Extended Schools

Extended Services at Red Gates School

Our aim is to work in partnership with both parents and professionals in order to provide high quality education for all pupils, enabling them to thrive, gain confidence and reach their full potential.
It is well known that children learn best when parents and professionals work together. Therefore, we value our relationship with parents (including guardians and carers) and prioritise the establishment of effective partnerships and mutual contribution.
We understand that the needs of the children and those of the parents will change over time and as a school, we are there to offer support, or put parents in touch with services which can provide the support required. We aim to ensure that parents feel they can always contact the school to discuss any issues or questions they may have.
We want parents and siblings to be involved in and knowledgeable about the education offered at Red Gates and invite them to participate in various family learning activities organised throughout the year, to enjoy learning and having fun together. Below is an overview of the Extended Services offered at Red Gates School:

Starter Programme for parents of pupils starting in nursery and reception classes;

Family Learning sessions - opportunities for parents to learn about the strategies and approaches used in school, and to implement these at home;

Parent Workshops – each workshop has a bespoke focus (e.g. Makaton signing, developing self-help skills), and are led by experienced professionals from a multi-disciplinary team;

Siblings Afternoon – an annual opportunity for school-aged children to join their siblings in class, while parents get together for an informal chat;

Chill and Chat – half-termly sessions, including a mixture of guest speakers (e.g. National Autistic Society, Parents in Partnership), parenting topics (e.g. therapy input at the school) and treats (e.g. biscuit decorating, hand massages);

Holiday Playschemes – our holiday activity schemes usually run during the Easter and Summer holidays, subject to external funding;

Parent visits to classes – termly visits, which provide opportunities for parents to observe and experience learning activities with their children in class;

Annual Summer day trip for pupils and their families;

‘Transition to Secondary School’ meeting for parents of year 4 and 5 pupils;

Remote learning videos on the school’s website consisting of a range of themes (e.g. telling stories through touch, ‘sing and sign’);

Remote learning activity packs on the school’s website, providing activity ideas for pupils to access at home.

We constantly seek and welcome parents’ views and feedback in order to plan our extended schools services.
Parents, relatives and friends are invited to school events such as the ‘Celebration of Achievement’ Ceremony, the Christmas production, carol concert and sports morning. Our policy, 'A Partnership - Parents and Red Gates School', can be obtained from the school office.

The National Autistic Society (NAS)

Parents in Partnership (PiP)

Croydon Special Educational Needs and Disabilities

Croydon Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information Advice and Support Service (SENDIASS)
SENDIASS is a free, confidential and impartial service for parents and carers, children and young people (up to 25 years). The type and range of support offered includes information regarding SEN/ disability law from independently trained staff, personalisation of personal budgets, individual casework and representation, and support for parents and young people in managing mediation and appeals to the SEND Tribunal.

Jubilee Parenting

Independent Provider of Special Educational Needs (IPSEA)

Croydon Local Offer

Family Fund

Carers Information Service