Helping schools understand and hold young people with complex needs
NEST supports schools and education providers working with young people with complex social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) and neurodevelopmental needs. We work with specialist schools and alternative provisions.
We bring psychology, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy and Positive Behaviour Support together as one team, so a young person's needs are understood as a whole, and school staff get one clear plan rather than several separate reports.
What We Offer
Consultation and formulation: a shared understanding of a young person's presentation and what may be keeping difficulties going, so staff know what to try and why.
Assessment: neurodevelopmental and cognitive assessment, sensory and functional assessment (OT), communication assessment (speech and language therapy) and functional assessment of behaviour (PBS), where appropriate to the young person.
EHCP assessment support: clear, evidence-based clinical advice and reports that can inform Education, Health and Care Plan needs assessments and reviews.
Direct clinical work: individual input for young people who need it.
Staff consultation and reflective practice: protected space for teachers, TAs and pastoral staff to think about the young people they support and the emotional load of the work.
Training: practical sessions on topics such as neurodiversity, sensory needs, communication and behaviour as communication, built around your setting.
How We Work
Agree the need. We talk with your SENCO or senior team about the young people and what would be most useful.
Assess and formulate. We gather information from staff, the young person and, where appropriate, family and other professionals.
Put it into practice. We deliver direct intervention and share practical recommendations in language staff can use, then review progress with you.