SEND at Waingels

Our commitment is clear: we are an inclusive school where every student belongs, thrives and succeeds. We aim for all young people to feel valued, supported and able to flourish both academically and personally.

Inclusion means meeting the needs of every learner. We achieve this through a broad and diverse curriculum, high-quality teaching strategies used consistently in every classroom, and thoughtful adjustments to support individual needs. Our approach ensures that all students are both challenged and supported, without lowering expectations.

We are proud of the many ways we support inclusion, including our enhanced wellbeing provision (such as The DEN, The Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub and the Succeed Centre), strong pastoral care, an inclusive uniform, expanded extracurricular opportunities and a vibrant community system that builds belonging across year groups. Student voice is also central, helping to shape a positive and respectful school culture. Inclusion benefits everyone. By creating a supportive, responsive and ambitious learning environment, we remove barriers so that all students can succeed. Strong relationships, clear routines and a culture of kindness underpin high standards and positive outcomes for all.

CMR

Mrs C Morris - Assistant Headteacher

I am an experienced SEND leader committed to ensuring every pupil receives high quality support, inclusive teaching and a strong sense of belonging. My background spans specialist provision, SENDCo leadership and the development of an award winning autism resource, giving me deep expertise in meeting diverse needs and championing inclusive practice. As Assistant Head at Waingels, I oversee SEND, Mental Health and Wellbeing, and alternative provision, and I also serve as the Designated Teacher for Looked After Children.

Contact: MorCMS@waingels.wokingham.sch.uk

Natalie Creedy

Mrs N Creedy - SENCO

I am an English teacher and SEND practitioner whose passion for inclusive education began during my early work as an HLTA supporting pupils with additional needs. After completing my degree in English Language and Literature, I moved into teaching and later became a Head of Year before being appointed SENCo. Throughout my career, I have been committed to ensuring that every learner—particularly those with SEND—receives high quality teaching, personalised support and the opportunity to thrive within a nurturing, inclusive school community.

Contact: CreNCR@waingels.wokingham.sch.uk

Sam Samson

Mrs S Samson - Assistant SENCO

I have been part of the Waingels community for over a decade and am deeply committed to championing inclusive practice across the school. With a BA in Mathematics with Education, I have always been a strong advocate for pupils with Special Educational Needs, informed by both my professional experience and my perspective as a SEN parent. Before becoming Assistant SENCo, I held leadership roles as Second in Department and Key Stage 3 Lead in Maths. I bring a wealth of SEND knowledge to my role and work tirelessly to ensure every student receives the support and opportunities they need to succeed.

Contact: SamSSS@waingels.wokingham.sch.uk

Sonia Hall

Mrs S Hall - Den Manager

I am the Den Manager at Waingels, supporting the SENCo with the daily running of the SEND team, including EHCP processes, annual reviews and liaison with parents, carers and outside agencies. I line manage the TA team, coordinate Access Arrangements across the school and support the AP Coordinator in monitoring placements. I also lead our SEND Transition mornings to help new students settle in. Having worked at Waingels for nearly 15 years, I am passionate about supporting students with SEND and ensuring they receive the provision and opportunities they need to succeed.

Contact: HalSHL@waingels.wokingham.sch.uk

Gina Brown

Mrs G Brown - SEND Pastoral Mentor

I am the SEND Pastoral Mentor, supporting pupils in the Den by helping them reintegrate into lessons and offering a listening ear for any worries they may have. I have worked in education for nearly 20 years, supporting pupils with additional needs and vulnerable young people through roles including in class support, student mental health support and safeguarding. I hold a degree in Education with a focus on supporting young people, along with qualifications in Mental Health Awareness. I am passionate about ensuring that every pupil feels supported, understood and able to achieve their best.

Contact: BroGBR@waingels.wokingham.sch.uk

Courtney Leluan Bird

Miss C Leluan-Bird - Alternative Provision & Curriculum Co-ordinator

I began my career in education in 2014 in a Behaviour Unit before moving to a Pupil Referral Unit, supporting students who had been permanently excluded, as well as working to prevent exclusions in both primary and secondary settings. I then moved into an SEMH provision teaching students with complex needs, where I also oversaw the enrichment programme. In 2024, I joined Waingels as the Alternative Provision and Curriculum Coordinator, where I opened The Succeed Centre, to provide tailored support and opportunities for students to thrive. I am passionate about providing hands-on learning experiences, particularly through activities such as cooking, which help develop confidence and life skills. I believe in nurturing young people into independent adults by encouraging them to take positive risks, build resilience, and believe in themselves.

Contact: LelCLL@waingels.wokingham.sch.uk

 

Mrs K Sewell - Mental Health

 

Contact: SweKSW@waingels.wokingham.sch.uk

Sarah Jones

Mrs S Jones - Health Advisor

I am the School Health Advisor, supporting students’ wellbeing by working closely with the SEND team, families and external professionals to ensure every young person’s health needs are understood and met. With over 20 years of healthcare experience, I have supported children, young people and adults with a wide range of medical and additional needs. In school, I provide health guidance, coordinate care plans and help staff feel confident supporting students with medical or health related challenges. I am committed to creating a safe, inclusive environment where all students can thrive.

Contact: JonSJS@waingels.wokingham.sch.uk

Esther Saxton Mrs E Saxton - Thrive Manager