A campaign aimed at providing every school on the Isle of Wight with resource packs for SEND pupils, has surpassed its fundraising target.

Set up by a group of Island parents, the project seeks to give school staff a better understanding of how to support students with special educational needs and/or disabilities.

Islander Colleen Brannon, who has three neurodivergent children, is among those leading the campaign.

She said: "I wish I could help you to understand how it feels, as a parent to children who don’t necessarily follow expected behaviour formulas, who are sometimes difficult to understand through a traditional/standard lens, to send them to a place everyday where I know they won’t be understood, won’t always feel safe, might even be punished for being themselves. 

"Even with the most committed staff with the best of intentions, without the knowledge, insights and training, I know my kids struggle, simply because they are not understood. 

Here's how to get behind the Isle of Wight SEN campaign

To donate to the fundraiser, click HERE.

"I know they can be understood, and that understanding leads to better outcomes for everyone, because I live it."

Isle of Wight SEN Support wants to send parcels to every Island school. Each will include:

  • An open letter
  • Books that have changed parents' way of supporting their children
  • Visuals that explain complex behaviours simply
  • Some sweet treats for the 'amazing teachers'
  • A list of further recommended resources from the SEND community: things parents wish all school staff knew

A fundraising target of £1,550 was set, to make it happen. It currently stands at £1,570.

Colleen said she hopes to send out the packs by September.

Headteachers and governors are yet to be contacted directly, although she said the group has been inundated with support from school staff.