At Gordano School, we’re proud to put inclusion at the very heart of our school community. Every student deserves to feel valued, supported, and able to access learning in a way that suits them best. That’s why our SEND team works tirelessly to make sure every child with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) feels welcomed, understood, and empowered.

Our students tell us:

“They’re really nice staff who give lots of support.”
“I’m feeling more comfortable coming to school.”
“It does make you feel included.”

Meet Our SEND Leadership

 

With over 20 years of experience in specialist education settings, Julie Caswell brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role. Holding a BA Hons in Art Practice, a PGCE, and the prestigious National Award for Special Educational Needs Coordination, Julie’s journey through diverse specialist roles has uniquely equipped her to support a broad spectrum of SEND needs.

Julie’s career has seen her nurture creativity and learning in various settings, from her early days as a tutor and project worker in Bristol, to leading Art departments in alternative provision schools across Bristol and Wales. Her progression from teacher to SENDCo and Head of Student Support highlights her unwavering commitment to inclusive education and student wellbeing.

“Every child deserves to be seen, heard, and supported in a way that celebrates their individual strengths and helps them overcome challenges,” Julie says. Her approach combines empathy with practical strategies, ensuring students are empowered to thrive both academically and personally.

Alice Hall’s journey into SEND began after a unique blend of academic and professional experiences. With a BSc Hons in Mathematics and Philosophy, a PGCE, a Postgraduate Award of Proficiency in Assessment for Access Arrangements, and the National Award for SEND Coordination, Alice combines analytical precision with heartfelt dedication.

Her career path spans roles from Market Analyst at the London Stock Exchange to teaching and leadership positions in both mainstream and specialist education settings. Alice’s passion lies in supporting students with a wide range of SEND needs, and she takes pride in crafting tailored interventions that unlock every student’s potential.

“Understanding each student’s individual challenges and strengths is the key to meaningful support,” Alice explains. “My goal is to make sure every learner has the tools and confidence to succeed in and beyond the classroom.”

More than just support...

Our SEND team prioritises strong, supportive relationships with every student. With an open-door policy and a visible presence throughout the school day, they are always available to offer guidance and reassurance when it's needed most. The team is actively involved in students’ daily lives—getting to know them as individuals and ensuring their needs are met with care and consistency.

The team includes specialist teachers and teaching assistants who deliver targeted help with literacy, numeracy, social and emotional wellbeing, and more. Students can access quiet rooms, sensory spaces, and our beautiful Secret Garden—a calm woodland area that helps many of our students feel grounded and happy.

      

We also run an Enhanced Transition programme for Year 6 students with SEND to make the move to secondary school as smooth and positive as possible.

Looking ahead, we’re excited to be developing new provisions, including The Compass—a specialist group for Year 7 students with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) - READ MORE HERE —and a dedicated space for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, supported by North Somerset LEA.

What Parents Say About Our SEND Team:

“With the end of the academic year upon us, I want to say a huge thank you for the support you’ve given my son during his first year at Gordano. Before starting secondary, he struggled at primary... I was worried about him coming to a large school…my son has not only coped—he’s thriving. The personalised interventions and adaptive learning have helped him improve so much that he’s now working at or above the average for his age in some subjects. His resilience is growing and his experience at Gordano has been overwhelmingly positive.”

“Gordano’s SEND department has fully supported my son through his transition to secondary school. We knew it would be challenging, but the SEND team are always there for him. They’ve built his confidence, made sure he felt heard, and helped him settle with tailored action plans and specialist learning. They support him—and us as parents—every step of the way.”

“As we approach the end of Year 7, we want to thank the entire SEND team for their dedication, care, and support. The personalised help our child has received has been exceptional. We encourage any parents of new Year 7 students to speak openly to the team—they are incredibly helpful and supportive.”

“Thank you all for playing such a key role in my child’s time at Gordano. You have been the safe space they desperately needed. Despite challenges, your nurture, patience, and understanding have helped them thrive without shame or judgement. With diminishing resources, your dedication has been nothing short of amazing—they wouldn’t be where they are without you.”

At Gordano, we’re proud of the difference our SEND team makes every day. Their dedication helps every student feel included, valued, and ready to succeed.