SEND Tutoring chats to Alison Melrose, headteacher at Cameron Vale School

Welcome to today’s podcast! We’re delighted to have Alison Melrose joining us. With over 25 years of experience delivering high-quality education within London Prep schools, Alison has transitioned from class teacher to Headmistress and Operations Director. She firmly believes that collaboration among colleagues to enhance teaching and learning yields the best outcomes for the children in our care. Welcome, Alison!

Q1: Cameron Vale is a highly regarded school with strong pastoral support, small class sizes, and exemplary care. What proportion of your children are SEN, and how do you support them?

Alison shared that Cameron Vale is a co-ed, non-selective school where children learn and progress at different rates. Some students have special educational needs (SEN). The school supports these children through strong relationships with occupational therapists and speech and language therapists, offering in-house therapies. These therapies include motor skills and social and communication skills, with a comprehensive team that can assess and provide a range of therapies like Play Therapy.

Q2: You have a very strong inclusion policy and offer all types of therapies to support children in-house. Can you tell the listeners what some therapies are and how quickly you can action them?

Alison emphasised that the school’s inclusion policy allows for quick action regarding therapy needs. They provide various in-house therapies, particularly occupational therapy (OT), which covers more than just motor skills; it also covers social and communication skills. The team can swiftly assess children and offer other therapies, such as Play Therapy, ensuring timely and effective student support.

Q3: Are you selective beyond Reception?

Alison explained that they seek children who will thrive at Cameron Vale. Each child gets an introduction to the school and their classroom to aid in familiarisation and ensure a smooth transition. For children starting in Year 1 or from abroad, a report is required. The school provides booklets outlining academic expectations and support strategies for each year group. While they can support some needs, they may not be able to accommodate all. Sometimes, children might need to visit the school multiple times for staff to determine if it’s the right fit.

It was a pleasure having you on the podcast, Alison, especially on the last day of school. We wish you a fantastic summer!