At Cherry Tree Academy, we are committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming environment where every pupil feels valued, respected and supported to achieve their very best. We work closely with pupils, families and staff to identify needs early, remove barriers to learning and ensure every child can thrive both academically and emotionally. Our approach reflects the principles of the SEND Code of Practice and sits at the heart of our school ethos.

We believe that all pupils should have access to an ambitious, enriching curriculum that is carefully adapted to meet their individual needs. By understanding each child’s strengths, interests and areas for development, we aim to help them build confidence, independence and a positive sense of self.

Inclusion Team:     

Inclusion is a whole‑school priority at Cherry Tree Academy. Our Inclusion Team works together to ensure that every child is supported effectively, that families feel listened to, and that our provision remains responsive and rooted in best practice.

Executive Headteacher – Miss Charlotte Newley  

Head of School- Mr Rory Bullivant 

Miss Newley and Mr Bullivant lead our inclusive ethos, ensuring that every child’s wellbeing, learning and long‑term development are central to the decisions we make as a school.

SENCO & SLCN Enhanced Provision Lead – Mrs Victoria Donnelly

Mrs Donnelly oversees SEND provision across the school and leads our specialist Speech, Language and Communication work. She coordinates assessments, supports staff in identifying needs, and ensures that provision is well‑matched, effective and regularly reviewed in partnership with families and external professionals. As the lead for our Enhanced Provision, she also works closely with Speech and Language Therapists and guides the delivery of specialist communication support throughout the school.

Family Liaison Officer – Miss A Symonds

Miss Symonds provides support to pupils and families, helping to foster positive relationships, wellbeing and engagement. She plays an important role in early help, attendance support and pastoral care.

If you would like to meet with a member of the Inclusion Team, please contact the school office on 01206 575224. 

How We Support Pupils With SEND 

Support at Cherry Tree is tailored to each child and may include:

• High‑quality, carefully adapted classroom teaching
• Visual, sensory or organisational strategies
• Targeted small‑group or one‑to‑one interventions
• Personalised targets and One Planning
• Support and advice from external professionals

For pupils with more significant or complex needs, we have our Blossom and Olive Rooms, alongside our mainstream classrooms.

Our Specialist Speech, Language and Communication (SLCN) Enhanced Provision 

   Cherry Tree Academy is the only SLCN Enhanced Provision in North Essex, offering specialist support for pupils whose communication needs are significant and require a carefully structured and personalised approach.

We offer:

• EHCP places for pupils whose primary area of need is Speech, Language and Communication
• Early Intervention Scheme (EIS) places for Reception and KS1 children with complex speech sound disorders requiring short‑term, targeted support

To ensure that children placed within the Enhanced Provision receive the right support at the right time:

• Referrals must be made by a professional, such as a SENDCo, Headteacher, Speech and Language Therapist or Essex Inclusion Partner.
• All referrals must be supported by a Speech and Language Therapist who works regularly with the child and has up‑to‑date assessment information.
• Admission to the SLCN Enhanced Provision is decided through a panel process, where each referral is considered carefully against the agreed criteria.

Pupils accessing this provision benefit from:

• A structured, language‑rich environment
• Regular therapy with a qualified Speech and Language Therapist
• Mainstream classrooms which support communication and regulation

Some pupils attend Cherry Tree under a dual‑registered arrangement with their home school. When pupils are ready, and with agreement from families and professionals, they transition back with a clear plan to support continuity.

Further information is available on our Enhanced Provision page, where the full criteria and referral process are explained in more detail.