External agencies and support services
The school works proactively with a range of external agencies and specialist services to ensure that students’ needs are accurately identified and effectively supported. These partnerships enable a coordinated, multi-agency approach to meeting the educational, social, emotional and wellbeing needs of students and their families.
Social Services
The school works closely with Social Services to support students and families where there are safeguarding, welfare or complex needs. This may include information sharing, attendance at multi-agency meetings and contribution to child-centred support plans where appropriate.
ELCAS (Emotional Literacy and CAMHS in Schools)
ELCAS provides targeted early intervention for students experiencing emotional or mental health difficulties. Support may include assessment, short-term therapeutic intervention and professional advice to school staff and parents/carers to support emotional wellbeing and resilience.
Mental Health Support Team (MHST)
The MHST supports students presenting with mild to moderate mental health needs, such as anxiety, low mood or difficulties with emotional regulation. The team works collaboratively with the school, students and families, offering both direct intervention and guidance to staff to support a whole-school approach to mental health.
ELHT Nursing Services
The school has access to local nursing services who provide advice and guidance in relation to students’ medical needs. This includes support with the management of health conditions in school and liaison with families and relevant professionals where necessary.
Feeder schools
The school works closely with local feeder schools to ensure a smooth and well-planned transition for SEND students. Through regular communication and information sharing, we ensure that appropriate support is in place from the outset, helping students feel confident, supported, and ready to succeed as they move into the next stage of their education.
Braeside Learning
Braeside Learning provides targeted tuition and intervention for students who require additional academic support. The centre works closely with the school to ensure that all interventions are personalised and aligned with the student’s individual needs, curriculum requirements and learning targets. Provision is planned collaboratively with subject teachers and the SENDCo to ensure continuity and relevance. Regular feedback is shared with the school so that progress can be monitored and any necessary adjustments can be made promptly and appropriately.
Young People’s Services
The school works in partnership with Young People’s Services to support students who may benefit from additional guidance around behaviour, wellbeing, engagement or personal development.
Blackburn with Darwen Council
The school works collaboratively with Blackburn with Darwen Council to access a range of services, including SEND, safeguarding and family support. This partnership ensures a joined-up approach to supporting students and their families effectively.
Blackburn Youth Zone
Blackburn Youth Zone provides opportunities for young people to engage in positive activities that promote social development, confidence and wellbeing. The school works with Blackburn Youth Zone to support students’ personal development, encourage positive engagement outside of school and provide access to safe, structured enrichment opportunities.
Visual Distress Clinic – University of Preston
The school has access to specialist visual distress support through the Visual Distress Clinic at the University of Preston. The clinic provides assessment, advice and guidance relating to visual stress and associated reading or learning difficulties. This includes recommendations for appropriate strategies or resources to support students in school, as well as liaison with families and relevant professionals where necessary.
