Referrals to Special School Outreach are made via the SENDCO Helpdesk.
Special Schools across Oxfordshire are working with us to develop a continuum of local provision through outreach support to help schools improve outcomes for our children and young people with SEND. Staff from special schools are working alongside existing teams in Oxfordshire to provide additional skills, knowledge and guidance where it is needed most.
Special School Outreach is designed to foster sustained improvement rather than addressing individual pupil cases or offering short-term fixes. Support will focus on leadership and key worker development in schools to drive cultural change and ensure long lasting impact.
Support available
Leadership package
This support includes, but is not limited to:
- Support the development of strategies that focus on the principles of good teaching for SEND pupils, which are good for all students.
- Support the development of policies for SEND.
- Support the development of behaviour and relationship strategies that focus on empowering mainstream schools through lasting cultural change.
Key worker development package
This support includes, but is not limited to:
- Specific training to upskill key workers – focus on developing effective strategies for a specific group of students with identified needs/barriers.
- Modelling of good practice
- Training and support for staff
- Visit a specialist school (staff only) to see best practice e.g. resources, environment, interventions.
- Observation of strategies in the setting, discussion with key staff members
SEND clinics
The SEND Clinics offer a rich programme of themed sessions designed to support professionals in making meaningful, impactful change in their schools. With topics ranging from sensory processing and SEMH strategies to EHCP support and restorative approaches, each clinic is led by experienced practitioners from Oxfordshire’s special schools.
To maximise the benefit and drive strategic development, it is suggested, where possible, that schools attend with at least one member of their Senior Leadership Team alongside other professionals.
Clinics are hosted at various locations across Oxfordshire and are available both face-to-face and online. To book a place at a SEND Clinic, schools should contact the delivering school directly. A booking form will be provided during this process and must be completed to confirm attendance.
Full details about the Special School Outreach SEND Clinic offer 2025-2026 (pdf format, 155 KB), including themes, dates, and booking guidance..