SEND Services in Torbay
SEND support in Torbay has evolved significantly over the past decade, with the area now serving a higher proportion of children with identified special educational needs than the England average. Like many coastal authorities, Torbay faces unique challenges - including higher rates of deprivation in some wards and economic pressures that can affect service capacity - yet the local area continues to develop its provision across mainstream schools, specialist settings, and support services. If you're new to navigating SEND in Torbay, SENDIASS Torbay is your independent point of contact for impartial advice on assessments, Education, Health and Care Plans, and your rights throughout the process. This guide brings together the key information about what's available locally, how the system works, and where to find help when you need it.
In Torbay's evolving SEND landscape, where navigating assessments and EHCPs can feel overwhelming amid local pressures, JakTrack steps in as your steady companion, helping you feel prepared, supported, and truly in control. As you log daily moments like sleep, meals, and behaviours, the app's gentle AI insights reveal patterns over time, building a clear picture that strengthens your voice at appointments and reviews. Starting early means that evidence grows naturally, empowering you through every step of your family's journey. see how JakTrack can help
Schools & SEND Provision
46
Schools
5
Specialist
6
SEN Unit & Resource Bases
19,985
Total Pupils
2,623 pupils
1,306 pupils
Services & Contacts
Local Offer
Every Local Authority must publish a "Local Offer" - a directory of all SEND services and provision in their area.
View Torbay's Local OfferIASS
Free, impartial advice about SEND - EHCPs, school issues, exclusions, navigating the system.
SENDIASS Torbay
SEND Team
Children's Services
Occupational Therapy
Torbay and South Devon NHS - Children's OT
Speech and Language Therapy
Torbay and South Devon NHS - Children's SALT
New EHCPs by Primary Need
Schools
Brunel School
SpecialRequires ImprovementMayfield School
SpecialEat That Frog C.I.C
SpecialPreston Bridge School
SpecialBrixham College
SecondaryRequires ImprovementEden Park Primary & Nursery School
PrimaryGoodLift Barton Hill
PrimaryGoodPreston Primary School
PrimaryUnderstanding school SEND provision
Schools in England provide SEND support at different levels. Here's what each type means:
Specialist School
A school that exclusively educates children with SEND. Smaller classes (typically 6-12 pupils), staff trained in specific needs, and environments designed for children who need more support than mainstream can provide. Places are usually named in an EHCP.
SEN Unit
A dedicated unit within a mainstream school, staffed by specialists. Children are on the roll of the unit but may join mainstream classes for some lessons. Offers a middle ground - specialist support with mainstream social opportunities. Usually requires an EHCP.
Resource Base
Extra resourced provision attached to a mainstream school. Children are on the mainstream roll but can access additional support, equipment, and specialist staff. Some resource bases focus on specific needs like autism or speech and language.
SEN Support (Mainstream)
Every mainstream school has a legal duty to identify and support children with SEND. This includes having a SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator), providing reasonable adjustments, and putting in place SEN Support plans. You don't need an EHCP for SEN Support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from families about SEND support in Torbay.
Navigating SEND in Torbay?
JakTrack helps you track evidence, prepare for EHCP reviews, check benefit eligibility, and stay on top of appointments - all in one place.
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Social Care
Children's Services