This case study sets out Bath and North East Somerset’s (B&NES) long-standing, system-wide approach to early identification and intervention in the Early Years for children with SEND[1]. In response to increasing demand and complexity of need, B&NES has developed an integrated model focused on early support, prevention of escalation, and reducing reliance on statutory processes. The approach comprises four mutually reinforcing elements: a strong Area SENCo-led universal and targeted support offer; Inclusion Support Funding (ISF) moderated through a multi-agency SEND Inclusion Panel; Transition Support Funding (TSF) to enable successful transition into Reception; and robust data monitoring to inform strategic planning. This model is underpinned by close partnership across education, health and care, and sustained High Needs Block investment.
Impact evidence demonstrates improved educational and wellbeing outcomes, with 85% of children receiving Early Years SEND funding making measurable progress and approximately 45% of children supported through TSF not going on to require an EHCP. The case illustrates how coordinated early intervention can strengthen inclusion, improve outcomes and support financial sustainability within local SEND systems.
The SEND Effective Practice Evidence Framework considers that the “strength of evidence” of this case study is promising – the approach has been sustained for several years (20 years for ISF) and elements have been positively independently reviewed by Ofsted but also scrutinised by school leaders through Schools Forum. Published data suggests a correlation between the approach and improved educational and wellbeing outcomes in the early years. These quantitative indicators are supported by qualitative feedback from families and professionals. The “breadth of impact” of this case study is good – as evidence shows that the approach has had an impact on three of the four evidence indicators: feedback from professionals; long term outcomes; and the lived experience of children and families2.
[1] For ease of reading, we use the term ‘SEND’ to refer to disabled children and young people and children and young people with special educational needs.
[2] The SEND Effective Practice Evidence Framework uses two “signal strength” indicators to present the strength of evidence and the breadth of impact of a case study. Each indicator has four bars – emerging, promising, good and robust. The “strength of evidence” indicator is based on how the project has been evaluated and the length of time it has been sustained. The “breadth of impact” indicator is based on whether the case study can demonstrate impact in four broad areas – the more areas of impact, the higher the signal strength indicator.