Supporting Your Child at Fairlight Primary and Nursery School
Mr Jordan has written this brief update and support that is aimed at helping parents at what can be a difficult time.
Understanding EHCPs, Diagnoses, and What Makes the Biggest Difference
At Fairlight Primary and Nursery School, we understand that parents naturally want to do everything possible to support their child. For some families, this includes exploring an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or a formal diagnosis, such as autism. These routes can be helpful for some children—but they are not always the most effective or appropriate way to improve learning or wellbeing in school.
Our approach at Fairlight
Fairlight has a long‑standing and well‑recognised commitment to inclusion.
OFSTED has consistently noted the school’s inclusive ethos, strong relationships, and the way staff adapt teaching and support to meet a wide range of needs. Our culture is built around knowing each child well and responding quickly and thoughtfully to what they need to thrive.
Why an EHCP or Diagnosis Does Not Always Improve Learning in School
We focus on needs, not labels
Children learn best when support is matched to their individual needs, not a title or diagnosis. Whether a child struggles with communication, attention, emotional regulation, or sensory needs, support can be put in place without waiting for formal paperwork.
A diagnosis explains, but does not prescribe
A diagnosis such as autism can help us understand how a child experiences the world, but it does not automatically tell us what strategies will work best in the classroom. Effective support still comes from observation, assessment, and adapting teaching.
Support starts immediately
At Fairlight, staff do not wait for an EHCP or diagnosis before acting.
Adjustments, interventions, and targeted support can begin as soon as a need is identified, ensuring children receive help at the earliest opportunity.
EHCPs do not guarantee better outcomes
An EHCP secures provision where needs cannot reasonably be met through usual school support, but it does not automatically lead to better teaching, quicker progress, or increased happiness at school.
The process can be long and demanding
EHCP assessments and diagnostic pathways can take considerable time and can be emotionally draining for families and children. During this time, meaningful support may already be available and in place in school.
Avoiding unintended consequences
Labels, when misunderstood, can sometimes lead to lowered expectations or over‑dependence on adult support. At Fairlight, we aim to build confidence, independence, and high aspirations for every child.
When an EHCP May Be Appropriate
An EHCP can be the right next step when:
- A child has significant and complex needs that cannot be met despite well‑evidenced, sustained support already in place
- Progress remains very limited over time, even with tailored interventions and adaptations
- Support required goes beyond what a mainstream school can reasonably provide from its own resources
- Additional specialist input, equipment, or provision is essential for the child to access education
In these circumstances, Fairlight works closely and transparently with families, external professionals, and the local authority to ensure any application is well‑informed and genuinely in the child’s best interests.
Our Key Message to Parents
At Fairlight Primary and Nursery School, our priority is not paperwork—it is your child.
We are proud of our inclusive practice, our professional expertise, and our ability to respond quickly and effectively to children’s needs. Formal processes such as EHCPs and diagnoses can be helpful for some children, but they are not always the most effective route to improving learning, confidence, and wellbeing.
We value ongoing, open conversations with parents and are always happy to discuss concerns, next steps, and how we can work together to support your child.
Sleep Hygiene workshop
We recently ran a sleep hygiene workshop in school which had lots of good tips around night time routines and the science behind why we and our children need sleep.
Below is the powerpoint from the workshop so if you missed it, you can look through and get some ideas to try if bedtime is challenging.
Autism workshops -Autumn 202
Brighton and Hove Inclusion Support Service (BHISS) are offering autism workshops for parents in Autumn 2025.
They are always very helpful and we would highly recommend them. See link below for more information.
Autism workshops for parents in Autumn 2025
SUPPORT FOR PARENTS
Being a parent can be tricky.
Children don't come with an instruction manual and there is no test you have to pass to get one.
There are however lots of books and information out there to help as well as professionals and other experts who can support you.
On this page we will give information that will help with some of the things parents ask us for support and guidance with.
Stop Making Excuses and Own Your Actions
This is a great video to watch and the consider watching with your child.
It is one that we have sat and watched with children and has provoked some interesting and excellent conversation around behaviour.
MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
Below are some specific resources for parents.
Further information can be found on our Mental Health page https://www.fairlight.brighton-hove.sch.uk/in-the-classroom/pshe/mental-health