At Crabbs Cross Academy we strive to meet the needs of all learners. We understand that life often presents many challenges and we strongly believe in working in partnership with families to overcome barriers to pupils’ well-being; we know that stress and anxiety often created by an unsettled environment can affect a child’s capacity to achieve their potential at school.

Our most powerful tool is our ability to work closely with our families. Our team is always ready to listen and acts quickly to identify the best help available. We also know our children well and can spot changes in behaviour which may be indicative of problems.

Our SENCo, Lynn Briers and the safeguarding team, work closely with staff to understand concerns raised and sign post help. External professionals may also be part of this.

In school, all staff are available to help and often concerns may be first addressed to the class teacher. Class teachers may then pass information onto other staff who have specialist training to direct Early Help. 

Key people are:

• Sarah Shakles, Designated Safeguarding Lead
• Lynn Briers, SENCo and Inclusion Lead and Deputy Safeguarding Lead
• Kim Power, Deputy Safeguarding Lead
• Louise Young, Family Support Worker
• Nikki Marston, Mental Health First Aid Lead
• Ally Middleton – Safeguarding Governor

External Professionals involved with Early Help:

• Educational Psychologist
• Speech and Language Teacher
• School Nurse
• Social Workers
• Complex Communications Team
• Beacon Behaviour Support
• Positive Behaviour Support
• Education Welfare Officer

Interventions currently used to support learners:

• Breakfast Club
• Speech and language interventions
• Sports Therapy
• Relax Kids
• Curriculum interventions, such as rapid writing
• Assessments and observations by external professionals

Pupil Voice

At Crabbs Cross Academy, we encourage children to discuss their feelings in a safe environment. We have several committees made up of pupils to ensure that the children’s voice is heard throughout the school.

These are:

• Children’s Safeguarding Council and Online Safety Council
• School Council
• Learning Council

Staff build strong relationships with pupils and are always ready to listen. Children talk to key staff members and share when they have concerns.

Support for Parents in Worcestershire

Please see the accompanying document for further support in Worcestershire.