School support
Every child deserves to learn in a way that feels positive and achievable. Sometimes, a little extra help can make a big difference.
Ordinarily Available Provision (OAP)
OAP refers to the everyday support and strategies schools, and early years settings provide using their own resources. It aims to give every child access to inclusive, high-quality teaching without needing additional funding or formal plans.
OAP focuses on:
Recognising and responding to individual needs
Applying evidence-based strategies to adapt teaching and the learning environment
Creating an inclusive, accessible classroom where everyone can participate and work together
Hertfordshire OAP guidance
Hertfordshire’s Ordinarily Available Provision guidance was developed in 2025.
Special Education Needs (SEN) Support
Building on OAP, SEN Support provides additional, tailored help so every child can access learning and experience success at their own pace.
How SEN Support works:
→ Early identification: Teachers and Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) identify barriers to learning early
→ Identifying SEN Needs: Schools consider the four broad areas of need outlined in the SEND Code of Practice. These areas help schools understand the type of support a child may need:
o Communication and Interaction
o Cognition and Learning
o Social, Emotional and Mental Health
o Sensory and/or Physical Needs
→ Graduated Approach: Schools follow the Assess > Plan > Do > Review cycle
→ Specialist Input: External professionals, such as educational psychologists and speech and language therapists, may be involved when needed
→ Collaborative Partnership: Families and professionals work together to understand and build on the child’s strengths, needs, and aspirations
Accessing support
To access SEN Support, contact the teacher or SENCO. They’ll guide families through the process, working collaboratively to identify needs and explain the range of support available.
Note: A formal diagnosis isn’t required. Support is based on individual needs and can begin as soon as these are identified.
Our guidance
In this section, you’ll find information about the Graduated Approach process and what to expect next.
Graduated Approach
process