The school has a well-equipped Special Educational Needs department, with a Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO), Student Support Officers and an English as an additional language teacher to support those students with individual learning needs. We have an inclusive and proactive approach in supporting students with special educational needs to be fully integrated into the life of the school. In September 2017 we opened our Learning Hub. This is a quiet area for students who need to access support. External agencies are invited in on a weekly basis to support students with social and emotional needs. We also have strong links with the school nurse who supports the students weekly, via appointments or as a drop in. More information along with school’s policy can be found on the website. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. As staff we have a responsibility to provide a safe environment in which children can learn but also to be aware of children who need extra help. Our provision is designed to support and nurture students. Safeguarding is at the heart of what we do so that all our students have the best life chances possible. Our first priority is our students’ welfare and therefore there may be occasions when our concerns about a student means that we have to consult other agencies even before we contact parents and carers. The procedures we follow have been laid down by Birmingham Safeguarding Children Board. As a result we may also have to disclose a student’s personal data to statutory bodies where it is considered necessary and within the Data Protection Act. If parents or carers want to know more about these procedures, please speak to the Designated Safeguarding Lead. “Every girl at Handsworth is cared for like a part of the family.”