We are always joyful and grateful to participate in in-person events, which enhance our understanding of the available provisions and strengthen meaningful connections and encouragement among one another. This term, we had wonderful opportunities to collaborate with various team to share resources and gather valuable feedback directly from parents and schools during coffee mornings and parents’ evenings:
- 💐Educational Psychology Service
- 💐Education Virtual SEND Service
- 💐Children and Young People Disability Hub (CYPD Hub)
- 💐Family Hubs Early Language and Communication Support Team
- 💐NHS NELFT – 0-19 Universal Children’s Services
- 💐NHS NEFLT – CAMHS
- 💐NHS NELFT – Consultant Nurse
- 💐NHS NELFT – Mental Health Support Team (MHST)
- 💐NHS NELFT – Service Delivery Manager
- 💐NHS NELFT – Therapies Services
- 💐West Ham United Foundation Premier League Kicks SEND and Mixed groups
- 💐SEND Information, Advice and Support Services
- 💐Just Say Parent Carer Forum
Together, we are not only committed to making an event a success but also to sharing expertise to support our Barking and Dagenham SEND communities.
We are also proud to share that our Adult Social Care Team, which plays a crucial role in the Preparation for Adulthood pathways, has received an ‘Outstanding’ rating from CQC.
James Cambell Primary School - Professionals Unite to Empower SEND Parents
‘A diverse group of education, health, and social care professionals came together for a special gathering aimed at strengthening support for parents of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The event, held at James Cambell Primary School, brought together teachers, therapists, family support workers, and specialist practitioners for an afternoon of collaborative networking and shared purpose.
James Cambell Primary were honoured to host such a committed group of professionals, all united by a common goal: to empower SEND parents with the knowledge, confidence, and support they need to navigate an often-complex system. Informal discussions allowed parents to ask questions, share experiences, and build connections with experts who understand the challenges they face.
Attendees praised the event for creating a welcoming space where professional insight and lived experience came together. Many parents expressed that the chance to connect directly with specialists — and with one another — helped them feel less isolated and more informed about the resources available to them.
As the event concluded, organisers emphasised that this was only the beginning. With growing momentum and a shared vision, plans are already underway for continued collaboration to ensure every SEND parent feels supported, valued, and empowered.’
Hazel Thompson
SENDCO, James Cambell Primary School
(Mainstream School with Additional Resource Provision)
Riverside Bridge School - Daily Experiences Enhancement and Celebration Together
‘We have had an incredibly busy and productive start to the academic year at Riverside Bridge School, filled with growth, change, and exciting new opportunities for our pupils. One of the most significant developments has been the installation of our brand-new playground, an important investment made by the school to enhance the daily experiences of our children.
This new space has been designed with our pupils’ diverse needs in mind. It offers a range of sensory, physical, and imaginative play opportunities, allowing pupils to develop key skills such as coordination, balance, social interaction, communication, and emotional regulation. The equipment has been carefully selected to promote independence, confidence, and meaningful engagement, ensuring that every child can access and enjoy the space in a way that suits them best. The playground also provides safe zones for calmer activities, giving pupils opportunities to relax, reset, and feel secure during their free time.
As we look ahead, we are delighted to share that our Christmas Fayre will be taking place on Saturday, 6th December 2025, and we are expecting families and carers to join us for this magical event. The Fayre will offer a wide range of activities for our pupils, including a festive Santa’s Grotto, exciting bouncy castles, face painting stations, and a variety of stands around the school. Our very own School’s Crave Crew will be selling delicious food and beverages throughout the day, helping to create a warm and lively atmosphere for everyone.
We look forward to welcoming our community to celebrate the festive season together and to create wonderful memories for our pupils and their families.’
Leonel Carvalho
Deputy Headteacher, Riverside Bridge School
(Special School)
Barking and Dagenham Council rated ‘Outstanding’ by CQC
Barking and Dagenham Council has been awarded an ‘Outstanding’ rating by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for its adult social care services, making it one of only three local authorities in England to achieve the highest possible rating under the CQC’s new assessment framework.
The inspection, carried out under the Care Act 2014, evaluated how well local authorities are meeting their responsibilities to promote the wellbeing and independence of older people, working-age disabled adults, and unpaid carers. Despite operating in one of the most deprived areas of the country, Barking and Dagenham scored top marks in key areas including safeguarding, partnership working, innovation, and supporting people to lead healthier, more independent lives.
The council has pledged to continue building on this success by investing in prevention, embracing new technologies, and listening closely to residents’ feedback.