"The 'This is Me' programme has really helped my child and family.  My child has been learning to deal with situations she finds tricky.  She now has some strategies to help and has been learning that there is nothing wrong with her, but her brain just works a little differently!  As a parent, I have also felt less alone and anxious with how to deal with my child.  The support I have received is invaluable. I have learnt how to be a better advocate for my child which is helping them feel better about school and situations outside of school."

East Farleigh parent

Inclusive teaching

At East Farleigh, we are committed to using research-informed teaching practices to ensure that every child, including those who are neurodiverse, has the tools they need to succeed. One of the most effective strategies we use is modelling, where teachers demonstrate tasks step by step, making their thinking visible. Alongside this, we use visualisers to share live examples of writing, problem-solving, or editing so children can see processes in action, which helps to reduce uncertainty and build confidence.

For children with dyslexia, we provide tailored support such as coloured overlays, accessible fonts, and clear page layouts, as well as audio support and multisensory approaches. Strategies such as chunking information, providing word banks, and scaffolding complex tasks help children manage their learning more effectively.  

We also use specialist approaches to support communication and understanding. Colourful Semantics helps children develop sentence structure and expand their language skills by using colour-coded prompts, making grammar more visual and accessible. In addition, Widgit symbols/Communication in Print are used across classrooms and resources, giving children visual cues that aid comprehension, recall, and independence.  

Other evidence-based practices include retrieval practice to strengthen memory, worked examples to reduce cognitive load, and visual timetables to provide structure and predictability. By combining these strategies, we create inclusive classrooms where barriers are reduced, learning is accessible, and all children—whatever their strengths and challenges—are supported to grow in confidence, independence, and achievement.

Image courtesy of Oliver Caviglioli 

Learning Environments

At our school, we understand that every child experiences the world differently, and we are committed to creating classroom environments that support the sensory needs of neurodiverse students. Our classrooms are designed to minimize distractions and provide calm, structured spaces where all children can thrive. Flexible seating options, such as cushions, standing desks, and quiet corners, allow students to choose what helps them focus best. Lighting is carefully considered, prioritizing natural light and minimizing harsh fluorescents. We provide sensory tools, including fidget objects, noise-canceling headphones, and tactile materials, enabling children to self-regulate. Teachers receive ongoing training on neurodiversity and sensory processing differences, equipping them to recognize individual needs and adapt lessons. Classroom layouts balance movement and focus, and transitions are structured to reduce stress. By designing learning spaces with sensory awareness, we create an inclusive environment where every student feels safe, supported, and empowered to engage fully in their learning journey.

We are excited to welcome new families, fresh perspectives, and any parents who want to connect with our school community. Parent Space is our updated parent coffee meet-up, offering a relaxed environment where you can meet other parents, share experiences, celebrate successes, or simply listen and learn more about life at our school.

These gatherings take place once each term and are chaired by a parent, with jointly agreed rules and protocols to ensure a respectful and supportive space for everyone. We often invite special guests to share advice, expertise, or helpful insights for family life and learning. A key focus is supporting parents of neurodiverse children, providing strategies, resources, and guidance to help you nurture your child’s unique strengths and needs.

Parent Space is a welcoming and friendly environment to connect, ask questions, and build relationships with other families and staff. Whether you want to participate in discussions, gain practical tips, or simply enjoy a coffee in a supportive setting, everyone is welcome. Together, we can share, learn, and strengthen our school community for the benefit of all our children.

At East Farleigh, we work closely with a range of external partner organisations to provide comprehensive support for neuro-diverse children. Our collaborative network includes Early Help services, Play Therapists, Educational Psychologists, and the Specialist Teaching Service, all of whom provide expert guidance tailored to each child’s needs. We also work with This is Me practitioners, Link Speech & Language Therapists, and the NHS School Nurse to ensure holistic care that addresses both learning and wellbeing.

In addition, we have a close relationship with the PINS project team and the partner schools involved in the project, which has also enabled us to build a longer-term partnership with Kent PACT. Through these connections, we strive to create an inclusive environment where every child can thrive and reach their full potential.

Progress of our Neuro-Diverse Children.

Last year a significant number of children with SEN support or an EHC plan made expected progress across Reading, Writing, and Maths, as measured against their end of year targets. 

• Progress in Writing is a particular strength, with many children meeting or exceeding their targets. Notably,  many children have made above expected progress in this area.   
• Children are also demonstrating positive development in Maths.  In some cases, 100% of children in a cohort made expected progress, and others surpassed expectations to make above expected progress
• Across the year groups, a considerable proportion of children are successfully making expected progress in Reading against their individual targets.

Overall, Neuro-diverse pupils are achieving key milestones, with notable successes in Writing and Maths where some children are performing beyond their expected levels of progress.

Speech & Language Development

At East Farleigh,  we are committed to supporting the speech and language development of neuro-diverse children through tailored, evidence-based programmes. Our specially trained Speech & Language (S&L) staff.  deliver targeted interventions using NELI (Nuffield Early Language Intervention) and Speechlink, both designed to enhance communication, vocabulary, and listening skills. These programmes provide structured, engaging activities that meet each child’s unique needs, helping them build confidence and fluency in everyday interactions. By closely monitoring progress and adapting strategies, our dedicated team ensures every child receives the guidance and support necessary to reach their full communicative potential.   For more information, see our Speech & Language page (coming soon)

Key Interventions

Mentoring

Mentoring neuro-diverse children with a our dedicated Pupil Support Lead is vital for their growth and well-being.  These children often face unique learning challenges and social barriers, requiring individualized guidance and consistent support. A dedicated mentor can tailor strategies to each child’s strengths, fostering confidence, resilience, and communication skills. This one-on-one attention helps identify and address difficulties early, promoting academic progress and emotional stability. Beyond educational benefits, mentoring nurtures trust, empathy, and a sense of belonging, empowering neuro-diverse children to reach their full potential. Consistent, compassionate mentorship can transform challenges into opportunities for success and self-discovery.

Hamish & Milo

The Hamish and Milo Emotional Wellbeing Programme is a school-based intervention supporting primary-aged children, including those who are neurodiverse, in developing emotional resilience and social skills. Through interactive activities, storytelling, and structured exercises, the programme helps children recognize and manage emotions, build self-confidence, and develop positive relationships. For neurodiverse children, it provides tailored strategies to navigate social situations, regulate emotions, and engage at their own pace. Teachers are guided in adapting sessions to individual needs, promoting inclusivity. The programme fosters a supportive classroom environment, empowering all children, including neurodiverse learners, to improve emotional wellbeing and cope with daily challenges.

Drawing & Talking

We offer Drawing & Talking, a therapeutic early intervention in primary schools that helps children express their emotions through creativity. This approach supports mental health by building resilience, improving emotional regulation, reducing anxiety, and strengthening self-esteem in a safe, nurturing environment. Two of our staff members, Mrs Hodges and Mrs Long, are trained Drawing & Talking practitioners, ensuring our children receive skilled and compassionate support.