Collingwood
Primary School
Inclusion at Collingwood
We believe that every child deserves to feel safe, valued, understood and able to thrive.
At Collingwood Primary School, inclusion is not an intervention—it is the foundation of everything we do.
We are proud to be an inclusive school where every child is welcomed, valued and encouraged to make the very best of who they are. We recognise that every child is unique, with their own strengths, interests and aspirations, and we are committed to ensuring that all pupils feel a genuine sense of belonging within our school community.
Through high-quality adaptive teaching, positive relationships and personalised support, we work collaboratively with children, families and external professionals to remove barriers to learning and enable every child to flourish academically, socially and emotionally.
Whether your child already has an identified Special Educational Need or Disability (SEND), or you have questions or concerns about their learning or development, we are here to listen, support and work alongside you every step of the way.
At Collingwood, we believe that successful inclusion is built on partnership. By working together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to feel confident, achieve their potential and make the best of who they are.
Mrs Patterson
Inclusion Lead
Welcome!
As Inclusion Lead at Collingwood Primary School, I am passionate about ensuring that every child feels valued, understood and able to achieve their full potential.
My role is to work alongside children, families, staff and external professionals to ensure that every pupil receives the support they need to flourish academically, socially and emotionally. Whether your child has an identified Special Educational Need or Disability (SEND), or you have questions or concerns about their learning or wellbeing, I am here to listen, support and work with you every step of the way.
I believe that the strongest outcomes are achieved when schools and families work in partnership. By getting to know every child as an individual, understanding their strengths and removing barriers to learning, we can create opportunities for every child to succeed and truly make the best of who they are.
If you would like to discuss your child or arrange a meeting, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Email: collingwood.schooloffice@collingwoodprimary.org.uk
☎ Telephone: (0191) 605 3378
What does inclusion look like at Collingwood?
At Collingwood Primary School, we believe that every child deserves to feel safe, valued, understood and able to thrive.
Inclusion is at the heart of everything we do. Through high-quality teaching, meaningful relationships and personalised support, we remove barriers to learning so that every child can flourish academically, socially and emotionally.
Our inclusive approach is built around the following principles:
High-Quality Adaptive Teaching
The greatest difference we can make for children begins in the classroom. Through adaptive teaching, our staff carefully plan lessons, resources and learning environments that enable every child to access an ambitious curriculum and experience success.
PACE – Informed Relationships
Positive relationships are at the heart of our school. Using the principles of PACE (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity and Empathy), we help children feel emotionally safe, understood and ready to learn.
Helping Children Feel Calm, Connected and Ready to Learn
Our sensory room provides a nurturing space where children can develop self-regulation skills, understand their sensory needs and build strategies that enable them to return to learning feeling calm, connected and ready to learn.
Pupil Passports
Every child receiving SEND Support or with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) has a personalised Pupil Passport, celebrating their strengths and outlining practical strategies that help every adult understand how best to support them.
Listening to Every Child
Children's views matter. Through pupil voice, SEND Walks and regular conversations, we ensure that children help shape the support they receive and feel valued as active partners in their learning journey.
Working Together with Families
We believe that parents and carers know their children best. By working in partnership through honest communication and shared decision-making, we ensure that support is personalised and focused on achieving the very best outcomes.
High Expectations and Independence
We believe that every child can succeed. We maintain high expectations for all learners while providing the support they need to develop confidence, resilience and independence.
To learn more about our inclusive approach, please read our Inclusion Policy or contact our Inclusion Team—we are always happy to help.
Our Sensory Room
Helping Children Feel Calm, Connected and Ready to Learn
At Collingwood Primary School, we believe that every child deserves to feel safe, understood and ready to learn.
Our sensory room is a calm, nurturing and inclusive space designed to help children recognise, understand and regulate their emotions and sensory needs. It reflects our commitment to supporting the whole child, providing a safe environment where children can develop the skills they need to thrive both academically and emotionally.
We believe that emotional regulation is a skill that can be taught, nurtured and developed over time. Rather than responding to behaviour after it has escalated, we take a proactive approach, helping children to understand themselves, build positive coping strategies and develop lifelong self-regulation skills.
Whether children need a quiet space to regulate, support with transitions, or opportunities to explore sensory experiences, our sensory room provides a welcoming environment where they can build confidence, resilience and independence before returning to learning feeling calm, connected and ready to learn.
Our Vision
Our sensory room reflects our commitment to nurturing the whole child. Through carefully planned experiences and resources, we aim to empower children to:
✔ Develop self-regulation skills to better understand and manage their emotions.
✔ Explore calming or alerting sensory experiences that meet their individual needs.
✔ Build confidence, resilience and independence.
✔ Return to the classroom feeling calm, connected and ready to learn.
✔ Develop lifelong strategies that support their emotional wellbeing, learning and success.
Our Approach
Our sensory room is not used as a consequence or reward. Instead, it forms part of our wider inclusive approach, supporting children to develop emotional awareness, confidence and the strategies they need to access learning successfully.
Every child's use of the sensory room is carefully planned according to their individual needs and is designed to promote independence, helping them to recognise when they need support and develop the skills to regulate their own emotions over time.
We are committed to creating an environment where every child feels valued, understood and empowered to flourish – both in school and beyond.
📸 Take a look inside our Sensory Room...
How Can We Help?
Every child develops at their own pace, and it is natural for parents and carers to have questions or concerns from time to time.
If you have any worries about your child's learning, communication, behaviour, emotional wellbeing or development, we encourage you to talk to us as soon as possible. Early conversations allow us to work together to understand your child's strengths and identify any support that may be helpful.
Our aim is always to work in partnership with families, ensuring that support is personalised, meaningful and focused on helping every child thrive.
Talk to your child's class teacher
Your child's class teacher knows them best and is usually the first person to discuss any concerns with them. Together, you can share information, celebrate strengths and explore any areas where additional support may be needed.
We will get to know your child
We may observe your child in class, review their progress, speak with you and gather information from staff working with them. This helps us build a full picture of your child's strengths and any barriers to learning.
Additional support
If appropriate, your child's class teacher and the Inclusion Lead will work together to put personalised strategies and support in place. This may include classroom adaptations, targeted interventions or advice from specialist professionals.
Review together
We will regularly review your child's progress with you, celebrating successes and making any changes needed to ensure they continue to receive the right support.
🏫 School Information 🏫
These documents explain how we support children with additional needs at Collingwood Primary School.
Inclusion Policy
Learn about our inclusive ethos, values and approach to supporting every child.
SEND Information Report
Find out how SEND support is delivered at Collingwood Primary School.
The Graduated Approach
At Collingwood Primary School, we follow North Tyneside's Graduated Approach to identify, assess and support children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
North Tyneside - Graduated Approach
SEND Code of Practice (0–25 Years)
The SEND Code of Practice is the statutory guidance that schools, local authorities and health services follow to support children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
It explains:
- How children with SEND should be identified and supported.
- The graduated approach to SEND support.
- The role of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs).
- The importance of working in partnership with children, young people and their families.
- The responsibilities of schools and other professionals.
📄 Read the SEND Code of Practice here
My Family Coach
My Family Coach provides practical advice, resources and support to help families navigate everyday parenting challenges, children's emotional wellbeing and behaviour.
Whether you're looking for ideas, reassurance or strategies to support your child at home, My Family Coach offers a wealth of helpful information.
Visit: My Family Coach
Useful Services and Support for Families
We know that every family's journey is unique, and sometimes you may need advice or support beyond what we can offer in school.
There are many fantastic local and national organisations that provide information, guidance and practical support for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), as well as their families.
If you are unsure which service may be most appropriate, please don't hesitate to contact us —we are always happy to help point you in the right direction.
Support Available Through School:
At Collingwood Primary School, we work closely with families to ensure that children receive the right support at the right time.
We can help with:
- Advice and guidance from Mrs Patterson (Inclusion Lead)
- Mrs Cunningham (Family Support Worker) for family support and signposting
- SEND Support Plans and Pupil Passports
- Meetings with parents and carers
- Emotional wellbeing and self-regulation support
- Transition support
- Pupil voice
- Referrals to external professionals where appropriate
Local Services:
North Tyneside Local Offer
Information about education, health and social care services available for children and young people with SEND across North Tyneside.
North Tyneside Council Local Offer
North Tyneside SENDIASS
SENDIASS provides free, confidential and impartial advice and support for parents, carers and young people with SEND.
They can help you understand SEND processes, Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), meetings and your legal rights.
Early Help
Early Help offers practical advice and support for families, helping to address challenges before they become more significant.
Connect Mental Health
Collingwood is a proud partner school of Connect Mental Health.
The Connect Mental Health Support Team works in partnership with North Tyneside schools to support the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children and young people. We provide low and moderate intensity interventions for pupils experiencing difficulties such as anxiety, low mood and low self‑esteem.
Alongside direct work with pupils and families, we support schools to develop a strong whole school approach to mental health and emotional wellbeing, offering guidance, training and consultation to staff. We also work closely with families and other professionals to promote early intervention, build resilience and ensure children and young people receive timely and appropriate support.
Follow on Instagram: connect_mhst
Click or Scan QR below to our link tree for resources on resilience and managing emotional wellbeing and mental health.
Connect Resources:
- Parent / Carer Support Group
North East Autism Society (NEAS)
The North East Autism Society (NEAS) provides a wide range of support for autistic and neurodivergent children, young people and their families across the North East.
Families can access:
- Information and guidance before, during and after diagnosis.
- Parent and carer support.
- Autism Hubs, including the North Tyneside Autism Hub.
- Family networking groups.
- Webinars and workshops.
- Practical resources and advice.
Follow on Instagram: neautismsociety
North Tyneside Parent Carer Forum (NTPCF)
The North Tyneside Parent Carer Forum is a friendly, parent-led organisation supporting families of children and young people aged 0–25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Run by parents with lived experience, they provide:
- Peer support from other parent carers.
- Parent workshops, drop-in sessions and events.
- Information and guidance about SEND services.
- Opportunities to share your views and help shape local SEND services.
- Advice and signposting to local support available across North Tyneside.
Whether your child has a diagnosis or you are just beginning your SEND journey, the Parent Carer Forum is a fantastic place to access support, information and connect with other families.
Who are the North Tyneside Parent Forum?
Family-Friendly Places to Visit
We know that finding welcoming and inclusive places to visit can make a real difference for children and families. Below are some local venues that many of our families have recommended and enjoyed. Please remember to check each venue's website for opening times, booking information and the latest details before visiting.
The Alan Shearer Centre
A fantastic local resource providing recreational, sensory and social opportunities for children, young people and adults with disabilities.
The centre offers:
- 💦 Hydrotherapy pool
- 🧠 Sensory rooms and sensory cave
- 🎵 Music room
- ☕ Café
- 🌳 Seasonal activities
- ♿ Fully accessible facilities with overhead tracking and hoists
The Alan Shearer Centre provides a welcoming, relaxed environment where families can enjoy activities together in a fully inclusive setting.
Visit: The Alan Shearer Centre
The Tim Lamb Centre
The Tim Lamb Centre provides specialist leisure facilities for disabled children, young people and their families, welcoming families at every stage of their SEND journey.
Facilities include:
- 🛝 Inclusive soft play
- 🧠 Sensory room
- 🤸 Indoor trampolines
- 👶 Toddler playroom
- 🎮 Teen games room
- 🌳 Secure outdoor playground with inclusive equipment
- ☕ Café
A wonderful place to relax, play and meet other families in a supportive environment.
Visit: The Tim Lamb Centre
Inflata Nation – Autism Friendly Sessions
Inflata Nation runs dedicated Autism-Friendly Sessions designed to create a calmer, more enjoyable experience for children with sensory needs.
Sessions include:
- 🔉 Reduced music volume
- 👨👩👧 Limited visitor numbers
- ❤️ Free parent or carer entry with each paying participant
- 📅 Regular weekly sessions (advance booking required)
A brilliant opportunity for children to enjoy active play in a quieter environment.
Visit: Inflatanation - ASD Friendly sessions
Tynemouth Aquarium
Tynemouth Aquarium is a wonderful local day out, offering an accessible environment where families can explore marine life, attend animal talks and enjoy interactive exhibits. The aquarium also provides accessible facilities and regularly reviews its visitor experience to support a wide range of needs.
Visit: Tynemouth Aquarium
Autism Friendly Cinema Screenings
Many local cinemas offer Autism-Friendly Screenings throughout the year.
These screenings often include:
- 🔉 Lower sound levels
- 💡 Lights left slightly on
- 🚶 Freedom to move around during the film
- 🍿 A relaxed and welcoming atmosphere
Participating cinemas may include ODEON, Cineworld, Vue and Everyman. We recommend checking your local cinema's website for upcoming screenings.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions ❓
My child doesn't have a diagnosis. Can they still receive support?
Yes. Absolutely.
Children do not need a diagnosis to receive support at Collingwood Primary School. We recognise that every child is unique, and support is based on individual needs rather than a medical diagnosis. If your child requires additional support, we will work with you to identify the most appropriate strategies to help them thrive.
I'm worried about my child. Who should I speak to?
Your child's class teacher is always the best place to start. They know your child well and will be happy to discuss any concerns you may have.
If further support is needed, they will work closely with Mrs Patterson to ensure the right support is put in place.
How will school decide if my child needs additional support?
We take time to build a full picture of your child by working closely with you, speaking to staff, observing your child in school and reviewing their progress.
Support is carefully planned around each child's individual strengths and needs and is regularly reviewed to ensure it remains effective.
What is SEND Support?
SEND Support is additional help that may be provided when a child needs something that is different from or additional to the high-quality teaching available in the classroom.
Support is personalised to each child's needs and is reviewed regularly with families.
What is a Pupil Passport?
A Pupil Passport is a personalised document that celebrates your child's strengths, interests and aspirations while outlining practical strategies that help staff understand how best to support them.
Pupil Passports are shared with staff working with your child, including supply teachers where appropriate, ensuring consistent support throughout the school day.
Can my child use the Sensory Room?
Our Sensory Room forms part of our proactive approach to supporting children's emotional regulation and sensory needs.
Access is carefully planned according to individual needs and is used to help children develop lifelong self-regulation strategies that support them both in school and beyond.
Can my child bring a fidget toy from home?
To ensure consistency and that resources are appropriate for each child's individual needs, sensory and regulation tools used in school are provided by the school as part of a child's agreed support.
This helps us ensure that resources remain purposeful, support learning and are used consistently across the school day.
Still have a question?
If you can't find the answer you're looking for, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Whether you have a quick question, would like to arrange a meeting with the Inclusion Lead or need some advice, we are always here to help.
No concern is ever too small. Together, we can ensure that every child feels valued, supported and able to thrive.
🌈 Our Commitment to Families 🌈
At Collingwood Primary School, we are committed to building positive relationships with children and their families. We believe that the best outcomes are achieved when we work together, sharing knowledge, celebrating success and supporting one another through every stage of a child's journey.
Whether your child is just beginning their journey with us or preparing for the next chapter of their education, we are here to listen, support and ensure they feel safe, valued, understood and able to thrive.
Together, we can help every child make the very best of who they are.
🎥 Parent Learning Hub 🎥
We understand that supporting a child with additional needs can sometimes feel overwhelming. We've carefully selected a range of trusted videos and resources that many of our families have found helpful. We hope these provide reassurance, practical ideas and support.
Emotion Coaching
A short introduction to Emotion Coaching and how recognising and validating children's feelings can help them develop emotional regulation and resilience. Visit: Emotion Coaching Website
We've carefully selected these videos from trusted organisations to help families develop a greater understanding of neurodiversity, emotional wellbeing and inclusion. We hope you find them helpful.
🌈 Understanding Autism 🌈
A short animation helping viewers understand how everyday experiences can feel overwhelming for autistic people.
🧠 Understanding ADHD 🧠
A helpful introduction to ADHD, explaining common strengths, challenges and ways to better understand children with ADHD.
Get in Touch
At Collingwood Primary School, we believe that positive relationships with families are at the heart of successful inclusion.
Whether you have a question, would like to discuss your child's learning, or simply need some advice, we are always here to listen and support.
No concern is ever too small. We encourage parents and carers to get in touch as soon as they have any questions or worries so that we can work together to ensure every child receives the support they need to thrive.
Mrs Patterson
Inclusion Lead
As Inclusion Lead, I work alongside children, families, staff and external professionals to ensure that every child feels valued, understood and able to achieve their full potential.
📧 Email: collingwood.schooloffice@collingwoodprimary.org.uk
☎ Telephone: (0191 605 3378)
Mrs Cunningham
Family Support Worker
Our Family Support Worker works closely with children and families, providing practical advice, emotional support and guidance to help strengthen positive relationships between home and school.
📧 Email: collingwood.schooloffice@collingwoodprimary.org.uk
☎ Telephone: (0191 605 3378)
Because inclusion isn't just something we do...it's who we are.
Contact Us
Oswin Terrace, North Shields
Tyne & Wear, NE29 7JQ