Exceptional SEN support

Rachael works closely with our nursery to make sure every child gets the support, care and opportunities they need to thrive. She has spent over 11 years as a Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo) in schools and early years settings, helping children, families and staff understand and respond to individual needs.

Rachael’s approach is warm, calm and family-centred. She believes that every child should feel happy, included and understood — and she works alongside parents and nursery staff to make this happen.

Executive Summary

A highly qualified Independent SENCo Consultant offering expert strategic support to early years settings, primary schools and trusts. Combining 11 years of experience as a school-based SENCo with senior leadership roles and comprehensive teaching credentials, Rachael delivers practical, compliance-focused solutions that enhance inclusive provision and drive whole-school improvement in line with the SEND Code of Practice.

Core Expertise & Consultancy Areas

• Strategic SEN Leadership: Auditing and developing whole-school SEN policies and provision mapping from a senior leadership perspective.
• Early Years & KS1 Specialism: Expertise in early identification, intervention, and high-quality inclusive practice in EYFS/KS1.
• Targeted support: For implementing effective interventions, programmes and addressing specific learning difficulties.
• Bespoke Training: Mentoring SENCos, teachers, and TAs to build internal capacity and expertise.

Key Qualifications & Experience

Endorsements / Testimonials

The children and their families are at the very heart of everything Rachael does, she has supported so many families over the years, guided them through the complex SEND pathways and all have valued Rachael’s, knowledgeable, calm and honest approach. Rachael will always go above and beyond to secure the best possible outcomes for each and every child. In summary, Rachael is an excellent communicator with pupils, parents/carers and external professionals. She has a wealth of knowledge and experience in. working with children with multiple and complex additional needs from specific learning difficulties, ASC, physical difficulties, including those experiencing attachment and trauma. Karen Williamson-Smith Retired Headteacher (August 2025)

How Rachael Supports Our Nursery             

Early Identification & Support

• Helping us spot early signs that a child may need extra help
• Offering ideas for simple, effective strategies we can use in nursery
• Making sure children get the right support at the right time

Working Together With Families

• Listening carefully to parents’ concerns
• Guiding families through SEND processes and next steps
• Helping everyone feel confident and informed

Inclusive Practice

• Ensuring our nursery is a welcoming place for all children
• Supporting staff to create calm, nurturing environments
• Helping us adapt activities and routines so children can join in fully

Staff Training & Guidance

• Coaching our team so they feel confident supporting children with additional needs
• Sharing practical approaches that work in real nursery settings

A Bit About Rachael’s Background

• Qualified Teacher (QTS)
• National SENCo Award
• BA (Hons) Early Years
• Over a decade as a school SENCo and Early Years/KS1 leader

Experience supporting children with a wide range of needs, including:

– speech and language needs

– developmental delays

– autism  - children experiencing attachment or early trauma

– learning difficulties  – physical needs