The Early Years SEND Team supports childminders and private, voluntary and independent (PVI) early years settings in Croydon to meet the needs of children from birth to five years with emerging or additional special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

Our Early Years SEND Locality Leads work alongside settings to identify needs early, strengthen inclusive practice and plan support through the Graduated Approach. Where targeted support is agreed, we create an Early Years Targeted Support Plan (EY-TSP) together with the setting. It usually runs for up to 12 weeks, with three planned visits.

Support is free, and referrals are made by the setting. If you are a parent or carer, please speak to your child's setting first.

Early Years Transition to Reception: Guidance for Early Years Settings, Schools and Childminders

Early Years Transition to Reception Booklet

Depending on the age of your child, please download and complete the relevant request form below:

• RA.1 - Parent request to carry out an EHC Needs Assessment
• RA.2 - Young Person's request to carry out an EHC Needs Assessment

The following parent, child or young person contribition forms should also be sent with your request.

Primary (Child aged 5–11, in Years 1–6):

• RP.2 – Parent Contribition Form
  
• RC.2 – Child Contribution Form

• RP.3 – Parent Contribution Form
• RC.3 – Young Person’s Contribution Form

Email: earlyyearssendteam@croydon.gov.uk

Early Years Ordinarily Available Provision (0-5)

Early Years SEND Team: Guidance for Early Years Settings Information Sheet

Early Years SEND Team: Guidance for Early Years Settings Guidance Booklet

Early Years SEND Training Calendar (Autumn 2026)