School Services

Helping Schools Reduce Barriers to Attendance, Learning, and Participation

Occupational therapy helps schools identify and remove the hidden barriers that drive absenteeism, dysregulation, anxiety, behavioural difficulties, and reduced engagement

Benefits of OT involvement in schools & nurseries:

Improved attendance
Reduced exclusions
Better SEND outcomes
Reduced staff stress
Fewer EHCP escalations
Improved behaviour
Improved OFSTED evidence
Better parent relationships
Cost savings

Case Study - Chloe

A pseudonym has been used to protect the client's identity. The client participated in a Full OT Assessment and a 12-week block of therapy at school.

Introduction

Chloe is an 8-year-old girl with an autism and ADHD diagnosis who is attending an SEN school. The school reports that Chloe vomits and reports vomiting on a near-daily basis. Chloe's mum reports that getting Chloe to school can be a real challenge and often includes crying, fighting, and screaming.

Her emotional and physical reactions to attending school are acting as a barrier to her accessing her education. Attendance concerns are becoming increasingly common.

Assessment

Observations, a sensory assessment, and a child occupational self-assessment (COSA) were completed. The results highlighted severe difficulties with modulation (the ability to self-regulate and balance arousal levels) and insecurity in crossing the vertical midline, as identified through observations of Chloe throwing and catching a ball, using scissors, and her COSA.

The findings advise the formulation of a specific intervention plan, including gross motor exercises and sensory-informed therapies.

Outcome

Incidence of Chloe vomiting at school reduced by over 90%, and her mum reported that Chloe was visibly calmer and happier at home. There were no longer attendance concerns as Chloe was able to manage the demands of the school day.

Chloe's teacher reported significantly improved gross motor skills and showed the therapist a video of Chloe throwing and catching a ball. Chloe began to develop her fine motor skills, including handwriting and dressing independence.

Feedback

''Hannah recognised my daughter's needs straight away, and she absolutely loved Hannah.

My daughter always looked forward to Hannah seeing her at school, and it was clear she enjoyed her sessions and had a great relationship with her.

The plan she made for us really helped. Thank you, Hannah. You're amazing!''