EARLY years educators across Warwickshire have been been given top marks.
Forty-three have been highlighted for the high-quality of their support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
They include day nurseries, childminders, nursery schools and classes, and pre-schools which give families options depending on their needs.
Each was presented with an award, known as the Warwickshire Inclusion Kitemarking Scheme (WIncKS) – a Warwickshire County Council initiative co-produced with local families to celebrate early years educators that excel in offering inclusive settings for children with SEND.
To apply for WIncKS, early years educators are invited to submit a portfolio of evidence showcasing their inclusive practices. This can include their work with families to identify and support a range of needs, adaptationswhich have helped make them more inclusive, and specialist skills and expertise they have developed to support children with SEND.
A panel consisting of parents, early years professionals, and SEND professionals from health and education in Warwickshire, review the portfolios and decide on the award recipients.
WCC education spokeswoman Coun Kam Kaur said: “I would like to personally commend all those who have received the WIncKS Award for demonstrating their commitment to excellent inclusive practices in supporting children with SEND and their families.
“These efforts are crucial in ensuring that all children in Warwickshire are given the best start in life and have the opportunity to actively participate in their local communities. Congratulations to all the award recipients; they should be immensely proud.”
The award winners were:
South Warwickshire – Bizzy Tots Long Itchington, Cygnets Stratford, Claverdon Village Nursery and Pre-School, Little Crofters Stratford, Kineton Playgroup, Little Gregs Pre-School Stratford, Merrydays and Henley Montessori School, Shipston Pre-School, Stepping Stones Claverdon, Willow Tree Nursery School Bidford and Quinton Cygnets
Rugby – Bizzy Tot, Bright Horizons, Caldecote Day Nursery, Eastlands Nursery, Humpty Dumpty Nursery, Squirrels Pre-School, St George’s Pre-School, Tiny Toes Pre-School and St Andrews Benn
Warwick and Leamington – Hampton Magna Pre-School, Little Willows Leamington, Telford Pre-School, The Purple Playhouse Leamington, Warwick Nursery School, Caterpillar Nursery Leamington, Little Stars Christian Preschool Leamington, Puddle ducks and POSH Leamington, Westgate Pre-School Warwick, Seedlings Nursery Leamington, Saplings Pre-School and Woodloes Primary School
