Our Specialized SEMH Approach
At The Damara School, our entire educational provision is designed specifically to support children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. As a Section 41 approved independent special school, we provide a highly specialized environment where students aged 5-16 can thrive despite the challenges they face.
Our approach is built on the understanding that SEMH needs require a unique combination of therapeutic support, personalized academic instruction, and consistent emotional nurturing. We recognize that each child's journey is different, and we tailor our provision to meet individual needs while maintaining high expectations for both academic progress and personal development.
Our Admission Process
Education, Health and Care Plans
Most students joining The Damara School will have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) that identifies their specific needs and the provision required to meet those needs. As a Section 41 approved provision, we can be named in EHCPs, creating a legal obligation for local authorities to secure placement with us when parents express this preference (subject to specific conditions).
Our current student population of 14 (expanding to 32) all have EHCPs, reflecting the specialized nature of our provision and the complexity of needs we support.
Assessment and Transition
When a student is referred to The Damara School, our comprehensive admission process includes:
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Careful analysis of the EHCP, previous school reports, professional assessments, and other relevant information
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An opportunity for the child and family to visit the school, meet key staff, and begin building relationships
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Collaborative discussion with parents/carers, the child (where appropriate), and professionals to ensure we can fully meet the child's needs
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Development of a personalized transition plan that may include phased entry, additional visits, or other adaptations to ensure a successful start
Working with Families
Partnership Approach
We believe that parents and carers are essential partners in supporting children with SEMH needs:
- Regular Communication: Frequent updates through appropriate channels
- Collaborative Planning: Involvement in setting goals and developing strategies
- Shared Strategies: Consistency between home and school approaches
- Parent/Carer Support: Guidance and resources for managing SEMH needs at home
- Celebration of Progress: Sharing successes and achievements