it would be great to hear from you.

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We are the UKs leading charity for autistic people and their families. Since 1962, we have been providing support, guidance and advice, as well as campaigning for improved rights, services and opportunities to help create a society that works for autistic people.

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You will need to make a new application for each child but your information will be remembered to help you to complete multiple applications quickly. You will get an immediate response regarding eligibility after you've completed your application.

You may apply for eligibility on behalf of a parent/carer if you have permission to do so and their details.

New application

Use this button if you are making a new claim for Free School Meals.

Previous application

Use this button if you have a reference number and wish to continue with this (check eligibility status, un-apply, re-apply). You will need your application reference and your date of birth.
Go to Hampshire County Council's web site

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You will need to make a new application for each child but your information will be remembered to help you to complete multiple applications quickly. You will get an immediate response regarding eligibility after you've completed your application. You may apply for eligibility on behalf of a parent/carer if you have permission to do so and their details.

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This guidance is an overview of pupil premium for school staff, parents and anyone else interested in the pupil premium.

Purpose

The pupil premium grant is funding to improve educational outcomes for disadvantaged pupils in state-funded schools in England. In the financial year 2023-24, pupil premium spending will increase to almost £2.9 billion.

We want to support all schools to use the wealth of evidence of 'what works', evaluated by the Education Endowment Foundation ( EEF), to use this funding effectively.

Eligible schools

The following types of school are eligible to receive an allocation of pupil premium.

Local authority-maintained schools

This includes:

mainstream infant, primary, middle, junior, secondary and all-through schools serving children in year groups reception to year 11

schools for children with special educational needs or disabilities

pupil referral units (PRUs), for children who do not go to a mainstream school

local authority-maintained hospital schools

Academies, free schools and non-maintained special schools

This includes:

mainstream academies serving children in year groups reception to year 11

academies and non-maintained special schools for children with special educational needs or disabilities

alternative provision (AP) academies, for children who do not go to a mainstream school

Pupil premium is also provided to local authorities for eligible pupils in independent special schools, where the local authority pays full tuition fees.

Pupil eligibility

The following groups are eligible for pupil premium:

pupils who are recorded as eligible for free school meals, or have been recorded as eligible in the past 6 years, including eligible children of families who have no recourse to public funds (NRPF)

children looked after by local authorities, referred to as looked-after children

children previously looked after by a local authority or other state care, referred to as previously looked-after children

Funding rates for financial year 2023-24

This table shows how the pupil premium grant is allocated to schools and local authorities in financial year 2023-24, based on per pupil rates.

Pupil eligibility criteria

Amount of funding for each primary-aged pupil per year

Amount of funding for each secondary-aged pupil per year

Funding is paid to

Pupils who are eligible for free school meals, or have been eligible in the past 6 years

£1,455

£1,035

School

Pupils previously looked after by a local authority or other state care

£2,530

£2,530

School

Children who are looked after by the local authority

£2,530

£2,530

Local authority

The government has permanently extended free school meal ( FSM) eligibility to include children in all households with NRPF. These pupils should now be recorded as FSM eligible in the school census and their pupil premium eligibility will follow on from that automatically.

From 1 April 2023, pupil premium eligibility for pupils who have been adopted from care or have left care will include children adopted from state care or equivalent from outside England and Wales.

Funding for looked-after children will be paid to the local authority and should be managed by the virtual school head in consultation with the child's school.

The pupil premium allocations and conditions of grant for financial year 2023-24 provide further information.

Payment schedule for financial year 2023-24

Payments will be sent to local authorities on:

30 June 2023

29 September 2023

29 December 2023

28 March 2024

Payments will be sent to academy trusts (and free schools) on:

Payments will be sent to non-maintained special schools in:

Service pupil premium

Service pupil premium is additional funding for schools with pupils who have parents serving in the armed forces. It has been combined into pupil premium payments to make it easier for schools to manage their spending.

Pupils in state-funded schools in England attract the service pupil premium grant, at the rate of £335 per eligible pupil in financial year 2023-24, if they meet one or more of the following criteria:

one of their parents is serving in the regular armed forces, including pupils with a parent who is on full commitment as part of the full-time reserve service - this includes pupils with a parent who is in the armed forces of another nation and is stationed in England

registered as a 'service child' on any school census in the past 6 years

one of their parents died while serving in the armed forces and the pupil receives a pension under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme or the War Pensions Scheme

This funding is primarily to enable schools to offer pastoral support and help mitigate the negative impact of family mobility or parental deployment. It can also be used to help improve the academic progress of eligible pupils if the school deems this to be a priority.

Funding paid to schools

To ensure that pupil premium is focused on effective approaches to raising the educational attainment of disadvantaged pupils, schools must use their pupil premium in line with the 'menu of approaches' set by the Department for Education.

The menu has been developed in line with the EEF 's 3-tiered approach to help school allocate spending across the following 3 areas:

supporting the high-quality teaching, such as staff professional development

providing targeted academic support, such as tutoring, including through the National Tutoring Programme

tackling non-academic barriers to academic success, such as difficulties in attendance, behaviour and social and emotional wellbeing

In line with the EEF 's recommended approach, schools should prioritise high-quality teaching, though the exact balance of spending between tiers will vary depending on the specific needs of pupils.

Pupil premium is not a personal budget for individual pupils, and schools do not have to spend pupil premium so that it solely benefits eligible pupils.

Pupil premium can be used to support other pupils with identified needs, such as pupils who have or have had a social worker, or pupils who act as a carer. It can also be used for whole class interventions, for example high-quality teaching, which will also benefit non-disadvantaged pupils.

High attaining eligible pupils should receive just as much focus as lower attaining eligible pupils when it comes to spending funding. Evidence shows that eligible pupils who are among the highest performers at key stage 2 are more likely than their non-eligible peers to fall behind by key stage 4.

Funding for looked-after children

Virtual school heads are responsible for managing the funding given to local authorities for the children in their care. They work with schools to ensure the funding is used to help deliver the outcomes identified in the children's personal education plans.

They can pass all the funding on to schools or retain some to fund activities that will benefit a group of, or all, the authority's looked-after children.

There is separate guidance about virtual school heads' responsibilities for using pupil premium.

Accountability

Schools must show how they are using their pupil premium effectively:

by publishing a statement on their website which presents an overview of their pupil premium strategy, and demonstrates that their use of the funding meets the requirements of the conditions of grant

through inspections by Ofsted - inspectors may discuss plans schools have to spend their pupil premium

through scrutiny of pupil premium plans by governors and trustees

Virtual school heads demonstrate to Ofsted how they are managing pupil premium for looked-after children in their virtual school annual report.

Schools are also held to account for the outcomes achieved by their disadvantaged pupils through published performance tables.

Further information

For more information, read the guidance for school leaders on using pupil premium and the EEF's guide to using pupil premium.

The allocations and conditions of grant show:

the funding given to each school

the totals at national, local authority and parliamentary constituency level

how pupil premium funding must be spent

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This guidance is an overview of pupil premium for school staff, parents and anyone else interested in the pupil premium. The pupil premium grant is funding to improve educational outcomes for disadvantaged pupils in state-funded schools in England. In the financial year 2023-24, pupil premium spending will increase to almost £2.9 billion.

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Ringwood Foodbank | Helping Local People in Crisis

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The Trussell Trust runs the largest network of food banks in the UK, giving emergency food and support to people in crisis. Fourteen million people live below the poverty line and in the last year 2,1 million three-day emergency food supplies were distributed to people in crisis.

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Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust

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Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust

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Resources for Children's Speech and Language

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Children's Speech and Language resources to download

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Supporting your adolescent - Hampshire SCP

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Welcome to the Hampshire Safeguarding Children Partnership

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Fortunately, specific behavioral changes and adjustments to the sleep environment will help most children with insomnia. We've compiled the top tips that are proven to help kids sleep. The recommendations outlined here are best suited for toddlers through early adolescence. Both babies and teens will have specific considerations of their own.

These lists may seem long, but you don't need to implement them all at once. It's better to focus on trying a few small changes, giving them time to work, and then adjusting your approach based on how your child responds.

Keep in mind that every child's sleep needs will vary based on their age, genetics, and cultural differences. Therefore, not all approaches will work equally well for all children, and there can be an element of trial and error. However, your patience will be rewarded in time as your little one learns to fall asleep quickly on their own and keep sleeping soundly through the night.

Sleep hygiene - a collection of habits and behaviors that promote good sleep - is vital for children. Many sleep struggles are caused or made worse by poor sleep hygiene. When practicing sleep hygiene, remember that consistency is key. Sleep strategies take time and repetition to be effective.

Create a Routine: Humans are creatures of habit. A lets your child's body and mind know that it's time to settle down and prepare for sleep. The actual routine can be specific to your child, but it should last around 20 minutes and consist of three to four quiet, soothing activities such as putting on PJs, brushing teeth, a warm bath, and reading. Bedtime routines provide children with a sense of familiarity and comfort, which acts in direct opposition to the uncertainty of insomnia.

Set a Bedtime: A sleep schedule works with your child's natural biological clock to promote dozing off with regularity. Bedtimes are most useful when they're consistent, so try to keep the same bedtime on weekends as on school nights. Altering bedtimes during the weekend will make it more difficult for kids to maintain their normal weekday schedules.

Implement a Screen Curfew: The ubiquity of screens makes this rule hard to implement, but it's well worth it. Mobile devices, TVs, and tablets emit a type of blue light that suppresses melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep. Children may be to the effects of light from screens. Screen time also stimulates the brain, making it harder to wind down for sleep. Electronic devices should be kept out of the bedroom and ideally not used within one hour of bedtime. Consider using the created by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Get Exercise: Physical activity is proven to help people of all ages . Most children need at least of exercise per day. Just make sure to avoid vigorous activity within two hours of bedtime. Otherwise, your child may feel wound-up and find it harder to fall asleep.

Avoid Scary or Violent Content: Feeling scared or worried is a common reason kids can't sleep. So it's no wonder that scary or violent movies, TV, video games, and even books in the evening are in children. If your kiddo likes the gory or spooky stuff, save it for the daytime.

Nix Caffeine: This is a no brainer. Caffeine is a stimulant that can both make it harder to fall asleep and reduce the quality of sleep. In addition to the usual suspects like soda, coffee, and energy drinks, watch out for more discreet sources like tea, decaf coffee (which still has trace amounts of caffeine) and chocolate. Even small amounts of caffeine can have a in a little body. Don't let your child consume caffeine , or preferably, avoid it all together.

Don't Sleep With a Pet: While it's tempting for tots to snuggle Fido in bed, a pet's movements and noises during the night can awaken them from a peaceful slumber. Try having your furry family member sleep outside of your child's bedroom for a few nights to see if that helps. To make the transition easier, include saying goodnight to pets in the bedtime routine.

Optimizing your child's bedroom is an integral part of inducing quick and seamless shuteye. People with insomnia are more likely to be distracted by an uncomfortable bedroom National Library of Medicine, Biotech Information The National Center for Biotechnology Information advances science and health by providing access to biomedical and genomic information. View Source , which makes sleep even harder. These tips can help you create the perfect sleep setup for your little one:

Room Temperature: The body and brain both in preparation for sleep, and this can be disrupted by a stuffy bedroom. To avoid this, try to keep the thermostat around 65 degrees.

Noise: Research suggests that even mild sound disturbances can , even if the sleeper never awakens. Consider noise-blocking curtains to cut down on street noise. You can also use a fan or white noise machine to drown out unpredictable or distracting sounds.

Light Level: Start dimming indoor lights as bedtime approaches, and keep your child's bedroom as dark as possible. This and . If your child is afraid of the dark, a small nightlight is okay.

Soothing smells: Calming scents like can have mild sedative effects. You might try using essential oils, a room diffuser, or dried potpourri sachet to provide a soothing, sleep-inducing smell.

Unfortunately, childhood anxiety is steadily rising Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) As the nation's health protection agency, CDC saves lives and protects people from health threats. known to disrupt sleep Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) ADAA's mission focuses on improving quality of life for those with anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and co-occurring disorders through education, practice, and research. View Source . Stress is View Source in all ages, so anything that can reduce worrying before bed is helpful. Help your child learn to manage their concerns with these tactics:

Write In a Journal: Encourage your child to get their anxious thoughts out of their head and onto paper. It can also help for them to write about the good things that happened in the day. Focusing on the positive will help children feel more secure.

Mindfulness Exercises: Mindfulness exercises like meditation are proven to . There are many kid-friendly meditations that parents and children can do together. These often consist of simple breathing techniques, body awareness, or guided imagery. Look to books, tapes, and even smartphone apps for ideas.

Create a Worry Time: It's okay to discuss worries, just not at bedtime. Set aside a specific time during the day for your children to discuss their concerns and how to cope with them. This can free children of the need to dwell on worries before bed.

It's normal for even the best little sleepers to awaken from slumber and ask for a parent. When your child cries out for you, it's okay to tend to them. However, you should do so with intention. This is not the time to give in to demands, as doing so can increase stimulation and make it harder to fall asleep. Fulfilling your child's every request can also reinforce an unhelpful pattern of relying on parental assistance for sleep.

Instead, keep the checks short and simple. The point is to provide your child with reassurance that they're safe and cared for, while still fostering their ability to self-soothe and sleep on their own. Some parents may even wait a few seconds before answering a call so that their child has the opportunity to fall back asleep on their own.

If you have any doubt over whether your child's nighttime checks are appropriate, consult your child's doctor for guidance.

If your child continues to have trouble sleeping despite your best efforts, it may be time to check in with their pediatrician. Although uncommon, there can be more serious causes of childhood insomnia, such as childhood sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome.

Any of these reasons are cause to involve a doctor:

Significant daytime sleepiness

Frequent or severe snoring or other abnormal breathing during sleep

Suspected psychological or developmental condition

Considering medications or supplements to aid in sleep

For a couple of weeks before the doctor appointment, it can help to keep a sleep diary. This is a nightly recording of your child's bed time, nap times, sleep length, and activities. A sleep diary helps to identify patterns and possible problems to address.

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References

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Mindell, J. A., Li, A. M., Sadeh, A., Kwon, R., & Goh, D. Y. (2015). Bedtime routines for young children: a dose-dependent association with sleep outcomes. Sleep, 38(5), 717-722.
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LeBourgeois, M. K., Hale, L., Chang, A. M., Akacem, L. D., Montgomery-Downs, H. E., & Buxton, O. M. (2017). Digital media and sleep in childhood and adolescence. Pediatrics, 140(Suppl 2), S92-S96.
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Family Media Use Plan. (n.d.)., Retrieved September 23, 2020, from
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A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia. (2017, August 30). Benefits of Exercise., Retrieved August 30, 2020, from
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A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia. (2017, August 30). How Much Exercise Do I Need?., Retrieved August 30, 2020, from
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Garrison, M. M., Liekweg, K., & Christakis, D. A. (2011). Media use and child sleep: the impact of content, timing, and environment. Pediatrics, 128(1), 29-35.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21708803/

Temple J. L. (2019). Review: Trends, Safety, and Recommendations for Caffeine Use in Children and Adolescents. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 58(1), 36-45.
https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0890856718318847

Drake, C., Roehrs, T., Shambroom, J., & Roth, T. (2013). Caffeine effects on sleep taken 0, 3, or 6 hours before going to bed. Journal of clinical sleep medicine : JCSM : official publication of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 9(11), 1195-1200.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24235903/

Narisawa H. (2013). Anxiety and its related factors at bedtime are associated with difficulty in falling asleep. The Tohoku journal of experimental medicine, 231(1), 37-43.
https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/tjem/231/1/231_37/_article

Harding, E. C., Franks, N. P., & Wisden, W. (2019). The temperature dependence of sleep. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 13, 336.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31105512/

Van Der Werf, Y. D., Altena, E., Schoonheim, M. M., Sanz-Arigita, E. J., Vis, J. C., De Rijke, W., & Van Someren, E. J. (2009). Sleep benefits subsequent hippocampal functioning. Nature neuroscience, 12(2), 122-123.
http://www.nature.com/articles/nn.2253

Burgess, H. J., & Molina, T. A. (2014). Home lighting before usual bedtime impacts circadian timing: a field study. Photochemistry and photobiology, 90(3), 723-726.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24918238/

Gooley, J. J., Chamberlain, K., Smith, K. A., Khalsa, S. B., Rajaratnam, S. M., Van Reen, E., Zeitzer, J. M., Czeisler, C. A., & Lockley, S. W. (2011). Exposure to room light before bedtime suppresses melatonin onset and shortens melatonin duration in humans. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, 96(3), E463-E472.
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Koulivand, P. H., Khaleghi Ghadiri, M., & Gorji, A. (2013). Lavender and the nervous system. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2013, 681304.
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National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities. (2020, June 15). Data and Statistics on Children's Mental Health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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Anxiety and Depression Association of America. (n.d.). Sleep Disorders., Retrieved August 31, 2020, from
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Ong, J. C., Manber, R., Segal, Z., Xia, Y., Shapiro, S., & Wyatt, J. K. (2014). A randomized controlled trial of mindfulness meditation for chronic insomnia. Sleep, 37(9), 1553-1563.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25142566/

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Sleep Strategies for Children | Sleep Foundation

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Wondering about sleep aids for kids? These proven sleep tips will help children learn to fall asleep quickly and stay asleep.

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Motivational maths practice for schools and families.

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Times Tables Rock Stars – Times Tables Rock Stars

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Phonics Bloom create interactive online phonics games to help teach children the relationship between letters and sounds and develop the skills needed to read and write. All our resources are designed by an experienced team of teachers and parents.

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Phonics Games for the Classroom and Home - Phonics Bloom

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Play a range of online phonics games, helping teach children the relationship between letters and sounds and develop the skills needed to read and write.

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Improve Your Spelling, the latest book written by Nessy founder Mike Jones, explains the rules of reading and spelling. It will help teachers teach, and parents to understand how to help their children.

By the end, you'll be a master speller!

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You've found Nessy; World leader in helping children who learn differently. Founded and run by educators and dyslexia specialists, our award-winning programs are guided by the Science of Reading.

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Browse our library of free children’s eBooks to read with your child including Oxford Reading Tree adventures with Biff, Chip and Kipper.

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What is dyslexia?

Dyslexic brains process information differently. This results in a pattern of strengths, like problem solving, creative thinking and seeing the big picture. Plus, challenges like spelling, reading, writing and rote learning.

Knowing how to spot, support and empower dyslexic thinking can transform the life of any dyslexic child.

How to spot it

How to support it

How to empower it

Get the facts
Download our simple factsheets.

Watch

Watch our simple videos and learn how to support your child's xtraordinary dyslexic mind.
WATCH HERE

Email

Email your school, education authority, or politician to ask for all teachers to be trained.

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Explain dyslexia to your child

Being dyslexic is a brilliant thing. After all, the inventor of the aeroplane was dyslexic. And the lightbulb! So are many xtraordinary writers, like Roald Dahl and Dav Pilkey, the creator of Captain Underpants. It's important to know that you're dyslexic - it helps you to understand why some things come naturally and others are much harder.

5 FACTS TO EXPLAIN:
Visit our kids page to find out more!

Grab a copy of 'Xtraordinary People' to read together!

This brilliant book will help you understand the 7 'Xtraordinary' strengths that come with dyslexia. It's a brilliant way to explain dyslexia to all kids.

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What is dyslexia? Dyslexic brains process information differently. This results in a pattern of strengths, like problem solving, creative thinking and seeing the big picture. Plus, challenges like spelling, reading, writing and rote learning. Knowing how to spot, support and empower dyslexic thinking can transform the life of any dyslexic child.

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The ADHD Foundation Neurodiversity Charity - an integrated health and education service.

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EMTAS - Ethnic Minority and Traveller Achievement Service 

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EMTAS - Ethnic Minority and Traveller Achievement Service 

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EMTAS - Ethnic Minority and Traveller Achievement Service

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EMTAS works with children, families and schools on all aspects of practice, offering traveller services to pupils from Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities; Ethnic minority services to Black and Minority Ethnic groups and help pupils learning English as an Additional Language (EAL).

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Blog: EAL Children and the Early Years Sector - The Best Start?

In this blog, Professor Claudine Bowyer-Crane and Dr Silke Fricke look at the achievement gap for EAL pupils in early years, exploring the reality behind the misleading data and what this means for policy.

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The Bell Foundation - Changing lives and overcoming exclusion through language education

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The Bell Foundation is a charity which aims to overcome exclusion through language education by working with partners on innovation, research, training and practical interventions.

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Kooth is your online mental wellbeing community. Access free, safe and anonymous

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Advice and resources for parents and carers to help support their child or young person’s wellbeing.

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Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families 

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Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families 

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We're a pioneering mental health charity transforming care for children and young people through science, collaboration and clinical innovation.

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We work with professionals to improve the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people. Learn about our training, services, research and more.

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It's normal for children and young people to feel worried about something that's happening at school - for example, when starting a new school or during exams. Sometimes, however, school can become challenging, stressful or distressing over a much longer period of time.

If your child is feeling anxious about school, or not able to go, it can be exhausting for both of you. Mornings in particular can become really stressful for the whole family, as you try to juggle your child's feelings alongside the need to get them to school and get on with your other responsibilities such as work. Even if you manage to get your child to the school gate, you might know how difficult they're going to find the day - or know that you'll be facing the same problem tomorrow morning.

If you're in this situation, we've got advice to help you explore what's going on with your child, make changes at school that can help, and find the support you need if your child can't go to school.

Young people can feel anxious about school for lots of different reasons. They might be worried about making friends or fitting in, find schoolwork or lessons confusing, feel pressured to learn in a certain way or find their relationships with teachers difficult.

Sometimes, going through difficult experiences outside of school - such as bereavement, an illness in the family or being a young carer - can also make it harder for a child to feel settled at school.

For some young people, the school environment isn't right for them, and trying to fit into it can create a huge amount of stress. This might be the case if they are struggling with their mental health, or have a neurodiverse condition or Special Educational Need (SEN) such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia or dyspraxia. This can make the school environment anxiety-provoking and exhausting, especially if their condition or need is undiagnosed or not being well supported.

Young people might show they're feeling anxious about school by:

not wanting to get up and get ready

saying they can't go

worrying a lot about small issues, such as having the right equipment for a lesson

feeling sick, or having stomach aches or headaches

not sleeping well

not doing schoolwork, or their grades dropping

being angry or upset, or acting out - at school or at home

withdrawing - seeming low, quiet or depressed

It's often difficult for your child to articulate the problem. They may be in a heightened state of stress and not know why or feel able to explain. Your child probably wants to feel able to be in school, just as much as you want them to be there. In many cases it just doesn't feel possible.

Sometimes it can be difficult to work out what's making your child feel anxious, and the first step is often helping them to identify exactly what's worrying them. Once you understand the problem, you'll be in a much better position to make changes that can help.

Young people can find it hard to explain what's causing their feelings, and might not be able to answer direct questions like 'what's going on?' Using an anxiety iceberg can help to open up the conversation - giving you a more relaxed way of exploring together what's causing their anxiety.

Watch our video to find out how to make an anxiety iceberg with your child.

If you're making an anxiety iceberg with younger children, you might want to draw images on the iceberg, or encourage them to write simple words. With older children and teenagers, you can ask them to write key words and phrases on the iceberg, or do this as a mind map, with 'school' in the middle and all the things they're finding difficult around the outside.

Through this exercise, you might identify worries such as arriving at school, finding the environment noisy or overwhelming, finding lessons confusing, feeling lonely through the day, or feeling uncomfortable during specific subjects.

Once you understand what's going on for your child, you can use their anxiety iceberg or mind map to communicate with the school and ask for specific changes.

Follow these steps to start a conversation with the school:

Here are some examples of things you can ask the school for:

Remember that even though this situation can be really tough for you and your child, it's a good idea to maintain a positive relationship with the school. Recognise the support they're offering and any changes they're making. This will help you work together to make things better for your child.

Building a relationship with the attendance team at my son's school was hugely helpful, we were talking with them each day.

If your child isn't going to school at the moment, it might feel incredibly stressful and tiring. You might be worried about when they will be able to get back to school or the impact on their education. Or you might feel overwhelmed because you're juggling this alongside work and other family commitments. Things are probably feeling tough for your child too.

During this time, it's important to keep working with teachers and other staff to try strategies that can help your child get back to school. Keep encouraging them to take achievable steps towards attending too. When the right support is in place, it's often easier for a young person to get back into their usual routine if they can return to school as quickly as possible.

If your child's anxiety about school has built up to the point where they can't go, it's a good idea to get them some professional mental health or SEN support. Find out how to do this further down the page.

Alongside requesting professional help, try to:

The school's SEN and attendance policies should be on their website. Knowing what these are can support you during meetings with the school.

This can help if your child is unable to go to school for a longer period of time and you need to ask for more support, including provision of alternative full-time education.

Encourage your child to get up, do some studying and stop for lunch at the same times they would if they were in school. This will make adapting back to school easier. Explain to your child that if they cannot go to school, they will need to study at home - at least until alternative arrangements are put in place. Ask the school to help you facilitate tasks and activities your child can do and use online resources such as BBC Bitesize.

Not going to school could leave your child feeling really isolated. Make sure they stay connected to the outside world by seeing friends and family, doing activities they enjoy and getting outside for walks and exercise.

Speaking to friends online can be really important if your child is feeling isolated at home. Sometimes, however, you might notice that your child is spending lots of time gaming or on their phone, and that this is getting in the way of important daily activities like spending quality time with family, learning, or sleeping and eating well. If this is becoming a problem, have a look at our guide to gaming or guide to social media for more information and advice.

Local authorities must provide alternative education if a child of compulsory school age is unable to attend school over a longer period of time. If your child cannot attend school because of a mental or physical health issue, the local authority should provide an alternative as soon as it is clear that they will be away from school for more than 15 days (either consecutively or over time). Find out how to request alternative education.

Getting back to school after weeks or months may feel extremely difficult for your child, but you and the school can help make it more manageable. Here are some things you can do to help:

Set small, achievable targets, such as visiting the building outside school hours or attending one lesson.

Request a home visit from a school staff member so your child can check in while feeling safe, see that the school cares and discuss any strategies that might help them.

Ask for a reduced timetable, with regular reviews to discuss building back up at a manageable rate.

Discuss changing classes or sets if your child thinks this would help.

Focus on qualifications needed for what your child wants to do next, perhaps dropping a less relevant GCSE to reduce stress.

My son wasn't questioned about his absence when he did feel able to pop in for favourite lessons, helping to ease him back into full days of education.

If your child is struggling with anxiety and it's affecting their day-to-day life, learning or relationships, it's a good idea to find some professional support. Speaking to the GP and finding them a counsellor or therapist are two good places to start. You can find more information about GPs, counsellors and other mental health services in our guide to getting support from mental health services.

If there is no other obvious reason for your child's inability to attend school, they may have an undiagnosed Special Educational Need (SEN) such as dyslexia, autism or ADHD.

If you think this is the case:

Speak to the school's SENCO or your GP to ask for a referral for an assessment.

While you are waiting for an assessment, you can also ask the SENCO to refer your child for support from other professionals, such as an Educational Psychologist or Speech and Language Therapist. These professionals can identify specific needs and make recommendations for additional support the school can put in place - even if your child hasn't had a formal diagnosis yet.

SEN support at school
If your child is diagnosed with SEN, extra support and adjustments should be put in place at school to help them attend and learn. This is called SEN support, and should be available within the school's existing resources. Speak to the school's SENCO in the first instance about how the school will support your child.
Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans
If you do not think your child's needs can be met by the school's existing resources, you can ask the local authority to carry out an Education, Health and Care needs assessment (EHC needs assessment). If the local authority decides your child needs additional support, they will then make an Education, Health and Care plan (EHC plan). This outlines how the extra support they need will be provided. Find out more about EHC plans.
Your Local Offer
Your Local Offer is the information, support and services available for young people with SEN, and for their parents and families. You can find out what support is available in your area by going to your local authority's website and searching for their Local Offer.

While we take care to ensure that the organisations we signpost to provide high quality information and advice, we cannot take responsibility for any specific pieces of advice they may offer. We encourage parents and carers to always explore the website of a linked service or organisation to understand who they are and what support they offer before engaging with them.

We have more tips and advice on supporting your child with school, and information about how you can get in touch with our Parents Helpline.
This page was reviewed in December 2022. It was created with parents and carers with lived experience of supporting their child or young person with school anxiety. We will next review the page in 2025. YoungMinds is a proud member of PIF TICK - the UK's quality mark for trusted health information.
Whether you love the page or think something is missing, we appreciate your feedback. It all helps us to support more young people with their mental health.

Please be aware that this form isn't a mental health support service. If your child is in crisis right now and you want to talk to someone urgently, find out who to contact on our urgent help page.

At YoungMinds we take your privacy seriously. If you'd like to read more about how we keep the information we collect safe, take a look at our privacy policy.

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School Anxiety and Refusal | Parent Guide to Support

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If your child is anxious about school, or refusing to go to school at all, read our tips and advice on how you can support their mental health.

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Language phone lines for parents/carers, Hampshire maintained schools and SLA-supported academies

Phone lines may only be used to support communication with a child where an adult is present with the child for the duration of the phone call.

Please ring us on our help lines below for information and support with home-school communication or if you have any questions relating to your child's education or well-being.

All our assistants speak good English so if you can use even a little English you can call at any of the times listed below.

If you need an interpreter for any other language, phone EMTAS on 03707 794222 or email emtas@hants.gov.uk with your contact details and the language you speak. We will do our best to help you.

Information for schools

Our phone lines are included in our SLA and are free to Hampshire maintained schools and academies that have bought back into our SLA. Pre-schools and non-subscribing academies can purchase a subscription to our phone lines. Please email alison.dunphy@hants.gov.uk to discuss how this might work for your setting/academy.

Arabic

Bulgarian

Chinese Mandarin

Hindi and Marathi

Hungarian

Malayalam, Tamil and Telegu

Nepali

Pashto and Dari/Farsi

Polish

Portuguese

Romanian

Russian

Spanish

Turkish

Gypsy, Traveller, Roma, Showmen and Boater phone line

EMTAS telephone advice service for schools and parents/carers to answer questions relating to Gypsy, Traveller, Roma, Showmen and Boater pupils and to discuss any concerns.

To speak with one of our dedicated Traveller team:

Thursday 12:00pm to 3:00pm (term time only)

03707 794222

Ask for the Traveller phone line

English as an Additional Language (EAL), Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)

If you have concerns about the progress of a pupil for whom English is an Additional Language, please first read the information on the Special Education Needs/Disabilities (SEND) or bilingual page. If, having done this, you still require support, then phone our EAL/SEND phone line for further advice. Note that this phone line is for schools and other professionals only.

Tuesday 12pm to 4pm (term time only)

03707 794222

Advice about a bilingual pupil (where there are concerns)

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Language phone lines for parents/carers, Hampshire maintained schools and SLA-supported academies Phone lines may only be used to support communication with a child where an adult is present with the child for the duration of the phone call.

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Hampshire Parent Carer Network (HPCN) offers parents and carers of children and young people aged 0-25 with any additional needs, or disability including mental Health (diagnosed or undiagnosed) the opportunity to tell the Local Authority, Health and other services, what life is really like. email participation@hpcn.org.uk or visit our page.

We Are Hiring!

We are looking for passionate and dedicated individuals to fill two exciting roles for projects we are running:

Bridging the Gap(BTG) Coordinator - BTG Job des.docx

Future in Mind (FIM) Coordinator - FIM Job Des.docx

If you are passionate about making a difference and believe you have the qualifications and experience we are looking for, we encourage you to apply.

Deadline to submit Applications : 28th June 2024

Join us in making a positive impact at HPCN. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Hampshire Parent Carer Network (HPCN) offers parents and carers of children and young people aged 0-25 with any additional needs, or disability including mental Health (diagnosed or undiagnosed) the opportunity to tell the Local Authority, Health and other services, what life is really like. email participation@hpcn.org.uk or visit our page.

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https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/Schools-and-learning/At-school/SENDiass4BCP.aspx

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SENDiass4BCP, previously Bournemouth SENDiass and Poole SENDIASS, provide a free, confidential, and impartial service for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) who live across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole and their parents or carers. We are arms' length from the local authority.

We can help if you are a child or young person (0-25 years old) with special educational needs or disabilities or if you are the parent or carer of a child or young person with SEND.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are no longer based at an office. We can still be reached via email at help@sendiass4bcp.org, or on our Advice Line, 01202 128181. Our advice line operates Monday to Thursday between 9:30am and 12:30pm, and we do respond to voicemails left on that number. We are open between 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.

You can find further information, including fact sheets and videos produced by us, on our website, our Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

As a service we can:

listen to, and help you to, voice your views and concerns

work with you to explore your options

help you to understand your family's rights in relation to special educational needs and disabilities

help you to understand your family's rights in relation to exclusions

prepare for and/or attend meetings with you, including annual reviews and meetings about exclusions

understand reports, letters, processes

support you to write letters and express your views

support you through the Education, Health and Care Plan process

help you to resolve issues and find solutions

provide advice and support on mediation and SEND Tribunals.

Further useful links

Further SEND Legal Information and Advice can be obtained from the IPSEA website.

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SENDiass4BCP, previously Bournemouth SENDiass and Poole SENDIASS, provide a free, confidential, and impartial service for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) who live across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole and their parents or carers. We are arms' length from the local authority.

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Do you need some support responding to an EHCP or a Working Document? Join one of our online clinics where we'll guide you through the process.

Impartial Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice and Support (SENDIASS) in Hampshire

Hampshire SENDIASS is an impartial Special Educational Needs and Disability Information, Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS) that aims to make a positive and lasting difference for children and young people with special educational needs and/or disability (SEND) and their parents and carers. We do this by providing timely confidential, impartial information, advice and support through our online resources, at events and workshops, via our helpline service and through individual casework.

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Hampshire SENDIASS is provided by Polaris Children's Services, part of a leading Children's Services Group with over 24 years of experience in supporting children, young people and their families to build brighter futures.

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Get in Touch

If you can't find what you need, feel free to get in touch with us, our opening hours are Monday-Thursday, 9am-5pm, and on Fridays 9am-4pm . Outside of these hours please use the Contact Us Form. We aim to respond to all enquiries within 2 working days.

0808 164 5504

The Local Offer includes information about education, health, social care, preparation for adulthood, leisure services and impartial information advice and support. Hampshire's Local Offer (co produced with parents, carers and young people) aims to help you find your way through the maze of information to reach the best solutions for you/your child.

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Hampshire SENDIASS | Impartial SEND Advice & Support

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Hampshire SENDIASS provide information and support to Children & Young People with special education needs and/or a disabilities.

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Hampshire Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service is an NHS specialist service, provided by Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust for young people aged 5-18 years and their families who are experiencing difficulties with their mental and emotional health. Many young people experience difficulties with their mental health such as anxiety, low mood, trauma, eating difficulties plus many others which can impact on all aspects of life such as education, home life, hobbies and interests, socialising and having fun.

It is important to know that everyone has mental health and that we can all experience tough times and this can cause our mental health to suffer. CAMHS work with young people, their families and other important organisations (such as schools) to achieve the following:

* Assess and diagnose mental health and neurodevelopmental difficulties
* Identify realistic goals or changes
* Identify and build on strengths
* Improve self-esteem and confidence to cope with difficulties
* Learn emotional coping techniques to help manage difficult or upsetting thoughts, feelings, urges or experiences
* Empower the young person to identify, express and communicate their needs, take responsibility for their health and wellbeing and feel confident in knowing where and how to get additional support if necessary
Hampshire CAMHS Thresholds
We cannot "cure" mental health difficulties or prevent difficulties ever coming back. Lots of things can impact on our mental health, some of which are beyond anyone's control. Instead we work with you to help you learn how to manage your difficulties and in many cases overcoming them is absolutely possible. There may also be some difficulties or experiences which CAMHS are not able to provide support for. In these cases we will help you access appropriate help from other organisations and services such as drug and alcohol services and bereavement services plus many others.

You will need to be willing and committed to attending sessions that are offered as well as trying and practising techniques until you find what works well for you. You will need to be prepared to work with us in this way so that you have the best chance of achieving your goals/recovery.

Overcoming difficulties also depends on how much an individual would like to change. Often change can be scary and many young people feel they don't have the energy or the motivation to change or try different things. If you have made the step of asking for help and attending an assessment and are committed to making changes, we will work with you to help you achieve your goals/recovery.

Anyone can help you get an appointment at Hampshire Specialist CAMHS; you, your parents or carers, your teachers, a health professional (such as a school nurse or GP) or a social worker, using our online referral form which you can complete and submit online. You can also call Hampshire CAMHS on 0300 304 0050 (Monday - Friday, 9am-5pm).

If you are experiencing difficulties, it is really important to talk to those around you so that they can support you with these and with getting the right help and support.

We would recommend talking to CAMHS before making a referral so that we can offer advice and guidance and to decide whether CAMHS is the right service to meet your needs. CAMHS may also be able to offer recommendations about other services, organisations and things that may be helpful.

If after receiving a referral it is agreed that it would be helpful for CAMHS to offer an appointment, you will be given a date as soon as possible. Please be aware that there may be a wait for an appointment. If you feel that things are becoming more difficult or more urgent whilst you are waiting for appointment, please contact the Single Point of Access for CAMHS on 0300 304 0050 to let us know.

* At your first appointment we'll start with introductions and outline what will happen during the appointment. Your first appointment may be by telephone or face to face
* We'll ask you to fill in some questionnaires. These help us to understand your strengths and any difficulties you might be experiencing
* Your clinician will also talk to you about confidentiality and consent to share information
* The aim of your first appointment is to find out what your goals are and what you would like to be different
* By the end of the appointment we will decide together the best way forward in order to help you reach your goals/recovery
* If you have any questions, worries or concerns please speak to your clinician - we're all here to listen and to help, your initial appointment is a chance to discuss what is currently going on for you.

We have a leaflet entitled 'About your CAMHS appointment' which you can download here.

This leaflet clearly explains what to do if you have difficulties getting to appointments, it may address other questions you may have and also explains our appointment policy.

We understand that there are lots of reasons why you might not want information shared with your young person's school. We will want to understand those reasons so that we can make sure you still receive the help and support you might need.

There are some situations when we will need to share information with others. If your young person or someone they know are being harmed or are at risk of harm, we have a duty to protect anyone from harm so we will find a way together to share information in an appropriate way. We will include you in all discussions as much as possible when sharing information is involved.

If you are worried about information being shared please speak to your clinician about this so you can agree a way forward together.

* Following your first appointment, if it is agreed that CAMHS can help you a number of things may happen
* You may be offered a group to attend. We know that for some that groups with other people experiencing similar difficulties are the best support. These will be run by our experienced clinicians
* You may be offered a further period of assessment and intervention by one of our clinicians. They will contact you to arrange this.

This will depend on many factors including the type of difficulties you are experiencing and your goals. There will be regular reviews of how things are progressing and discussions with you and your family about the care we provide. At CAMHS we aim to empower young people to learn and develop skills to help themselves cope and work towards their goals.

Sessions usually last between 50 minutes and one hour. Some sessions are longer depending on the therapy approach being used. You can use as much or as little of your session time as you want.

No, not everyone that comes to CAMHS is prescribed medication. Medication can be helpful for some young people depending on what difficulties they are experiencing. If you have any questions or worries about medication, you can ask your clinician.

You might also find useful information and guidance about psychiatric medication on this website: www.headmeds.org.uk

If there is an emergency and you or someone else is at risk of serious harm, call 999 immediately and tell anyone else who may be near you so they can help.

If your young person is in crisis and you do not know what to do, click here.

If it is not an emergency, encourage your young person to find someone to talk to; a parent/ carer or family member, friend or partner, or call the helpline. If you already see someone at CAMHS, you can call after the weekend or the next day to speak with them or someone else in the team.

We know that when people finish their work with us and are discharged (closed) from our service, people can worry that they might not cope. It is important that if you are working with CAMHS that you complete a relapse prevention plan before you finish. It is important to keep this and follow the plan if you are struggling.

You can use the self-help pages of this website to remind yourself of the top tips to help you cope and access extra self-help information and advice. The most important thing to do is to let a parent/carer, teacher or trusted adult know that you are struggling so that they can support you.

Young people can sometimes be re-referred to CAMHS if this is agreed this would be the most helpful thing to do.

Yes!
* Specialist Eating Disorder Team
This team covers the whole of Hampshire and works with young people who have eating disorders and difficulties and their families. Our aim is to see young people as quickly as possible and provide specialist treatment. The team also provides information and guidance for anyone who might be concerned about an eating difficulty. The Specialist Eating Disorder Team can be contacted Monday-Friday 9-5pm on 0300 304 0062.
* i2i (Urgent Assessment and Home Treatment Team)
Our i2i team provide specialist intensive assessment and treatment to young people who are experiencing crisis or who require extra care to try to prevent crises from happening. This service can only be accessed by young people already coming to CAMHS and who have been referred by their CAMHS worker. The team provide urgent assessments and help develop care plans with you, your family, the CAMHS team, school and other agencies (where needed) that aim to keep young people as safe as possible.
* Learning Disability Care
Hampshire CAMHS also offer their services to children and young people with a learning disability, making sure that young people with a learning disability who also have a mental health difficulty can get the help and support they need. Every team in Hampshire CAMHS has a specialist learning disability CAMHS worker who can offer a range of approaches depending on each person's needs. One of the main approaches used is Positive Behaviour Support. This is an approach to support children and young people when they have behaviours that can be challenging.

We work together to find out why a behaviour may occur, including triggers and outcomes. This helps us to think of strategies to help a young person manage their feelings and helps parents or carers to respond in helpful ways.

Further information can be found at: www.challengingbehaviour.org.uk
* Youth Offending Team and Forensic CAMHS
The Youth Offending Team (YOT) is a service provided by Children's Services for young people who are involved in the Criminal Justice System. CAMHS provides specialist assessments and ways to help young people who have been involved in crime and are working with YOT. These CAMHS clinicians work within the YOT teams and alongside the YOT workers.

Forensic CAMHS is a specialist service for young people who experience a mental health difficulty and who may pose a risk to themselves or others. CAMHS workers in this team provide training, and advice and consultation to other professionals as well as specialist assessments and work with the young person and their family. The Clinicians in this team work closely with children's services, schools, the Police and other relevant organisations to ensure the health, wellbeing and safety of the young person and those around them

What do certain words mean? Read our Glossary.

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Being a parent is rewarding, watching your children grow and helping them to find their independence. Parenting can also be really hard work!! In this section you will find a range of national and local services relating to family life including parenting and support services from pre-pregnancy to adulthood.

For a comprehensive list of local services click on the 'V iew all services and advice' link on the right hand side of the page.

The banner below provide links to national websites containing information, advice and resources on a number of topics.

From pregnancy to breastfeeding to learning how to potty train the NHS choices Pregnancy, Baby and Toddler site provides a guide to everything you need to know.

The What to Expect, When page featured on the Foundation Years website offers a range of information, advice and guidance to help you as a parent/carer find out more about how your child is learning and developing during their first five years

This Child Health 6-15 years contains advice on a range of subjects including healthy weights, sleep and bullying.

Getting teenagers to talk openly about what's bothering them can be hard. Follow these tips to help get them talking to you about their worries.

Family Lives is a charity specialising in families. You can call their confidential helpline on 0808 800 2222 (9am-9pm Monday to Friday, 10am-3pm Saturday to Sunday). You can also visit their forums.

Young Minds have produced a parent survival guide. They also offer a national helpline

Gingerbread provide advice, practical support and campaign for single parents

NHS Choices have produced a large number of short videos for their Youtube channel on a wide range of aspects of parenting, family relationships, child development and health and wellbeing.

This link takes you to the playlist section with answers to questions and scenarios that can help. This includes;

Parents, Pregnancy and Birth,

Breastfeeding Your Baby

Parents, Babies and Toddlers

Vaccinations

Teen Health

Mental Health

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Being a parent is rewarding, watching your children grow and helping them to find their independence. Parenting can also be really hard work!! In this section you will find a range of national and local services relating to family life including parenting and support services from pre-pregnancy to adulthood.