Supporting Inclusion and Belonging in the Early Years
At Springboard Opportunity Group, inclusion begins with relationships. Every child is seen, valued, and understood as an individual and practitioners work closely with families to build a sense of belonging that allows each child to thrive.
Who We Are
Springboard is a small charitable organisation providing specialist early years support for children with additional needs and their families. With settings across North Somerset, including Ashcombe, Clevedon, South Weston and the Autism Centre at Mead Vale, we offer inclusive early education alongside tailored family support and training for the wider early years community.
Our Approach
We believe inclusion is a continuous process of noticing, reflecting, and adapting. Our practitioners observe children closely to understand how they engage, what supports their wellbeing, and what helps them learn best. Small, thoughtful adjustments, such as reducing visual clutter, offering sensory breaks, or changing adult positioning can transform a child’s ability to participate and connect.
Professional reflection is at the heart of everything we do. Staff meet regularly to share observations, discuss strategies, and plan next steps. This collaborative model ensures each child’s support plan is dynamic and responsive, rather than fixed or deficit-based. We celebrate strengths and build on them, helping children move from dependence to independence at their own pace.
Working in Partnership
Families are central to our practice. Parents and carers are invited to share insights about what works at home and their voices shape individual plans. Many tell us that Springboard is the first place they feel truly understood and supported on their journey.
Our team also works closely with health, education, and social care professionals ensuring that children receive joined-up, consistent support. This multi-agency collaboration helps us identify needs early, smooth transitions to school, and empower parents to advocate for their children with confidence.
Building Skills Beyond Our Walls
As part of our outreach and SEND network work, Springboard supports other early years settings to build inclusive practice. Through training, coaching, and sharing of real-world examples, we help practitioners develop the confidence to notice, reflect, and plan for children with diverse needs in their own environments. Topics such as sensory processing, communication strategies, and supporting emotional regulation are covered in short, practical sessions designed for busy staff.
Our Vision
Our goal is simple but profound: to give every child the best possible start, whatever their starting point. Inclusion is not an additional layer of work, it is the work. By investing in professional development, reflective practice, and partnership with families, Springboard helps early years professionals turn curiosity into confidence and compassion into action.
